While Preparing to Return to Exports Chiquita Tests Banana Production

2026-03-16 - 15:57

The multinational Chiquita Brands International is currently producing small quantities of bananas in Panama as part of a trial process to evaluate the behavior of the fruit and the functioning of its packing plants in the reactivation stage of operations. According to company spokesman Alexander Gabarrete, current production is limited and is intended solely for the local market, while the conditions for resuming exports are being analyzed. Tests to Revive Exports According to the company, this initial phase allows for the evaluation of both the quality of the fruit and the performance of the packing plants that have been remodeled. The company stated that its goal is to export a product that meets international market standards, although there is currently no set date to restart shipments abroad. Gradual Re-Activation in Bocas del Toro The reactivation of banana activity is developing gradually in the province of Bocas del Toro, especially in the Changuinola area, a region historically linked to banana cultivation. Last October, after several months of being shut down, the company announced the hiring of more than 1,000 workers for farm cleaning, a figure that has increased with the gradual reopening of other production areas. Chiquita’s New Business Model Chiquita’s return to the country also implies a change in the operating model, now based on a sharecropping system. In this scheme: Five companies manage the human resources responsible for production. The multinational company maintains technical assistance, supervision and marketing This model has allowed the hiring of more than 1,800 workers in the first phase of reactivation, in a region where more than 80% of the economy depends on banana activity. “This stage allows us to observe the performance of the packing plants, but also that of the fruit being harvested. All of this production is destined for the local market and allows us to make estimates for a prompt export,” Gabarrete stated. Chiquita Company Reports Banana Theft on its Farms The Chiquita Company reports an increase in banana thefts on various farms, losing up to 60% of production and jeopardizing economic activity in Bocas del Toro.