How long will Costa Rica pineapple prices likely remain high?

Most shippers expect 6–8 weeks of tight supply before volumes normalize. That points to relief in early to mid-April, assuming weather improves and fields regain uniformity. If Easter demand pulls extra stock forward, the peak could extend slightly, then ease as harvest timing and shipping schedules stabilize.

Why are Costa Rica pineapple prices rising now?

Weather disruptions reduced ripening speed and created a skew toward smaller sizes, leaving fewer premium counts. Lower weekly pack-outs and quality pressure lift offers across the board. With many exporters prioritizing contracts, spot volume is thin, so buyers bid up remaining fruit until farm output recovers.

What can German retailers do to manage the fruit supply shortage?

Book earlier, accept a broader size mix, and pivot promotions to multi-buys or cross-category bundles. Use clear origin signage to support value perception. Tighten intake checks, improve store rotation, and consider frozen options for ads. These steps protect margin and keep displays full while supply stays tight.

Will this affect inflation in Germany?

Pineapples are a small share of the fruit basket, but sustained increases can lift category inflation for a few weeks. Expect fewer deep promotions and modest pass-through at shelf. The overall CPI impact should be limited, yet visible in fresh fruit sub-indexes if tightness persists into early April.

Global Market Insights

February 9: Costa Rica Pineapple Shortage to Keep Prices High 6-8 Weeks

ByDanny Kontos February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Costa Rica pineapple prices are set to remain elevated for the next 6–8 weeks as weather reduces volumes and slows ripening across key farms. European import prices are already firm, and Germany should prepare for tighter arrivals and fewer larger sizes through early April. Industry reports point to quality pressure and scarcity across counts, lifting offers week over week source. This is a supply issue tied to growing conditions rather than logistics or safety. A recent minor quake was reported on 9 Feb 2026, but it is unrelated to produce flows source.