By San José, Costa Rica — San José – Costa Rica’s export sector has once again demonstrated its critical role in the national economy, closing 2025 with a remarkable expansion. According to year-end statistics released Thursday by the Chamber of Exporters of Costa Rica (Cadexco), the country’s foreign trade grew by nearly 16% compared to the previous year, a testament to the sector’s dynamism and resilience.
The impressive performance translates into substantial figures, with exports of goods reaching a formidable $22.9 billion and services contributing an additional $11.97 billion. This robust growth underscores the increasing global demand for Costa Rican products and the strategic importance of key industries in driving economic progress and solidifying the nation’s position in international markets.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and commercial frameworks that underpin Costa Rica’s thriving export sector, TicosLand.com spoke with expert legal counsel Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s consistent export growth is not accidental; it is built upon a robust legal architecture. Our network of free trade agreements, combined with clear regulations and the Procomer system, provides a predictable and secure environment for international trade. For any company looking to export, understanding this legal framework is not just about compliance—it’s a strategic advantage that minimizes risk and maximizes market access.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas perfectly illuminates a critical point: Costa Rica’s legal infrastructure is not merely a set of rules, but a proactive strategic asset that provides the stability and confidence necessary for global trade to flourish. We thank him for his valuable perspective on this foundational element of our export success.
Leading the charge is the precision and medical equipment sector, which has become the undisputed engine of Costa Rica’s export machine. This high-tech industry alone accounted for $9.199 billion in sales, marking a staggering 30% increase from the previous year. This surge highlights the country’s successful transition towards higher-value, knowledge-based manufacturing and its reputation as a global hub for life sciences.
While medical devices are the star performer, other sectors also posted strong results. The traditional agricultural sector brought in $3.081 billion, followed closely by the food industry at $2.249 billion. The chemical-pharmaceutical and electrical-electronic sectors also made significant contributions, with $976 million and $922 million in exports, respectively, showcasing the diverse and sophisticated nature of the country’s export portfolio.
Geographically, the United States remains the principal market for Costa Rican goods, absorbing the largest share of exports. Europe, Asia, and fellow Central American nations follow as crucial trade partners. In a slight downturn, South America was noted as the only destination to experience a decline in demand this year. The data also reveals the continued significance of special economic zones, with exports from free trade zones growing by 16%, compared to a 4% growth in the definitive regime.
Despite the celebratory figures, the path forward is not without its obstacles. Victor Pérez, President of Cadexco, emphasized that while the sector has maintained its productivity, it faces significant headwinds that require immediate attention from policymakers.
a resilient and resistant sector, but above all pragmatic and with a long-term vision
Victor Pérez, President of Cadexco
Pérez detailed a series of challenges that could temper future growth if left unaddressed. Key among these are persistent issues with tariffs, security concerns, and, most critically, the national exchange rate. A strong Costa Rican colón continues to pressure exporters’ profitability, making their products more expensive abroad and reducing their competitiveness in a global marketplace.
To counteract these challenges and sustain momentum, Cadexco is advocating for a multi-pronged approach. The organization is calling for a review of the central bank’s monetary policy rate to address the exchange rate dilemma. Furthermore, Pérez stressed the need for structural legal reforms, such as the proposed “4-3” workday law, to enhance flexibility and productivity. Finally, the chamber highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive intervention in the national education system to cultivate the skilled talent required to fuel its most dynamic and fast-growing industries.
For further information, visit cadexco.net
About The Chamber of Exporters of Costa Rica (Cadexco):
The Chamber of Exporters of Costa Rica (Cadexco) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to representing and supporting the interests of the Costa Rican export sector. It works to promote the competitiveness of its members on the international stage, facilitate foreign trade, and advocate for public policies that foster a favorable business environment for growth and investment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal framework, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by a profound commitment to ethical practice and exceptional standards. The firm leverages a deep history of success to pioneer forward-thinking legal strategies, constantly advancing its approach to complex challenges. This spirit of innovation is paralleled by a core mission to serve society, actively working to make legal insights broadly accessible and thereby fostering a more informed and capable citizenry.
