CENTRAL AMERICAN REGION

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

During November, trade members continued receiving USA Pear shipments with good quality reported; however, they faced some challenges finding small sizes this month. Importers and retailers are expected to receive additional shipments in the upcoming weeks to supply the Christmas season. Trade members indicated that prices at origin will remain a key factor in their purchasing decisions. Nevertheless, they continue observing lower prices compared to previous seasons, which encourages them to continue importing more volumes from this origin in the upcoming months. USA Pears showed a volume increase this month, reaching 44% pear market share in the wholesale sector, 46% share in supermarket stores and 45% in traditional channels, with strong sales reported throughout the month.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Trade members do not anticipate disruptions in freight or logistics operations that could affect USA Pear arrivals in the coming months. They plan to schedule their purchases in advance to avoid any potential delays during the Christmas season.

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

Trade members indicated that Anjou, Bosc, and Red Anjou are the main varieties requested this season, but they could import other varieties such as Forelle and Starkrimson if prices are competitive. In terms of sizes, trade members prefer small and medium fruit, followed by large sizes. 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 a 24% market share at the wholesale level, while at the retail level they reported 24% in supermarket stores and 26% in traditional channels. The Anjou variety reported the highest volumes, followed by Packham, Red Anjou, and Bosc; sales and quality were reported as good. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next period because trade members will not receive more loads. Pears from Chile reported a 20% market share in the wholesale sector, 20% in supermarket stores, and 23% in traditional channels. The Forelle variety reported the highest volumes, followed by Packham; good sales and quality were reported. Volumes are expected to decrease next month because trade members will not receive more loads. California pears decreased during November, reaching a 6% market share in the wholesale sector, 5% in supermarket stores and 4% traditional channels. Asian pears reported the highest volumes, followed by Bosc; sales and quality were reported as good. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next month. Pears from Spain were available in Panama and Costa Rica, reporting a 6% market share at the wholesale level, while at retail they reported 5% in supermarket stores and 2% in traditional channels. Ercolini was the only variety available; good sales and quality were reported. Volumes are expected to decrease during the next month.

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

For the Central American region, no significant political or economic issues are expected to negatively affect USA Pear import volumes as of December 2025. The region continues to show moderate economic recovery, with growth projections for 2025 averaging around 3.5%, although performance varies across countries. According to the World Bank, Panama will lead the region’s economic expansion, reaching 4% of gross domestic product (GDP) with an inflation rate of -0.1%.

Other Brief Comments:

The fresh-produce segment in Central America continues to offer opportunities for premium imported fruit, supported by stronger demand for higher quality and the expansion of the retail sector. During the Christmas season, importers benefit from stronger retail activity across both supermarket and traditional channels.