Costa Rican pineapple has become more than a tropical staple; it now serves as a symbol of the country’s approach to wellness, environmental stewardship and agricultural innovation.
Sustainably grown and rigorously certified, the fruit has helped make Costa Rica the world’s top pineapple exporter, reinforcing its reputation for quality and responsible production.
From January through September 2025, pineapple exports reached USD 992 million, with more than 1.5 million tons shipped worldwide. The fruit represents 35 percent of Costa Rica’s agricultural exports and reaches 44 international markets. The United States accounts for 54 percent of shipments, followed by Belgium at 12 percent and Spain at 8 percent. Its extensive distribution across Europe underscores rising consumer demand for products that blend flavor with traceability and a focus on wellbeing.
“Costa Rican pineapple today stands as a global benchmark for excellence. Its taste, quality, and innovation have positioned it as a favorite in the world’s leading markets. In an increasingly competitive environment, at the Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) we work to sustain and expand this leadership, opening new opportunities for our exporters and sharing with the world a product that embodies the best of Costa Rica: health, sustainability, and trust,” said Laura López, CEO of PROCOMER.
Production is concentrated in the country’s northern, southern and Caribbean regions, areas with fertile soil and tropical climates that create optimal growing conditions. The industry supports more than 81,000 direct and indirect jobs, bolstering rural economies and strengthening communities built around a commitment to quality and environmental care.
Costa Rica’s leadership in the category rests on rigorous standards for sustainability. Pineapples are cultivated under certifications including GlobalG.A.P. and Rainforest Alliance, which ensure environmentally responsible farming, ecosystem protection and community wellbeing. Post-harvest handling is designed to maintain freshness, safety and the natural sweetness that consumers expect from the fruit.
As part of the international campaign “The Natural Choice,” the essential Costa Rica country brand is introducing European consumers to the fruit’s versatility and nutritional appeal. In collaboration with the Amazon Ads Brand Innovation Lab, Costa Rican pineapple is featured prominently through a dedicated Brand Store offering recipes and wellness-oriented content that showcases its role in modern cooking.
The campaign also includes tasting events across key European markets. In Spain, consumers can sample Costa Rican pineapple at Bonpreu supermarkets from November 14 to 29 across 21 locations. Germany will host promotional activities and tastings at Handelshof and Edeka stores from November 17 to December 14 in 16 outlets. In the United Kingdom, the experience will reach Morrison shoppers from November 24 to 30, followed by Tesco beginning December 10, highlighting the fruit’s characteristic flavor and freshness.
Madrid will also host a live cooking show led by Costa Rican chef Luis Guillermo Castro, who will prepare dishes featuring pineapple, cassava and banana. The event, scheduled for November 27 at El Gusto es Nuestro on Calle Puente la Reina 25 in Las Tablas, will welcome journalists, food industry representatives and partners including AhorraMás, Bonpreu and Cultivar S.A.
Beyond its culinary appeal, Costa Rican pineapple is considered a functional food, naturally rich in vitamin C, bromelain, antioxidants and minerals that support immune function and overall wellness. Available in fresh—including pink—frozen, dried or canned formats, the fruit continues to elevate Costa Rica’s standing as a trusted source of products that promote wellbeing and reflect a nation committed to sustainability and quality.
Find out more at: www.procomer.com/pina