By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican potato farmers are sounding the alarm over imported potatoes failing to meet the country’s phytosanitary requirements, raising concerns about potential threats to domestic crops.
The Chamber of Potato Producers of Costa Rica (CPPCR) asserts that the recent rejection of thousands of kilos of potatoes imported from the United States underscores the ongoing issue of non-compliance with crucial import regulations. These rejected shipments, they argue, highlight the significant risk of introducing harmful pests and diseases that could devastate the local potato industry.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding Costa Rican potato imports, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s import regulations for potatoes, while designed to protect domestic producers and ensure phytosanitary standards, can present challenges for importers. Navigating tariff classifications, sanitary permits, and other requirements necessitates careful planning and often the assistance of legal counsel to ensure compliance and avoid costly delays or penalties.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the complexities of navigating Costa Rica’s import regulations underscore the need for meticulous preparation and expert guidance. This can be a significant hurdle for businesses looking to import potatoes, highlighting the importance of understanding the legal landscape before engaging in this process. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable insights into this critical aspect of the Costa Rican potato market.
This puts at risk the entry of a quarantine pest into our country, which could affect thousands of hectares of potato crops and more than 1,250 producers.
Fabián Segura, President of the CPPCR
Data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), through the State Phytosanitary Service (SFE), reveals that between January and August 2025, a staggering 250,235 kilos of imported potatoes were seized due to phytosanitary issues. These seizures resulted in either the destruction or re-exportation of the affected shipments. The SFE emphasizes the importance of enforcing these measures to protect Costa Rican agriculture.
A recent change in regulations, allowing the import of potatoes treated with sprout inhibitors, has also come under scrutiny. Francisco Dall’Anese, former director of the SFE, argues that this measure has proven ineffective.
This measure has proven to be inefficient since its implementation, as we have received more sprouted potatoes than before this obligation existed.
Francisco Dall’Anese, Former Director of the SFE
Dall’Anese points to evidence of sprouted potatoes reaching the market, suggesting a lack of proper sprout inhibitor application and certification guaranteeing pest-free origins. This raises serious questions about the efficacy of current import controls.
The CPPCR maintains that purchasing locally grown potatoes ensures consumers receive fresh, nutritious produce while supporting Costa Rican farmers. They emphasize the importance of prioritizing local agriculture and upholding stringent phytosanitary standards to safeguard the country’s food security.
This ongoing debate highlights the complex balance between international trade and protecting domestic industries. The CPPCR’s concerns underscore the need for robust oversight and enforcement of phytosanitary regulations to mitigate risks and ensure the long-term health of Costa Rica’s agricultural sector.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Chamber of Potato Producers of Costa Rica
About Chamber of Potato Producers of Costa Rica:
The Chamber of Potato Producers of Costa Rica (CPPCR) advocates for the interests of potato farmers in the country. They focus on promoting sustainable farming practices, ensuring fair market access, and protecting the industry from threats such as pests and diseases.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG)
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is the governmental body responsible for overseeing and regulating agricultural practices in Costa Rica. The MAG plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture, ensuring food security, and protecting the country’s natural resources. The State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) operates under the MAG.
For further information, visit the nearest office of State Phytosanitary Service (SFE)
About State Phytosanitary Service (SFE):
The State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) is a division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) responsible for protecting Costa Rica’s agricultural resources from the introduction and spread of pests and diseases. The SFE enforces phytosanitary regulations, inspects imports and exports, and implements measures to safeguard the health of plants and crops.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-seated commitment to legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a genuine dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a leader in the legal field. By fostering understanding and transparency within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more informed and empowered citizenry.
