코스타리카산 신선 바나나

History

Banana cultivation in Costa Rica began in the late 1800s with the involvement of the United Fruit Company. Commercial production expanded rapidly in the early 20th century due to favorable climate and proximity to the US market. Today, the banana sector is dominated by large multinationals like Chiquita and Dole alongside local cooperatives.

Production Regions

• Limón Province (Caribbean coast): Produces over 80% of Costa Rica’s export bananas, particularly in Matina, Siquirres, and Guápiles.
• Northern Zone (San Carlos, Upala): Smaller-scale production, often by cooperatives and independent growers.
• Southern Region (Golfito, Palmar Sur): Re-emerging area for banana production after past declines.

Growing Conditions

• Climate: Hot and humid with 3,000 to 4,000 mm annual rainfall; consistent sunshine and temperatures around 26 to 28°C.
• Soil: Alluvial, volcanic soils rich in organic matter and well-drained.
• Altitude: Typically grown at 0 to 500 meters above sea level.

Harvesting Process

• Season: Bananas are harvested year-round with no significant off-season.
• Method: Manual cutting in bunches, transported by cableway to packing stations within hours.
• Processing: Dehanding, washing, fungicide treatment, grading, and packing occur at on-site facilities.

Cultivation Methods

• Variety: Primarily Cavendish, including subtypes like Williams and Gran Enano.
• Practices: Highly structured systems with fertilization programs, biological pest control, and plastic bagging of fruit.
• Sustainability: Costa Rica emphasizes low-carbon farming, biodiversity protection, and reduced pesticide use.

Supply Chain

• Producers: Combination of large exporters and cooperatives.
• Packing Facilities: Integrated with plantations for same-day processing.
• Cold Chain: Refrigerated containers at 13 to 14°C preserve bananas from packhouse to destination.

Export Ports

• Puerto Moín (Limón): Main banana export port on the Caribbean Sea.
• Puerto Limón: Handles a smaller volume; still important for nearby farms.
• Shipping Lines: Direct container shipments to the US, EU, UK, and Middle East.

Regulations and Certifications

• Phytosanitary Oversight: Managed by the Ministry of Agriculture (MAG) and CORBANA.
• Certifications: Common certifications include GlobalG.A.P., Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, and Carbon Neutral.

Quality Standards

• Grading: Uniform sizing (typically 18 to 22 cm), minimal defects, and green color at shipping.
• Packaging: Cartons of 18.14 kg (40 lb) with plastic liners; barcoding and traceability required.
• Shelf Life: Up to 35 days in controlled atmosphere.

Trade Terms

• HS Code: 0803.90 (Bananas, fresh).
• Top Destinations: United States, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Italy, Belgium.
• Export Value (2023): Approximately USD 1.1 billion.

Environmental Impact

• Water Use & Runoff: Extensive drainage systems and sediment traps used to prevent pollution.
• TR4 Threat: Costa Rica has implemented strict biosecurity to prevent Panama disease Tropical Race 4.
• Carbon Reduction: Costa Rica is a global leader in carbon-neutral banana certification.

Social Impact

• Employment: The sector supports over 140,000 direct and indirect jobs.
• Fair Trade: Widespread adoption of fair wages, union support, and worker welfare programs.
• Community Engagement: Companies often invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure in rural areas.

Uses

• Fresh Consumption: Almost entirely exported as fresh table bananas.
• By-products: Smaller portion diverted to puree, baby food, or livestock feed.