Costa Rica Becomes Europe’s Largest Coffee Exporter, Surpassing U.S. Market
Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than the U.S. for the first time in 2024, with European imports accounting for 42.6% of total shipments. The shift reflects greater confidence in Costa Rican coffee amidst the upcoming EUDR legislation aimed at preventing deforestation. The country is making significant strides in ensuring compliance with these new regulations.
In a historic shift, Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the United States for the first time in 2024, as per the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER). European countries imported 27,494 tons of Costa Rican coffee, accounting for 42.6% of the total exports, while the U.S. imported 25,759 tons, representing 40%. This trend underscores Costa Rican farmers’ focus on higher quality coffee, coinciding with increased demand for premium products, particularly in Europe and Asia.
The data signal a growing confidence in Costa Rican coffee, especially with the implementation of the European Union’s new Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) commencing December 30, 2025. Gustavo Jiménez, President of ICAFE, emphasized this shift by stating, “Last year, we sold more coffee to Europe than to the US, our main buyer historically.” This reflects Costa Rica’s readiness for evolving international trade dynamics.
Proponents of the EUDR law view these figures positively, as the legislation mandates that EU importers provide evidence that commodities, including coffee, do not contribute to deforestation. However, the EU’s Council agreed to delay the law’s implementation in November 2024 due to concerns about its impact on coffee producers and supply chains.
In response to the upcoming EUDR requirements, Costa Rica has proactively sought to ensure compliance. For instance, in March 2024, the UN Development Programme reported the first deforestation-free coffee shipment from Costa Rica to Europe, highlighting efforts by exporter Exclusive Coffees. Additionally, Aquiares Estate successfully exported EUDR-compliant coffee to Nomad Coffee in Spain.
Costa Rica is home to over 27,300 coffee-producing family groups, with smallholder farmers constituting 85% of this population. The nation’s coffee sector stands as its third-largest export, following medical equipment and fruit, underscoring its significance to the local economy.
The increase in Costa Rican coffee exports to Europe marks a pivotal development in international trade relations. As the country adapts to the upcoming EUDR regulations, there is a clear commitment to quality and sustainability. Continued focus on compliance and premium products could further enhance Costa Rica’s position in the global coffee market, benefiting both producers and consumers alike.
Original Source: www.worldcoffeeportal.com
