#San Jose #Costa Rica #Medical Devices #PROCOMER

Costa Rica's Rise in the Global Medical Devices Arena

This Central American nation has made headlines with its significant achievements in the medical devices industry. A new report highlights Costa Rica's transformation into one of the most innovative and competitive centers for medical technology manufacturing and exports worldwide. The data from the Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) showcases this impressive journey with quadrupled high-tech medical exports over the past decade.

Between 2020 and 2024, Costa Rica boasted an impressive average annual growth rate of 22% in medical device exports, reaching a remarkable $8.675 billion. This milestone firmly positions Costa Rica as the 10th largest medical device exporter globally and stands out as the leader in exports on a per-capita basis.

Investment and Growth

Costa Rica's approach to medical devices is underlined by its ability to attract investments. The country accounts for 52% of all new investments in Latin America's medical devices sector, confirming its third-place ranking globally for foreign direct investment (FDI) in this field. More than 100 foreign companies from nations including the United States, Germany, and Japan are now operating in Costa Rica, specializing in various medical technologies such as endoscopy, orthopedics, and advanced surgical solutions.

The surge in medical exports underscores Costa Rica's economic shift towards innovation-driven growth and advanced manufacturing. In 2025 alone, medical devices constituted 48% of the nation’s total goods exports, with shipments reaching markets across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. As reported by PROCOMER, medical device export values have already risen to $9.199 billion by October, marking a 30% increase from the previous year.

Diverse Product Range

Costa Rica's impressive export portfolio comprises 164 unique medical device products sent to 88 different markets. The key export categories include needles, catheters, cannulas, and medical prostheses, with the United States remaining the predominant market, absorbing 66.5% of these exports, followed by the Netherlands and Belgium.

The nation's robust local supply chain has bolstered this growth, supported by specialized providers in tooling, metalworking, and precision assembly. This integrated ecosystem not only facilitates efficient operations but also enhances knowledge transfer and raises industry standards among local suppliers.

Structural Strengths Supporting Growth

According to the PROCOMER study, several critical factors have underpinned Costa Rica's leadership in the medical device industry:

• - Economic, Political, and Social Stability: A favorable environment for investment and growth.
• - Renewable Electricity Matrix: A competitive energy grid supporting sustainable operations.
• - Highly Skilled Workforce: Access to a talented pool of professionals trained in advanced manufacturing techniques.
• - Advanced Infrastructure: State-of-the-art productive and logistical frameworks supporting industry demands.
• - Strong Local Supply Chains: Well-established linkages supporting manufacturing and distribution.
• - Three Decades of Experience: A rich history in advanced manufacturing providing a robust base for innovation.

These attributes have propelled Costa Rica from basic manufacturing to creating highly sophisticated medical devices, reflecting a remarkable evolution in less than ten years.

The Future of Medical Devices in Costa Rica

The ongoing expansion of the medical device sector is poised to continue, driven by enduring international demand and relentless innovation. PROCOMER remains committed to enhancing collaboration among the government, private sector, academia, and global strategic partners, ensuring that Costa Rica maintains its status as a global leader in medical technology.

In conclusion, Costa Rica is not merely exporting products; it is exporting innovation and high-value solutions that positively impact lives worldwide. This dynamic sector promises a bright future, reinforcing the country’s position as a pivotal player in the global healthcare narrative.