Recognized for their sweetness, freshness and quality, Costa Rican pineapples have positioned themselves as one of the most valued agricultural products in the global market. With exports going mainly to Europe and the Middle East, this tropical fruit has found its place on tables around the world, especially at festive times, such as the Christmas season.
International markets, such as those in Eastern Europe, demand pineapples of medium and large sizes, suitable for both fresh consumption and processing into derived products. In recent years, pineapple exports have grown significantly, showing the Costa Rican sector's ability to adapt to consumer demands and overcome logistical and climatic challenges.
Founded in 2019 as a family business, Golden Sweet has since established itself as an exporter of Costa Rican pineapples. "Although the company was initially focused on marketing, it now produces part of its fruit and works with associated producers, achieving a balance between quality and sustainability," says Diego Hernández, head of exports.
Golden Sweet started with two clients in Eastern Europe, and that number has now grown to eight. "Eastern Europe is our main market, especially in the high season from November to December. Pineapple is becoming a key product for Christmas celebrations," says Hernández. In addition to Eastern Europe, exports are also going to the Middle East (Turkey and Saudi Arabia) and to some Western European countries such as Spain and Italy.
The company aims to enter the U.S. market, following its participation in the Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta. "Our goal is a controlled annual growth of 10 to 20% to be able to guarantee the supply of a quality product and meet the needs of our strategic clients," says Hernández.
Diego Hernández, head of exports of Golden Sweet, at the Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta.
Golden Sweet is committed to implementing more sustainable practices, including the use of bio-inputs that can reduce the presence of chemicals in crops. "We are investing in biotechnology to produce in a cleaner and more responsible way," says Hernández. Such initiatives are not just beneficial for the environment, but also help in complying with international standards, strengthening the company's position in demanding markets, such as Europe.
Another key aspect is its focus on after-sales service. Golden Sweet does not just ship containers, but maintains constant and direct communication with customers. "We are building long-term strategic relationships, and after-sales support is fundamental to achieve this," says Hernández.
Working with the FOB modality has been an effective strategy, especially in markets such as Eastern Europe. "Our clients manage the negotiations directly with the shipping lines, which gives them the flexibility to adapt to fluctuations in transport costs and container availability," says Hernández.
One of the biggest challenges is planning the production to mitigate shortages at certain times of the year. Moreover, the sector is under pressure from rising input costs and climate change. However, the company expects to close the year with 200 containers exported, up from 60 in previous seasons, which is a remarkable growth.
For Hernández, seeing the Costa Rican product reaching faraway places such as Eastern Europe is the greatest source of pride. "It is satisfying to know that we are part of the chain that is delivering Costa Rican quality products to the world," he says.
For more information:
Diego Hernández
Golden Sweet
Tel.: +506 7150 5825
[email protected]
www.goldensweet.cr
Randall Hernández
Golden Sweet
Tel.: +506 7196 4066
[email protected]
www.goldensweet.cr