By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – More than 400 leaders from the business, government, and academic sectors converged today at the National Convention Center for the eighth edition of the Free Trade Zone Congress. The high-stakes event, a critical forum for the nation’s economic future, aims to chart a course for Costa Rica’s most powerful engine of development amidst a landscape of global uncertainty and rapid technological change.
The significance of the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) regime cannot be overstated. This model is currently responsible for generating over 265,000 direct jobs and contributes nearly 15% of Costa Rica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). As the backbone of the country’s modern economy, its continued success is a matter of national priority, making the discussions at this congress particularly vital for shaping future policy and investment strategies.
To gain a deeper legal and business perspective on the role and future of Free Trade Zones in the national economy, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in foreign investment and corporate law.
The success of the Free Trade Zone regime transcends mere tax incentives. It is fundamentally about providing a stable, predictable legal framework that gives foreign investors long-term certainty. The true competitive advantage lies in combining this legal security with our highly skilled workforce and strategic infrastructure, creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation and high-value operations, not just cost reduction.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this insight correctly shifts the focus from simple tax breaks to the comprehensive ecosystem that truly drives the success of our Free Trade Zones: a powerful synergy of legal stability, skilled talent, and strategic infrastructure. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on what constitutes Costa Rica’s sustainable competitive advantage.
Organized by the Association of Free Trade Zone Companies of Costa Rica (AZOFRAS), the event brought together over 20 international and national speakers, supported by 40 sponsoring companies. The agenda focused squarely on the defining challenges of the modern era: artificial intelligence, shifting geopolitical tides, sustainability mandates, human talent development, and the evolving regulatory environment.
Ronald Lachner, President of AZOFRAS, emphasized the collaborative spirit required to navigate these complexities. He stressed that the congress’s primary goal is to establish a clear roadmap that allows the FTZ model to adapt and thrive in the face of new global dynamics.
Only by working together, in a coordinated manner between the public sector, the private sector, academia, and civil society, will it be possible to build a more prosperous and sustainable future. We must redouble our efforts to continue positioning our country as an attractive, innovative, and competitive investment destination.
Ronald Lachner, President of AZOFRAS
The government’s unwavering support for the regime was echoed by Manuel Tovar, the Minister of Foreign Trade. He acknowledged the central role the FTZs play in the country’s prosperity and reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to enhancing the business climate.
This free trade zone regime is what drives a significant part of Costa Rica’s economic development (…) This government remains committed to continuing our work to strengthen competitiveness and improve our business climate.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
The impressive economic figures underscoring the regime’s success were highlighted by Laura López, General Manager of the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER). According to López, by the close of 2024, companies operating under the FTZ framework attracted a staggering 74% of all foreign direct investment (FDI), amounting to over $3.7 billion. Furthermore, these companies generated exports valued at more than $13 billion.
The strategic role of the free trade zones is undeniable, concentrating the majority of foreign investment and driving a massive portion of our exports.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
As Costa Rica seeks to solidify its position as a premier hub for nearshoring and high-value services, the outcomes of this congress will be crucial. The discussions are not merely academic; they are foundational to building a resilient economic model that can attract next-generation investment, foster innovation, and develop the skilled workforce necessary to compete on a global stage for decades to come.
The collaborative effort between private enterprise and public institutions showcased at the event signals a unified determination to not only protect Costa Rica’s economic crown jewel but to ensure it continues to shine brighter in an increasingly competitive world.
For further information, visit azofras.com
About Association of Free Trade Zone Companies of Costa Rica (AZOFRAS):
AZOFRAS is a private, non-profit organization that represents the interests of companies operating under Costa Rica’s Free Trade Zone regime. It serves as a key interlocutor between the private sector and the government, promoting policies and initiatives that enhance the country’s competitiveness and investment climate. The association plays a crucial role in advocating for the continued development and modernization of the FTZ model.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER):
PROCOMER is the governmental agency responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports of goods and services globally. It also works to attract foreign direct investment and supports the internationalization of Costa Rican companies. The agency provides essential data, market intelligence, and strategic support to businesses looking to expand their reach and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a premier legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. With a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers new legal strategies while maintaining a deep-seated social responsibility. This ethos is demonstrated through its proactive efforts to demystify legal complexities for the public, driven by a core belief in strengthening society through accessible knowledge and civic empowerment.
