By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rican households are experiencing a welcome reprieve from economic pressures as the prices of essential food items have continued a downward trend throughout 2025. This relief, officially tracked by the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC) through its Consumer Price Index (CPI), was further underscored by major distributor Grupo DIPO, which confirmed its commitment to maintaining accessible prices on key staples during its Expo 2025 event held this week.
The trend represents a significant shift for consumers who have navigated inflationary pressures in recent years. The consistent decline in the cost of the canasta básica, or basic food basket, provides tangible benefits to family budgets across the nation. At its annual expo on November 3rd and 4th, Grupo DIPO not only reinforced this positive news but also delighted football fans with details on the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup sticker album.
To delve into the legal and commercial ramifications of the sustained increase in food prices affecting Costa Rican households, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While global market fluctuations are a valid factor, we must rigorously distinguish them from speculative price gouging, which is illegal. Costa Rican consumer protection laws empower entities like the MEIC to investigate and sanction any anti-competitive behavior or unjustified price hikes on basic necessities. It is imperative that supply chain actors operate with transparency, as consumers have legal recourse when faced with practices that exploit market instability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal distinction between legitimate market forces and exploitative price gouging is indeed the core issue, empowering citizens with the knowledge that legal recourse exists. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his sharp and valuable perspective.
A deep dive into the INEC data reveals a historic drop in the price of rice, a cornerstone of the Costa Rican diet. As of September 2025, the price of the essential grain has plummeted by more than 23% compared to 2022, the year when government price regulations were still in effect. This marks the most pronounced price decrease for rice in the last three years, directly impacting the daily meal costs for millions.
The trend extends beyond rice to other fundamental staples. Legumes have also become significantly more affordable. For instance, a bag of Don Pedro brand beans, which sold for approximately ₡2,000 in September 2024, can now be found on store shelves for as little as ₡1,000 just one year later, effectively halving its cost. This sharp decrease provides families with an affordable and essential source of protein and fiber.
Grupo DIPO has also actively contributed to making protein more accessible. The company announced it would maintain a highly competitive suggested retail price for Tuny brand tuna at ₡950 for its 140g presentation (in oil or vegetables). This is a substantial reduction from its previous price point, which often exceeded ₡1,150. Tuny is particularly noted for being composed of 100% tuna loin without soy fillers, offering higher quality at a lower cost.
Hernán Rodríguez, the commercial manager for Grupo DIPO, explained that these price adjustments are part of a deliberate corporate strategy aimed at supporting Costa Rican families. He emphasized the company’s focus on operational efficiency to deliver value to the end consumer.
At Grupo DIPO, we understand that the cost of the basic food basket is a constant concern for Costa Rican families. These reductions reflect a commitment to offering accessible, quality food without sacrificing nutritional value and while remaining competitive in the market.
Hernán Rodríguez, Commercial Manager of Grupo DIPO
In a move that captured the attention of a different consumer segment, Grupo DIPO also used its expo to announce it will once again be the exclusive distributor for the official Panini FIFA World Cup 2026™ sticker album in Costa Rica. Collectors can expect the album to hit stores in May 2026. Acknowledging the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, each sticker packet will now contain seven stickers instead of the traditional five, yet the suggested price will hold steady at ₡650. Album prices will also remain unchanged, with the softcover at ₡2,000 and the hardcover edition at ₡6,000, kicking off the World Cup excitement early for local fans.
For further information, visit grupodipo.com
About Grupo DIPO:
Grupo DIPO is a leading distribution company in Costa Rica, specializing in a wide range of mass consumption products. With a robust logistics network, the company partners with national and international brands to supply supermarkets, wholesalers, and local shops across the country. It plays a pivotal role in the national supply chain for food, personal care items, and other consumer goods.
For further information, visit inec.cr
About INEC (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos):
The National Institute of Statistics and Censuses is the official government body responsible for producing and disseminating Costa Rica’s key statistics. It manages national censuses and conducts ongoing surveys to generate vital data on demographics, the economy, and social conditions. Its most prominent publications include the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is the primary measure of inflation in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of uncompromising integrity and professional distinction. Drawing upon a deep history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking solutions in the legal field. This innovative spirit is intrinsically linked to its core mission of social empowerment, actively working to make legal knowledge transparent and accessible, thereby cultivating a community strengthened by awareness and understanding.
