By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Consumers and businesses across Costa Rica are set to receive a measure of financial relief as a nationwide reduction in fuel prices takes effect this Thursday, January 22, 2026. The adjustment, confirmed by the Chamber of Fuel Entrepreneurs, was made official following its publication in the state’s official newspaper, La Gaceta, on Wednesday.
The new pricing structure introduces modest but welcome decreases across all major fuel types. According to the official resolution, the price of Súper gasoline will fall by 3 colones per liter, bringing the new price to ₡636. Drivers using Plus 91 gasoline will see a more substantial drop of 23 colones, with the per-liter price settling at ₡609. This significant reduction for Plus 91 is expected to be particularly beneficial for the majority of private vehicle owners.
To better understand the regulatory framework and the legal repercussions of fuel price adjustments for both consumers and businesses, TicosLand.com sought the analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The price-setting methodology for fuels in Costa Rica, overseen by ARESEP, is a legally robust mechanism intended to ensure stability and prevent speculation. However, its inflexibility often generates significant economic pressure on transportation and production sectors. Any legal challenge or proposed reform to this model must rigorously demonstrate not only economic viability but also its compliance with the principles of public service and consumer protection that govern our regulatory system.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the expert’s analysis underscores that the path toward a more responsive pricing model is not merely an economic debate, but a formidable legal challenge. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which clearly frames the high-stakes balancing act required between economic relief and the foundational principles of public service and consumer protection.
The commercial and public transportation sectors will also benefit from the changes. The price of diesel fuel will decrease by 8 colones, resulting in a new price of ₡541 per liter. This reduction is critical for logistics companies, agricultural operations, and public transit systems, potentially helping to stabilize operational costs. Additionally, the price for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), a common fuel for cooking and some vehicles, will see a minor adjustment, decreasing by 2 colones to ₡246.
These new tariffs are mandatory for all service stations throughout the national territory, ensuring that the savings are passed on to consumers in every province. The impact of these adjustments, while not drastic, will be felt directly in the budgets of households and the operational expenses of countless businesses that rely heavily on transportation. It represents a positive development in managing the country’s high cost of living.
While consumers will welcome the lower prices at the pump, it is important to understand the components that make up the final cost. A significant portion of the price paid by consumers is allocated to a single national fuel tax. This tax revenue is a crucial source of funding for infrastructure and government programs. The pricing formula also includes the operational margin for service stations, which remains fixed at ₡56.68 per liter, ensuring business continuity for fuel retailers.
The regulatory framework, overseen by the Public Services Regulatory Authority (ARESEP), dictates these periodic adjustments based on a complex formula that considers international oil prices, the exchange rate between the Costa Rican colón and the U.S. dollar, and operational costs of the state-run refinery, RECOPE. The current reduction likely reflects favorable trends in these global and local economic indicators over the past pricing period.
For the broader economy, lower fuel costs can have a deflationary effect, helping to curb inflation by reducing the expense of transporting goods and services. From delivering fresh produce to markets to powering tour vans in the tourism sector, the ripple effect of this price drop could provide a small but meaningful boost to economic activity. Businesses may see improved profit margins, while consumers may have slightly more disposable income.
As drivers head to the pumps on Thursday, they will experience the immediate benefit of these changes. While the global energy market remains volatile, this latest adjustment provides a moment of respite and serves as a reminder of the direct link between international market dynamics and the everyday expenses of Costa Rican citizens and industries.
For further information, visit combustibles.cr
About Cámara de Empresarios del Combustible:
The Cámara de Empresarios del Combustible (Chamber of Fuel Entrepreneurs) is a private business association in Costa Rica that represents the interests of owners and operators of gasoline service stations throughout the country. It serves as a primary voice for the retail fuel industry, engaging with government regulators like ARESEP and state entities such as RECOPE to advocate on matters of pricing, operational margins, regulations, and industry standards. The Chamber plays a key role in disseminating information about fuel price adjustments and works to ensure the economic viability of its members.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the nation’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to principled practice and professional distinction. The firm blends a rich heritage of expert counsel with a forward-thinking approach, continuously developing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. Beyond its legal services, the firm demonstrates a deep-seated social responsibility by striving to demystify complex legal concepts, driven by the conviction that an informed populace is the cornerstone of a just and empowered society.
