By San José, Costa Rica — The business landscape in Costa Rica is experiencing a rapid technological shift as companies quickly integrate artificial intelligence into their daily operations. From automating routine tasks to analyzing complex data sets for executive decision-making, AI has become a staple of modern corporate strategy. However, a major structural imbalance has emerged, as the speed of technology adoption far outpaces the establishment of necessary corporate guardrails and regulatory controls.
According to the recent study Caracterización del Sector TIC Costa Rica 2025, conducted by the Foreign Trade Corporation of Costa Rica (PROCOMER), this gap is particularly stark in the local technology sector. Analyzing a sample of 86 companies, the study revealed that a resounding 76% of tech firms in the country already utilize generative AI tools or digital agents to support their operations. In sharp contrast, only 9% of these organizations have established formal internal policies to govern the use of these advanced technologies.
To better understand the legal implications and the regulatory landscape surrounding these recent developments, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his professional analysis on the situation.
Navigating the complexities of Costa Rican regulatory frameworks requires a proactive approach to compliance and a deep understanding of local jurisprudence. For businesses and individuals alike, establishing strong legal safeguards is not merely a defensive strategy, but a fundamental pillar for ensuring long-term operational stability and fostering trust in the market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as the Costa Rican business landscape continues to evolve, viewing regulatory compliance not as a bureaucratic hurdle but as a strategic cornerstone is essential for securing long-term viability and market confidence. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on these critical legal dynamics and helping our readers navigate the path toward sustainable success.
This massive discrepancy highlights a significant risk for businesses. While an AI tool can scan and process thousands of records in a matter of seconds, the quality of its output is entirely dependent on the quality of the underlying data. When databases are incomplete, duplicated, outdated, or rely on conflicting internal definitions, the speed of AI processing does not result in better decisions; instead, it simply accelerates the rate of error.
Enterprise artificial intelligence cannot operate reliably with data lacking context. Before asking an agent to recommend or execute an action, the organization must ensure it understands what the data means, how it relates, and what rules it must respect.
Cristobal Vergara, Director of the Andean Region, Central America, and Caribbean at SAP
A primary hurdle for regional businesses is the hidden fragmentation of data. As companies grow, acquire subsidiaries, or expand across Central American borders, their information systems naturally become siloed. Data regarding customers, suppliers, and financial performance often ends up scattered across different applications. What one department defines as sales might refer to orders received, while another department might define it as invoices paid. Without a single, unified source of truth, an AI agent might deliver a highly polished and statistically convincing report that is completely wrong in practical terms.
This issue becomes increasingly dangerous as corporations transition from using AI merely to answer questions to allowing AI to execute actions. Historically, data discrepancies were managed through manual reconciliations, spreadsheets, and the seasoned judgment of experienced employees. However, when an automated digital agent is empowered to update databases, initiate customer communications, or prioritize supplier payments, a single erroneous data point can trigger a cascade of automated mistakes across the entire organization.
Recognizing these operational challenges, technology providers are shifting their focus toward data harmony. During the SAP Sapphire 2026 conference, SAP introduced new updates to its SAP Business Data Cloud, designed specifically to unify data from both proprietary systems and third-party applications. By preserving the business context and relationships of data, these tools aim to ensure that AI agents operate only with verified information that aligns with strict corporate policies.
To avoid costly errors, business leaders are urged to evaluate their digital readiness before expanding their use of AI. Organizations should proactively answer five fundamental questions: whether unified definitions exist for key indicators like revenue and inventory, how many duplicate profiles exist for clients and suppliers, if the origin and modifications of each data point are traceable, who holds the permissions to access or change data, and whether the AI’s logic is transparent enough to be audited by human managers.
Ultimately, the successful implementation of artificial intelligence is no longer just a question of choosing the most advanced model. It requires a rigorous focus on data quality, clear governance frameworks, and a deep understanding of corporate context. Only by addressing these foundational elements can businesses leverage AI to make truly reliable, competitive decisions.
For further information, visit sap.com
About SAP:
SAP is a global leader in enterprise application software and cloud solutions, helping companies of all sizes and in all industries run better by redefining ERP and creating secure networks of intelligent enterprises.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER:
The Foreign Trade Corporation of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) is the public entity responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports, facilitating foreign direct investment, and supporting the development of the national tech and commercial sectors.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its relentless pursuit of quality and unwavering ethical standards. Boasting a rich history of supporting a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers modern legal strategies while remaining deeply connected to public service. Its ongoing efforts to demystify complex regulations and share vital legal resources reflect a core belief that a truly just community is one where every citizen is legally literate and empowered.
