Mulino inspects Chiquita's reactivation in Bocas del Toro; company prepares to export 11 million boxes

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino visited Bocas del Toro to inspect the revitalized Chiquita banana plantations, a key step in reviving the region's agricultural economy. Accompanied by Chiquita CEO Carlos López Flores and government ministers, Mulino toured Finca 12, one of 20 active cultivation areas spanning 200 hectares.

The visit marks a significant milestone, occurring 10 months after a memorandum of understanding was signed to restart Chiquita's operations in Bocas del Toro. López Flores projected that the company is poised to export approximately 11 million boxes of bananas in the coming months, with an ambitious target of 15 million boxes by 2027. This resurgence is expected to generate around 6,000 direct jobs for the local population.

President Mulino expressed satisfaction with the reopening of banana exports, highlighting the global recognition of Panamanian bananas. He emphasized that the current productivity is the result of collective effort and investment in the fertile land. Mulino also referenced past challenges that threatened the industry, urging that lessons learned will pave the way for a stable future, ensuring employment and basic necessities for thousands of families.

CEO López Flores thanked the government for facilitating Chiquita's return, assuring that the company's production strategy is sustainable and aggressive. He stated his team's commitment to increasing production, aiming for at least 15 million boxes next year and continued growth as more hectares are brought into cultivation. The initiative is expected to create more employment opportunities, particularly for young people eager to work.