Hong Kong flower market bustling on Mother’s Day, but bargains bloom on mainland

Last-minute shoppers headed to a famous Hong Kong flower market on Sunday to pick up carnations and roses to celebrate Mother’s Day, although some vendors expressed worries about increased competition from florists offering delivery from mainland China.

The Mong Kok Flower Market was bustling with activity throughout the day, pleasing some shops that said sales were higher than usual for the occasion.

But worries persisted over low-cost options available online from across the border, with speedy delivery making them a popular choice for Hongkongers.

Wen Chak Florist worker Jessie, who only gave her first name, said her shop had felt the impact of customers ordering fresh flowers directly from the mainland and she hoped the government could take measures to respond.

“There are so many advertisements on social media promoting flower transport across the border at very low prices,” she said.

“It feels unfair because they don’t even have operating licences here, yet they can still sell flowers to Hong Kong customers. We have no way to compete with them in prices unless the government chooses to regulate this.”