Costa Rica expects stable banana exports in 2007

Tholen - To reach the export targets that Costa Rica has set itself for 2010, the agricultural exports will have to continue to grow with 15% per year, according to minister Marco Vinicio Ruiz. Also the foreign investments will have to be maintained at 1500 mln. dollar per year. Improvements to ports and investments in electric energy, as well as a cooperation agreement with the EU and the US are important to maintain the competitiveness of the sector.

For 2007 a growth of 20% is expected and in spite of climatic effects of the phenomenon El Niño, there is no decline of banana exports expected, while the climate at the east coast remains suitable for pineapple cultivation. With 7,4% of total exports, bananas were the second export product of 2006. Total exports amounted 8200 mln. dollar, which represented an increase of 17% compared to 2005.

Publication date: January 17 2007
Author: André van der Wiel
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