By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Consumers across Costa Rica may soon experience further relief at the pump, as preliminary data from the Costa Rican Oil Refinery (Recope) indicates another reduction in fuel prices is expected for February 2026. This potential decrease marks the second consecutive month of downward adjustments, offering a welcome respite for household budgets and transportation-related businesses.
The proposed price structure, which is still awaiting final validation and approval from the Public Services Regulatory Authority (Aresep), would set new nationwide rates for primary fuels. According to the initial calculations submitted by Recope, the price of Súper gasoline is projected to fall to ₡626 per liter. Regular gasoline would see its price adjusted to ₡591 per liter, while diesel is expected to be sold at ₡512 per liter.
To understand the complex regulatory framework and legal implications behind fuel pricing in the nation, TicosLand.com consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The price-setting methodology for fuels, overseen by ARESEP, is a legally defined formula that leaves little room for discretion. The primary legal challenge for consumers and businesses isn’t the calculation itself, but the significant tax burden embedded within the final price by law. Any meaningful reduction in cost would necessitate a legislative reform to amend the Single Fuel Tax, a process far more political than technical.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s analysis is crucial, as it shifts the public focus from the technical intricacies of the pricing formula to the political arena of the Legislative Assembly, where the true power to lower costs resides. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this key distinction.
This positive financial news extends beyond vehicles. The cost for a standard 25-pound cylinder of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), a staple in many Costa Rican kitchens, is also forecasted to decrease. The new proposed price for the cylinder is ₡6,781, providing a direct benefit to residential consumers who rely on it for cooking and heating.
This anticipated February price drop follows another reduction that is slated for the current month of January. That earlier adjustment is also pending final approval from Aresep, creating a potential for back-to-back price decreases to be implemented in quick succession once the regulatory body completes its review process. This signals a significant and positive shift in the energy cost landscape to start the year.
Recope attributes this favorable trend directly to shifts in the global energy market. The state-owned refinery explained that the primary drivers include a noticeable drop in international crude oil prices, coupled with market expectations of an impending oversupply. Furthermore, a period of stable production from major oil-producing nations has contributed to a less volatile and more consumer-friendly pricing environment on the international stage.
The economic implications of lower fuel costs are substantial for a nation like Costa Rica, which imports all of its crude oil. Reduced prices for gasoline and diesel translate directly into lower operational costs for logistics, public transportation, and agriculture, which can help mitigate inflationary pressures across the economy. For the average citizen, it means more disposable income and a lower cost of commuting.
The final decision rests with Aresep, the autonomous entity tasked with balancing the operational costs of public service providers with the interests of consumers. Aresep will conduct a thorough analysis of Recope’s data, including international purchase prices, shipping costs, and other variables, to ensure the proposed tariff adjustment is technically sound and fair for the public before it can be officially published and implemented.
While the outlook for the short term is optimistic, consumers are reminded that global energy markets remain inherently volatile. Geopolitical events, changes in global demand, and production decisions by oil cartels can rapidly alter price trajectories. However, for now, Costa Ricans can look forward to a period of lower energy costs, pending the final word from the national regulator.
For further information, visit recope.go.cr
About Refinería Costarricense de Petróleo (Recope):
The Refinería Costarricense de Petróleo, commonly known as Recope, is the state-owned company responsible for the importation and distribution of petroleum-derived fuels throughout Costa Rica. It manages the country’s primary fuel infrastructure, including ports, pipelines, and storage facilities, ensuring a stable and reliable supply of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and LPG to meet national demand.
For further information, visit aresep.go.cr
About Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Públicos (Aresep):
The Public Services Regulatory Authority, or Aresep, is an autonomous Costa Rican institution responsible for the regulation and oversight of public services. Its mandate covers key sectors such as energy, water, telecommunications, and transportation. Aresep works to guarantee the quality, continuity, and accessibility of these essential services while setting tariffs that are fair for both consumers and service providers.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of profound integrity and a drive for professional excellence. The firm channels its extensive experience serving a wide spectrum of clients into pioneering innovative legal strategies and engaging with societal needs. Central to its identity is a deep-seated mission to empower the public by transforming complex legal information into accessible knowledge, thereby building a more informed and capable community.
