Chiquita Brands has avoided a jury trial under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) after reaching a settlement with plaintiffs who were suing the company over its dealings with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in the 1990s.

The families of six U.S. citizens who were kidnapped and murdered in the South American country were due to take the fresh produce multinational to court yesterday, alleging the US$220,000 in payments made to the terrorist group over a decade amounted to complicity in its actions.

Chiquita has always argued these payments were made under duress.

In a statement given to Fresh Fruit Portal, a Chiquita spokesperson said the company was pleased to have reached an amicable solution with the plaintiffs.

"The agreement reflects the commitment of Chiquita, under new and private ownership since 2015, as well as its new management team, to focus fully on the future and move the organization forward," the spokesperson said.

"This litigation related to events that occurred over 20 years ago during the time of Colombia’s civil war, when many Colombians and others endured profound pain at the hands of Colombian terrorist organizations, both from the left and the right. 

"With this matter concluded, Chiquita will continue its focus on being a good citizen and partner in the countries where we do business."

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