By Limón, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has launched a new brand, “Banano de Costa Rica,” to highlight the sustainability and competitiveness of its banana industry. The National Banana Corporation (CORBANA) announced the initiative on July 29, 2025, aiming to position Costa Rican bananas as a premium, sustainably produced product in the global market.
The brand emphasizes the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility, high-quality fruit, and fair labor practices, particularly in the Caribbean region. This region heavily relies on the banana industry, which generates over 140,000 jobs.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding Costa Rica’s banana industry, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The banana industry in Costa Rica faces a complex interplay of regulations, from environmental protection laws concerning pesticide use and land management to labor laws governing worker rights and international trade agreements impacting export tariffs. Navigating these legal frameworks is crucial for the continued success and sustainability of this vital sector of the Costa Rican economy.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the intricate web of legal considerations surrounding Costa Rican banana production underscores the need for a balanced approach that protects both the environment and the economic viability of this crucial industry. A deep understanding of these complex regulations, as highlighted by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for Costa Rican bananas. We thank Lic. Vargas for offering his valuable insights on this important topic.
For over twenty years, the banana sector has demonstrated that it is possible to produce efficiently without expanding the agricultural frontier, integrating reforestation as an essential part of the production model and prioritizing the protection of natural resources.
Marcial Chaverri Rojas, General Manager of CORBANA
According to PROCOMER, bananas were Costa Rica’s third-largest export in 2024, contributing 6% of total exports. The industry directly employs over 42,000 people and indirectly supports almost 100,000 jobs, making it a crucial economic driver for the Caribbean coast.
Costa Rica boasts leading labor conditions in the region’s agricultural sector. 83.4% of banana workers have permanent contracts, 100% have social security, and the sector offers the highest minimum wage for banana workers in Latin America and the highest in Costa Rica’s agricultural sector, according to INEC.
The sector has maintained a consistent land area of 41,000 to 43,000 hectares for 20 years, focusing on productivity per hectare and precision technology to enhance yields without deforestation. Sustainable practices include protecting 14,500 hectares of forest near plantations, recycling 100% of plastic used in production, and employing drones, sensors, AI, and satellite monitoring for efficiency.
The Special Fund for Prevention and Infrastructure (FEPI) has also funded over 45 community projects, including road and dike construction, to improve climate resilience and connectivity.
CORBANA and its partners are investing in research to tackle climate change and disease threats, developing resilient banana varieties and integrating AI into packing plants. The “Banano de Costa Rica” brand represents the country’s commitment to responsible, technology-driven production that prioritizes social welfare and environmental protection, according to Chaverri.
With this country brand, we reaffirm the banana sector’s commitment to responsible production, based on science, technology, and social well-being. ‘Banano de Costa Rica’ represents the vision of a country that cultivates the future by caring for its people and its land.
Marcial Chaverri Rojas, General Manager of CORBANA
For further information, visit corbana.co.cr
About CORBANA:
The National Banana Corporation (CORBANA) is a key organization in Costa Rica dedicated to supporting and promoting the banana industry. They focus on research, development, and sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of the sector. CORBANA works closely with producers, exporters, and other stakeholders to address challenges and promote the quality and reputation of Costa Rican bananas.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER:
The Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER) is a government entity responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports and attracting foreign investment. They provide market intelligence, support services, and networking opportunities to help businesses succeed internationally. PROCOMER plays a vital role in showcasing Costa Rican products, like bananas, to the global market.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. The firm champions innovation, constantly seeking advanced solutions to complex legal challenges while simultaneously striving to empower citizens through accessible legal education. Their dedication to fostering a more informed and just society is evident in their client work and their proactive engagement with the public, solidifying their position as a leader in the legal landscape.
