There is a high demand for Costa Rican cassava in international markets and the country has established itself as a supplier in the global sweet cassava market. "No other country exports as much sweet cassava as Costa Rica," stated Carlos Ramírez, commercial director of Exportagri. He also highlighted that the country has reached an 80% share in key markets such as the United States and Europe.
Carlos Ramírez, Commercial Director of Exportagri at the Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta.
According to Ramirez, the unique characteristics of the cassava grown in the North Atlantic region of Costa Rica distinguish it from other varieties. "Our country's soft, sweet, and strandless cassava allows us to differentiate ourselves in terms of quality," he said, highlighting the preference of international buyers for this Costa Rican product.
Focusing on this tuber, Exportagri currently produces around 15,000 tons per year. The company mainly exports it to Europe, the United States, and Canada, and projects an annual growth of 5%. "The market has been growing, and our company has grown along with it," Ramírez stated. There's been a stable and positive demand trend for the Costa Rican product.
Growing demand and climate change require Costa Rican producers to be innovative and resilient. "Cassava is a resilient crop, but we've had to adopt new technologies," Ramírez said, referring to the recent implementation of drones and biological controllers to improve efficiency and adapt to climate fluctuations. These advances allow cassava producers in Costa Rica to maintain product quality while dealing with the effects of pests and heavy rains.
"Prices vary depending on the quality and the market. Europe mainly demands premium quality products, while the US market allows different qualities, from the premium level to low-cost versions. The diversification in presentations, from fresh cassava to processed products such as chips and flour, opens up new opportunities in both markets, allowing for a broad offer adapted to consumer preferences," Ramírez stated.
Exportagri has Global GAP, GRASP, Rainforest Alliance, and Carbon Neutral social, environmental, and sustainability certifications. These accreditations ensure the quality of the product and reaffirm the company's commitment to sustainable development, adapting to the demands of the European and North American markets, where premium quality is especially valued.
For more information:
Carlos Ramírez (sales manager)
Exportagri
Tel: +506 2469 1444
Tel.: +506 8782 0583
Email: [email protected]
www.exportagri.com