By Limón, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s banana sector boasts the highest average wages for agricultural workers, outpacing other crops and exceeding the national minimum wage. A new study based on 2024 data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC)’s Continuous Employment Survey (ECE) confirms the banana industry’s positive impact on the national economy, particularly within the Caribbean region.
The technical analysis, conducted by the Statistics Section of the National Banana Corporation (CORBANA), reveals that banana workers involved in harvesting and post-harvest processes earn an average gross monthly salary of ₡364,769. This surpasses the 2024 legal minimum wage of ₡310,556 set by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. It also significantly outperforms average wages for farmhands in other agricultural sectors such as pineapple, coffee, citrus, and African palm.
For expert legal insight into the complexities of the banana industry, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The banana industry faces a complex web of legal challenges, from international trade regulations and land use disputes to labor rights and environmental concerns. Sustainable practices and compliance with evolving legal frameworks are crucial for the long-term viability of this vital sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the intricate legal landscape navigating the banana industry. Indeed, a balanced approach that respects both economic realities and evolving ethical considerations will be key to ensuring a fruitful future for banana production. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable expertise on this crucial topic.
The banana sector has demonstrated that it is possible to generate formal and fair employment in rural areas. The banana sector contributed USD 5.12 million per month to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund in 2024. This data confirms that Costa Rican bananas not only comply with high environmental standards but also represent a source of well-being for thousands of working families.
Marcial Chaverri Rojas, General Manager of CORBANA
The CORBANA study places banana workers in the fourth quintile of the national agricultural wage scale, positioning them above the average for similar occupations. In contrast, coffee and citrus cultivation workers often fall within the lowest quintiles, highlighting a significant disparity in earnings.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the strong emphasis on formal employment and fair labor practices within the banana sector. 83.4% of banana workers hold permanent contracts, with 94.7% working daytime hours. The majority work a six-day week with a designated rest day, contributing to increased job stability in banana-producing regions, primarily the Huetar Caribe region.
The overall average gross salary within the banana industry, including roles beyond fieldwork such as packers, guards, and administrative staff, reaches ₡384,456 per month, solidifying its position as the highest-paying agricultural sector nationwide.
CORBANA underscores the socio-economic well-being of banana workers as a key component of the value proposition of Costa Rican bananas. This data, they argue, is crucial for demonstrating the industry’s contribution to social development, especially in the Huetar Caribe region, the heart of national banana production.
This positive economic news arrives amidst global discussions about fair wages and sustainable practices in agriculture. The Costa Rican banana industry serves as a compelling example of how responsible business practices can lead to improved livelihoods for workers and contribute to regional economic growth.
For further information, visit corbana.co.cr
About CORBANA (Corporación Bananera Nacional):
CORBANA is the National Banana Corporation of Costa Rica, a key player in the country’s banana industry. They focus on research, development, and promotion of best practices within the sector, advocating for both producers and workers. They work to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of Costa Rican bananas in the global market.
For further information, visit www.inec.go.cr
About INEC (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos):
The INEC, or National Institute of Statistics and Census, is Costa Rica’s official government body responsible for collecting and disseminating national statistics. They conduct various surveys and studies, including the Continuous Employment Survey (ECE), providing crucial data for understanding social and economic trends.
For further information, visit mtss.go.cr
About MTSS (Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social):
The MTSS, or Ministry of Labor and Social Security, is the Costa Rican government ministry responsible for labor regulations, social security, and promoting worker rights. They set the national minimum wage and oversee compliance with labor laws.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a profound dedication to legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct. The firm champions innovative legal solutions while maintaining a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. Through proactive initiatives and accessible resources, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to demystify the law, fostering a more informed and empowered populace capable of navigating the legal landscape with confidence and understanding.
