Costa Rican pineapples to score big in North America during World Cup
Written and reported by Macarena Bravo | Lee esta noticia en Español.
The Costa Rican pineapple sector is anticipating a more dynamic export outlook by midyear, driven by fruit consumption in North America during soccer’s biggest event: the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The country’s agricultural exports increased during the first quarter of 2026. Pineapples accounted for 34 percent of the country’s shipments during that period, posting a $42 million increase year-on-year, according to Oscar Arias Moreira, president of the National Chamber of Agriculture and Agroindustry (CNAA).
National Chamber of Pineapple Producers and Exporters (CANAPEP) President Abel Chaves told FreshFruitPortal.com that the sector started the year with moderate figures but is trending upward.
“Pineapple is already showing 14 percent growth and typically posts double-digit increases toward the end of the year,” he explained.
Despite the potential impact of El Niño-related floods, Chaves said the sector remains optimistic looking ahead. Pineapples have high resistance to adverse weather conditions, although excessive rainfall could affect the sunlight required for crops.
Costa Rican pineapples ready to impress
The industry expects the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, to create additional consumption opportunities.
Chaves said the sector bases part of its expectations on consumption trends seen during the recent Club World Cup, which took place in the US, where pineapple sales increased in high-tourism markets.
“During that event, per capita consumption grew by about 13 percent in the US and 16 percent in Canada. We expect similar or even higher growth with the World Cup, especially in the hotel and restaurant sectors,” Chaves stated.
Costa Rica remains the world’s leading pineapple exporter, supplying fresh fruit to major North American and European retail programs. According to Chaves, more than 2.5 million short tons of Costa Rican pineapples are shipped annually, with an approximate value of $1.3 billion.
Chaves attributed Costa Rica’s long-term export growth to investments in agricultural technology and production practices aimed at improving yields and maintaining quality standards for export markets.
*All images are referential.
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