By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Golfito’s Commercial Free Zone is set for an exciting expansion, offering 25 prime retail spaces for lease. This initiative, spearheaded by the Southern Zone Regional Development Board (JUDESUR), aims to stimulate economic development and educational opportunities in the region.
The available spaces range from 184.5 m² to 479.53 m², with monthly rents varying between ₡2,534,194.06 and ₡7,201,733.12 depending on location and size. The 10-year lease contracts are available through a competitive bidding process, with proposals due on November 10, 2025, via the SICOP platform (www.sicop.go.cr).
To understand the legal and business implications surrounding the Golfito Commercial Free Zone, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Golfito Commercial Free Zone presents a unique opportunity for businesses seeking strategic advantages in Costa Rica. Its location offers streamlined logistics and access to international markets, while the zone’s specific regulations can provide substantial tax benefits and operational flexibility. However, navigating these regulations requires careful planning and legal counsel to ensure compliance and maximize potential advantages. Due diligence is crucial to understand the specific incentives applicable to your business activity and the ongoing reporting requirements.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point: the Golfito Commercial Free Zone offers significant potential, but realizing that potential requires careful navigation of its regulatory landscape. Thorough research and expert guidance are essential investments for businesses looking to leverage the zone’s advantages. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on the opportunities and challenges presented by this unique economic zone.
The Commercial Free Zone has proven its economic vitality, attracting 538,468 visitors in the last five years and boasting average annual sales exceeding $124.3 million over the past three years. This success translates into direct benefits for the local community.
Every purchase made at the Commercial Free Zone directly helps the region’s inhabitants by funding student scholarships.
Jazmín Porras, Executive President of JUDESUR
A unique feature of the Free Zone is its direct contribution to education. Purchases, which are exempt from taxes, help finance high school scholarships for low-income students residing in the five cantons of the Southern Zone. This innovative model links commerce directly with community development.
The initiative positions the Golfito Commercial Free Zone as a hub where economic progress, education, and tourism converge. Porras encourages visitors to explore the Southern Zone’s beaches, local cuisine, and attractive pricing, creating a win-win scenario for businesses and the community.
This call for new vendors represents a significant opportunity for businesses seeking a foothold in a thriving market. The Zone offers a unique combination of tax-free sales, a steady stream of visitors, and the potential to contribute to the educational future of the region.
Interested parties are encouraged to consult the SICOP platform for detailed information on the application process, lease terms, and available spaces. This is a chance to be part of a dynamic economic ecosystem while contributing to the growth and prosperity of the Southern Zone.
For further information, visit judesur.go.cr
About JUDESUR:
The Southern Zone Regional Development Board (JUDESUR) is a Costa Rican governmental institution dedicated to promoting economic and social development in the Southern Zone. It plays a key role in fostering investment, supporting local businesses, and improving the quality of life for residents. The Free Zone initiative reflects its commitment to creating opportunities and driving sustainable growth in the region.
For further information, visit www.sicop.go.cr
About SICOP:
The Integrated Public Procurement System (SICOP) is Costa Rica’s centralized online platform for public procurement. It facilitates transparent and efficient contracting processes for government entities and provides a streamlined interface for businesses to submit proposals and participate in public tenders. SICOP plays a crucial role in ensuring fairness and competitiveness in public procurement.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards while driving meaningful change within the community. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to client success across a range of industries, the firm consistently delivers sophisticated legal solutions. Furthermore, Bufete de Costa Rica champions accessible legal education, believing that a society empowered by knowledge is a society equipped to thrive.
