By San José, Costa Rica — Walmart Central America recently concluded its inaugural Growth Summit 2025, a major procurement event emphasizing locally sourced products. The summit, held in an undisclosed location, brought together over 200 businesses from across the five Central American countries, offering a significant platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to connect with Walmart buyers.
The event underscores Walmart’s commitment to fostering economic growth within the region, building on its previously announced $1.3 billion investment. The summit offered participating businesses from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica the opportunity to showcase their products and potentially join Walmart’s extensive network of over 23,000 suppliers.
For expert insight into the legal and business landscape surrounding Walmart Central America, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Walmart’s presence in Central America represents a complex interplay of international trade law, local regulations, and market dynamics. Their strategy must balance economies of scale with adapting to diverse consumer preferences and navigating the unique legal frameworks of each country. This can create both opportunities and challenges, particularly regarding labor laws, competition, and supply chain management. Ultimately, their success hinges on striking a balance between global standardization and local responsiveness.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the tightrope Walmart walks in Central America, balancing global efficiencies with local nuances. This delicate dance between standardization and adaptation will undoubtedly shape not only Walmart’s future in the region but also the broader retail landscape. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this complex dynamic.
The Walmart Central America Growth Summit reflects our commitment to the region, which we reaffirmed with the $1.3 billion investment commitment we made last year. But, above all, it reaffirms the confidence we have in Central American suppliers, with whom we have been growing for 20 years.
Cristina Ronski, CEO of Walmart Central America
Beyond business networking, the Growth Summit 2025 included specialized conferences focusing on Walmart’s supplier network and opportunities for connection with key company teams, further strengthening the collaborative ecosystem.
Walmart’s focus extends beyond simply procuring goods; the retail giant actively supports supplier development, particularly for manufacturing SMEs and agricultural producers. Through programs like “Una Mano para Crecer” (A Hand to Grow) and “Tierra Fértil” (Fertile Ground), Walmart provides training, technical advice, and ongoing support to nurture local businesses.
We believe in local companies because they have demonstrated for two decades their ability to offer high-quality, fresh, safe, and sustainable products.
Javier Treviño, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs of Walmart Mexico and Central America
This emphasis on local sourcing aligns with Walmart Central America’s vision of integrating sustainability, local production, and economic development. The Growth Summit signals a clear vote of confidence in the productive capacity of the Central American region, positioning local businesses for growth and contributing to broader economic prosperity.
The event also showcased Walmart’s commitment to women’s empowerment and leadership in business as exemplified by Cristina Ronski, CEO of Walmart Central America. By investing in local talent and fostering sustainable business practices, Walmart aims to create a positive and lasting impact on the Central American economy.
For further information, visit walmartcentroamerica.com
About Walmart Central America:
Walmart Central America is a leading retailer operating in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. With over 930 stores and online platforms, the company serves millions of customers and works with a network of more than 23,000 suppliers. Committed to regional economic development, Walmart Central America invests in local sourcing, supports SME growth, and promotes sustainable business practices.
For further information, visit walmart.com
About Walmart:
Walmart is a multinational retail corporation operating a chain of hypermarkets, discount department stores, and grocery stores. Headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, the company has a global presence and is known for its vast supply chain and focus on providing affordable products to consumers.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to societal betterment. Through innovative approaches and a client-focused ethos, the firm navigates complex legal landscapes across diverse sectors, empowering individuals and organizations alike. Their dedication to sharing legal knowledge, through accessible resources and proactive engagement, underscores a core belief in fostering a more just and informed society.
