CANNED PINEAPPLE PRODUCTION

Canned pineapple production is a significant part of the global processed fruit industry, with key producing countries leveraging abundant pineapple harvests and robust processing industries. Here's a breakdown of the major players and factors involved:

Top Producers
1. Thailand:
- Thailand is the world’s largest producer and exporter of canned pineapple. The country's favorable tropical climate and well-developed canning industry make it a dominant player.
- Thai canned pineapples are exported to markets worldwide, including Europe, the United States, and Asia.

2. Philippines:
- The Philippines is another major producer of canned pineapple, benefiting from its significant pineapple cultivation in regions like Mindanao.
- Companies such as Dole Philippines and Del Monte Philippines have extensive operations for both domestic and international markets.

3. Indonesia:
- Indonesia is a growing producer, supplying canned pineapple to global markets. Its proximity to key export destinations in Asia adds to its competitiveness.

4. China:
- China produces a considerable amount of canned pineapple, primarily for domestic consumption but also for export.

5. Kenya and Other African Nations:
- In Africa, Kenya has made strides in canned pineapple production, driven by companies like Del Monte Kenya. Other countries are also expanding their processing capacities.

Production Trends - Volume: Global production is often estimated in millions of tons annually, with the output fluctuating based on factors such as weather conditions, agricultural practices, and global demand.
- Exports: A significant share of canned pineapple production is for export, catering to countries with lower tropical fruit cultivation or high consumer demand.
- Consumption: Europe and North America are key importers, while Asia-Pacific countries see both domestic consumption and intra-regional trade.

Challenges
- Weather Dependency: Pineapple yields are highly sensitive to weather patterns, with droughts or excessive rain affecting production volumes.
- Cost of Inputs: Rising costs for labor, fertilizers, and transportation can impact the profitability of canned pineapple production.
- Market Dynamics: Competition from fresh pineapples and processed alternatives (like frozen or juice) also affects canned pineapple sales.

While Thailand and Indonesia have experienced significant reductions in pineapple harvests—primarily due to drought and adverse weather conditions—several other countries have maintained or even increased their production levels, thereby mitigating the global supply shortfall.
Countries Unaffected or Benefiting from the Shortfall

Peru
Peru has notably expanded its pineapple exports. In January 2025, the country achieved a historic record by exporting 1,528 tons of pineapple, marking a 372% increase in volume and a 135% rise in value compared to the same month in the previous year. The majority of these exports were canned pineapples, with the United States being the primary importer.
Costa Rica
As the world's largest exporter of fresh pineapples, Costa Rica has managed to sustain its production levels despite facing some climatic challenges. In 2024, the country increased its shipments to Spain by 4%, reaching 166,900 tons. While there have been slight increases in prices due to reduced availability, Costa Rica continues to be a reliable supplier in the global market.
Vietnam
Vietnam's pineapple production has remained stable, with projections indicating a growth to 807,000 metric tons by 2026, up from 705,000 tons in 2022. This steady increase positions Vietnam as a consistent player in the pineapple industry.
Philippines
The Philippines continues to be a major producer, with an annual output of approximately 2.9 million tons. Home to global companies like Del Monte and Dole, the country maintains a strong presence in the international pineapple market.
Taiwan
Taiwan's pineapple industry, producing around 420,000 tons annually, has been diversifying its export markets following trade restrictions with China. Efforts have been made to strengthen intellectual property protections for unique varieties like Tainung No. 23, aiming to enhance competitiveness in markets such as Japan.
Ivory Coast
As Europe's leading source of pineapples, Ivory Coast supplies over 200,000 tons of fresh fruit annually, accounting for 60% of the European market. Despite a 45% reduction in exports to Spain in 2024, the country remains a significant player in the global pineapple industry.
Summary
While Thailand and Indonesia have faced production challenges, countries like Peru, Costa Rica, Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Ivory Coast have either maintained or increased their pineapple production. These nations have helped stabilize the global supply, ensuring continued availability of pineapples in international markets.

Peru's production of canned pineapple has been growing rapidly, driven by rising exports and expanded processing capacity.
In January 2025, Peru exported 1,528 tons of pineapple worth $3.6 million, a 372% increase in volume and 135% increase in value compared to January 2024.
The United States accounted for 88.7% of these exports (8)Source Tridge).
In October 2024, pineapple exports hit 1,390 tons*, 19 times more than October 2023, valued at $4.2 million.(Source: Datamar)
🥫 Types of Processed Pineapple Exported
Peru exports several processed pineapple products. As of late 2024:
* **Canned pineapple**: **43.9%**
* **Dried pineapple**: **30.4%**
* **Frozen pineapple**: **20.3%**
* **Pineapple puree**: **4.5%**
* **Pineapple slices**: **0.9%**
* **Pineapple juice**: **0.1%**
Pineapple production in Peru is expected to grow at 2.5% per year, reaching 700.000 metric tons by 2026.
The Junín region is the leading producer, responsible for 41% of the pineapple cultivation area (Source: Freshplaza).

Peru is emerging as a key player in the global canned pineapple market, with exports expanding dramatically. While production and global presence are increasing, pricing pressures from market saturation remain a challenge.

Useful links
World production of pineapple by AtlasBig
Leading countries in pineapple production worldwide by Statista

Mexico produces canned pineapple for both domestic consumption and export markets.

🌴 Overview of Pineapple Production in Mexico:
* Mexico is a **significant pineapple producer** in Latin America, though it's not among the top global producers like the Philippines or Thailand.
* Key pineapple-producing states include **Veracruz**, **Tabasco**, and **Oaxaca**.
* Most fresh pineapple is consumed domestically, but **processed forms**, especially **canned pineapple**, are increasingly part of export strategies.

🥫 Canned Pineapple Production:
* Mexico has several **processing plants** that handle canning, drying, and juicing.
* The canned pineapple industry is tied to **agribusiness companies** and **cooperatives**, often located near producing regions to minimize transport costs and preserve freshness.

📦 Export Market:
Canned pineapple from Mexico is exported, though not at the scale of global giants like Thailand.
Key export destinations include:
The United States (due to NAFTA/USMCA trade agreements and geographic proximity)
Canada
Some European and Latin American countries

📈 Trends:
Growing demand for tropical fruits and convenience foods has boosted the export of canned products.
Quality standards and certifications (e.g., HACCP, FDA approval) are meet by export-oriented producers.
Some Mexican producers are diversifying into organic or low-sugar canned pineapple to meet niche foreign market demands.