By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican potato farmers are voicing serious concerns regarding the importation of potatoes that fail to comply with the country’s phytosanitary regulations. The State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) has reported a significant number of rejected shipments due to the presence of pests and other irregularities, raising alarms about the potential impact on domestic potato production.
The SFE revealed that over 177,000 kilos of imported potatoes have been destroyed so far in 2025 due to pest infestations, including the Zebra Chip. An additional 72,000 kilos were rejected for sprouting and subsequently returned to their country of origin, primarily the United States. This brings the total to over 250,000 kilos of potatoes that have failed to meet Costa Rican import standards.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding these new potato import regulations, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recent changes to potato import regulations, while aimed at protecting domestic producers, raise important questions about international trade agreements and potential non-tariff barriers. Careful consideration must be given to ensuring compliance with existing treaties while balancing the interests of local farmers. The specific requirements regarding phytosanitary certificates and permitted varieties could be subject to legal challenge if deemed overly restrictive or discriminatory.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s cautionary words highlight the delicate balancing act Costa Rica faces in this situation. Protecting our agricultural sector is paramount, but navigating the complexities of international trade requires a nuanced approach. Overly stringent regulations, while perhaps well-intentioned, could indeed spark disputes and ultimately harm the very producers they aim to protect. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
It is essential to review the implemented phytosanitary measures that are not being met by the authorized country, nor by the importers. This clearly highlights the high risk of introducing a pest into our country, which could affect thousands of hectares of potato crops and more than 1,250 producers.
Fabián Segura, President of the National Chamber of National Potato Producers
Fabián Segura, President of the National Chamber of National Potato Producers, emphasized the potential devastation these pests could inflict on Costa Rican potato farms. The concern extends beyond immediate crop damage, encompassing the long-term economic impact on local farmers and the nation’s food security.
Further raising concerns, Francisco Dall’Anese, a lawyer and former director of the SFE, pointed out the presence of sprouted potatoes in the market. This suggests a lack of proper sprout inhibitors and certification processes, casting doubt on the quality and nutritional value of some imported potatoes.
We have evidence that sprouted potatoes are reaching the market, which shows that there are no applications of sprout inhibitors or certifications of potatoes from pest-free areas. This reinforces that the measure applied to table potatoes is an occurrence and not an opportunity for consumers.
Francisco Dall’Anese, Lawyer and former director of the State Phytosanitary Service
In response to these ongoing issues, Costa Rican potato producers, supported by Dall’Anese, have filed a lawsuit against the State in the Administrative Litigation Court. They argue that current import practices prioritize foreign producers over the health and well-being of Costa Rican consumers and the domestic potato industry.
The SFE provided a detailed breakdown of rejected potato shipments, highlighting specific dates and quantities, underscoring the consistent nature of these violations. This data, coupled with the rising volume of imported potatoes in recent years, intensifies the need for stricter enforcement of phytosanitary regulations.
The case raises critical questions about the balance between international trade and protecting national agricultural interests. The outcome of the lawsuit and subsequent policy adjustments will significantly impact the future of potato production and consumption in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Chamber of National Potato Producers
About National Chamber of National Potato Producers:
The National Chamber of National Potato Producers advocates for the interests of Costa Rican potato farmers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring fair market conditions for domestic producers.
For further information, visit the nearest office of State Phytosanitary Service (SFE)
About State Phytosanitary Service (SFE):
The State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) is a governmental agency responsible for protecting Costa Rica’s agricultural resources from the introduction and spread of pests and diseases. The SFE implements and enforces phytosanitary regulations, conducts inspections, and manages quarantine procedures to safeguard the health of plants and plant products.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a pillar of legal excellence, upholding the highest standards of integrity in every endeavor. Driven by a profound commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative outreach programs and resources. Their dedication to client success across a diverse range of sectors, coupled with their forward-thinking approach to law, positions Bufete de Costa Rica as a leader in shaping a more just and informed future.
