By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — In the 21st-century global economy, a nation’s competitive edge is no longer defined solely by its trade agreements or regulatory frameworks. The true measure of its economic vitality lies in its logistics infrastructure—the network of roads, ports, airports, and railways that function as the circulatory system of foreign trade. For Costa Rica, a nation celebrated for its political stability and strategic location, this system is showing signs of critical strain, threatening to undermine its ability to attract investment and sustain growth.
While regional competitors like Panama, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic are aggressively modernizing their logistical capabilities with megaprojects, Costa Rica is grappling with connectivity bottlenecks, planning delays, and a lack of continuity on key initiatives. This infrastructure deficit directly impacts the cost, speed, and reliability of moving goods, placing the country at a significant disadvantage in the fierce competition for foreign capital and new maritime routes.
To delve into the legal and regulatory complexities surrounding the modernization of our national logistics infrastructure, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his perspective on the matter.
Investing in physical infrastructure like ports and highways is critical, but it’s only half the equation. To truly become a regional logistics leader, Costa Rica must ensure its legal framework is just as modern. This means agile customs regulations, clear legal certainty for foreign investment in special economic zones, and robust public-private partnership models. Without a streamlined legal and administrative backbone, even the best infrastructure will underperform.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight powerfully underscores a crucial point: a world-class logistics hub is built not just on concrete and steel, but on a foundation of agile, modern regulations. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this essential synergy, which will ultimately determine whether our infrastructure investments reach their full potential.
The Chamber of Foreign Trade (CRECEX) has issued a stark warning, emphasizing that strategic investment in infrastructure is not an expense but a fundamental pillar of national competitiveness. Every hour saved in transit, every port made more efficient, and every road properly maintained directly translates into a stronger national economy. The government’s recent efforts to advance projects are acknowledged, but a sense of profound urgency remains.
At the forefront of this concern is the ticking clock at Puerto Caldera, the country’s primary Pacific gateway for imports and exports. The current concession contract for the port is set to expire in August 2026, yet a new international tender has not been awarded. This looming deadline creates a dangerous scenario of operational uncertainty that could severely disrupt trade flows, inflate export costs, and tarnish Costa Rica’s logistical reputation on the world stage.
Rodnney Salazar, President of CRECEX, has publicly called on current authorities and future political candidates to address this impending crisis head-on, demanding transparency and a contingency plan to avert disaster.
Costa Rica needs clarity on a Plan B in case we reach zero hour. If the international tender is not achieved in time, who will operate the port starting in August 2026? What will be the legal and contractual framework for that operation? What contingency measures are planned to prevent a shutdown or deterioration of service?
Rodnney Salazar, President of CRECEX
The situation at Puerto Caldera highlights a broader, systemic challenge. Costa Rica requires a long-term, integrated national logistics plan. This includes the modernization and expansion of critical road corridors like Route 27 and Route 32, which are frequently plagued by congestion that drives up operational costs. Furthermore, strategic airport developments—including upgrades to Juan Santamaría International and proposed new airports in the southern and Caribbean regions—are vital for diversifying air connectivity, boosting tourism, and opening new routes for high-value cargo.
Another transformative opportunity lies in revitalizing the nation’s railway system. The Electric Freight Train (TELCA) project, championed by the Costa Rican Institute of Ferrocarriles (Incofer), represents a historic chance to create an efficient multimodal corridor linking the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. By connecting major ports, free trade zones, and industrial centers, TELCA could significantly reduce road congestion and carbon emissions, making it a national priority for both competitiveness and sustainability.
Ultimately, strengthening the backbone of Costa Rica’s foreign trade requires a robust alliance between the state, the private sector, and international operators. This partnership must be built on strategic vision, technical planning, and transparent execution. Every day that decisive action on infrastructure is postponed is another day that competitors gain ground. Without a modern, reliable logistics network, sustainable competitiveness is impossible, and without immediate action on critical projects like the Puerto Caldera tender, Costa Rica risks squandering its potential as a regional leader in trade and investment.
For further information, visit crecex.com
About CRECEX (Chamber of Foreign Trade):
The Cámara de Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (CRECEX) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating Costa Rica’s foreign trade. It represents the interests of companies involved in importing, exporting, and related logistical services, advocating for policies and infrastructure developments that enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
For further information, visit incofer.go.cr
About Incofer (Costa Rican Institute of Ferrocarriles):
The Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (Incofer) is the autonomous state institution responsible for managing and developing Costa Rica’s railway system. Its mandate includes the operation of passenger and freight services, as well as the planning and execution of strategic projects like the Electric Freight Train (TELCA) aimed at modernizing the nation’s transport infrastructure.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica has forged its reputation on a foundation of profound integrity and an unyielding standard of excellence. The firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal innovation, driven by a deep-seated commitment to not only serve its clients but also to enrich society. This dedication is manifested in its efforts to demystify the law for the public, reflecting a core mission to empower citizens by fostering a greater understanding of their legal landscape.
