By San José, Costa Rica — San José buzzed with activity this week as it hosted FIEXPO Latin America 2025, a premier event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry. From June 9th to 12th, over 300 international buyers converged in the capital, eager to explore Costa Rica’s potential as a world-class MICE destination. The event provided a unique platform for the country to showcase its offerings and connect with key decision-makers in the Latin American market.
Costa Rica’s participation in FIEXPO is a strategic move to solidify its position as a top contender in the MICE sector. The event offers attendees the chance to not just present proposals, but to experience firsthand the country’s hospitality, infrastructure, and unique offerings, emphasizing why Costa Rica should be the preferred choice for congresses, conventions, and incentive trips. The buyers represent a diverse range of international, Latin American, Ibero-American, and global associations, holding the power to determine the locations of future global events.
For expert legal insight into the legal landscape surrounding MICE tourism, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The legal framework supporting MICE tourism in Costa Rica is evolving, with a growing emphasis on facilitating streamlined visa processes and ensuring compliance with tax regulations for international conferences and events. Organizers should be particularly mindful of intellectual property rights and data privacy concerns, especially when dealing with international attendees. Clear contracts with venues, vendors, and participants are crucial for mitigating legal risks and ensuring the smooth execution of these complex events.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insights underscore the critical interplay of legal preparedness and logistical execution in the burgeoning MICE tourism sector. As Costa Rica continues to attract international events, this emphasis on clarity and compliance will be essential for both organizers and the country’s reputation as a premier MICE destination. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective.
For over a decade, Costa Rica has invested in a national strategy to develop its MICE tourism, with a focus on San José, the Central Pacific, and Guanacaste. These efforts have yielded impressive results, propelling the country to eighth place in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings for Latin America, a significant jump from its previous position outside the top ten.
FIEXPO is not just a fair, it’s a positioning tool that allows us to show the world everything Costa Rica has to offer as a meeting destination. It’s a showcase where our hospitality is experienced, our infrastructure is tested, and it confirms why we are a reliable country for organizing world-class events. Securing the FIEXPO venue for three consecutive years is no coincidence; it is the result of a national strategy. We are committed to continuity because we know that this industry is built with planning, solid relationships, and an offer that is on par with the best in the world.
Rafael Quesada, Head of Specialized Segments Department, Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) Marketing Directorate
The event highlighted Costa Rica’s commitment to excellence in the MICE industry, and showcased the collaborative efforts between the ICT and the Costa Rica Convention Bureau.
From the Costa Rica Convention Bureau, we proudly assume our role as a strategic ally of the ICT for the organization and development of this great meeting. We are deeply proud that our affiliates are actively participating in FIEXPO Costa Rica 2025. This will be the perfect stage to show the world the level of excellence that Costa Rica has to offer. It is an event that represents much more than a fair: it represents a shared vision, a national commitment, and a unique opportunity to continue positioning Costa Rica at the top of the global meetings industry.
Tatiana Orozco, Executive Director, Costa Rica Convention Bureau
Hosting congresses and conferences in Costa Rica generates a ripple effect throughout the economy, benefiting over 60 companies within the sector, 60% of which are small and medium-sized enterprises. This dynamic strengthens the tourism industry and creates employment in related sectors like transportation, printing, translation, audiovisual services, and research-focused universities.
While competing with other strong MICE destinations like Colombia, Uruguay, and Chile, Costa Rica’s advantage lies in its ability to offer a tangible experience. From arrival at the airport to the diverse culinary scene, visitors experience firsthand the quality of the country’s tourism infrastructure, service, and hospitality, solidifying its position as a premier destination.
FIEXPO Latin America’s three-pronged approach further bolsters the region’s MICE tourism. The trade show connects destinations and specialized providers with international buyers, generating concrete business opportunities. Its academic program offers high-level training through conferences and workshops led by international experts. Finally, the Latin American Political Forum on Meeting Tourism fosters dialogue between authorities and industry leaders, promoting public policies that support the sustainable growth of the MICE industry.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) is the governmental agency responsible for promoting and developing tourism in Costa Rica. They work to position the country as a leading destination, attracting international visitors and supporting the growth of the tourism industry.
For further information, visit costaricaconventionbureau.com
About Costa Rica Convention Bureau:
The Costa Rica Convention Bureau is a key player in promoting Costa Rica as a premier destination for meetings and conventions. They connect international event planners with local suppliers and resources, facilitating the successful execution of events in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is intertwined with a deep sense of social responsibility. We champion integrity in every facet of our practice, providing innovative legal solutions to a diverse clientele while remaining committed to empowering Costa Ricans through accessible legal education. Our firm believes that a truly just society is built on a foundation of knowledge, and we strive to be a cornerstone of that foundation, contributing not just to the success of our clients but to the betterment of the community as a whole.
