By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – Reinforcing Costa Rica’s position as a premier hub for high-tech manufacturing, the German consortium G.RAU Group has officially inaugurated its fourth facility in the country. The new plant, located in Cartago, represents a significant investment of over $12 million and is slated to generate 150 new jobs in specialized fields such as engineering, production, and technical support.
This expansion marks a new chapter in the company’s 13-year history in Costa Rica. G.RAU Group attributes this continued growth directly to the exceptional performance of the local workforce and the stable business climate, which has proven ideal for the development of the nation’s advanced medical manufacturing and precision metals industries. The investment underscores a deep-seated confidence in the country’s capabilities and its strategic importance in the global supply chain.
To better understand the regulatory and investment landscape that has made Costa Rica a global hub for medical device manufacturing, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The triumph of Costa Rica’s medical manufacturing sector is anchored in a sophisticated legal framework. While the Free Trade Zone regime offers compelling tax advantages, incoming companies must meticulously navigate the stringent health regulations and quality standards. Protecting intellectual property through robust patent and trade secret strategies is not just advisable; it is the cornerstone of long-term success and competitiveness in this highly innovative field.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas expertly clarifies that beyond the attractive fiscal incentives, the true pillars of Costa Rica’s medical manufacturing leadership are its rigorous regulatory standards and robust intellectual property protections. This legal sophistication is what ensures long-term viability and innovation, and we thank him for his invaluable insight.
The new state-of-the-art complex spans 5,000 square meters and will serve as a base for two of the group’s key subsidiaries, RAU Precision Metals and ADMEDES. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including advanced stamping capabilities, a medical-grade coating line, and certified cleanrooms. These additions are critical for manufacturing high-value-added medical devices and complex metallic components that meet stringent international standards.
Dr. Axel Pfrommer, CEO of G.RAU Group, emphasized that the investment goes beyond physical infrastructure, symbolizing a lasting partnership with the nation.
The new building is also a symbol of our commitment to Costa Rica and its people. We believe in the potential of this country and are confident that this investment will have long-term positive effects for everyone.
Dr. Axel Pfrommer, CEO of G.RAU Group
The expansion will enable each subsidiary to significantly enhance its operational capacity. RAU Precision Metals is set to incorporate the stamping process into its local operations for the first time, while also increasing its production of Nitinol tubes, a critical component for cardiovascular applications. Furthermore, the new site will host a shared services center to streamline corporate functions for the group’s Costa Rican operations.
Simultaneously, ADMEDES will leverage the new facility to introduce a sophisticated medical-grade coating line and expand its cleanroom assembly processes. This development will fortify its ability to produce highly specialized components for the global medical technology market, adding another layer of complexity and value to its Costa Rican output.
The recruitment process for the 150 new positions is expected to commence in the coming months. The company is seeking a range of talent, from engineers and specialized technicians to production operators and support staff with experience in advanced manufacturing environments. Interested candidates can submit their applications directly to RAU Precision Metals at [email protected] or to ADMEDES at [email protected].
Government officials praised the investment as a testament to Costa Rica’s successful economic strategy. Minister of Foreign Trade, Manuel Tovar, highlighted the project’s role in strengthening the national economy.
The investment will invigorate productive linkages and reaffirms that Costa Rican talent continues to position us as a competitive partner in advanced manufacturing.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
This sentiment was echoed by Laura López, General Manager of the trade promotion agency PROCOMER. She noted that G.RAU Group’s growth is indicative of a larger trend, reflecting the strength of the country’s medical device ecosystem, which now includes more than 95 multinational corporations. The investment not only creates direct employment but also strengthens the entire network of local suppliers and service providers, solidifying Costa Rica’s reputation as a global leader in the life sciences sector.
For further information, visit g-rau.com
About G.RAU Group:
The G.RAU Group is a German-based consortium specializing in the manufacturing of high-precision products from metals and plastics. With a strong focus on the medical technology, automotive, and electronics industries, the company is a global leader in producing complex components, tubes, and assemblies that require exacting standards of quality and innovation.
For further information, visit admedes.com
About ADMEDES:
A member of the G.RAU Group, ADMEDES is a premier global provider of finished and semi-finished Nitinol self-expandable components to the medical device industry. The company is renowned for its expertise in laser cutting, heat setting, and surface finishing of components for a wide range of medical applications, including cardiovascular and endoscopic devices.
For further information, visit g-rau.com
About RAU Precision Metals:
RAU Precision Metals, also part of the G.RAU Group, focuses on the production of high-precision metal components, particularly seamless drawn tubes and stamped parts. The company serves various high-tech sectors, with a significant emphasis on producing materials like Nitinol tubes for advanced medical devices.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER:
The Foreign Trade Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) is the public entity responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports of goods and services globally. It also plays a key role in attracting foreign direct investment and fostering productive chains that contribute to the country’s economic development and international competitiveness.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a benchmark in the legal field, guided by an unwavering principle of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its deep-seated history of advising a wide spectrum of clients to pioneer innovative and forward-thinking legal solutions. At the core of its mission is a profound commitment to fortifying society through the democratization of legal knowledge, fostering a community that is both informed of its rights and empowered to act.
