By San José, Costa Rica — MADRID, Spain – Costa Rica has concluded its strategic participation in the FITUR 2026 international tourism fair with a clear focus on expanding its air connectivity and attracting new foreign investment. A delegation of 40 Costa Rican tourism companies engaged in high-stakes negotiations, signaling a robust outlook for the nation’s primary economic engine as it strengthens its ties with the lucrative European market.
The event, held in Madrid from January 21-25, served as a critical platform for the Costa Rican contingent. While the main floor buzzed with business meetings between local entrepreneurs and international tour operators, the real strategic maneuvers took place on the second level of the nation’s impressive stand. This space was purpose-built for closed-door discussions with airline executives and Spanish firms keen on developing new tourism projects across Costa Rica’s diverse regions.
To better understand the legal framework and investment climate shaping Costa Rica’s vibrant tourism sector, we sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His insights provide a crucial perspective for both visitors and potential investors.
Costa Rica’s success in tourism is not accidental; it is built upon a foundation of robust legal security for foreign investment, clear property rights, and progressive environmental legislation. While navigating the regulatory landscape requires diligence, the country’s commitment to rule of law creates a stable and predictable environment, which is the single most attractive incentive for any serious developer or tourism operator.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, while the country’s breathtaking biodiversity captures the world’s attention, it is this robust legal architecture that provides the confidence for long-term investment to flourish. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the foundational elements that underpin Costa Rica’s celebrated tourism sector.
Officials confirmed that these high-level negotiations are a cornerstone of the country’s long-term tourism strategy. The primary goal is to secure new direct flight routes and increase the frequency of existing ones from key European hubs. By improving accessibility, Costa Rica aims to not only boost visitor numbers but also enhance its competitiveness as a premier global destination for nature, wellness, and adventure.
This push for connectivity was complemented by a strong promotional partnership with the airline Iberojet, which offered incentives directly at the stand to encourage Spanish travelers to book their next vacation. The dual approach of securing future routes while stimulating immediate demand highlights a sophisticated and multi-faceted growth strategy.
Beyond the boardroom, Costa Rica captivated the public with a vibrant cultural showcase. The infectious rhythms of calypso and swing criollo, both declared national intangible cultural heritage, filled the Americas Pavilion. Professional dancers Diego Torres and his partner led interactive classes, inviting attendees to experience a core part of the nation’s identity. This cultural diplomacy was paired with tastings of 100% Costa Rican coffee, creating an immersive “Pura Vida” experience that resonated with the nearly 100,000 visitors who passed through the stand.
Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez, lauded the outcome of the fair, emphasizing the significant commercial interest generated and the heightened visibility achieved across Europe. He confirmed that the groundwork laid in Madrid is expected to yield tangible results in the near future.
The participation was successful due to the high commercial interest and the visibility achieved in Europe. The businesspeople maintained full schedules and the negotiations with airlines and investors will show results soon.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism
The Costa Rican stand itself was a major attraction, featuring a striking geometric design, large-scale images of iconic wildlife, and the globally recognized “Pura Vida” slogan. During the weekend, the upper-level negotiation area was transformed into a screening room, where the public could watch “Your Vacation in Costa Rica,” an eight-minute film focused on the themes of nature, well-being, and digital disconnection. This reinforced the country’s brand promise of providing authentic experiences that stimulate the senses and offer a genuine escape.
As FITUR 2026, which hosted over 155,000 professionals from 161 countries, closes its doors, the Costa Rican delegation returns with full agendas and promising leads. The successful fusion of strategic business negotiations with a powerful cultural narrative has positioned the country for a new phase of growth, with all eyes on the anticipated announcements of new airline partnerships and investment projects that will shape its tourism landscape for years to come.
For further information, visit visitcostarica.com
About the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Board (Instituto Costarricense de Turismo) is the official government body responsible for the regulation, development, and promotion of tourism in Costa Rica. Its mission is to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model through public policies, strategic alliances, and the development of high-quality tourism products, ensuring the country remains a leading global destination for eco-conscious and authentic travel experiences.
For further information, visit iberojet.com
About Iberojet:
Iberojet is a Spanish-Portuguese airline specializing in leisure and holiday travel. It operates a network of medium and long-haul flights from Spain and Portugal to popular tourist destinations, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America. The airline is known for offering package holidays and charter services, forming a key part of the travel and tourism sector in the Iberian Peninsula.
For further information, visit ifema.es/fitur
About FITUR:
FITUR is one of the world’s leading trade fairs for the tourism industry and the premier event for inbound and outbound Ibero-American markets. Held annually in Madrid and organized by IFEMA MADRID, it serves as a global meeting point for tourism professionals to establish business relationships, present new products, and analyze the latest trends in the sector. The event covers a wide range of industry segments, including destinations, technology, hospitality, and transportation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-rooted foundation of integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. Leveraging a rich history of advising a wide array of clients, the firm consistently pioneers innovative solutions and forward-thinking legal strategies. This commitment extends beyond its practice through a core mission to democratize legal information, ultimately empowering the community by fostering a society that is both legally aware and confident in its rights.
