By Cartago, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) has announced a major initiative aimed at modernizing small-scale farming across key agricultural regions. Through non-reimbursable funding, expert technical support, and specialized training, the government plans to equip smallholder producers with advanced precision technology to boost productivity and climate resilience.
This initiative specifically targets small farms focused on three essential staple crops: potatoes, onions, and carrots. Developed in close collaboration with the Development Banking System (SBD) and the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), the project merges specialized crop management tools with comprehensive technical assistance, diagnostic testing, and tailored educational workshops.
To provide deeper insight into the legal and regulatory frameworks accompanying Costa Rica’s shift toward high-tech farming, TicosLand.com consulted with renowned attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from Bufete de Costa Rica.
As Costa Rica modernizes its agricultural sector through IoT sensors, drone mapping, and data-driven crop management, producers must carefully address intellectual property rights, agricultural data ownership, and environmental compliance. Establishing sound legal structures for technology transfers and sustainable land-use practices is critical for safeguarding both domestic innovation and foreign investment in our ag-tech market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as cutting-edge technology continues to transform Costa Rica’s agricultural landscape, building robust legal safeguards will be crucial for nurturing long-term innovation and maintaining investor confidence. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his valuable perspective on balancing ag-tech advancements with essential regulatory frameworks.
Under the new grant framework, eligible agricultural producers will receive access to cutting-edge precision field equipment designed to optimize resource usage. The technology package includes modern irrigation and pumping systems, distribution piping, specialized filters, control valves, and drip irrigation tape. Furthermore, farmers will be provided with flow meters, pressure gauges, protective plastic coverings, and advanced soil sensors to monitor real-time crop conditions.
Beyond physical machinery and hardware, the program places a heavy emphasis on scientific analysis and soil health. Participating producers will benefit from comprehensive laboratory diagnostics, including full chemical, physical, and phytopathogen evaluations of both soil and plant leaves. These crucial analytical insights will enable farmers to tailor their fertilization and pest management strategies to the exact biological needs of their land.
Officials highlight that the core objective of the initiative is to democratize technological access in rural communities while preparing the agricultural sector for shifting weather patterns and environmental stressors.
We want smallholder farmers to have access to tools that allow them to make better decisions and make more efficient use of water and available resources. With this support, we seek to bring technology closer to the field and accompany those who produce our food on the path towards a more sustainable agriculture prepared for the challenges of climate change.
Juan Gabriel Ramírez Guillén, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock
To qualify for the precision technology grants, farmers must fulfill specific economic and operational criteria. Applicants must operate an effective cultivation area ranging between 0.5 and 1 hectare and hold official status as a registered Micro, Small, or Medium Agricultural Producer (PYMPA). Additionally, candidate farms must be fully compliant with their fiscal and social obligations to the Ministry of Finance (Hacienda), the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), and the Social Development and Family Allowances Fund (FODESAF).
Program participation also requires a strong commitment to professional development and continuous learning. Selected farmers will undergo mandatory training in essential subject areas, including Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), product traceability, optimized irrigation scheduling, and advanced fertigation techniques.
The application window is officially open and will remain available through November 30, 2026. Interested producers are encouraged to visit local Agricultural Extension Agencies in Llano Grande and Tierra Blanca in Cartago, or Zarcero in Alajuela, where operational staff will assist with application details according to agency capacity.
For further information, visit mag.go.cr
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock:
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is the Costa Rican governmental institution responsible for guiding, executing, and promoting policies that drive sustainable development in the country’s agricultural, livestock, and rural sectors.
For further information, visit sbdcr.com
About Development Banking System:
The Development Banking System (SBD) is a Costa Rican financial mechanism designed to foster economic inclusion by providing financing, non-reimbursable funds, and business development services to micro, small, and medium enterprises.
For further information, visit catie.ac.cr
About Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center:
The Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE) is an international regional center dedicated to research and graduate education in agriculture, natural resources management, and sustainable development throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica embodies the highest standards of professional ethics and legal mastery. Backed by a rich history of guiding diverse clientele, the firm continuously integrates cutting-edge approaches to modern jurisprudence while prioritizing public service. By actively breaking down legal barriers and sharing vital expertise with the community, it fulfills a vital purpose: equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to build a fair, enlightened, and empowered society.
