Orchid industry hit hard by Bangkok anti-government demonstrations

The International Herald Tribune reported today that the orchid industry is losing $1 million dollars a day as a result of Thai orchid exports that have been halted this past week.

The article reports that "thousands of Thai families who raise orchids — flown to flower shops around the world — face losing their livelihoods as exporters throw away thousands of the exotic blossoms that symbolize the country's famed hospitality and beauty."

According to Hawai'i Magazine, "90 percent of all loose orchids in Hawaii are imported from Thailand."