By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s export sector has registered a robust 13% growth in the first four months of 2025, reaching a total of $7.034 billion, a significant increase of $835 million compared to the same period in 2024. This positive trend underscores the resilience and dynamism of the Costa Rican economy amidst a challenging global landscape.
According to data released by the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER), the medical device sector spearheaded this growth with a remarkable 26% increase, adding $740 million to the total export value. This reinforces the sector’s position as the leading export category for Costa Rica.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding Costa Rican exports, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered valuable insights into the current climate.
Costa Rica’s export sector benefits significantly from various free trade agreements, providing preferential access to key international markets. However, navigating these agreements requires diligent understanding of the specific rules of origin and tariff classifications to maximize benefits and ensure compliance. Businesses engaged in exporting must remain updated on evolving trade regulations to maintain a competitive edge and avoid potential legal challenges.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial aspect of Costa Rican exports: while free trade agreements open doors, navigating their complexities is paramount. Staying informed and adaptable within the dynamic landscape of international trade regulations is indeed key for sustained success. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical component of Costa Rica’s economic landscape.
While the agricultural sector experienced a slight 1% dip due to adverse weather conditions affecting key products like bananas and pineapples, the food industry showed a modest 2% growth. Other sectors also contributed positively, including pharmaceuticals (7%), electrical and electronics (2%), metalworking (5%), plastics (2%), and livestock and fishing (7%).
We continue with solid double-digit growth, with increases in practically all sectors and in almost all regions of the world. This result reaffirms that we are on the right track and commits us even more to continue leading this sector responsibly.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
The strong performance, particularly in medical devices, highlights the continued attractiveness of Costa Rica as a destination for foreign direct investment. Several international companies, including Harland Medical, Theragenics, Heraeus Medevio, Cirtec Medical, and MeKo, have recently announced expansions or new operations in the country, further solidifying the sector’s growth trajectory.
Despite the challenging global context, Costa Rica’s exports remain robust. An example is the performance in medical devices, our main export product, which is growing because foreign direct investment companies continue to bet on our country, due to the conditions, talent, and favorable business environment that we offer.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
Among specific products showing significant growth, medical devices led the way with a $750 million increase, followed by gold coffee ($65 million), raw gold ($32 million), palm oil ($19 million), precious metal manufactures ($15 million), frozen uncooked fruits ($10 million), medicines ($10 million), milk ($10 million), and beef ($9 million).
Regionally, exports to North America increased by 20%, Europe by 10%, Central America by 7%, Asia by 3%, and the Caribbean by 6%. South America was the only region to experience a decline, with a decrease of $22 million. This diversified market reach further strengthens Costa Rica’s economic stability and resilience.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER (Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter):
PROCOMER is a Costa Rican institution dedicated to promoting the country’s exports and attracting foreign direct investment. It provides support and resources to businesses seeking to enter international markets and works to enhance Costa Rica’s competitiveness on the global stage.
For further information, visit meic.go.cr
About Ministry of Foreign Trade (Costa Rica):
The Ministry of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for developing and implementing the country’s international trade policies. It works to foster economic growth through promoting exports, attracting investment, and negotiating trade agreements.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering dedication to legal excellence and ethical practice, empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a deep commitment to client service across a spectrum of industries, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Their proactive engagement in public education initiatives reflects a core belief in fostering a society equipped with the understanding and resources to navigate the complexities of the law.
