Costa Rica Coffee Exports to Europe Surpass the U.S. for First Time

In 2024, Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the U.S. for the first time, sending 27,494 tons to Europe compared to 25,759 tons to the U.S. This shift reflects increasing European consumer confidence in Costa Rican coffee’s quality and sustainability, influenced by the EU’s Green Pact on imports.

In 2024, Costa Rica achieved a historic milestone by exporting more coffee to Europe than the United States for the first time. Data from the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER) indicates that Europe received 27,494 tons, comprising 42.6% of total shipments, while the U.S. imported 25,759 tons, representing 40% of the total.

Traditionally, the United States has been the main importer of Costa Rican coffee, but this trend has begun to reverse, according to Guillermo Zúñiga Arias, Director of Commercial Intelligence at PROCOMER. He noted that this phenomenon reflects a burgeoning confidence among European consumers in Costa Rican coffee’s quality and sustainability.

Gustavo Jiménez, President of the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (Icafé), expressed optimism regarding these developments, highlighting that it is a significant change for the country. He linked this shift to the European Union’s Green Pact, emphasizing that it aligns with the EU’s stringent sustainability standards for coffee imports.

Costa Rica’s coffee sector is strategically positioned to comply with these environmental standards. In March 2024, the nation exported its first 19 tons of certified deforestation-free coffee to Italy, showing its commitment to meeting the EU’s goals. Jiménez indicated that the increasing European demand reflects Costa Rica’s readiness for shifts in international trade.

While there has been a slight dip in export volumes from 2020 to 2024, the overall value of Costa Rican coffee has remained stable or even increased. Zúñiga asserted that the focus on quality helps maintain competitiveness, particularly in markets such as Europe and Asia, despite the lowered shipment amounts.

The transition of Europe emerging as Costa Rica’s premier coffee market highlights the country’s resilience and dedication to sustainable agricultural practices, positioning it for further success in high-value markets as the global demand for ethically sourced products rises.

In summary, Costa Rica’s landmark coffee export shift to Europe marks a significant evolution in its trade dynamics, propelled by sustainable practices and meeting stringent EU standards. The country’s ability to maintain coffee value even with reduced export volumes reflects its commitment to quality. This transition showcases Costa Rica’s adaptability in a changing global market that increasingly prioritizes sustainable and ethically sourced commodities.

Original Source: ticotimes.net