In 2024, Costa Rica surpassed the U.S. as the largest exporter of coffee to Europe for the first time, with European imports totaling 27,494 tons. This shift is fueled by a focus on quality amid increased demand for premium coffee. The impending EUDR legislation has heightened compliance efforts among Costa Rican producers, positioning them favorably in international trade.
In an unprecedented development, Costa Rica has exported more coffee to Europe than to the United States for the first time in history in 2024, according to the most recent data from PROCOMER, Costa Rica’s Foreign Trade Promoter. European nations imported 27,494 tons of Costa Rican coffee last year, which constituted 42.6% of total exports—Belgium, Switzerland, and Germany being the largest importers. Meanwhile, the US imported 25,759 tons, accounting for 40% of the nation’s coffee exports.
Despite a slight decline in total export volumes over the past four years, Costa Rican coffee producers have shifted their focus towards enhancing quality, particularly in response to increased demand for premium and specialty coffee in Europe and Asia. Both PROCOMER and the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE) emphasized these figures as indicators of rising European confidence in Costa Rican coffee, especially in light of the upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) laws set to take effect on December 30, 2025.
Gustavo Jiménez, the President of ICAFE, remarked, “Last year, we sold more coffee to Europe than to the US, our main buyer historically. The increase in European purchases shows we’re ready for these changes in international trade.” This news is particularly encouraging for advocates of the EUDR, which mandates that EU companies importing commodities linked to deforestation, such as coffee, must submit due diligence statements confirming that their imports have not contributed to forest degradation since December 31, 2020.
In November 2024, the Council of the European Union decided to delay the EUDR’s implementation due to concerns regarding the coffee industry’s preparedness and its potential negative impacts on supply chains and farmers’ access to European markets. Costa Rica has proactively worked to ensure its coffee exports comply with EUDR regulations.
In March 2024, the UN Development Programme announced the first shipment of deforestation-free coffee from Costa Rica to Europe, with Exclusive Coffees sending 275 60kg bags to Italy’s illycaffè. Subsequently, non-profit sustainability auditor Enveritas verified that Aquiares Estate, Costa Rica’s largest Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee farm, exported EUDR-compliant coffee to Nomad Coffee, a specialty roaster based in Barcelona.
In Costa Rica, over 27,300 family groups are engaged in coffee production, with 85% being smallholder farmers. Coffee stands as the nation’s third-largest export, following medical equipment and fruit.
The shift of Costa Rican coffee exports from the U.S. to Europe marks a significant milestone in the nation’s trade history. With increasing adherence to compliance with EUDR regulations, Costa Rican coffee farmers are strategically positioning themselves to respond to evolving market demands. The focus on quality and sustainability reflects the industry’s adaptability and commitment to preserving natural resources, ensuring that Costa Rican coffee continues to thrive in international markets.
Original Source: www.worldcoffeeportal.com
