#San Jose #Costa Rica #PROCOMER #Export Model

The Remarkable Evolution of Costa Rica's Export Model

Over the last four decades, Costa Rica has undergone a striking transformation in its export paradigm. In the early 1980s, the country's export landscape was dominated by a mere four traditional products. Fast forward to 2024, and Costa Rica boasts an impressive export portfolio consisting of more than 4,000 goods and services spread across nearly 150 international markets. This impressive growth trajectory reflects one of the most significant productive shifts in the nation's economic history, as analyzed in a comprehensive study by the Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER).

Shift in Export Composition

The recent analysis highlights that Costa Rican exports have surged at an average annual growth rate of 8% from 2014 to 2024. A pivotal structural shift has occurred within the composition of exports, with advanced manufacturing now accounting for 84% of the industrial goods sector. Additionally, knowledge-intensive services represent a noteworthy 58% of exports in this segment. Such a transformation indicates a shift towards more sophisticated activities, necessitating specialized talent and strict compliance with international standards.

The presence of women in this evolving export landscape is also commendable. By 2024, exports have generated over 709,000 jobs, with women making up 43% of total employment. This growth is not confined to urban centers; nearly 19% of export activities are concentrated outside the Greater Metropolitan Area, showcasing that the benefits of export-driven growth permeate across the nation.

Public and Private Sector Collaboration

Laura López, the CEO of PROCOMER, attributed this evolution to a unified vision and sustained efforts from both the public and private sectors. She underlines the significance of transitioning from four primary export products in the 1980s to the extensive array of over 4,000 products today. This development illustrates an economy adept at transforming, innovating, and competing in increasingly demanding markets.

Historically, Costa Rica's dependency on traditional exports waned substantially. In the late 1980s, over 90% of exports consisted of traditional goods; however, this trend has reversed, with non-traditional exports—particularly those linked to advanced manufacturing, specialized agro-industry, and enhanced service sectors—taking the forefront. This diversification has allowed the nation to adapt more efficiently to external market demands, thus expanding its export portfolio.

Market Expansion and Global Presence

Accompanying this diversification is a notable expansion in Costa Rica's export markets. The nation has established a robust presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, with marked growth in areas demanding high value-added goods. While the United States remains the primary market for Costa Rican exports, increased export figures up to September 2025 indicate impressive growth in Europe (+18%) and Asia (+39%), indicating the effectiveness of strategies focusing on market expansion and reduced concentration.

Future Opportunities and Developments

The study identifies several promising areas for growth, including nearshoring, digital transformation, the transition to renewable energy, and the expansion of knowledge-based services, all of which Costa Rica is well-positioned to explore. As the country enters a new stage in its export development, it benefits from a more extensive and sophisticated production base, equipping it to meet the demands of international trade more effectively in the coming years.

Ultimately, Costa Rica's evolution from a limited exporter to a diverse producer signifies more than mere economic growth—it represents an exemplification of how strategic vision and cooperative efforts can yield productive transformations, impacting job creation and regional development in the process.