By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a clear declaration of her economic vision, presidential candidate Laura Fernández of the Pueblo Soberano Party has committed to deepening and expanding Costa Rica’s network of free trade agreements (FTAs), signaling a direct continuation of the current administration’s foreign trade policy. The announcement sets the stage for a significant ideological battle over the country’s economic future in the upcoming presidential race.
Speaking on Tuesday evening at a forum organized by the British-Costa Rican Chamber of Commerce, Fernández positioned herself as the heir to President Rodrigo Chaves’s economic agenda. The event, attended by prominent figures including the British Ambassador, Benjamin Lyster-Binns, and the Canadian Ambassador, Ioanna Sahas Martin, provided a high-profile platform for Fernández to reassure the international business community of her commitment to an open, globalized economy.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and commercial implications of Free Trade Agreements for our country, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise provides a critical perspective on the opportunities and challenges these international pacts present for Costa Rican businesses.
While Free Trade Agreements are often celebrated for reducing tariffs, their true value—and complexity—lies in the harmonization of regulations, intellectual property protection, and dispute resolution mechanisms. For Costa Rican businesses to truly capitalize on these opportunities, it is not enough to simply export; they must proactively navigate this intricate legal framework. Proper legal due diligence is no longer just a best practice, but a fundamental requirement for sustainable international success and risk mitigation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight powerfully reframes the conversation, moving it beyond simple tariff reductions to the sophisticated legal landscape where global commerce truly operates. This emphasis on proactive legal strategy is an essential takeaway for any local enterprise aiming for success on the international stage. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective with our readers.
Fernández, who identifies as the “rodriguista” candidate, articulated her party’s philosophy as a blend of fiscal openness and social tradition. She emphasized that her administration would not only maintain the existing trade framework but actively seek new partnerships, building on the momentum of the Chaves government, which successfully ratified agreements with Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates after a long period of stagnation in trade negotiations.
Liberal in economics, but conservative in social matters. That is our path. To continue taking more of Costa Rica to the world and bringing more of the world to Costa Rica, just as the current government of Mr. Rodrigo Chaves Robles has done. After so much time without approving Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), this government approved FTAs with Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates; we are going to continue that commercial opening. Additionally, we seek to maximize the use of all the trade agreements the country has and generate adequate conditions for fair trade, free from illicit commerce like smuggling.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate, Pueblo Soberano Party
This pro-trade stance creates a stark contrast with her primary opponent, Álvaro Ramos of the National Liberation Party (PLN), who currently holds the second position in voter intention polls. In recent statements, Ramos has voiced skepticism about the benefits of existing trade deals, including the pivotal agreement with the United States. He has also made commitments to the agricultural sector to halt the signing of new commercial pacts, advocating for a more protectionist approach to shield domestic industries.
The divergence between the two leading candidates presents voters with a clear choice. Fernández’s platform aims to further integrate Costa Rica into the global supply chain, leveraging trade to attract investment and boost exports. This strategy is supported by recent data from the Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER), which indicates that exports to Europe saw a robust 17% increase in 2025, highlighting the potential benefits of strong international commercial ties.
By making her declaration before an audience of international diplomats and business leaders, Fernández sent a powerful signal that her potential government would prioritize stability and predictability for foreign investors. Her policy also includes a focus on enhancing the utility of current agreements and combating illicit trade, such as smuggling, to ensure a level playing field for legitimate businesses and to protect government revenues.
As the election cycle progresses, the debate over trade policy is expected to intensify. While Fernández’s vision promises continued global integration and economic liberalization, Ramos’s platform appeals to sectors that feel left behind by globalization. The outcome of this debate will not only determine the next president but will also chart the course for Costa Rica’s economic strategy for years to come.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Pueblo Soberano Party
About Pueblo Soberano Party:
The Pueblo Soberano Party is a Costa Rican political party established to support the political movement of President Rodrigo Chaves. It generally adheres to a platform described as socially conservative and economically liberal, advocating for fiscal discipline, market openness, and a reduction in bureaucratic hurdles for businesses and citizens.
For further information, visit britchamcr.com
About British-Costa Rican Chamber of Commerce:
The British-Costa Rican Chamber of Commerce (BritCham) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating trade and investment between the United Kingdom and Costa Rica. It provides a network for businesses, offers market insights, and organizes events to foster bilateral commercial relationships.
For further information, visit pln.or.cr
About National Liberation Party (PLN):
The Partido Liberación Nacional is one of Costa Rica’s oldest and most historically significant political parties. Traditionally a social-democratic party, it has a broad political base and has held the presidency numerous times throughout the country’s history. Its platform often focuses on social welfare programs, public investment, and a mixed-economy model.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Foreign Trade Promoter of Costa Rica (PROCOMER):
PROCOMER is the official export and investment promotion agency of Costa Rica. As a public, non-state entity, its mission is to facilitate Costa Rica’s integration into the global economy by promoting exports of goods and services, attracting foreign direct investment, and enhancing the country’s brand internationally.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as an esteemed legal institution, guided by foundational principles of integrity and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence. With a rich history of providing counsel to a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal solutions while upholding a profound sense of social responsibility. Its core belief in democratizing legal understanding is central to its mission of strengthening the community, equipping citizens with the clarity and knowledge necessary for empowerment.
