Pineapple
The Proagroin pineapple project started in the year 2001. The activity in the years 2001 and 2002 was characterized by the identification of the markets and producers. In the year 2002, the first exportation was carried out, exporting 48 containers during that year. In the year 2003, the sales increased in 77% in comparison to the previous year. In the year 2004, Proagroin exported 395, and for the year 2005, it is projected a volume of sales of 858 containers, which represents a 117% increment in comparison to the previous year.
From another perspective, Proagroin has financed US $1,452.282 in credits for the pineapple cultivation. Additionally, in agreement with other institutions like the Popular Bank, US $1,244.813 have been placed for financing 300 hectares of 176 producers in the areas of Pital and Guatuso.
In a same way, it is necessary to highlight that in the year 2004, the Eurep Gap certification was obtained and the Fair Trade markets consolidated and increased. Additional to this, it is important to emphasize that the Foundation is the biggest exporter of certified yellow pineapple inside the Fair Trade.
At the present time, Proagroin, has a volume of sales of 20 pineapple containers per week, and the sale of 850 containers is projected for the year 2005.
The fresh fruit is sold in corrugated cardboard boxes, in two presentations, one with capacity for packing 12 kilos of fruit, and the other one with capacity for packing 18 kilos.
The box of 12 kg is stowed in wooden platforms, with capacity of 70 boxes per platform, reaching 1400 boxes for container.
The box of 18 kg is stowed in wooden platforms, with capacity of 48 boxes per platform, reaching 960 boxes for container.
The container contains a refrigeration unit, where the fruit is transported at 7º C, from Costa Rica to United States by ship, taking approximately 1 week and of 18 days to Europe. |
