Training Programs Reach Importers, Distributors and Retailers in Costa Rica

Demand growth for U.S. red meat in Central America is creating new opportunities to partner with importers and distributors in the region on educational and promotional programs for their end-user customers. Through September, U.S. pork and beef exports are on a record pace to Central American markets, including Costa Rica.

According to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF, U.S. pork exports to Costa Rica from Jan.-Sept. 2025 increased 18% by volume and 17% by value, reaching $59.9 million, while U.S. beef exports grew 21% by volume and 44% by value to $29.4 million. U.S. lamb exports also increased to Costa Rica through September, increasing 247% to $229,000.

"Demand is growing for high-quality U.S. red meat throughout the region," says USMEF Central America Representative Lucia Ruano. "In Costa Rica, importers are becoming more vocal in asking for support to help them upgrade the proteins they want to sell to their end-user customers."

USMEF conducted technical training for U.S. pork and beef with 30 butcher shop managers from the supermarket chain Auto Mercado and 40 sales staff of Belca, a Costa Rican importer and distributor.

The training seminars covered U.S. production practices, the high-quality characteristics of U.S. pork and beef and the range of cuts that are available in the market. The seminars included cutting demonstrations for beef cuts such as striploin and tri-tip, while pork cuts included Boston butt and loin.

The seminars were made possible with support from National Pork Board and the Beef Checkoff Program.