In a competitive environment dominated by large growing countries such as Costa Rica, the Panamanian company Isalbert Fruits S.A., founded by Isaías Zarzavilla and Alberto Carrasco, has managed to stand out in the international market thanks to its focus on quality and sustainability.
Isalbert Fruits S.A. has consolidated its position in the European market, especially in Spain, where the demand for Panamanian pineapples has grown thanks to their high Brix, which guarantees a sweet pineapple of excellent quality. Zarzavilla says that while Panama only has 2,200 hectares devoted to pineapple cultivation, compared to the 150,000 hectares of Costa Rica, the quality of its product is a differentiating factor. "Our pineapple is recognized for its flavour and freshness, which allows us to compete in niche markets where quality is paramount," he says.
The company has also started to explore new markets in the Middle East, with trial shipments made to Dubai and Lebanon using air freight to guarantee the product's freshness. According to Carrasco, "the pineapples shipped by air are sold at a significantly higher price, which shows how much consumers appreciate our fruit."
The pineapples shipped by sea to ports like Algeciras, in Spain, reach prices of approximately 12 dollars per box, while the pineapples shipped by air can cost up to 50 dollars per box in destinations such as Madrid. This type of transport is intended for the premium market, which values the fruit's extreme freshness and superior quality.
The road hasn't been easy for Isalbert Fruits S.A. The lack of local infrastructure to obtain certifications such as GlobalG.A.P. represents a considerable challenge. "It is expensive to bring auditors from Costa Rica, which increases operational costs," says Zarzavilla. However, the company is committed to upholding the highest standards, since it is aware of the increasing demands of international markets, especially in Europe.
Sustainability also plays a central role in Isalbert Fruits' operation. The company has implemented responsible agricultural practices, such as manual harvesting, which is more suitable for its plantations, and has been reducing the use of pesticides with the implementation of integrated pest management techniques. "We focus on protecting the environment and ensuring that our operations have the lowest possible impact on it," says Carrasco.
At Isalbert Fruits S.A., pineapple quality management is carried out through an integrated process that starts in the field and continues all the way to the final packaging; from the selection in the field to post-harvest treatments such as waxing, peduncle curing or crown trimming, and packing in refrigerated containers.
Isalbert Fruits S.A. has achieved steady growth. In 2023, they exported 150 pineapple containers and expect to close 2024 with 300 containers, which reflects a significant increase in the demand. "Thanks to the support of the Panamanian government and the promotion of the pineapples at international fairs, we have been able to expand our operations and reach new markets," said Zarzavilla.
Isalbert Fruits S.A. will be present at Fruit Attraction Madrid 2024 at the Propanamá stand (Hall 4: stand 4E17).
The Panamanian government offers tax incentives to exporters through a system of certificates, which are used for the payment of taxes. The incentive is calculated on the basis of the volumes exported and is intended to alleviate the operational and fiscal costs of exporters.
Logistics also plays a crucial role in the success of Isalbert Fruits. Thanks to a strategic geographical location and access to multiple ports in Panama, the company has been able to optimize its export routes, ensuring that the pineapple reaches its destination in the best possible condition.
For more information:
Isalbert Fruits S.A.
Panama
Isaias Zarzavilla
Alberto Carrasco
Tel.: +507 6550 9297
[email protected]