Costa Rica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) has announced an investment of approximately US$40,000 in post-harvest infrastructure for onion growers in Tierra Blanca, Cartago.
The funding will be used to construct two greenhouse-type drying modules covering 800 square meters each. The structures are intended to regulate moisture reduction after harvest and increase handling capacity.
Humidity is a post-harvest issue for onion growers in Cartago, as excess moisture can result in decay, higher discard rates, and lower selling prices. MAG said the drying infrastructure is intended to reduce crop losses, maintain onion quality, and improve access to wholesale markets.
The ministry also expects the facilities to allow growers to regulate the flow of onions onto the market during peak harvest periods. This could reduce exposure to sharp wholesale price declines when supply increases.
“The initiative aims to directly boost farmers’ household earnings by preserving crop quality, curbing waste, and minimizing recurrent operational costs on farms,” MAG stated.
The first module is expected to be completed by October, with the second scheduled for early November. These dates coincide with the region’s main onion crop cycles, which run from May to July and from August to December.
The investment forms part of MAG’s plans to support agricultural organisations. Local cooperative Cooperhorti Irazú R.L. said the facilities will help maintain onions in suitable condition after harvest and provide growers with more flexibility in determining when crops are marketed.