Q COSTARICA — A statement issued by the Cámara de Piñeros Unidos — United Pineapple Growers Association, Costa Rican pineapple supports more than 150,000 jobs and represents approximately 6% of national exports, solidifying its position as one of the country’s main agricultural export drivers and a key driver of economic development in regions like the northern zone.
Besides its significant contribution to exports, the sector has become a driving force for regional development, boosting the economy of rural communities and sustains thousands of formal jobs, especially in northern Costa Rica.
According to the official statement, pineapple cultivation generates more than 30,000 direct jobs and 120,000 indirect jobs, with a strong presence in San Carlos.
In commemoration of World Pineapple Day, celebrated on June 27, the CPU emphasized that this productive activity continues to play a vital role as a driver of regional development. The organization brings together a total of 23 companies comprised of more than 75 small, medium, and large producers/exporters, who work under a production chain model focused on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
This collaborative model seeks to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness through responsible agricultural practices and projects aimed at the economic and social development of communities.
The Cámara’s Executive Director, Engineer Greivin Delgado, stated: “The power of Costa Rican pineapples lies in its people: producers, workers, and communities that sustain one of the country’s main agricultural exports.”
Challenges in the Sector
The pineapple sector faces significant challenges stemming from the dollar exchange rate volatility and international market conditions. The Cámara’s statement acknowledges that the industry must contend with currency pressures, high international logistics costs, and risks associated with the global situation.
Therefore, in response, companies in the sector have strengthened their adaptability, prioritizing operational efficiency and compliance with environmental and social requirements to maintain their presence in international markets.
Sustainability and Circular Economy
As part of its sustainability strategy, the Cámara promotes circular economy projects and the use of bio-inputs (agricultural products made with beneficial microorganisms and materials of natural or plant origin), encouraging the reduction and valorization of agricultural byproducts.
This approach seeks to minimize environmental impact and foster innovation in pineapple production. Among the responsible agricultural practices promoted by the Chamber are the adoption of international standards, process certification, and investment in social and environmental projects in the communities where producers operate.
The Cámara brings together small, medium, and large producers/exporters from the northern region of Costa Rica. Its central objective is to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness through responsible agricultural practices and projects that promote the economic and social development of producing regions.
World Pineapple Day highlighted the commitment of Costa Rican producers to innovation, sustainability, and job creation, positioning pineapple as one of the flagship products of Costa Rica’s agribusiness.