Panafruit, a Panamanian company specializing in producing and exporting papaya, has consolidated its presence in the international market during its more than twenty years of existence. "Panafruit SA was founded by Hormoz Safi, of Iranian origin, and began its operations in 2000 with a farm in the province of ChiriquÃ, at the border with Costa Rica," stated Maryan Safi de Aguilar, manager of the packaging plant.
Since its inception, Panafruit has focused its efforts on fresh papaya, achieving Global GAP certification in 2020, which allowed it to expand its horizons and begin exporting to Europe, especially Spain, in addition to its traditional markets in Canada and the United States. As part of this growth, the company has expanded its facilities with new balers in the central provinces of Panama and recently in Costa Rica.
The company's main export product is the Hawaiian Big Papaya, an exclusive hybrid variety that combines the sweetness of Hawaiian papaya with the size of the Tainung variety. In addition, it has diversified its offer with other products, such as white and lilac malanga and chayote. However, these have not been very successful in Europe due to consumption preferences.
Panafruit has maintained a constant production volume, increasing the cultivated area by 10 hectares every three months to ensure production throughout the whole year. "This year, the company exported more than 160 containers of papaya to the United States, its main market, increasing its exports over the past year," Maryan stated.
The quality and safety of Panafruit products are supported by several certifications, including Global GAP and GRASP, required by the US markets. These certifications ensure compliance with good agricultural and manufacturing practices, and strict phytosanitary control to prevent the spread of pests such as Ceratitis capitata (fruit fly).
Markets and prices
Panafruit has a diverse papaya export market. "Prices in the United States vary according to the port of destination. Due to logistical challenges, exports to Europe are mainly sent by air in smaller boxes." Spain and Brazil are its main competitors in the European market, where weather conditions and proximity play a crucial role in consumer preference, Maryan stated.
One of Panafruit's strengths is its ability to maintain a staggered production that allows it to have papaya throughout the year. Export logistics to Europe present challenges, such as the duration of maritime transit, which affects the quality of the fruit, forcing the company to export them by air to this destination, which increases costs.
Panafruit has positioned itself as a leading papaya exporter thanks to its commitment to quality, product innovation, and the strategic expansion of its operations. The company now plans to start dehydrating and freezing its product. With a focus on certification and compliance with international standards, the company continues to grow and face the global fruit and vegetable market challenges.
For more information:
Maryan Safi de Aguilar
PANAFRUIT S.A.
Tel.: +507 62938697
Email: [email protected]
www.panafruit.com.pa