The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency - CINDE
Key Competitive Attractions
Costa Rica is one of Latin America’s key destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI). Since 2000, FDI inflows have seen a growth rate of 22% annually. FDI per capita puts the country ahead of the likes of Brazil, Mexico and Chile. On average, the annual GDP growth rate since 1991 has been 5.3%.
Currently, more than 200 global companies operate in Costa Rica. Primary business sectors include electronics, medical devices, services, agriculture and tourism. The economy is highly export-oriented, with 45% of GDP devoted to exports (2010). Costa Rica is the fourth biggest high-tech exporter in the world (World Bank, 2008).
Costa Rica is ranked second on the Political Stability- and Absence of Violence Index in Latin America (World Bank, 2010). It has bilateral free trade agreements with a number of countries including: Canada, Chile, Mexico, the United States, and several Caribbean and Central American states. Agreements with China, Singapore and the EU are under negotiation.
In terms of cooperation in employment relations, Costa Rica is ranked 8th out of 134 (Global Competitiveness Report 2008-2009 of the World Economic Forum).
Assistance and Support For New Business Investors
The Investment Promotion Agency is charged with the task of attracting FDI to Costa Rica. The agency offers assistance to potential and current investors.
