Hibiscus Flower Export

What It Is

Hibiscus flower, commonly called Roselle or Zobo leaf (Hibiscus sabdariffa), is a vibrant red calyx harvested from the hibiscus plant. It is widely valued for its tangy flavor, rich color, and numerous health benefits. Dried hibiscus flowers are a major export commodity used in the production of teas, beverages, natural food colorants, and herbal medicine.

Why Hibiscus Flower Export is Profitable

• High Global Consumption: Millions of tons are consumed annually in teas, beverages, and herbal formulations.

• Rising Health Awareness: Increasing demand for caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich herbal teas.

• Export Flexibility: Can be exported as whole dried calyces, powdered form, or extracts.

• High Profit Margins: Specialty product with global demand across food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

Forms for Export

1. Dried Whole Calyces (Flowers): Naturally sun-dried, rich red color.

2. Hibiscus Powder: Ground for teas, herbal blends, and natural coloring.

3. Extracts & Concentrates: Used in beverages, cosmetics, and food formulations.

Specifications for Export

• Moisture Content: ≤ 10%

• Total Ash: ≤ 8%

• Acid Insoluble Ash: ≤ 1.5%

• Color: Deep red to dark burgundy

• Foreign Matter: ≤ 2%

• Flavor: Slightly sour, tangy, cranberry-like taste

• Packaging Grade: Food-grade, pesticide-free, clean and hand-picked

Packaging for Export

• Bulk Packaging: 25kg or 50kg polypropylene woven bags with inner liners.

• Retail Packaging: 100g – 1kg pouches, tea bags, jars, or boxes.

• Moisture-Proof Containers: Airtight, to preserve aroma and freshness.

HS Code

• HS Code 1211.90 – Plants and parts of plants used in perfumery, pharmacy, or for insecticidal/fungicidal purposes (includes hibiscus).

Export Opportunities

• Food & Beverage Industry: Herbal teas, health drinks, jams, sauces, and flavoring agents.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used for natural remedies against hypertension, cholesterol, and digestive issues.

• Cosmetics & Skincare: Natural coloring and antioxidant properties in creams and soaps.

• Dye & Textile Industry: Natural red dye for fabrics and cosmetics.

Market Demand Drivers

• Growing demand for organic herbal teas in Europe, North America, and Asia.

• Hibiscus-based drinks are replacing carbonated beverages.

• Natural food coloring alternatives gaining ground over artificial dyes.

• Expanding nutraceutical and functional food industries.

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C.

• Helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Supports weight management and digestion.

• Caffeine-free natural energy booster.

• Strengthens immunity and detoxifies the body.

Hibiscus flower is often called the “red gold” in the export world because of its vibrant demand across multiple industries. Exporters who supply clean, pesticide-free, and well-packaged hibiscus gain premium access to markets in Europe (Germany, UK, France), USA, Middle East, and Asia.