The World Trade Report 2013 focuses on trade as cause and effect of the change, and examines the factors shaping the future of global trade.
The world is changing extremely rapidly under the influence of many factors, among which are changing patterns in production and consumption, constant technological innovation, new forms of trade and obviously political policy.
Countries such as the Netherlands import 98% of their canned tuna in different varieties, including in water, in olive oil, in sunflower oil, and with hot sauce, among other varieties.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
98.5% of the tuna that is imported from Holland is of the canned variety and in comes different formats, in water, in olive oil, in sunflower oil, and with hot sauce, among other varieties. In regards to re-exports, on average about 70% of the tuna entering the Netherlands is re-exported, with Germany being the main destination.
An announcement has been made of new nutritional standards to be implemented in schools across the country, which include foods groups such as whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables and protein.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, Tom Vilsack, announced that under new nutrition standards to be applied in schools across the country, Smart Snacks in School, students will have a greater choice of healthy foods.
The economic crisis facing the country is causing consumers to be more cautious in their purchases, consulting web sites rather than going directly to dealers.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The biggest concern of the Italians is their economy, this has resulted in a consumer who is more aware and more cautious in their decisions, spending less and being more selective. However, it is not so much consumption habits which have changed, as the way of choosing the product.
Consumers in China are choosing international brands, in 2012 the consumption of coffee surpassed 70 thousand tons and in 2013 it is expected to reach more than 95 thousand tons.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The growing demand for coffee in the Chinese market, which traditionally used to be focused on tea consumption, presents a great opportunity for exporters of this product. China is the second largest beverage market and consumption is expected to reach 100,000 tons of coffee in 2013.
A good marketing strategy in promoting organic products is to include ethical statements to help producers to differentiate themselves from their competitors.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
A study in five European countries which was recently published in the magazine Appetite, suggests including ethical statements in the promotion of organic products is a good marketing strategy for differentiating yourself.
An increase of 12% in 2012, signals a growing trend by U.S. consumers for smoked flavoured foods.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
According to the research company Nielsen Perishables Group, consumption of smoked seafood products in the U.S. recorded an increase of 12% in 2012, which reflects a growing trend among American consumers for choosing types of savoury food and cocktails with a smoky flavor, which is reflected by the increase in sales of these products in the supermarkets and wholesalers.
Consumers prefer lightweight packaging that is imanageable and labeled with detailed information about the contents and forms of preparation and consumption.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
Innovative flavors, everything that is natural and healthy as well as "clean labels" and low prices are some of the factors driving the demand for snacks.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The event Snaxpo 2013, a trade show specializing in the snack industry, held in March, was the stage for industry leading companies such as Kerry Ingredients & Flavors (KIF) to raise major challenges facing manufacturers of snacks and the ingredients for them.
Sales of certified organic food and beverages tripled between 2006 and 2012, reaching sales of more than $3 million.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
The organic market in Canada reached a value of $3.674 billion, according to the Organic Trade Association country (OTA), as domestic sales of certified organic food and nonalcoholic beverages managed to triple sales between 2006 and 2012.
Statistics on the consumption of soft drinks, especially fruit juices, reveal significant growth in 2011 and 2012.
From an article by the Costa Rican Trade Promotion Office (PROCOMER):
Statistics on the consumption of soft drinks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), especially of fruit juices, reveal significant growth in 2011 and 2012. These trends are becoming stronger and reflect a multicultural society, aware of the importance of consuming healthy drinks, which has fueled the growth of this market segment.
The Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion office has published a study entitled "Trends and innovations in the food sector: the case of the European Union"
From the introduction of the study "Trends and innovations in the food sector: the case of the European Union":
The main destination for adventure, Costa Rica is also growing as a destination for tourists seeking activities in the wellness sector.
Demand for services such as pilates, meditation, relaxation, yoga, hot springs, healthy eating and fitness is growing worldwide and is becoming established as a trend to be considered by the tourism industry.
In 2012, companies around the world will provide Chinese visitors and clients luxury care, more benefits and personalized services.
China is the new emperor, and companies and governments are courting the Chinese. No wonder the red carpet will extend in all places where Chinese businessmen and politicians set foot.