Exports play a vital role in Costa Rica’s economy, fueling job creation, supporting innovation, and anchoring the country’s place in global markets. As a small nation with limited domestic consumption, Costa Rica depends heavily on its ability to trade internationally. Export revenues fund essential services, attract foreign investment, and help stabilise the national currency. Whether it’s high-tech medical devices or world-renowned coffee, these products aren’t just commodities—they’re lifelines that connect Costa Rica to the wider world.
In the first quarter of 2025, Costa Rica’s exports exceeded $5 billion, marking a significant 12% increase over the same period in 2024. That $564 million jump, reported by the Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX), demonstrates the country’s continued growth despite global uncertainties. The standout performer was once again the medical device manufacturing sector, which brought in more than $2.4 billion—an impressive 26% increase from the previous year. This sector remains the backbone of Costa Rica’s modern export economy, bolstered by a skilled workforce and high foreign investment.
Other export sectors showed varying performance. Agricultural products ticked up slightly by 1%, reaching $913 million, while food exports dipped by 5% to $616 million. Electronics improved by 6% to $239 million, pharmaceuticals surged 18% to $251 million, and plastics grew by 6% to $133 million. The fishing industry brought in $115 million (a 10% rise), and metallurgy climbed 7% to reach $177 million. Together, these figures highlight a healthy level of diversification in Costa Rica’s export portfolio.
When looking at specific products, medical devices again led the charge with an increase of over $500 million. Coffee, a traditional export symbol of Costa Rica, contributed an additional $60 million. Gold and medicinal products each accounted for $21 million, while electric wire exports added $11 million to the total. The mix of advanced manufacturing and staple agricultural goods underlines Costa Rica’s unique economic balance.
Geographically, North America continues to be Costa Rica’s most important trading partner. Exports to the United States, Canada, and Mexico collectively rose by 17%, adding $372 million to the country’s bottom line. European markets also saw an 8% increase in imports from Costa Rica, while Central America grew by 11%. On the downside, exports to South America fell by 12%, possibly due to shifting regional demand or logistics challenges.
Costa Rica’s export total for 2024 reached $19.8 billion, which was already a 9% improvement over 2023’s figure of $18.2 billion. The government has shown a forward-thinking approach in supporting long-term export growth, particularly by legalising the cultivation of medical cannabis and industrial hemp in 2022. While recreational use remains illegal, this strategic move has opened the door to emerging markets. In 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture authorised the National University (UNA) to import hemp seeds from Canada for scientific research and agricultural trials, positioning Costa Rica at the frontier of alternative crops with export potential.
Guiding these trade efforts is COMEX, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Foreign Trade, which works to secure global trade agreements, foster investment, and ensure that Costa Rican products remain competitive on the world stage. The latest data proves that this approach is working—diverse, expanding, and driven by innovation, Costa Rica’s export economy is well-positioned for the future. Breakthroughs themselves.
