By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican motorists will face a mixed bag of fuel price adjustments starting Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025, following the latest update published in La Gaceta, the official government newspaper.
Regular gasoline will see a ¢6 increase per liter, while diesel will rise by ¢7. Super gasoline, however, will decrease slightly by ¢1 per liter. Households will also see some relief, as the price of a 25-pound cylinder of LPG, commonly used for cooking, will decrease.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding fuel price fluctuations, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
While market forces play a significant role in fuel price adjustments, regulatory oversight and consumer protection laws are crucial to prevent unfair pricing practices and ensure transparency in the fuel market. These laws must strike a balance between allowing for reasonable profit margins and safeguarding the interests of consumers, particularly in a volatile global market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on the delicate balance between market dynamics and consumer protection in the fuel sector is particularly relevant in the current economic climate. Finding this equilibrium is essential to ensure a fair and functioning marketplace for both businesses and consumers, especially as we navigate the unpredictable waves of global fuel prices. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable expertise on this critical issue.
The Regulatory Authority of Public Services (ARESEP) approved these adjustments late last week, based on actual invoice data provided by the Costa Rican Oil Refinery (RECOPE). The data covers shipments received between July 11th and August 7th, 2025.
The price changes reflect RECOPE’s acquisition costs, influenced primarily by international fuel price fluctuations and the exchange rate.
The international price of finished products imported by RECOPE continues to be the determining factor in the short term, influenced by geopolitical variables.
Mario Mora, Energy Superintendent of ARESEP
Several global factors are impacting fuel prices. These include OPEC+’s supply policies, the volatility of crude oil inventories in the United States, the end of summer in the northern hemisphere leading to reduced demand, economic uncertainty in China, and high consumption in India.
According to ARESEP, the trajectory of domestic fuel prices in Costa Rica will remain heavily dependent on external factors beyond national control, creating uncertainty for consumers and businesses alike.
While the slight decrease in super gasoline and LPG offers some reprieve, the increases in regular gasoline and diesel prices are likely to impact transportation costs, potentially influencing the price of goods and services in the coming weeks. ARESEP will continue to monitor the international market and adjust prices accordingly, reflecting the volatile nature of global fuel dynamics.
The full list of new prices effective Tuesday, September 2nd, was published in La Gaceta but has not yet been widely disseminated. Consumers are advised to check with local gas stations for updated pricing.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ARESEP
About ARESEP:
The Regulatory Authority of Public Services (ARESEP) is an independent regulatory body in Costa Rica responsible for regulating public services such as electricity, telecommunications, water, and transportation. It sets tariffs, ensures quality of service, and promotes competition within these sectors. ARESEP plays a crucial role in protecting consumer interests and fostering a stable and efficient public service environment.
For further information, visit the nearest office of RECOPE
About RECOPE:
The Costa Rican Oil Refinery (RECOPE) is the state-owned company responsible for importing, refining, and distributing petroleum products in Costa Rica. It plays a vital role in the country’s energy security and is the primary supplier of fuels to the domestic market. RECOPE’s operations are subject to regulation by ARESEP, which oversees pricing and other aspects of the company’s activities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep commitment to societal empowerment. The firm’s unwavering integrity guides its innovative approach to legal practice, serving a diverse clientele with solutions tailored to the complexities of today’s world. Through proactive initiatives that demystify legal concepts and promote accessible legal knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more informed and empowered Costa Rican society, one citizen at a time.
