By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s industrial real estate market is experiencing a surge in activity, solidifying its position as a key logistics hub in Central America. The first quarter of 2025 saw significant growth, with high demand and low vacancy rates driving the sector.
According to the MarketView Industrial & Logístico 1T 2025 report by CBRE, over 27,000 square meters of new warehouse and logistics center space were added in the first quarter, all of which are now fully occupied by both local and international companies. This strong demand has pushed vacancy rates down to a historically low 4.8%.
For expert insight into the legal landscape surrounding Costa Rican logistics, we turned to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s strategic location and developing infrastructure make it an increasingly attractive hub for logistics in Central America. However, navigating the legal complexities related to customs, free trade zones, and transportation regulations requires careful consideration. Businesses looking to capitalize on Costa Rica’s logistical advantages should seek expert advice to ensure compliance and maximize efficiency.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point for businesses eyeing Costa Rica’s logistical landscape: strategic planning is key. While the country’s potential is undeniable, navigating the legal intricacies requires a proactive and informed approach. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective, reminding us that expert guidance can be the differentiating factor between logistical success and costly setbacks in this dynamic market.
Costa Rica has 1.6 million square meters of modern industrial space, and demand still outstrips supply. This reflects the confidence of investors and companies in the stability of the local market.
Bernal Rodríguez, Senior Vice President of Advisory & Transaction Services, Industrial & Logistics, CBRE
The key sectors fueling this growth are logistics, advanced manufacturing, and the medical device industry, with the latter becoming a major export driver for the country. This diversified economic activity further strengthens the projection of continued growth in the industrial market for the remainder of the year.
Experts attribute the strong interest from multinational companies to several factors, including Costa Rica’s skilled workforce, strategic geographical location, and its ability to integrate into global value chains. These advantages make the country an attractive destination for establishing logistics and manufacturing operations.
The growth in the industrial real estate market reflects broader trends in Costa Rica’s economy. The country’s stability and business-friendly environment are key attractions for foreign investors. This sustained investment is crucial for the continued expansion of the logistics sector and the broader economic development of the country.
At CBRE, we help companies of all sizes find the space they need to grow in Costa Rica. Our role is to provide data, advice, and solutions that allow them to make better investment decisions and adapt to market trends. The dynamism we see today in the industrial sector confirms that the country continues to be a strategic point for the region.
Jimena Rico, Market Research Manager, CBRE Colombia and Costa Rica
The ongoing development of industrial spaces and the sustained demand from businesses suggest a positive outlook for Costa Rica’s logistics sector. As the country continues to attract foreign investment and cultivate a thriving business environment, its position as a regional logistics hub appears set to strengthen further.
For further information, visit cbre.com
About CBRE:
CBRE Group, Inc. is a commercial real estate services and investment firm. The company offers a range of services including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of our practice. We are driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities through readily accessible legal knowledge, fostering a society equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape. Through innovative approaches and a client-centered focus across diverse sectors, we strive to not only provide exceptional legal services but also to contribute meaningfully to a more informed and empowered Costa Rica.
