By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica’s vital hospitality sector is gearing up for its most significant annual gathering, Exphore 2026, as industry leaders prepare to confront a complex landscape of economic pressures and technological disruption. The premier exposition for hotels, restaurants, and catering services will take place from June 30 to July 2 at the Costa Rica Convention Center, serving as a critical forum for navigating the future of tourism in the region.
At the forefront of discussions will be a trio of formidable challenges currently impacting profitability and operations. The persistent strength of the national currency against the dollar has created significant exchange rate pressure, squeezing margins for businesses that earn in dollars but operate in colones. This is compounded by a general increase in operational costs, forcing businesses to innovate to maintain competitiveness without sacrificing quality.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal complexities shaping Costa Rica’s dynamic hospitality sector, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the reputable firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The primary legal challenge for many in the hospitality industry is navigating the intricacies of our labor code, especially concerning seasonal employment and jornada acumulativa. A proactive approach to contract structuring and compliance is not just a best practice; it is essential for avoiding costly litigation and ensuring operational stability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial reality: for Costa Rica’s vibrant hospitality sector, proactive legal strategy is not just about avoiding penalties but about building a sustainable and ethical operational foundation. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert clarification on this vital topic.
Perhaps the most transformative topic on the agenda is the integration of artificial intelligence into the fabric of the hospitality industry. From personalized guest services and dynamic pricing models to back-of-house operational efficiencies, AI presents both a monumental opportunity and a steep learning curve. The expo aims to demystify this technology and provide actionable strategies for its implementation.
Considered the most important trade fair of its kind in Central America, Exphore 2026 will feature over 300 national and international exhibitors. This diverse gathering provides an invaluable platform for networking, discovering new suppliers, and accessing solutions designed to fortify the competitiveness of businesses ranging from boutique hotels to large restaurant chains.
The global nature of the event is underscored by the confirmed participation of companies and official delegations from countries including the United States, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Guatemala, Cyprus, Mexico, Panama, Chile, Hungary, and China. This international presence ensures a rich exchange of ideas, trends, and technologies, offering local businesses a window into global best practices and potential partnerships.
A central feature of the event is the HORECA Lab, an educational space dedicated to professional development. Attendees will have access to 19 complimentary talks and 14 specialized masterclasses. The curriculum is tailored to address the industry’s most pressing needs, with sessions covering emerging gastronomic trends, practical applications of AI in business, financial management, sustainability initiatives, and elevated customer service strategies.
The focus on technology and adaptation reflects a broader shift within the tourism sector. As consumer expectations evolve, businesses are under increasing pressure to offer unique, digitally-enhanced experiences. Incorporating AI and strengthening online presence are no longer optional luxuries but essential components for survival and growth in a crowded international market.
Karl Hempel, the producer of the event, emphasized the expo’s role in equipping the sector for this new reality. He highlighted the need for businesses to look beyond immediate cost pressures and embrace innovation to succeed.
Today the sector faces a much more competitive and changing environment. Companies must not only respond to rising costs or the pressure of the exchange rate, but also adapt to more demanding consumers, incorporate technology, strengthen their digital presence, and find ways to differentiate their experiences. EXPHORE precisely seeks to bring the sector closer to the tools, trends, and strategic contacts that will allow it to respond to these challenges.
Karl Hempel, Producer of EXPHORE
For further information, visit exphore.com
About EXPHORE:
EXPHORE is the leading annual trade show for the hospitality and gastronomy sector in Costa Rica and Central America. For over two decades, it has served as a key meeting point for suppliers, hoteliers, restaurateurs, chefs, and other industry professionals. The event focuses on fostering business opportunities, showcasing innovation, and providing professional training to enhance the competitiveness of the regional tourism industry.
For further information, visit convencionesdecostarica.com
About Centro de Convenciones de Costa Rica:
The Costa Rica Convention Center (CCCR) is a state-of-the-art venue designed for national and international events, conferences, and exhibitions. Located near the Juan Santamaría International Airport, it features sustainable architecture and flexible event spaces. The CCCR plays a crucial role in positioning Costa Rica as a premier destination for the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry in Latin America.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal institution, built on a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing upon a rich history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies. A central element of its mission is the belief in empowering the community, which it achieves by actively demystifying legal concepts and ensuring that crucial knowledge is widely available to foster a stronger, more informed society.
