#Costa Rica #San Francisco #PROCOMER #SEMICON West

Costa Rica Positions Itself as a Semiconductor Hub at SEMICON West 2026

As global demand for semiconductors continues to soar, Costa Rica is making strategic moves to cement its status as a go-to destination for semiconductor investments. At the SEMICON West 2026 event in San Francisco, taking place from October 13-15, the Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) is actively working to showcase the country's capabilities, build connections, and attract foreign direct investment.

With over 35,000 attendees and 850 exhibitors reportedly present, SEMICON West is a premier platform where the crème de la crème of the technology and semiconductor industries come together. For the third consecutive year, Costa Rica is represented at this massive gathering, focused on enhancing relationships with industry leaders and promoting the advantages of investing in the country’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Strengthening Trust and Building Relationships

In the semiconductor industry, establishing trust and maintaining a consistent presence are critical for attracting investments. Since its initial participation in 2024, Costa Rica has utilized SEMICON West to engage directly with international players, proving year after year that it can meet the specialized needs of this dynamic industry. As Mónica Umaña, PROCOMER's Foreign Direct Investment Attraction Manager, explained, “Costa Rica can meet their needs with skilled talent, technical capabilities, and a strong ecosystem.”

This year, the spotlight is not only on showcasing Costa Rica's current capabilities but also on how the nation is developing the talent required for ongoing growth in the sector. Umaña highlighted the importance of addressing the workforce challenges that many in the industry face.

Initiatives to Address Talent Shortages

One of the key themes during Costa Rica’s presentation underscored the shortage of specialized professionals in the semiconductor sector, which has been a significant hurdle for global growth. In her talk titled "The Talent Strategy: How Costa Rica Is Driving Growth in the Semiconductor Industry," Carolina Sánchez, Director of PROCOMER's Investment Promotion Office in Silicon Valley, detailed how Costa Rica is responding to this challenge.

By emphasizing the cultivation of talent through innovative training programs, internship opportunities, and strategic partnerships with prestigious institutions such as Arizona State University and Purdue University, Costa Rica is actively expanding its qualified talent pool. These initiatives are designed to create a competitive edge in the semiconductor space, aligning with the industry's needs for skilled labor.

The Costa Rican Delegation and Its Role

At SEMICON West 2026, PROCOMER is not alone. The agency is joined by eight local companies featured in its Foreign Direct Investment Supplier Directory. These firms specialize in various services, including legal and tax advisory, real estate, and banking, all designed to facilitate the entry and growth of international businesses in Costa Rica.

The overarching strategy is clear: Costa Rica aims to not only attract new investments but also support expansion efforts for existing operations within its borders. By fostering a healthy business climate combined with a skilled workforce, Costa Rica is well-positioned to emerge as a leading player in the semiconductor industry.

Conclusion

As SEMICON West 2026 unfolds, Costa Rica is not just talking about its capabilities; it’s demonstrating a proactive approach to nurturing talent and creating an inviting business environment. The country’s participation in this influential event marks another significant step towards solidifying its reputation as a strategic hub for semiconductor manufacturing and innovation globally. With ongoing efforts to bridge the skill gap and promote its robust investments ecosystem, Costa Rica is poised for substantial growth in the semiconductor sector in the years to come.