Costa Rican coffee is stirring up the global market, most recently making a significant splash at The Saudi Food Show in Riyadh. This event marked a crucial stride into the Middle Eastern market for Costa Rica’s cherished coffee industry. With over 1,000 exhibitors from 97 countries, the show was a melting pot of innovation and diversity, showcasing the best the global food and beverage industry has to offer.
Costa Rica’s Strategic Market Expansion
Under the banner of the national brand, Esencial Costa Rica, the country’s presence was felt strongly at the Riyadh event. This move aligns with Costa Rica’s broader aim of diversifying its markets to promote sustainable economic growth. Spearheaded by initiatives from the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER) and supported by the Costa Rican Health Chamber, the country is positioning itself as a powerhouse in the global agricultural market.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER, emphasized the importance of showcasing Costa Rica’s high-quality products, which are the result of innovation, skilled labor, and a rich natural heritage. The initiative to step into markets like Saudi Arabia highlights an important shift towards tapping into new economic territories, providing more growth opportunities for the nation’s robust coffee sector.
Direct Engagement and Cultural Bridges
The participation of Costa Rican businesses in such international forums is not just about showcasing products but also about understanding and integrating into the local market. Erika Araya, an International Sales Executive at Beneficio Las Peñas, pointed out the significance of direct engagement. By interacting firsthand with the dynamic Saudi market, Costa Rican companies gain essential insights into consumer preferences and market demands, which are crucial for tailoring their offerings and strengthening business relations.
Strengthening Trade Ties
The bilateral trade between Costa Rica and Saudi Arabia, which amounted to $37.7 million in 2023, underscores a flourishing relationship. Costa Rica’s exports to the region encompass a diverse range of products including medical equipment, pineapples, and of course, coffee. The expansion into the Saudi market is set to enhance these figures, propelling further economic interactions between the two nations.
Innovative Practices and Sustainable Growth
Companies like Tertulia Brugge are exemplary of Costa Rica’s innovative spirit. Known for blending traditional coffee cultivation with modern sustainability practices, Tertulia Brugge and similar companies resonate well with international markets that value both quality and ethical production. Such businesses are not just selling coffee; they are promoting a sustainable and responsible business model that appeals to a global audience concerned with environmental impact and corporate responsibility.
A Promising Future for Costa Rican Coffee
The successful participation in The Saudi Food Show is just the beginning of Costa Rica’s journey into Middle Eastern markets. The event has opened new pathways for trade and cultural exchange, setting the stage for a future where Costa Rican coffee is as much a global staple as it is a national treasure. As Costa Rica continues to expand its footprint on the international stage, it remains committed to showcasing its premium products and sustainable business practices, ensuring that every cup of Costa Rican coffee poured around the world is a testament to the country’s rich heritage and bright future.
For more on this story, visit The Saudi Food Show official site.
