Q COSTARICA — The export sector reaffirmed its importance to the Costa Rican economy last week, with the Costa Rican Chamber of Exporters (Cadexco) sharing statistics for the end of 2025, showing an increase of nearly 16% compared to the previous year.
Overall exports reached US$22.9 billion in goods and US$11.97 billion in services.
By product, medical devices are leading the way in Costa Rican exports.
According to Cadexco, the top international sales by sector are as follows:
- Precision and medical equipment: US$9.199 billion, a 30% increase
- Agriculture: US3.081 billion
- Food: US$2.249 billion
- Chemical-pharmaceutical: US$976 million
- Electrical and electronics: US$922 million
- Other: US$899 million
- Metalworking: US$610 million
- Livestock and fishing: US$362 million
- Rubber: US$274 million
The United States remains the primary export market. It is followed by Europe, Asia, and Central America. Further down the list are the Caribbean and South America, the only destination experiencing a decline this year.
By segment, free trade zones continue to be crucial for exports, with a 16% growth. The definitive regime, meanwhile, grew by 4%.
A Year of Challenges for Exporters
Victor Pérez, president of Cadexco, emphasized that the sector is maintaining its productivity but faces significant challenges.
He points out that they are a “resilient and resilient sector, but above all, pragmatic and with a long-term vision.”
The representative detailed challenges related to tariffs, security, and, especially, the exchange rate.
In this regard, the export sector is focusing on various aspects, including the monetary policy rate.
He also emphasizes the need for legal reforms, such as the proposed 4-3 work schedule law.
To this, exporters add the urgent need for intervention in Costa Rican education.