By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Key figures in Costa Rica’s business community have voiced strong support for the newly signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Israel, heralding the pact as a vital strategic move to diversify exports, attract high-tech investment, and secure a foothold in the Middle Eastern market.</ Leaders from the Association of Free Trade Zone Companies (AZOFRAS) and the Chamber of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica (CRECEX) celebrated the agreement, emphasizing its potential to unlock significant economic growth.
The treaty opens a new commercial route to a dynamic market of nearly 10 million consumers with significant purchasing power. For Costa Rica, this represents a crucial opportunity to expand its international presence beyond traditional partners. This move is seen as essential for building economic resilience in an increasingly competitive and ever-changing global landscape, fostering sustainable growth through a proactive and modern trade policy.
The timing of the agreement aligns perfectly with Costa Rica’s recent successes in expanding its export horizons. According to data from the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER), while North America remains the primary destination for Costa Rican goods at 51%, exports to Asia have surged. Between January and August of 2025, trade with Asian nations grew by a remarkable 26%, demonstrating the country’s capacity to penetrate new and demanding markets.
This impressive growth in Asian markets has been primarily driven by high-value sectors such as medical devices and precious metal manufacturing. These are precisely the industries that are expected to find powerful synergies with Israel’s advanced economy, which is renowned for its innovation in technology and medical sciences. The new FTA is anticipated to create a fertile ground for collaboration and trade in these and other cutting-edge fields.
Ronald Lachner, president of AZOFRAS, highlighted the critical role of the Free Trade Zone regime in the national economy and underscored the importance of the new agreement. He pointed out that companies operating within these zones are already responsible for 15% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and attract an overwhelming 74% of all foreign direct investment. For this powerhouse sector, expanding into new markets is not just an opportunity but a strategic imperative.
This Free Trade Agreement will strengthen the competitiveness of Costa Rica… advancing toward more markets is a strategic necessity for the country.
Ronald Lachner, President of AZOFRAS
Echoing this sentiment, the Chamber of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica (CRECEX) framed the alliance with Israel as a clear-headed strategic decision. The organization argues that in the current international climate, Costa Rica cannot afford to be passive. An active trade policy, exemplified by agreements like this one, is fundamental to diversifying commercial partners, strengthening legal security for investors, and consolidating an international insertion model geared toward long-term, sustainable prosperity.
Furthermore, CRECEX has reaffirmed its dedication to helping Costa Rican businesses navigate and capitalize on the opportunities presented by this new commercial relationship. The chamber plans to provide support and guidance to ensure that companies of all sizes can effectively leverage the benefits of the treaty, from reduced tariffs to streamlined customs procedures, thereby maximizing the economic impact for the entire nation.
In conclusion, the consensus within Costa Rica’s private sector is clear: the FTA with Israel is more than just a document. It is a strategic gateway to a new region, a catalyst for innovation in key industries, and a foundational element of the country’s forward-looking economic vision. As businesses prepare to explore this new frontier, the pact is poised to become a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s continued success on the world stage.
For further information, visit azofras.com
About Asociación de Empresas de Zonas Francas (AZOFRAS):
AZOFRAS represents the collective interests of companies operating under Costa Rica’s Free Trade Zone (FTZ) regime. The association plays a crucial role in advocating for policies that enhance the country’s competitiveness, attract foreign direct investment, and promote the growth of exports. Its member companies are significant contributors to the national GDP and are a primary source of high-quality employment in advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and corporate services.
For further information, visit crecex.com
About Cámara de Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (CRECEX):
The Chamber of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the country’s international trade sector. CRECEX provides essential services to importers and exporters, facilitates commercial relationships, and advocates for a robust and open trade policy. The chamber works closely with both public and private entities to strengthen Costa Rica’s position in the global market and ensure its businesses can compete effectively.
