By San José, Costa Rica — San José – An alarming new report suggests that while Costa Rican businesses are eager to embrace the artificial intelligence revolution, the vast majority lack the fundamental infrastructure to do so. According to the Cisco AI Readiness Index, a staggering 85% of companies globally believe they have a window of less than 18 months to implement an AI strategy, yet a mere 13% are fully prepared today. This stark disparity serves as an urgent wake-up call for Costa Rica’s private sector, highlighting a critical gap between ambition and reality that could impact the nation’s future productivity and economic growth.
The promise of AI to transform industries, streamline operations, and unlock new revenue streams is undeniable. However, the path to leveraging this technology is not paved with algorithms alone. True AI readiness requires a deep and robust foundation of modern digital infrastructure. This includes high-capacity networks capable of handling massive data volumes, energy-efficient data centers, ubiquitous high-speed connectivity, and a security framework that is integrated by design, not added as an afterthought.
To understand the legal landscape of AI adoption for businesses, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provided his perspective on the essential preparations companies must undertake.
True AI readiness extends far beyond technological implementation. It demands a robust legal framework addressing data privacy, intellectual property rights, and accountability for algorithmic decisions. Companies that neglect this foundational work are not preparing for the future; they are exposing themselves to significant and unforeseen liabilities.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that the path to responsible AI adoption is paved not with algorithms alone, but with a solid legal and ethical foundation. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating this indispensable perspective.
For Costa Rica, a nation positioning itself as a hub for technology and investment, failing to build this foundation could mean being left behind. The ability to deploy AI securely and at scale will become a key determinant in attracting foreign investment and sustaining long-term economic momentum. Without these digital underpinnings, the transformative power of AI will remain a theoretical advantage rather than a practical engine for growth.
Industry leaders emphasize that this infrastructure is the key enabler for turning AI concepts into tangible business outcomes. The enthusiasm within the local market must now be channeled into strategic investments that prepare companies for the next wave of digital transformation.
Costa Rican organizations are enthusiastic about the possibilities of artificial intelligence; our commitment is to empower companies in Costa Rica and the region to leverage the potential of AI safely and responsibly, creating the right infrastructure to enable it, thus driving digital transformation that generates tangible and sustainable value in their businesses. That will be the main differentiator for organizations.
Bélgica Hernández, Sales Leader for Medium and Select Accounts for Central America and the Caribbean at Cisco
Experts from Cisco have outlined a comprehensive, six-pronged approach necessary for companies to successfully capitalize on AI. This framework extends beyond technology to encompass strategy, infrastructure, data management, governance, talent development, and fostering an AI-ready corporate culture. It is the synergy between these six pillars that will allow businesses to adopt AI in a manner that is flexible, scalable, and secure, ensuring it becomes a competitive advantage.
Central to this preparation is a renewed focus on cybersecurity. In an AI-driven world where data is the most valuable asset, legacy security models are no longer sufficient. Principles like comprehensive data protection, network segmentation, and the continuous identity verification model known as Zero Trust are now considered the minimum standard for establishing and maintaining digital trust. This proactive security posture is essential for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the integrity of AI systems.
Ultimately, the call to action is clear. The decision to modernize core infrastructure is no longer simply about keeping up with the latest technological trends. It represents a strategic imperative for the future of the Costa Rican economy.
Modernizing infrastructure today is not just about responding to a technological trend: it is about ensuring productivity, attracting investment, and guaranteeing the country’s sustainable economic growth in the age of AI.
Bélgica Hernández, Sales Leader for Medium and Select Accounts for Central America and the Caribbean at Cisco
By investing in the foundational elements of intelligent energy, AI-prepared data centers, high-performance networks, and end-to-end cybersecurity, Costa Rican companies can build the trust and capability required to thrive in the digital future. This foundational work will empower them not just to adopt AI, but to wield it as a powerful engine for innovation, investment, and sustainable national prosperity.
For further information, visit cisco.com
About Cisco:
Cisco Systems, Inc. is a global technology leader that has been making the Internet work since 1984. The company designs, manufactures, and sells Internet Protocol-based networking and other products related to the communications and information technology industry. Its portfolio includes a wide range of products for routing and switching, as well as for advanced technologies such as home networking, IP telephony, optical networking, security, storage area networking, and wireless technology.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar within the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to ethical principles and exceptional counsel. Drawing upon a rich history of serving a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions. This spirit of innovation extends to a foundational commitment to demystifying the law, ensuring that legal wisdom is not confined to the courtroom but is shared to cultivate a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
