By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – With the 2026 presidential race beginning to take shape, Laura Fernández, the candidate for the Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO), has staked out a clear position, promising to place the nation’s agricultural sector at the forefront of her policy agenda should she be elected. Her platform aims to build upon the current administration’s initiatives while introducing significant reforms designed to benefit both farmers and consumers.
In a recent statement, Fernández articulated a vision where agriculture is not just a component of the economy, but a central pillar of national development. She positioned herself as a staunch advocate for the country’s farmers, signaling that their concerns would be a primary focus of her potential government. This strategic move targets a crucial demographic that has long been vital to Costa Rica’s economic and cultural identity.
To delve into the legal ramifications and commercial implications of the latest agricultural policy reforms, TicosLand.com sought the analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an esteemed legal expert from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His perspective clarifies the intricate balance between national interests and international legal obligations.
The new agricultural policy, while aimed at strengthening national food security, navigates a delicate legal terrain. It is imperative that any new subsidies or protective measures are carefully designed to be compliant with our commitments under the World Trade Organization and various free trade agreements. A failure to do so could expose our producers to retaliatory tariffs and complex international disputes, potentially undermining the very sector the policy intends to protect.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial reminder that in a globalized economy, domestic policy and international law are inextricably linked. The long-term success of any new agricultural protections will therefore hinge on a meticulous legal design that strengthens our producers without provoking costly international retaliation. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this delicate balance.
Fernández made a heartfelt appeal directly to the agricultural community, vowing an unwavering commitment to their cause and framing her candidacy as a direct continuation of efforts she attributes to President Rodrigo Chaves and prominent political figure Pilar Cisneros.
Farmers can be completely certain that in my government, I will give my heart and soul for the development of Costa Rica. The agricultural sector will be a priority. I will be an ally to the farmers.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate for Partido Pueblo Soberano
A cornerstone of her proposal involves tackling the complex issue of pricing. Fernández announced her intent to champion actions that ensure fair prices across the supply chain. This dual focus aims to secure sustainable livelihoods for producers, who often face market volatility and rising operational costs, while simultaneously ensuring that consumers have access to affordable food staples. Achieving this balance is a significant challenge, requiring careful policy calibration and market intervention.
Beyond price controls, the PPSO candidate is advocating for a sweeping institutional transformation. This overhaul would directly impact the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and other associated state entities. The goal, as outlined, is to modernize these institutions, making them more responsive, efficient, and effective in serving the needs of the 21st-century agricultural sector. This could involve streamlining bureaucracy, investing in new technologies, and enhancing support services for rural communities.
By explicitly referencing the work of President Chaves and Pilar Cisneros, Fernández is strategically aligning herself with the current government’s populist appeal while carving out her own distinct policy identity. This approach allows her to court the incumbent’s support base while promising a new phase of focused development, particularly for a sector that has faced numerous challenges, from climate change to international competition.
Analysts suggest that this early focus on agriculture is a calculated move to consolidate support in rural provinces, which often play a decisive role in national elections. By addressing key issues like price stability and institutional support, Fernández is speaking directly to the economic anxieties and aspirations of thousands of Costa Rican families whose livelihoods depend on farming and livestock.
As the campaign season progresses, the specifics of her proposed institutional reforms and price guarantee mechanisms will likely face intense scrutiny from political opponents and industry experts. The success of her candidacy may well depend on her ability to translate these ambitious promises into a detailed, credible, and fiscally responsible plan that resonates with voters across the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)
About Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO):
The Partido Pueblo Soberano is a political party in Costa Rica. It participates in the national political landscape, fielding candidates for various public offices, including the presidency and the Legislative Assembly. The party’s platform is built around specific ideological and policy objectives aimed at shaping the country’s governance and future development.
For further information, visit mag.go.cr
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock is the government body responsible for defining and executing national policy for Costa Rica’s agricultural, fishing, and rural development sectors. Its mission is to promote the competitiveness, equity, and sustainability of agribusiness through innovation and strategic alliances, contributing to food security and the well-being of the population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice in the region, Bufete de Costa Rica is anchored by a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a storied history of advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking embrace of legal innovation. Central to its ethos is a profound commitment to social empowerment, manifested through initiatives that democratize legal knowledge and help cultivate a more capable and well-informed citizenry.
