CENTRAL AMERICAN REGION

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

During October, importers received the first USA Pears shipments for this season; companies are expecting to receive additional USA Pear shipments in the upcoming weeks. Trade members indicated that prices at origin will continue to be a key factor in their purchasing decisions; however, they have observed lower prices compared to previous seasons, which motivates them to continue importing. During this month, USA Pears were widely available in the region, achieving approximately 30% pear market share in the wholesale sector; at retail, accounting for 31% in supermarket stores and 30% in traditional channels. Anjou recorded the highest volumes, followed by Bosc, Red Anjou, and Starkrimson. Trade members reported strong sales due to Northwest pears' high quality.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

No significant challenges or concerns related to freight or logistics are anticipated. Importers are planning their USA Pear purchases in advance to avoid any potential delays during the Christmas season.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Importers indicated that Anjou, Bosc, and Red Anjou are the main varieties requested this season, but they remain open to importing other varieties if prices are competitive. In terms of sizes, trade members prefer small and medium sizes, although they are also open to handling large sizes for supermarket chains in the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica. Regarding quality grades, U.S. No. 1 is their preferred grade, followed by Fancy.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Pears from Argentina reported the largest volumes in the region, reaching 27% pear market share at wholesale, 34% in supermarket stores and 33% in traditional channels. Anjou variety reported the highest volumes followed by Red Anjou and Packham; good sales and quality were reported. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next period because trade members will not receive more loads. Pears from Chile reported 28% pear market share in the wholesale sector, 24% in supermarket stores and 26% in traditional channels. Forelle variety reported the highest volumes followed by Packham and Asian; sales and quality were reported as good in this sector. Volumes are expected to decrease for the next month. California pears reported a 13% pear market share in the wholesale sector, 8% in supermarket stores and 11% in traditional channels; Bosc variety reported the highest volumes followed by Asian; sales and quality were reported as good. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next month. Pears from Spain reported a 2% pear market share at wholesale level, while at retail level, this origin was available just in supermarket stores reaching a 3% pear market share; Ercolini was the only variety available in the market; sales and quality were reported as good. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next month.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

For the Central American region, there are no significant political or economic factors expected to impact USA Pear import volumes. Growth in the region is modest, with overall projections of around 3.5% for 2025, although this varies by country. Inflation pressures, currency volatility, and fiscal constraints remain relevant, which means importers and retailers will need to remain cost-conscious and agile in sourcing strategies.

Other Brief Comments:

The fresh-produce segment in Central America continues to show potential for imported premium fruit. Increased consumer interest in higher-quality fruit, combined with growing modern retail channels and improved cold-chain logistics, are positive factors. Importers are finding opportunities to supply smaller sizes, better grades, and defined origins to meet shifting preferences toward quality over quantity. In markets like Panama, for example, the strong rebound in economic activity (growth projected around 4–5% in 2025) supports retail sales of premium imported fruit.