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

In 2024, Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the U.S. for the first time, with Europe receiving 42.6% of total exports. This shift reflects increasing European confidence in Costa Rican coffee quality and sustainability, supported by adherence to the EU’s Green Pact. Leaders from PROCOMER and Icafé view this trend positively, as Costa Rica’s focus on premium coffee helps maintain its market value amidst changing dynamics.

In a historic milestone for Costa Rica, coffee exports to Europe surpassed those to the United States for the first time in 2024. According to the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER), Europe received 27,494 tons of Costa Rican coffee, representing 42.6% of total exports, while the U.S. imported 25,759 tons, accounting for 40%.

Traditionally, the United States has been the primary market for Costa Rican coffee. However, 2024 data indicates a shift in trade dynamics. Guillermo Zúñiga Arias, Director of Commercial Intelligence at PROCOMER, emphasized this development as a reflection of the increasing confidence that European consumers have in Costa Rican coffee quality. “This shift reflects the quality and sustainability of our product,” Zúñiga noted.

Gustavo Jiménez, President of the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (Icafé), shared a similar perspective, describing the trend as a positive change. He emphasized, “It’s very good news. Last year, we sold more coffee to Europe than to the United States, our main buyer historically.” Jiménez also pointed to the European Union’s Green Pact as instrumental in promoting sustainability, which, in turn, influences purchase decisions.

Costa Rica’s coffee sector is strategically aligning with the EU’s environmental priorities. In March 2024, the country sent its first shipment of 19 tons of certified deforestation-free coffee to Italy, adhering to the EU’s stringent sustainability criteria. Jiménez remarked, “The increase in European purchases shows we’re ready for these changes in international trade.” This regulatory framework enhances Costa Rica’s attractiveness in eco-conscious markets.

Despite a slight decrease in export volumes from 2020 to 2024, Zúñiga indicated that the coffee’s market value has remained robust or even increased. “We’re competing on quality, especially in markets like Europe and Asia,” he stated, indicating that a focus on premium coffee is key to maintaining profitability in a fluctuating market.

The transition to Europe as Costa Rica’s leading coffee export market reveals the country’s flexibility and dedication to sustainable practices. With a growing global demand for ethically sourced products, Costa Rica’s coffee industry is well-positioned to enhance its presence in lucrative markets.

The noteworthy rise in Costa Rican coffee exports to Europe highlights a significant shift in global trade dynamics. The commitment to quality and sustainability has enabled Costa Rica to adapt successfully to evolving consumer preferences, particularly in environmentally conscious markets. The involvement of both PROCOMER and Icafé leaders underscores the importance of maintaining high standards to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the international coffee sector.

Original Source: ticotimes.net