By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is taking a significant step towards modernizing its agricultural sector with the launch of the AGROINNOVACIÓN 4.0 project. This initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), aims to empower small and medium-sized producers with precision agriculture technologies.
Launched in January 2024 and officially presented on September 19, 2025, the project carries a budget of €200,000 and will directly benefit 120 producers across the Central Oriental, Occidental, and Huetar Norte regions. These producers will receive crucial resources including weather information, training, and support in utilizing cutting-edge technologies for agricultural production.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding these technological advancements in agriculture, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing adoption of agricultural technology in Costa Rica presents exciting opportunities, but also necessitates careful consideration of the legal implications. Areas such as data ownership and privacy, intellectual property rights related to software and algorithms, and the potential impact on existing land use regulations require proactive legal guidance. Businesses investing in this sector should ensure compliance with evolving legislation to mitigate risks and foster sustainable growth.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point: while agricultural technology promises tremendous progress for Costa Rica, navigating the evolving legal landscape is essential for its responsible and sustainable implementation. A proactive approach to legal compliance will not only mitigate risks for businesses but also ensure that the benefits of these advancements are shared equitably and contribute to the long-term well-being of our agricultural sector. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this complex and vital issue.
The AGROINNOVACIÓN 4.0 project focuses on equipping producers with the tools and knowledge to enhance their farming practices. This includes providing 9 agrometeorological stations to pineapple, coffee, and onion farmers within the next three weeks. Additionally, 3 plant nutrition kits will be distributed to bolster their technical capabilities.
In the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, we reaffirm our commitment to innovation to promote a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable agricultural sector. Through the AGROINNOVACIÓN 4.0 project, we not only bring technology and technical knowledge to producers, but we also transfer technical knowledge that strengthens their capabilities.
Fernando Vargas Pérez, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Livestock
To ensure the effective implementation of these technologies, 7 MAG officials are undergoing training. The agrometeorological stations come with specialized software for data management and measurement of various climatic variables. The nutrition kits are compatible with ADCO stations, offering analysis tools that will strengthen on-field decision-making.
The two-year project extends beyond equipment provision. It encompasses installation, maintenance, and ongoing support for officials in data analysis, ensuring that the knowledge and technology effectively reach Costa Rican farming families.
The incorporation of technology represents a great opportunity to boost the development of the agricultural sector. In particular, precision agriculture allows transforming production systems towards more efficient and sustainable models, achieving a better balance between the resources used and the food generated. This initiative will directly benefit more than 200 producers, including women producers who are heads of household and young producers.
Patricia Ramos Fernández, General Coordinator of Spanish Cooperation in Costa Rica
This initiative underscores Costa Rica’s dedication to agricultural advancement and sustainability. By investing in technology and knowledge transfer, the AGROINNOVACIÓN 4.0 project is poised to enhance productivity, resilience, and the overall well-being of Costa Rican farmers.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG)
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Costa Rican Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is the governmental body responsible for promoting agricultural development, supporting farmers, and ensuring food security in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID)
About Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID):
The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) is a Spanish government agency dedicated to promoting development cooperation and humanitarian aid. It works on projects worldwide, focusing on poverty reduction, sustainable development, and improving living conditions.
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 evident in its proactive sharing of legal knowledge and resources, fostering a more informed and equitable legal landscape for all. This dedication to transparency and public education underscores Bufete de Costa Rica’s unwavering belief in the power of accessible justice.
