Bananas From Costa Rica Are Distinguished Worldwide By Innovation And Sustainability

• Costa Rica is already making significant progress in collaboration with organizations such as the Country Bran essential COSTA RICA and the Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER).

San Jose, Costa Rica /PRNewswire/ - Known for its lush landscapes, paradisiacal beaches, and rich biodiversity, Costa Rica has far more to offer than natural beauty. The country boasts an exceptional business climate, a highly skilled workforce, consolidated agribusiness companies, and a wide variety of agricultural products that feed the world. Among them is one of the country's most iconic exports: the banana.

Bananas have been part of Costa Rica's history since the 19th century. Originally cultivated for domestic consumption, the plant soon became one of the country's most important exports. Since then, this fruit has been a staple not only on Costa Rican tables, but also on millions of families around the world.

Today, Costa Rican bananas reach more than 45 countries, occupying a prominent position in global markets: Costa Rica is the third-largest banana exporter in the world, the third-largest supplier to the European Union, and the sixth-largest to Canada. In 2024, banana exports totaled USD 1.189 billion, representing 6% of national exports, 1% of GDP, and 33% of all agricultural exports.

"Beyond the numbers, bananas are a pillar of development in rural Costa Rica. The sector creates around 40,000 direct jobs and approximately 100,000 indirect jobs, benefiting thousands of families. In the province of Limón, on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, around 76% of the local workforce is employed in this sector, making it a key factor in social and economic stability," said Laura López, Director General of the Costa Rica Trade and Investment Promotion Agency .

A Model for Responsible Production
The strength of Costa Rican bananas lies not only in their productivity, but also in a production model based on innovation, traceability, and sustainability. The banana industry has consistently invested in research and farm productivity, while reducing the use of agrochemicals and optimizing the management of natural resources.

In Costa Rica, bananas are produced in harmony with the environment and with full respect for workers' rights. Since 1992, the industry has voluntarily maintained the Banana Environmental Commission (CAB), a body that sets environmental standards, ensures compliance with labor laws, protects occupational health and training, and promotes social dialogue.

With this model, Costa Rica has become a global benchmark for responsible production. The KBS has promoted initiatives such as the recycling of plastics used in banana cultivation, the implementation of reforestation and forest conservation programs, the development of drainage and water management systems to minimize consumption and pollution, and the monitoring of environmental impacts in the growing areas.

In 2011, Costa Rica's banana industry was awarded the "Banano de Costa Rica " Geographical Indication (GI), the first in Latin America. This distinction certifies the product's origin, quality, and reputation, distinguishing it in international markets. Costa Rica remains the only banana-exporting country with a registered geographical indication, underscoring the industry's prestige and commitment to world-class social and environmental standards.

In addition to their economic and social impact, bananas also have health benefits. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bananas contribute to a healthy heart, balanced digestion, and high energy levels.

Innovation and differentiation ensure that Costa Rican bananas continue to be in high demand worldwide. Looking ahead, the industry is focused on technology, scientific research, and investments in sustainability—areas where Costa Rica is already making significant progress in collaboration with organizations such as the Country Bran Essential COSTA RICA , the Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica , and the National Banana Corporation (CORBANA).

Costa Rican bananas are more than just a tropical fruit: they are a symbol of agricultural innovation, a social engine for thousands of families, and a healthy food that travels from the heart of Central America to tables around the globe.