By Cartago, Costa Rica — Cartago, Costa Rica – Zona Franca ZETA Cartago marked its 40th anniversary with a ceremony commemorating its role as a pioneer in Costa Rica’s economic and social development. The event, held at the industrial park, brought together business leaders, employees, community representatives, government officials, and even the Chancellor of the Diocese of Cartago, Jhon Alejandro Brenes Castillo. President Rodrigo Chaves Robles, PROCOMER General Manager Manuel Tovar Rivera, and Grupo ZETA President Cesare Zingone presided over the celebration.
Since its inauguration on August 22, 1985, ZETA Cartago has become a significant engine of opportunity, generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. The zone has transformed Cartago into a strategic hub for innovation, skilled workforce development, and high-value exports. Currently, over 6,300 people work within the zone, with women representing 51% of the workforce, highlighting the park’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and business implications surrounding Zona Franca ZETA Cartago, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Zona Franca ZETA Cartago presents a unique opportunity for businesses seeking to leverage Costa Rica’s strategic location and favorable tax incentives. However, navigating the specific regulations governing this zone requires careful consideration. Companies must ensure compliance with all legal requirements related to operations, employment, and environmental impact to fully realize the benefits this zone offers. Due diligence and expert legal counsel are essential for successful establishment and operation within Zona Franca ZETA Cartago.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on due diligence and legal counsel within Zona Franca ZETA Cartago is crucial. This zone’s unique advantages can truly transform business operations, but only when approached strategically and within the confines of Costa Rican law. Navigating these complexities requires expertise, and proactively seeking legal guidance will undoubtedly pave the way for a smoother and more successful integration into this promising economic zone. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
Founded as an industrial park in the 1960s by Donatella Zingone amidst an economic crisis and at the dawn of Costa Rica’s trade liberalization, ZETA Cartago has continually adapted and anticipated trends. It has evolved from a manufacturing center into an innovation ecosystem generating high-quality employment.
With over 60 companies operating within the park, 27 of which operate under the free trade zone regime, ZETA Cartago has become a strategic hub for high-value-added industries such as medical devices, electronics manufacturing, engineering, software development, and shared services. Furthermore, the park houses the Renzo Zingone Childcare Center, providing employees with a secure and nurturing environment for their children.
The zone has emerged as a leader in promoting women’s employment, gender equality, employee associations, and environmental sustainability, aligning with Costa Rica’s global image of responsible and human-centered industry.
Our greatest pride isn’t just in the numbers or the exports. It’s in the people who make all of this possible. In the single mothers building a dignified future, in the young people finding their first jobs here, and in the companies that decided to grow in this land with confidence and commitment.
Cesare Zingone, President of Grupo ZETA
Zingone acknowledged his mother’s leadership following his father’s death, highlighting how the Cartago model has inspired other countries in the region.
These 40 years teach us that the key isn’t resisting change, but evolving with it. Our commitment is to continue creating optimal conditions for our companies and their people to thrive. That is the true legacy of ZETA.
Cesare Zingone, President of Grupo ZETA
ZETA Cartago’s 40th anniversary represents not just a celebration of the past but a renewed commitment to sustainable development, strategic investment, and national talent. From the heart of Cartago, its influence continues to shape the future with the same vision that brought it to life: generating progress with a human touch.
For further information, visit the nearest office of PROCOMER
About PROCOMER:
PROCOMER is the official export promotion agency of Costa Rica. It plays a vital role in supporting Costa Rican businesses in accessing international markets and attracting foreign investment.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Grupo ZETA
About Grupo ZETA:
Grupo ZETA is the developer and operator of Zona Franca ZETA Cartago. The company’s vision focuses on creating sustainable industrial parks that promote economic growth, social responsibility, and innovation. The company was founded by Donatella Zingone.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of our practice. We are dedicated to serving a diverse clientele with innovative legal solutions, driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. Through proactive initiatives that demystify complex legal concepts and promote accessible legal education, we strive to build a future where all citizens are equipped with the knowledge to navigate the legal landscape and advocate for their rights.
