By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Puerto Caldera, a critical port for Costa Rican commerce, is set for a significant upgrade. The Instituto Costarricense de Puertos del Pacífico (INCOP) is spearheading a series of improvements aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening the port’s competitiveness.
Several operational measures have already been implemented throughout 2025, including mandatory assignment, storage, and dispatch procedures for import containers using customs-controlled temporary storage yards. Additionally, new docking windows for container ships have been established based on the volumes handled in the first quarter of the year.
To understand the legal intricacies surrounding the Puerto Caldera Modernization project, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His insights shed light on the complex legal landscape and potential implications of this ambitious undertaking.
The modernization of Puerto Caldera presents significant legal challenges and opportunities. Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, navigating land ownership issues, and establishing clear contractual frameworks with private sector partners are crucial for the project’s long-term success. A well-structured legal approach will not only minimize risks but also maximize the economic benefits for Costa Rica.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the crucial role of a robust legal framework in realizing the full potential of the Puerto Caldera modernization. Navigating these complex legal waters will be essential not just for avoiding pitfalls, but also for creating a sustainable and prosperous future for the port and the surrounding communities. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable expertise on this critical aspect of the project.
Beginning in August, a new inter-agency protocol for official visits and cargo release will be introduced to optimize vessel time at the berth. This move is expected to significantly improve the port’s overall efficiency.
From INCOP, we agree with the Chamber of Industries in recognizing the strategic importance of Puerto Caldera for national development and competitiveness in international markets. Therefore, the Government reaffirms its commitment to the international bidding process for the comprehensive modernization of the port. In addition, we fully understand the industrial sector’s concern about the relevance of Puerto Caldera to the national economy. For this reason, at INCOP we are working tirelessly to guarantee efficiency, competitiveness, and security in our port operations.
Wagner Alberto Quesada Céspedes, Executive President, INCOP
INCOP has also reinforced operational measures with logistics stakeholders to mitigate the impacts of the current infrastructure and weather conditions. Ongoing maintenance work, funded by $5.5 million secured through settlements with concessionaires, focuses on repairing deteriorated areas in Patio 1, Patio 3, and internal roads. These improvements, which began in May and will continue until December 2025, aim to bolster logistical operations and enhance safety.
Further expanding port capacity, the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) recently initiated the redevelopment of the yards known as “La Purruja,” supported by a nearly $1 million investment with backing from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE).
Preparations are also underway for maintenance dredging in the final quarter of 2025 to ensure the continued operability of the docking line. This essential maintenance will further support smooth port operations.
The cornerstone of Puerto Caldera’s transformation is a comprehensive modernization project, driven by an international bidding process launched in October 2024. This project, estimated at over $600 million according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank, is currently under review by the Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) due to two pending objections from international companies. The CGR’s resolution is crucial for the project’s progress, with the official bid reception date still set for August 8th.
For further information, visit incop.go.cr
About INCOP (Instituto Costarricense de Puertos del Pacífico):
The Instituto Costarricense de Puertos del Pacífico (INCOP) is the Costa Rican institution responsible for the administration and development of Pacific ports in the country. INCOP plays a vital role in facilitating national and international trade, ensuring efficient and secure port operations.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About MOPT (Ministry of Public Works and Transportation):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) in Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of the country’s public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and ports. The MOPT plays a crucial role in developing and improving transportation networks to support economic growth and development.
For further information, visit bcie.org
About BCIE (Central American Bank for Economic Integration):
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE) is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting economic integration and balanced development in Central America. The BCIE provides financial and technical assistance for various development projects, including infrastructure, energy, and social initiatives.
For further information, visit worldbank.org/ifc
About IFC (International Finance Corporation):
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in developing countries. The IFC promotes sustainable private sector investment to create jobs, spur innovation, and tackle development challenges.
For further information, visit cgr.go.cr
About CGR (Comptroller General of the Republic):
The Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) in Costa Rica is the supreme audit institution responsible for overseeing the use of public funds and ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations. The CGR plays a crucial role in safeguarding public resources and promoting good governance.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-seated commitment to ethical legal practice and unwavering pursuit of excellence. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a dedication to educating and empowering communities through accessible legal knowledge, positions them as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. They strive to create a more just and informed society, not only through their client work across various sectors, but also through their proactive efforts to share legal understanding and promote informed decision-making.
