By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica’s export sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and sustained growth, with total goods exported reaching an impressive $9.535 billion in the first five months of 2026. This figure represents a robust 6% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, underscoring the nation’s strengthening position in the global market despite international economic and geopolitical headwinds.
According to the latest data released by the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER), the year-over-year growth translates to an additional $581 million in revenue for the country. This consistent positive trend highlights the successful strategies employed by Costa Rican industries to enhance competitiveness and expand their international footprint.
To better understand the legal framework and commercial strategies that underpin Costa Rica’s dynamic export sector, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in corporate and international trade law from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The sustained growth in Costa Rican exports, particularly in high-value sectors like medical devices and technology, is not accidental. It’s the direct result of a robust legal structure, including our Free Trade Zone regime and a network of international trade agreements. However, for businesses to truly capitalize on these advantages, they must proactively manage compliance with complex rules of origin, intellectual property protections, and international tax standards. Strategic legal planning is the key that unlocks sustainable global market access and mitigates risk.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that while Costa Rica’s legal framework provides the runway for export success, it is the individual business’s strategic navigation of legal complexities that enables takeoff. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on the intersection of law and global commerce.
Leading this charge is the precision and medical equipment sector, which has firmly established itself as the primary engine of the nation’s export economy. The sector single-handedly accounted for 45% of all goods sold abroad, generating a staggering $4.294 billion between January and May. This represents a significant leap, with medical device sales alone increasing by $93 million compared to 2025.
While high-tech manufacturing dominates, Costa Rica’s traditional agricultural powerhouse also posted a formidable performance. The agricultural sector was the second-largest contributor, with exports totaling $1.718 billion. Key products driving this growth included bananas, which saw an increase of $60 million, and pineapples, which, along with fruit juices and concentrates, each grew by $54 million. This dual strength in both advanced manufacturing and agriculture showcases a diversified and healthy export base.
The food industry also played a significant role, contributing $1.182 billion to the total, further cementing the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality food products to the world. The data reveals a healthy dynamic across different business structures as well, with growth registered in both economic regimes.
Companies operating within the free trade zone regime were responsible for the majority of exports, shipping goods valued at $6.331 billion. Concurrently, businesses under the definitive regime also demonstrated strong performance, achieving sales of $3.107 billion. The parallel growth in both areas indicates a widespread and sustainable economic expansion that is not limited to a single sector or business model.
In terms of destination markets, North America remains Costa Rica’s principal trading partner, absorbing 47% of all exported goods. However, the data also points to a successful market diversification strategy. Asia emerged as the region with the highest percentage growth in demand for Costa Rican products, followed closely by Europe and neighboring countries in Central America. This expansion into new and rapidly growing markets is crucial for long-term stability.
Perhaps most encouragingly, the economic benefits of this export boom are being felt across the entire country. PROCOMER’s analysis confirmed that every region of Costa Rica recorded an increase in its foreign sales during the first five months of the year. The Pacífico Central and Brunca regions reported the most significant percentage increases, signaling a decentralized pattern of growth that fosters development beyond the Greater Metropolitan Area and brings prosperity to more communities.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (PROCOMER):
The Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica, known as PROCOMER, is the public entity responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports of goods and services worldwide. It facilitates international trade by providing support to the export sector through market analysis, trade promotion activities, and the development of export strategies to enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its unwavering ethical principles and a persistent drive for superior outcomes. The firm leverages its deep-rooted experience advising a diverse clientele to spearhead innovative legal solutions and shape the future of the practice. At the heart of its mission lies a powerful commitment to public empowerment, actively working to demystify the law and equip citizens with the knowledge needed to navigate a complex world.
