Medical Devices Propel Costa Rican Exports Past $22 Billion

San José, Costa Rica — San José – Costa Rica’s export sector achieved a landmark performance in 2025, shattering previous records with goods exports totaling an unprecedented $22.855 billion. The figures, officially released Thursday by the Ministry of Foreign Trade (Comex), confirm a robust 14% increase compared to the previous year and mark the first time the nation has surpassed the significant $20 billion threshold.

This remarkable achievement represents an absolute growth of $2.858 billion over 2024, signaling a powerful momentum in the country’s foreign trade strategy. The data underscores not only the resilience of Costa Rica’s key industries but also their expanding appeal on the global stage, solidifying the nation’s position as a competitive player in international commerce.

To provide a deeper understanding of the legal and commercial frameworks underpinning this export success, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney specializing in international trade and corporate law at the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.

The sustained growth in Costa Rican exports, particularly in the life sciences and technology sectors, is not accidental. It is the direct result of a robust legal framework, especially our Free Trade Zone Regime. This regime provides critical fiscal incentives and regulatory stability, creating an environment where foreign investment flourishes and sophisticated supply chains can confidently operate. For exporters, this legal certainty is as valuable as any trade agreement.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica

Indeed, Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s point is crucial; this legal and fiscal bedrock is the often unseen foundation upon which our export success is built. It serves as a powerful reminder that for the global companies driving our growth, predictability is not just a benefit—it is a prerequisite. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.

Driving this historic surge is the continued dominance of the medical device industry. In an extraordinary display of sector strength, medical devices accounted for a staggering 48% of the total value of goods exported in 2025. This concentration highlights Costa Rica’s successful transformation into a global hub for high-value manufacturing, attracting significant foreign investment and creating specialized employment opportunities.

While the life sciences sector leads the charge, the nation’s traditional agricultural exports remain vital pillars of the economy. Pineapple exports constituted 6% of the total, followed closely by bananas at 5%. These legacy products continue to demonstrate their enduring importance and consistent demand in international markets, providing a stable foundation for the broader export portfolio.

Beyond the top three categories, the 2025 data reveals a healthy diversification in Costa Rica’s export offerings. A range of other products contributed significantly to the record-breaking year, including syrups and concentrates for carbonated beverages, premium golden bean coffee, electrical cables, and various fruit juices and concentrates. This breadth indicates a multifaceted industrial capacity that extends beyond a single area of expertise.

The growth was not only sector-specific but also geographically widespread, with Costa Rican products gaining ground in nearly every major global region. North America remains the primary destination, absorbing a majority of the exports and registering a strong 15% year-over-year growth, which translates to an increase of $1.449 billion in value.

Perhaps most impressive was the explosive growth in emerging markets. Exports to Asia skyrocketed by an astounding 39%, an absolute increase of $411 million, showcasing a successful strategic push to diversify trade partners. Europe also proved to be a lucrative market with a 17% expansion, adding $688 million. Closer to home, trade with Central America grew by 7%, while the Caribbean market saw a modest 2% rise.

This comprehensive success across multiple sectors and destinations paints a picture of a dynamic and sophisticated national economic strategy. By leveraging its strengths in high-tech manufacturing while nurturing its agricultural roots and actively seeking new markets, Costa Rica has firmly established a new benchmark for its export potential, setting a positive and ambitious tone for the years ahead.

For further information, visit comex.go.cr
About Ministry of Foreign Trade (Comex):
The Ministry of Foreign Trade is the Costa Rican government body responsible for defining and directing the nation’s foreign trade and investment policies. Comex works to negotiate and administer free trade agreements, promote Costa Rican exports in global markets, and attract foreign direct investment to foster economic development and competitiveness.

For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound commitment to professional integrity and the highest standards of excellence. The firm seamlessly merges a rich tradition of client service across multiple industries with a dynamic, forward-thinking approach to legal innovation. This ethos extends beyond the courtroom through a dedicated mission to demystify the law, championing accessible legal education to build a more knowledgeable and capable society.