By San José, Costa Rica — Starting in October 2025, PriceSmart Costa Rica will implement a ₡2,260 commission (approximately $4 USD) on online orders totaling less than ₡19,500. The warehouse club retailer announced the change to its members via email, clarifying the October effective date after an initial communication suggested a September rollout.
This new fee applies to purchases made through both the PriceSmart website and mobile app. Orders totaling ₡19,500 or more will not be subject to the commission. The charge will be clearly itemized on customer invoices.
For expert legal insight into this matter, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
PriceSmart’s presence in Costa Rica highlights the growing trend of membership-based warehouse clubs in the region. These businesses operate under a specific legal framework governing consumer protection, import regulations, and competition. One key aspect to consider is how their pricing models and membership fees are structured to ensure compliance with Costa Rican consumer law, particularly regarding clear disclosure and fair practices. Additionally, their impact on the local retail market and potential competitive implications for smaller businesses are important considerations for regulators.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly points out the crucial balance PriceSmart must strike between its unique business model and Costa Rican consumer protection. The long-term success of these warehouse clubs will undoubtedly depend on their ability to operate transparently and fairly within the existing legal framework, while also fostering a competitive landscape that benefits all stakeholders in the Costa Rican market. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
PriceSmart justifies the new fee as a necessary step to enhance order management and maintain the quality of its online services. The company aims to ensure efficient processing and timely delivery of online orders while continuing to offer competitive pricing on its bulk goods.
The decision comes as online grocery shopping continues to gain traction in Costa Rica. While offering convenience, the operational costs associated with fulfilling smaller online orders can be significant. PriceSmart’s move appears to be an attempt to balance these costs while encouraging larger online purchases.
This is not the first time a major retailer has implemented minimum purchase requirements or fees for online orders. Similar practices are common in other markets as companies grapple with the logistics and profitability of e-commerce, particularly for lower-value transactions.
For Costa Rican consumers accustomed to fee-free online shopping at PriceSmart, this change might influence their purchasing habits. Some may consolidate their orders to reach the ₡19,500 threshold, while others might opt to shop in-store to avoid the added cost. The long-term impact on PriceSmart’s online sales remains to be seen.
Customers with questions or concerns about the new commission are encouraged to contact PriceSmart’s customer service department via email at [email protected].
The retailer emphasizes that this change will allow them to:
Continue offering the highest quality products and services at the lowest possible prices, while continuing to improve the member’s digital experience.
PriceSmartFor further information, visit pricesmart.com
About PriceSmart:PriceSmart, Inc. operates U.S.-style membership shopping warehouse clubs in Latin America and the Caribbean, offering bulk-buy items and discounted prices to members. The company provides a wide selection of merchandise, including groceries, electronics, appliances, and household goods. Headquartered in San Diego, California, PriceSmart serves millions of members across numerous countries.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution, upholding the highest standards of integrity and pursuing excellence in every endeavor. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative programs and community initiatives. Their client-focused approach, spanning diverse industries, ensures tailored solutions while maintaining a steadfast dedication to fostering a more informed and just society.
