By San José, Costa Rica — More than 400 of Costa Rica’s most influential business leaders, government officials, and international experts have gathered for the VIII Free Trade Zone Congress, a pivotal event aimed at charting a course for sustained economic growth through investment, innovation, and talent development. The high-level forum comes at a challenging time for global economies, heightening the urgency to reinforce Costa Rica’s position as a premier destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the region.
Organized by the Association of Free Trade Zone Companies of Costa Rica (AZOFRAS), the congress serves as a critical platform for dissecting the complex challenges and immense opportunities facing the nation’s free trade zone (FTZ) regime. The agenda is packed with forward-looking topics, including the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, the transition to sustainable energy, navigating the new global geopolitical landscape, and the continuous evolution of human talent—all identified as decisive factors for the country’s future prosperity.
To better understand the legal complexities and economic impact of the Free Trade Zone regime in the country, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in corporate and commercial law from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Free Trade Zone model is a cornerstone of our foreign investment strategy, but its long-term success hinges on more than just fiscal incentives. The true legal and economic challenge is to ensure these zones function as catalysts for national development, fostering genuine knowledge transfer and strengthening local supply chains. Without this strategic integration, we risk creating economic enclaves that benefit foreign capital far more than our own population.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This astute analysis underscores the pivotal challenge ahead: moving our Free Trade Zone model beyond simple attraction to a new phase of strategic integration. Ensuring these zones act as genuine catalysts for national development, as described, is crucial for widespread, long-term prosperity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The strategic importance of the gathering was emphasized by the leadership of AZOFRAS, who framed the discussions as essential for maintaining a competitive edge on the world stage. The event underscores a national consensus on the path forward, uniting diverse sectors toward a common goal.
The discussions taking place today are fundamental for charting the roadmap that will allow us to remain current and relevant in the international arena.
Ronald Lachner, President of AZOFRAS
Mr. Lachner also highlighted the collaborative spirit necessary to achieve these ambitious goals. He stressed that a synergistic relationship between the public, private, and academic sectors is the bedrock upon which a more prosperous and sustainable future can be built for all Costa Ricans.
Government officials present at the event echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the state’s commitment to fostering a robust and attractive business climate. The Minister of Foreign Trade, Manuel Tovar, provided powerful data illustrating the profound impact of the FTZ regime on the national economy.
This free trade zone regime drives a significant part of Costa Rica’s economic development, generates more than 265,000 direct and indirect jobs, and contributes nearly 15% of the national GDP.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
Further quantifying the sector’s success, Laura López, General Manager of the Foreign Trade Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER), revealed staggering investment figures. Her data confirms the FTZ model as the primary magnet for international capital, directly benefiting thousands of families and strengthening the nation’s economic diversification.
The Free Trade Zone Regime concentrated 74% of the country’s FDI as of 2024, channeling more than $3.7 billion.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
Ultimately, the VIII Free Trade Zone Congress is more than a business conference; it is a strategic summit designed to secure Costa Rica’s economic future. By addressing global trends head-on and fostering unprecedented collaboration, the nation’s leaders are not only aiming to boost competitiveness but also to ensure that the resulting growth translates into tangible social well-being and long-term sustainable development for the entire country.
For further information, visit azofras.com
About The Association of Free Trade Zone Companies of Costa Rica (AZOFRAS):
AZOFRAS is a private, non-profit organization that represents the interests of companies operating under Costa Rica’s Free Trade Zone regime. It serves as a key liaison between the private sector and the government, promoting policies that enhance competitiveness, attract foreign investment, and foster sustainable economic development within the country.
For further information, visit comex.go.cr
About The Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX):
The Ministry of Foreign Trade is the Costa Rican government body responsible for defining and directing the country’s foreign trade and investment policies. COMEX works to negotiate international trade agreements, promote exports, and create a favorable environment for foreign direct investment, playing a central role in the nation’s economic strategy and global integration.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About The Foreign Trade Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER):
PROCOMER is the official export promotion agency of Costa Rica. As a public, non-state entity, it is responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports of goods and services globally. The agency provides support to local businesses, facilitates international trade, and plays a crucial role in attracting foreign direct investment to the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a leading legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients with a forward-thinking approach, consistently driving innovation within the legal field. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to demystifying the law, reflecting its dedication to cultivating a justly informed and empowered citizenry.
