Costa Rica has proven to be an appealing and profitable market for U.S. companies for many years. This market has a stable democracy, predictable business climate, and economic growth fueled by a resurgent tourism industry. After record-setting exports in 2021, shipments of U.S. agricultural and related products to Costa Rica were 10% higher through October 2022, with growth in all major product categories.
Costa Rica is ranked #83 of the major economies of the world and is considered an upper middle-income country. There are numerous advantages for U.S. exporters of consumer-ready food products to the region. These include geographic proximity and lower duties for almost all agricultural products under the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement. As a strong tourism sector (domestic and international), Costa Rica also supports substantial foodservice opportunities for U.S. exporters.
Costa Rican consumers are health-conscious and open to new products. They are willing to make the switch to private label due to the balance of quality and price and the increased consumer awareness for value-added products. Furthermore, they prefer to purchase in-stores despite the expansion of e-commerce, buying both in bulk and in small volumes.
U.S. Food & Agricultural Product Imports to Costa Rica, By the Numbers
Due to the nature of the global pandemic and its impact on international travel, please consider resources such a www.travel.state.gov when determining if this event is appropriate for you or your company.
Register for Two Back-to-Back Missions!
Focused Trade Mission to Guatemala – Foodservice and Retail
March 7 – 8, 2024
Top U.S. products in demand:
March 3: Arrive in San Jose
March 4: Briefing and Retail Tour
March 5: One-on-One Meetings with Buyers
March 6: Departure to Focused Trade Mission to Guatemala or Home
Schedule is subject to change.
Participants in 2019 Focused Trade Missions Reported:
With the Branded Program, you may be eligible for 50% reimbursement on:
Your Connection To Growth®
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