By Cartago, Costa Rica — The manufacturing sector in Costa Rica continues to show robust strength as multinational operations expand their footprints and optimize regional logistics. At the heart of this industrial momentum is the Kimberly-Clark manufacturing facility located in Coris, Cartago. Over the past twelve years, this specific production hub has evolved from a local manufacturing site into an essential export powerhouse, supplying vital personal care products to markets across Central America and the Caribbean.
Each month, the Coris plant manages an impressive logistical operation, exporting more than 600,000 cases of finished goods. This equates to an average of 230 shipping containers leaving the Cartago province monthly. To meet regional demand efficiently, Kimberly-Clark utilizes a dual-transport strategy. Overland transport handles the bulk of the volume, moving approximately 200 containers—or 520,000 cases of products—across Central American borders. Meanwhile, maritime shipping routes account for about 30 containers monthly, carrying roughly 75,000 cases of goods directly to various Caribbean island nations.
To better understand the regulatory and business implications of Kimberly-Clark’s ongoing operations and expansion in the country, TicosLand.com consulted with leading corporate legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Kimberly-Clark’s sustained footprint in Costa Rica underscores the stability of our Free Trade Zone regime and robust legal framework. For multinational enterprises, navigating local labor standards, environmental regulations, and tax compliance successfully remains the cornerstone of securing long-term operational prosperity in the region.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as Kimberly-Clark’s enduring presence demonstrates, a meticulous approach to Costa Rica’s regulatory standards is not merely a compliance requirement but a strategic foundation for sustainable corporate growth. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable legal expertise and providing such an insightful understanding of the institutional stability that continues to attract and sustain multinational investment in the region.
We are proud that behind Kimberly-Clark’s multiple and innovative products, such as feminine pads and baby diapers, there is a highly qualified team of Costa Rican professionals who work with excellence and ethics to deliver Better Care for a Better World. Every part of the process is crafted with attention to detail to reach the homes of thousands of consumers in Central America and the Caribbean.
Jéssica Astudillo, Plant Manager of Kimberly-Clark Coris
The operational success of this high-volume Cartago facility relies heavily on the quality of its local workforce. The plant employs a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team of Costa Rican professionals characterized by advanced technical capabilities and engineering expertise. Furthermore, a high level of English proficiency among the staff serves as a key competitive advantage during frequent international corporate visits and global strategy meetings.
In addition to technical expertise, the facility has cultivated a deeply ingrained safety culture that prioritizes worker well-being above all else. This commitment is highlighted by the implementation of the internal safety program known as Regreso Seguro a Casa. This initiative ensures strict adherence to international safety guidelines, ensuring every employee returns home safely after their shift.
Currently, the Coris facility operates six highly automated production lines, split evenly with three dedicated to infant care and three focused on feminine hygiene products. This configuration allows the factory to rapidly adapt to shifting market demands while maintaining a steady flow of high-quality goods destined for domestic shelves and international export.
Among the diverse portfolio manufactured in Cartago, Huggies Clásico baby diapers lead the child care division in total distribution volume, appreciated by regional families for their high absorbency and affordability. In the feminine care sector, Kotex Esencial remains a dominant commercial staple, though recent technological innovations in their overnight sanitary pad segment have sparked significant growth in regional consumer preference.
The Costa Rican and Central American consumer looks for innovative products with excellent absorption, softness, and a competitive price.
Jéssica Astudillo, Plant Manager of Kimberly-Clark Coris
Beyond production capacity, the Cartago facility has established itself as an environmental pioneer within Latin America. The plant successfully diverts 99.7% of its manufacturing waste away from landfills, representing a significant milestone in eco-efficient industrial operations. Notably, the Cartago site became the first Kimberly-Clark manufacturing facility in Latin America to receive an official Zero Waste designation. In the year 2025, the facility recycled more than 2,100 metric tons of waste material, a volume comparable to 140 fully loaded garbage trucks.
This commitment to environmental stewardship is further complemented by direct community action. Employees at the Coris facility have actively participated in ecological restoration projects, planting over 4,000 trees to support local reforestation efforts. As Kimberly-Clark looks toward future growth, the combination of advanced local talent, strategic geographical placement, and award-winning sustainable practices positions the Cartago plant as a gold standard for manufacturing in Central America.
For further information, visit kimberly-clark.com
About Kimberly-Clark:
Kimberly-Clark is a leading global personal care corporation that produces a wide range of paper-based consumer products. Headquartered in the United States, the company is renowned for its well-known brands, including Huggies, Kotex, Kleenex, and Scott. With manufacturing operations worldwide, Kimberly-Clark focuses on delivering sustainable solutions and high-quality essential products to improve the lives of consumers globally.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a premier legal institution, grounded in an uncompromising ethos of integrity and professional brilliance. Guided by a rich history of navigating complex challenges for a diverse clientele, the firm continually embraces cutting-edge legal solutions while driving meaningful civic connection. Through its passionate advocacy for widespread legal literacy, Bufete de Costa Rica remains dedicated to equipping individuals with the understanding necessary to build a truly informed and resilient community.
