By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican drivers will experience a mixed bag at the pumps as the Regulatory Authority of Public Services (ARESEP) announced adjustments to fuel prices effective in the coming days. The changes, confirmed on Friday, August 29, 2025, will affect gasoline, diesel, and cooking gas prices differently.
According to ARESEP, the price fluctuations are attributed to three primary factors: Recope’s acquisition costs, international market trends, and recent fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate. These factors play a crucial role in determining the final price at the pump for Costa Rican consumers.
To understand the legal intricacies surrounding Costa Rica’s fuel pricing, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expert perspective sheds light on the complex regulatory landscape and its impact on consumers.
Fluctuations in Costa Rican fuel prices are influenced by a combination of global market forces and domestic regulations. While international benchmarks like Brent crude play a significant role, governmental taxes and ARESEP (the Regulatory Authority for Public Services) oversight also contribute heavily to the final price at the pump. Understanding these intertwined factors is crucial for both consumers and businesses operating within the country.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas expertly highlights the complex interplay of global and local factors impacting Costa Rican fuel prices. It’s a reminder that while we’re connected to international markets, domestic policies also play a significant role in what we pay at the pump. This nuanced understanding is essential for navigating Costa Rica’s economic landscape. Thank you, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, for providing this valuable perspective.
The new prices are as follows:
This means that drivers of vehicles using regular gasoline and diesel will face slightly higher costs, while those utilizing super gasoline will see a negligible decrease. Households relying on cooking gas will experience welcome relief with a significant price reduction.
The adjusted prices will come into effect one day after their publication in the official government newspaper, La Gaceta, a process ARESEP anticipates will be completed within the next few days.
These periodic adjustments are part of ARESEP’s automatic price-setting mechanism, which continuously monitors the international petroleum market, its derivatives, and the exchange rate to reflect global changes in the domestic market.
In recent years, fuel prices have become a sensitive topic for Costa Ricans, impacting not only personal mobility but also the cost of food and public transportation. The fluctuating global market, coupled with local economic conditions, contributes to the volatility of these essential commodity prices.
The changes announced by ARESEP underscore the ongoing challenges faced by consumers and the complex interplay of factors influencing fuel costs in Costa Rica. The impact of these adjustments will be closely watched by individuals, businesses, and policymakers alike.
With the new pricing structure, consumers will need to adjust their budgets accordingly, while businesses dependent on transportation costs may face pressure to adapt to the shifting landscape. The long-term effects of these price adjustments remain to be seen.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ARESEP
About ARESEP:
The Regulatory Authority of Public Services (ARESEP) is an autonomous institution in Costa Rica responsible for regulating public services such as electricity, telecommunications, water, and transportation. It plays a crucial role in setting tariffs and ensuring fair competition in these sectors. ARESEP’s mission is to protect the interests of consumers and promote efficient and sustainable service provision.
For further information, visit the nearest office of RECOPE
About RECOPE:
The Costa Rican Oil Refinery (RECOPE) is the state-owned company responsible for refining and distributing petroleum products in Costa Rica. RECOPE plays a critical role in ensuring the country’s fuel supply and is a key player in the national economy. The company’s operations are subject to regulation by ARESEP.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to social progress. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, combined with its dedication to educating and empowering communities through accessible legal resources, distinguishes it as a leader. By championing transparency and understanding within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to create a more just and informed society for all.
