In 2024, Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the U.S. for the first time. Data shows Europe received 42.6% of total shipments, while the U.S. accounted for 40%. Factors contributing to this shift include growing European confidence, sustainability compliance, and Costa Rica’s focus on quality coffee despite declining shipment volumes.
In a historic development for the Costa Rican coffee industry, exports to Europe surpassed those to the United States for the first time in 2024. Data released by the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER) indicates that Europe received 27,494 tons of coffee, representing 42.6% of total exports, while the United States imported 25,759 tons, accounting for 40% of shipments.
Traditionally, the United States has been the primary market for Costa Rican coffee; however, 2024 statistics mark a significant trend shift. Guillermo Zúñiga Arias, Director of Commercial Intelligence at PROCOMER, noted that these figures reflect increasing European confidence in the quality of Costa Rican coffee, remarking, “This shift reflects the quality and sustainability of our product.”
President of the Costa Rican Coffee Institute, Gustavo Jiménez, characterized this transition as encouraging, stating, “It’s very good news. Last year, we sold more coffee to Europe than to the United States, our main buyer historically.” Jiménez attributed the positive development to the European Union’s Green Pact, which imposes environmental standards that imports must meet.
Costa Rica’s coffee industry is strategically positioned to comply with these sustainability expectations. In March 2024, it made its first shipment of 19 tons of certified deforestation-free coffee to Italy, aligning with the EU’s environmental standards. Jiménez stated, “The increase in European purchases shows we’re ready for these changes in international trade.” Meeting the Green Pact’s requirements has enhanced Costa Rican coffee’s appeal in eco-conscious markets.
Although export volumes have slightly decreased from 2020 to 2024, Zúñiga noted the value of Costa Rican coffee remains stable or has increased. He stated, “We’re competing on quality, especially in markets like Europe and Asia.” This emphasis on premium coffee has enabled the industry to maintain profitability despite the decline in shipment totals.
The transition of Europe to Costa Rica’s primary coffee market signifies the country’s adaptability and dedication to sustainable practices. As global demand for ethically sourced products continues to rise, Costa Rica’s coffee sector is well-positioned to expand its presence in high-value markets.
The recent shift in Costa Rica’s coffee exports marks a pivotal moment in its trade history, with European markets surpassing the United States for the first time. The country’s commitment to quality and sustainability, especially in compliance with the EU’s Green Pact, positions it favorably in a growing eco-conscious market. As Costa Rica adapts to these changes, it is likely to strengthen its foothold in premium coffee markets globally.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
