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A Vision of Sustainability: Costa Rica at CIMAP 2026 Pre-Forum

In a significant event, Costa Rica hosted the Pre-Forum 2026 of the Latin American Council of Country Brands (CIMAP) in San José. This gathering brought together representatives from eleven nations, including Ecuador, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Uruguay, and Venezuela, to exchange experiences and insights regarding sustainable national branding strategies. Costa Rica continues to establish itself as a benchmark for sustainability, intertwining economic growth with environmental stewardship.

A Model for Sustainable Development

Costa Rica's development model is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to sustainability, which is evident in its energy policies and environmental practices. Presently, over 98.6% of the country's electricity is generated from renewable sources. The nation has successfully reversed deforestation trends, with forests covering more than 57% of its terrain, and over 25% of its land is designated as protected areas. Despite these environmental achievements, Costa Rica also sees economic growth; total exports increased by 11%, and foreign direct investment surpassed $5 billion in 2025.

Adriana Acosta, the Director of essential COSTA RICA, emphasized that "sustainability is not just an attribute of Costa Rica; it is the way we conduct business. It influences our production methods, innovation, and environmental interactions." The Pre-Forum provided a platform for sharing these experiences and learning from other nations, fostering the development of authentic, competitive country brands that address global challenges.

Embracing 'Sustainability in Every Shade'

Under the theme "Costa Rica Sustainability in Every Shade," Acosta shared the country's comprehensive vision for sustainability, illustrating how it forms the crux of the productive sector, institutions, and society. essential COSTA RICA is a brand managed by this vision and brings together public and private sectors founded on shared values of sustainability, innovation, excellence, social progress, and a connection to the essence of Costa Rica. Currently, over 780 companies are part of this licensed community, integrating these principles while enhancing their competitiveness in international markets.

In addition to discussions and strategic dialogues, the delegates participated in immersive experiences that showcased the cultural and urban development of Costa Rica. They visited iconic landmarks such as the National Theater to gain deeper insights into the country's rich history and culture. Furthermore, visits to the Pacific region allowed delegates to engage with sustainable development initiatives firsthand, emphasizing the intricate relationship between nature, productivity, and well-being.

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

The significance of the CIMAP Pre-Forum was underscored by delegates from various countries. Mariana Cabrera, a representative from Uruguay, highlighted that meetings like these advance regional agendas and foster inter-country cooperation. Víctor Palma from Chile noted the value of knowledge exchange and the importance of joint international positioning.

The successful hosting of the CIMAP Pre-Forum reinforces Costa Rica's role as a pivotal player in crafting a regional agenda that connects sustainability, reputation, and competitiveness, positioning country brands as strategic tools for promoting social and economic development across Latin America. Costa Rica's commitment to sustainable development continues to light a path for others, paving the way for a future where business and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.