As Lunar New Year preparations intensify across Asia, Xinjiang's Mingzhu Flower Market has transformed into a kaleidoscope of color and commerce. With the 2026 Spring Festival less than a month away, vendors at Urumqi's largest floral hub are working round-the-clock to meet surging demand for traditional holiday blooms.
Rows of crimson orchids, velvety roses, and fragrant jasmine now dominate the 8,000-square-meter facility, where both wholesale buyers and individual shoppers navigate aisles bursting with fresh-cut flowers and ornamental plants. Market manager Aziz Rahman notes: 'This year's sales have already surpassed 2025 levels, with particular interest in potted citrus trees symbolizing good fortune.'
The floral boom creates ripple effects across northwest China's economy. Over 3,000 temporary workers have been hired to handle logistics, while greenhouse operators in surrounding counties report record seedling orders. Analysts estimate the market's annual economic impact now exceeds ¥800 million, supporting everything from packaging suppliers to cold-chain transport services.
For diaspora communities planning celebrations abroad, the market's new international shipping service offers direct delivery of Xinjiang-grown peonies and chrysanthemums to 15 countries. As the Year of the Horse approaches, this regional hub continues bridging tradition and commerce through petals and leaves.
