There’s an enormous need in Costa Rican cassava in international markets, and the country has been recognized as a source in the world market for sweet cassava. “No other country produces more sweet cassava like Costa Rica,” stated Carlos Ramirez, commercial director of Exportagri. The nation has achieved an 80 percent share of important markets like Europe, the United States and Europe.
Carlos Ramirez, Commercial Director for Exportagri during the Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta.
According to Ramirez The distinctive features of cassava that is produced throughout the North Atlantic region in Costa Rica distinguish it from other types. “Our country’s smooth, sweet and strandless cassava enables us to stand out by the quality of our product,” he said, in announcing the preferences of international purchasers to purchase the Costa Rican product.
Concentrating on this tuber, Exportagri has a production capacity of approximately 15,000 tonnes each year. Exports are primarily to Europe as well as Canada, United States, and Canada as well as projects an annual increase of 5%. “The market is growing and our business has grown with it,”” Ramirez stated. It’s been a steady and growing demand in this Costa Rican product.
Climate change and a growing demand requires Costa Rican producers to be creative and adaptable. “Cassava is an extremely resilient crop, but we’ve also had to embrace new technology,” Ramirez said, in reference to the latest implementation of biological and drone controllers as well as drones to increase efficiency and adjust to changing climate conditions. The advances in technology allow producers of cassava from Costa Rica to maintain product quality and withstand the impact of pests and the heavy rainfall.
“Prices depend on product’s quality as well as the marketplace. Europe is a major market for premium products. The US market is open to different quality including premium as well as low-cost ones. A variety of presentations including fresh cassava, to processed goods like flour and chips, creates new possibilities for both markets. It allows to offer an extensive range that is suited to consumers’ preferences.” Ramirez stated.
Exportagri offers Global GAP, GRASP, Rainforest Alliance, and Carbon Neutral social, environmental as well as sustainability certificates. These certificates guarantee the superiority of the product, and affirm the commitment of the company to sustainability and sustainable development. It also allows it to adapt to the requirements of European as well as North American markets, where high-end quality is a major factor.
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Carlos Ramirez (sales manager)
Exportagri
Tel: +506 2469 1444
Tel. : +506 8782 0583
Email: [email protected]
www.exportagri.com
Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies