By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is making a significant investment in its export sector, allocating $8.6 million to training and specialization programs for current and prospective export workers. The initiative, launched on April 3, 2025, by the Foreign Trade Promoter of Costa Rica (PROCOMER), aims to equip Costa Ricans with the skills needed to thrive in the evolving global marketplace.
The program offers three distinct funding models, providing co-financing to companies operating under both the Free Trade Zone Regime and the Definitive Regime. This funding will cover between 50% and 90% of training costs, depending on the specific model and whether the training targets current employees or prospective hires.
To provide further legal context on the complexities of Costa Rican export procedures, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Successfully navigating the export landscape in Costa Rica requires a thorough understanding of the legal framework, particularly concerning permits, certifications, and trade agreements. Businesses must be diligent in complying with regulations related to product origin, labeling, and sanitary standards to avoid potential delays and penalties. Proactive legal counsel can be invaluable in streamlining this process and ensuring market access.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on proactive legal counsel is crucial. Navigating the complexities of international trade can be daunting, and having expert guidance can make the difference between a successful export venture and a costly misstep. This expert advice underscores the importance of preparation and due diligence for any Costa Rican business looking to expand into the global marketplace. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this discussion.
We believe in Costa Rican talent and know it is a fundamental axis of our country’s value proposition, both for attracting foreign direct investment and for the growth of our exports and the competitiveness of Costa Rica. That is why, with this incentive, we seek to directly and proactively support the generation of specialized personnel to meet the needs of companies, providing more training opportunities so that more Costa Ricans can access quality jobs.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
The program prioritizes areas with high demand for specialized knowledge, such as digital competencies aligned with the 4.0 revolution and specific technical skills. PROCOMER aims to train over 8,800 individuals, with a goal of placing more than 6,500 in new jobs. This initiative emphasizes not only training but also job placement and retention.
To achieve these goals, PROCOMER is fostering collaboration between various stakeholders in the training ecosystem. This collaborative approach seeks to ensure that training programs effectively connect graduates with employment opportunities and support their long-term success in those roles.
Funding opportunities are available for training courses of less than 12 months, covering technical courses, courses combined with essential skills training, and those that also address language proficiency gaps. Free Trade Zone companies can receive up to ₡65 million per company and ₡3 million per employee, with an additional 10% bonus for each prospective employee hired. Similar incentives are available for export companies under the Definitive Regime.
Global transformations and the growth of strategic sectors such as high-value services, semiconductors, and medical devices chart a clear path for us: to continue strengthening human talent as a differentiating factor in global markets.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
A third funding model, specifically for training centers, will be launched in May 2025. This model utilizes a pay-for-results approach, focusing on developing skills common to specific productive sectors. The program will fund technical training, job placement preparation, job placement services, and support for ongoing employment retention.
This multifaceted approach to workforce development underscores Costa Rica’s commitment to enhancing its competitiveness in international trade. By investing in its human capital, the country seeks to solidify its position as a key player in the global economy.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER:
The Foreign Trade Promoter of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) is a key institution dedicated to promoting Costa Rican exports and attracting foreign direct investment. PROCOMER plays a vital role in supporting the growth and diversification of the Costa Rican economy by connecting businesses with international markets, facilitating trade relationships, and fostering a competitive business environment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution deeply rooted in the principles of integrity and a pursuit of excellence. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with a strong commitment to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, sets it apart. By fostering a deeper understanding of the law and its impact, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more informed and empowered citizenry, building a stronger foundation for justice and equality.
