Why is Costa Rica not a mass coffee producer?

Focus on Quality over Quantity: Costa Rica prioritizes producing high-quality Arabica coffee beans over mass production. This means that farmers often invest more time and resources in cultivating and processing their coffee beans to achieve superior flavor profiles. This focus on quality typically results in lower yields compared to large-scale coffee-producing countries.

Small-Scale Farming: Many coffee farms in Costa Rica are small-scale, family-owned operations. These farms may lack the extensive land and resources needed for mass production. Instead, they focus on producing smaller quantities of specialty coffee beans with meticulous attention to detail.

Geographical Limitations: Costa Rica's mountainous terrain and diverse microclimates provide ideal conditions for growing specialty coffee beans. However, these geographical features also pose challenges for large-scale mechanized farming. Steep slopes and varying elevations may require labor-intensive cultivation methods, limiting the feasibility of mass production.

Environmental Conservation: Costa Rica places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. Many coffee farms adhere to shade-grown practices and organic cultivation methods, which prioritize environmental stewardship over maximizing yields. While these practices contribute to biodiversity and soil health, they may result in lower productivity compared to intensive farming techniques.

Regulatory Standards: Costa Rica has established strict regulatory standards for coffee production, ensuring that beans meet specific quality criteria before being exported. While these standards contribute to the country's reputation for high-quality coffee, they may also limit the volume of coffee produced if beans fail to meet the required standards.