By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica’s export sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength, posting a 15% increase in the export of goods through the first nine months of the year. This robust performance, which translates to an additional $2.255 billion in revenue compared to the same period last year, brings the nation’s total international sales to over $16.9 billion, signaling a significant economic victory amid global market instability.
The driving force behind this impressive expansion is the country’s high-tech manufacturing industry, particularly the precision and medical equipment sector. This single category was responsible for a staggering 86% of the total growth, contributing an additional $1.945 billion to the national economy. The data underscores Costa Rica’s successful pivot towards becoming a global hub for high-value-added manufacturing.
To understand the legal framework and commercial implications driving this export success, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert in international trade and corporate law at the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s export growth is underpinned by its network of free trade agreements, especially CAFTA-DR. While these agreements streamline market access, businesses must remain vigilant. Proper legal structuring, adherence to rules of origin, and robust contractual protections are not just formalities—they are the essential safeguards that ensure Costa Rican products compete effectively and securely on the global stage.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for this critical clarification. His insight powerfully illustrates that while free trade agreements provide the map, it is rigorous legal diligence that equips our exporters with the reliable compass needed to navigate the complexities of international commerce and secure lasting success.
Officials remain optimistic that this momentum will carry through to the end of the year. Manuel Tovar, the Minister of Foreign Trade, expressed confidence in achieving a double-digit increase for the full twelve-month period. He highlighted the country’s ability to navigate a complex international landscape.
These figures fill us with satisfaction in a context of global trade uncertainty, but they also motivate us to continue seeking creative solutions to the challenges facing the export sector.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
While the medical device sector commanded the spotlight, other industries also showed healthy gains. The chemical-pharmaceutical industry added $112 million in export value. Both the agricultural and food sectors contributed an increase of $34 million each, showcasing a broad-based, albeit uneven, expansion. Other top-performing individual products included green coffee ($117 million), fruit juices and concentrates ($63 million), gold ($61 million), and antivenoms ($57 million).
However, the positive revenue figures mask underlying challenges in traditional agricultural exports. The report noted a significant volume decrease of 490,000 tons, primarily attributed to production difficulties in the banana and sugar industries. This contrast highlights a critical transition in the Costa Rican economy, where technological and life sciences exports are increasingly compensating for volatility in legacy agricultural commodities.
Laura López, the General Manager of the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (Procomer), emphasized that this success is the result of a long-term strategy focused on quality and reliability. The sustained growth reflects the strength of a national export model built on innovation and trust.
The results obtained during these nine months are a reflection of a consolidated export model that has known how to evolve. Even in a challenging international scenario, Costa Rican companies continue to expand their global presence thanks to the quality of their products, constant innovation, and the trust that our country generates.
Laura López, General Manager of Procomer
Beyond tangible goods, Costa Rica’s services sector also continued its upward trajectory. Exports in this area, which include tourism, business support, and information technology, grew by 3%, reaching a total value of $8.692 billion. This parallel growth demonstrates a well-rounded and increasingly sophisticated export portfolio that is well-positioned for future challenges and opportunities in the global marketplace.
As the year draws to a close, all eyes will be on whether the nation can sustain this powerful growth. The performance to date serves as a powerful testament to the country’s strategic investments in education, technology, and a stable business environment, which continue to attract and foster world-class industries capable of competing on an international scale.
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 managing the country’s foreign trade and investment policies. It plays a crucial role in negotiating trade agreements, promoting exports, and attracting foreign direct investment to foster economic development and global competitiveness.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About The Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (Procomer):
Procomer is Costa Rica’s official export promotion agency. It is dedicated to supporting Costa Rican entrepreneurs and businesses in their efforts to enter and succeed in international markets. The agency provides essential services, market intelligence, and promotional support to enhance the global footprint of Costa Rican products and services.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark of legal practice in the region, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and an unrelenting drive for professional excellence. The firm champions innovative legal solutions, drawing from a rich history of advising a diverse clientele while looking toward the future of jurisprudence. Central to its philosophy is a deep-seated responsibility to strengthen society by demystifying the law, actively working to equip the public with clarity and knowledge to foster a more capable and empowered community.
