By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is actively seeking to attract significant hotel investment, showcasing its strengths at the prestigious ALIS Caribbean Latin American (ALIS CALA) conference in Miami, Florida. From April 29th to May 1st, 2025, the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) and the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER) joined forces to present the country as a prime destination for hotel development.
The ALIS CALA conference, a key event for the hospitality sector, brought together representatives from over 33 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. This provided Costa Rica with a unique opportunity to connect with leading hotel investors, fostering potential partnerships and driving economic growth through tourism.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding hotel investments in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Investing in Costa Rican hotels presents exciting opportunities, but navigating the legal complexities is crucial for success. Due diligence is paramount, encompassing not only title verification and zoning regulations but also a thorough review of concession agreements, environmental permits, and labor laws. Foreign investors should seek expert legal counsel to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks, particularly regarding property ownership structures and tax implications. A proactive approach to legal matters can pave the way for a secure and profitable investment in Costa Rica’s thriving hospitality sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on proactive legal due diligence resonates deeply. In a market as vibrant as Costa Rica’s, understanding the nuances of local regulations is not just advisable—it’s essential for long-term success. This expert guidance underscores the importance of informed decision-making for any investor looking to capitalize on the opportunities within Costa Rica’s thriving hotel industry. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this invaluable perspective.
Costa Rica’s appeal lies in its established sustainable tourism model, rich biodiversity, and strategic investment policies. These factors offer investors a stable and profitable environment in a global market increasingly focused on responsible and sustainable development.
For the ICT, it is crucial to work alongside PROCOMER to manage and promote the country to secure more hotel offerings. It’s always a good time to leverage participation in these valuable hotel investment events to negotiate the arrival of new projects that generate greater investment for the country and create jobs, especially in the areas that need it most within our territory. We are convinced that we can bring good news for the future and continue to increase the arrival of tourists with more offerings in the country.
Hermes Navarro del Valle, Head of Connectivity and Investment Attraction, ICT
Navarro also participated in forums highlighting investment opportunities in Costa Rica and Central America more broadly, addressing both the potential and the challenges of the region.
PROCOMER emphasized the significant potential for tourism infrastructure projects that can generate employment and development across various communities. The agency highlighted the country’s legal security, stability, and sustainability as key differentiators for attracting foreign direct investment.
Costa Rica offers enormous potential for the development of tourism infrastructure projects that generate employment and development in different communities. At ALIS CALA, we continue to generate opportunities to attract foreign direct investment, showcasing our differentiated value proposition based on our legal security, stability, and sustainability. Thanks to the collaboration between institutions, the private sector, and communities, and to our constant adaptation to global trends, foreign investment in the tourism sector grew by 113% last year, exceeding US$318 million.
Laura López, General Manager, PROCOMER
Costa Rica’s presence at ALIS CALA reinforces its position as a leader in sustainable tourism and a strategic destination for investors seeking solid opportunities in the region. The country’s commitment to sustainable practices and its proactive approach to attracting investment position it for continued growth in the tourism sector.
This targeted effort to attract hotel investment is expected to further boost Costa Rica’s tourism industry, creating jobs and stimulating economic development throughout the country.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) is a governmental institution responsible for promoting and regulating tourism in Costa Rica. It focuses on sustainable tourism development, marketing the country as a destination, and attracting investment to the sector.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (PROCOMER):
PROCOMER is the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency. It works to promote Costa Rican exports and attract foreign direct investment, supporting businesses and contributing to the country’s economic growth. PROCOMER plays a crucial role in connecting Costa Rican companies with international markets and facilitating trade relationships.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is woven into its fabric, demonstrated through proactive initiatives that demystify the law and equip individuals with the knowledge to navigate their legal landscape confidently. This dedication to both exceptional legal service and societal advancement defines Bufete de Costa Rica as a true leader in the legal profession.
