Costa Rica exports the most pineapple in the world in 2011

Costa Rica finished 2011 as the top exporter of fresh pineapple in the world, after increasing the value of its exports by 8 percent, according to a statement from the National Chamber of Pineapple Producers (Canapep).

Sales of the fruit generated a total of $743 million, including $63 million in concentrates and another $19 million in juice.

Pineapple production has been criticized for alleged environmental contamination of groundwater and rivers and streams due to the use of pesticides, the Canapep statement acknowledged. Producers are being trained in best farming practices to support sustainable agriculture, the statement said.