In 2024, for the first time, Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the United States, with Europe receiving 42.6% of total shipments compared to 40% for the U.S. This significant shift is attributed to increased European confidence in Costa Rican coffee quality and sustainability, supported by the EU’s Green Pact. The industry is positioned to thrive as it meets ethical sourcing demands.
In a historic milestone, Costa Rica has surpassed the United States in coffee exports to Europe in 2024. This shift signifies a critical transformation in the trade of Costa Rican coffee, with Europe receiving 27,494 tons, which accounts for 42.6% of total shipments, while the U.S. imported 25,759 tons, representing 40%.
Traditionally, the United States has been the primary market for Costa Rican coffee. However, data from 2024 indicates a new trend. Guillermo Zúñiga Arias, Director of Commercial Intelligence at PROCOMER, stated this change illustrates increasing European confidence in Costa Rican coffee, emphasizing, “This shift reflects the quality and sustainability of our product.”
Gustavo Jiménez, the President of the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (Icafé), supports this perspective. He remarked, “It’s very good news. Last year, we sold more coffee to Europe than to the United States, our main buyer historically.” Jiménez considers this shift advantageous within the context of the European Union’s Green Pact, which mandates strict sustainability standards for imports.
The coffee industry in Costa Rica is strategically positioned to meet the sustainability demands outlined by the EU. In March 2024, the country successfully exported its first 19 tons of certified deforestation-free coffee to Italy, aligning well with the EU’s environmental objectives. Jiménez noted, “The increase in European purchases shows we’re ready for these changes in international trade.”
Despite a slight decline in export volumes from 2020 to 2024, Zúñiga highlighted that the value of Costa Rican coffee has remained stable or even increased, noting, “We’re competing on quality, especially in markets like Europe and Asia.” This emphasis on high-quality coffee has allowed the industry to maintain profitability despite reduced shipment totals.
The transition of Costa Rica’s foremost coffee market to Europe showcases the nation’s adaptability and dedication to sustainable practices. Given the rising global demand for ethically sourced products, Costa Rica’s coffee sector seems well-prepared to enhance its presence in high-value markets.
Costa Rica has experienced a notable shift in coffee exports, with Europe surpassing the United States as the leading destination for its coffee. This transition not only highlights Costa Rica’s commitment to quality and sustainability but also reflects changing global market dynamics. The country’s ability to meet stringent environmental standards positions its coffee industry favorably in the face of growing demand for ethically sourced products, suggesting a robust future in high-value markets.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
