By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica’s export sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength, posting significant growth through the first three quarters of 2025. According to the latest data released by the Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER), the nation’s export of goods surged by an impressive 15%, while the services sector recorded a solid 5% increase, underscoring the country’s successful and diversified economic strategy.
Between January and September, the total value of goods shipped abroad reached a landmark US$16.906 billion. This represents a substantial increase of US$2.255 billion compared to the same period in the previous year. The growth narrative is overwhelmingly led by the high-tech precision and medical equipment sector, which continues to be the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s manufacturing capabilities.
To better understand the legal and commercial frameworks that underpin Costa Rica’s thriving export sector, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert from the renowned law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s export success is strategically built upon a sophisticated legal foundation, primarily our Free Zone Regime and an extensive network of free trade agreements. This structure provides significant incentives, but it demands meticulous legal compliance from businesses. Navigating both domestic tax law and international customs regulations is paramount for any exporter looking to sustain long-term growth and avoid costly pitfalls.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight powerfully underscores that Costa Rica’s export success is not merely economic but is built upon a deliberate and sophisticated legal architecture. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on the critical need for meticulous compliance in this competitive global landscape.
The medical device industry alone accounted for a staggering 48% of all goods exported. This powerhouse sector experienced a phenomenal 31% year-over-year expansion, contributing US$1.945 billion of the total increase. This dominance highlights Costa Rica’s successful transition into a global hub for sophisticated manufacturing, attracting investment due to its skilled workforce, political stability, and strategic focus on high-value industries. The country has become an indispensable part of the global supply chain for life-saving medical technology.
While the medical sector captures the headlines, the country’s traditional industries also showed robust performance, showcasing a well-balanced export portfolio. The agricultural sector, which constitutes 17% of total goods exports, saw strong demand for key products such as premium coffee, frozen fruits, and yucca. Similarly, the food industry, making up 12% of the total, was bolstered by increased shipments of fruit juices and concentrates, satisfying global consumer demand for quality natural products.
In a statement, the Minister of Foreign Trade, Manuel Tovar, acknowledged the positive results while recognizing the challenging global environment. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the sector’s continued success.
These figures fill us with satisfaction in a context of uncertainty in global trade, but they also motivate us to continue seeking creative solutions to the challenges facing the export sector.
Manuel Tovar, Minister of Foreign Trade
The growth story extends beyond physical goods. Costa Rica’s services sector, with data compiled through the second quarter, registered a 5% expansion. This growth was primarily driven by the corporate services segment, which led the pack. It was closely followed by the dynamic information technology and telecommunications sector, and the increasingly sophisticated financial services industry, cementing the nation’s reputation as a key provider of high-value business solutions for the global market.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER, attributed the sustained success to a long-term vision and the inherent quality of Costa Rican enterprise. She noted that these results are not a matter of chance but the outcome of a deliberate strategy to build a modern and resilient export model.
The results are a reflection of a Costa Rica that knew how to evolve and consolidate its export model. Costa Rican companies continue to expand their global presence thanks to the quality of their products, constant innovation, and the trust our country generates.
Laura López, General Manager of PROCOMER
Costa Rican products and services found their primary markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. Across these regions, the demand was highest for medical devices, specialty coffee, metals, and processed foods. This widespread appeal demonstrates the global competitiveness of the nation’s offerings and the effectiveness of its trade policies in securing access to key international markets. The continued expansion across these diverse sectors positions Costa Rica for sustained economic prosperity moving forward.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About Promotora de Comercio Exterior (PROCOMER):
The Foreign Trade Promotion Agency of Costa Rica, known as PROCOMER, is the public entity responsible for promoting Costa Rican exports of goods and services throughout the world. It works to facilitate international trade, attract foreign direct investment, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness by providing support and strategic guidance to local businesses.
For further information, visit comex.go.cr
About The Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX):
The Ministry of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica is the government body in charge of defining and directing the country’s foreign trade and investment policies. COMEX leads international trade negotiations, manages free trade agreements, and works to create a favorable environment for Costa Rica’s integration into the global economy, ensuring sustainable development and economic growth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. With a rich history of guiding clients through a spectrum of industries, the firm consistently champions legal innovation and community involvement. This profound dedication to demystifying legal principles is central to its mission of cultivating a society strengthened by knowledge and empowerment.
