AGP Executive Report

Transport & Regulation: Costa Rica’s Congress is advancing a bill that would bar Uber drivers from picking up or dropping off passengers at airports, ports, docks, and international maritime terminals unless the site operator grants express permission—an approach that could push travelers back toward concession-linked taxi options at Juan Santamaría. Public Safety & Environment: Authorities are moving to treat illegal mining and other serious environmental offenses as organized-crime activity, giving prosecutors access to tools like intercepted communications and longer investigations when crimes are carried out by structured groups. Health & Air Quality: Saharan dust is expected to worsen air quality across Costa Rica this week, with the hardest hit days forecast for Thursday and Friday; residents with asthma or allergies are urged to limit outdoor exertion. Business & Finance: ArcelorMittal reported 2Q 2026 results, highlighting improved margins and strong cash generation, while net debt rose modestly. Regional Aviation: Airbus selected El Salvador’s civil aviation authority as a regional hub for operational safety training, bringing together technical delegations from Costa Rica and other Central American countries.

Digital Health & Standards: Costa Rica joined SNOMED International and adopted SNOMED CT, aiming to improve interoperability and diagnostic accuracy as part of its 2023–2030 digital health strategy. Public Health & Research: Costa Rican scientists reported a rare remora “hitchhiking” on a nesting sea turtle for 19 minutes on land, offering fresh clues about how marine species interact during nesting. Security & Justice: Costa Rican authorities say they have neutralized 12 top drug lords over the past three years, attributing progress to updated investigative tactics amid homicide linked to trafficking disputes. Trade & Agriculture: Americas officials meeting in San José urged science-based, transparent agri-food trade rules and warned an EU proposal on pesticide residue limits could become a de facto barrier to imports. Energy & Investment: ACCIONA Energía completed the sale of a 361MW wind portfolio in Spain to Galp, and says it has now sold over 3GW of renewables since 2024 across multiple countries including Costa Rica. Business & Tourism: WorldHotels expanded into Costa Rica with Clarita’s Beach Bar & Resort in Jaco as it grows its pipeline beyond 40 properties.

Digital Health & Standards: Costa Rica joined SNOMED International and adopted SNOMED CT to boost interoperability and improve clinical decision-making as part of its national digital health push. Trade & Agriculture: Americas officials in San José warned that an EU proposal on crop-protection maximum residue limits could become a de facto barrier to imports, urging transparent, science-based rules. Foreign Investment: Procomer data shows Costa Rica ranked 8th globally for greenfield FDI projects per million inhabitants in 2026, outperforming its economic size. Energy & Renewables: ACCIONA Energía sold a 361MW wind portfolio in Spain to Galp for €432m equity value, continuing its asset-rotation strategy that includes Costa Rica deals. Public Policy & Social Protection: A UNA study says 557,000 minors live in basic or extreme poverty and that the National Care Network covers only about 12% of those who need it. Security & Justice: Costa Rican authorities say they have neutralized the 12 top drug lords over three years, linking progress to updated investigative tactics. Business & Compliance: The U.S. rolled out new Section 301 forced-labor tariffs affecting 60 trading partners, raising cost and compliance pressure across supply chains. Connectivity: Costa Rica is among countries joining a new global 6G alliance aimed at coordinating next-gen wireless development and limiting China’s influence. Health Alerts: A chikungunya outbreak in Guanacaste prompted a CDC Level 2 warning for Costa Rica.

Agri-Trade Rules: Ministers at IICA in San José urged clear, transparent, science-based rules for agri-food trade, warning that EU proposals on maximum residue limits could become a de facto import barrier. Digital Health Upgrade: Costa Rica joined SNOMED International and adopted SNOMED CT to improve clinical data interoperability and diagnostic consistency under its 2023–2030 digital health strategy. FDI Momentum: Procomer says Costa Rica ranked 8th globally for “greenfield” FDI projects per million inhabitants in 2026, outperforming its economic size and leading the OECD group in the index. Renewables Deal: ACCIONA Energía sold a 361MW wind portfolio in Spain to Galp for €432m equity, targeting capital optimization and generating an estimated €255m gain. Public Health Tech: Costa Rica’s move to standardize health terminology lands as the country continues expanding its digital health governance. Security & Justice: Authorities say they’ve neutralized the 12 highest-profile drug lords in three years, linking the crackdown to a shift in tactics after a spike in drug-related homicides. Business Spotlight: Guanacaste rum producer Nicoya earned top “Best Buy” honors from Wine Enthusiast for its Añejo (95 points) and Blanco (93). Social Pressure Point: UNA reports 557,000 minors in Costa Rica live in basic or extreme poverty, while National Care Network coverage reaches only about 12% of those who need it.

FDI Spotlight: Costa Rica landed 8th globally for “greenfield” FDI projects per million inhabitants in the 2026 Greenfield FDI Performance Index, outperforming its economic size by about 6.5x, according to Procomer. Energy & Infrastructure: ICE has started grid-connection tests for the 20MW Los Tecales solar plant in Guanacaste, part of a broader push to add solar capacity and diversify generation as hydrology becomes more volatile. Agri-Exports: Costa Rica’s mango sector is doubling down on quality and timing—exporting mainly Feb–Apr to catch better prices in the U.S. and Europe—while focusing on high-value varieties like Tommy Atkins and Keitt. Business & Trade Risk: New U.S. Section 301 forced-labor tariffs (10%–12.5%) on 60 economies took effect July 24, replacing the expiring universal 10% surcharge; companies are urged to review supply chains and exemptions. Social Policy: A National University study says 557,000 minors live in basic or extreme poverty and that the National Care Network covers only about 12% of those who need it. Brand & Tourism: Guanacaste rum producer Nicoya earned Wine Enthusiast “Best Buy” honors (95 for Añejo, 93 for Blanco), reinforcing Costa Rica’s premium spirits push.

Renewables & Power Grid: ICE has started connecting the 20MW Los Tecales solar plant to Costa Rica’s national electricity system, with technical tests now underway before commercial operations. Agribusiness & Exports: Costa Rica’s mango sector is pushing a quality-based strategy, targeting higher-value varieties and using its February–April export window to secure better prices in the U.S. and Europe. Health & Tech Expansion: Wandercraft says Ecuador’s ARCSA cleared its Atalante X rehabilitation exoskeleton—an expansion step for Latin America that could matter for the region’s medical device market. Social Policy: President Laura Fernández formalized “Costa Rica Centenaria,” putting Nicoya Blue Zone centenarians on the government payroll with home medical visits and support for health, housing, nutrition, and recreation. Security: Costa Rica arrested “El Diablo” Alejandro Arias after a major Sarapiquí shootout, removing a long-running drug trafficking figure from the streets. Weather Risk: COE warns El Niño could trigger major losses for commercial agriculture, with banana, rice, and cocoa flagged as vulnerable.

Blue Zone Policy Push: Costa Rica formalized “Costa Rica Centenaria,” putting Nicoya Peninsula centenarians on the government payroll with home medical visits via the CCSS plus tailored health, nutrition, housing and recreation support. Tourism With a Local Twist: La Fortuna’s community-owned Adifort model is spotlighted after Catarata Río La Fortuna earned Tripadvisor’s top “1%” ranking, with visitor fees funding local pools, infrastructure and programs. Public Health Alert: CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice for Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta after confirmed local chikungunya transmission, meaning mosquitoes in the area can spread the virus. Security & Organized Crime: “El Diablo” Alejandro Arias was arrested after a major Sarapiquí shootout, a blow to a cartel linked to mass violence and large-scale drug trafficking. Trade & Tariffs Watch: U.S. forced-labor Section 301 tariffs hit 60 economies, including Costa Rica, with rates of 10% or 12.5% depending on country status. Tech & Real Estate: JanusHermes expands its multilingual property search across 50+ countries, adding Costa Rica listings with local cost benchmarks. UN Leadership Race: Rebeca Grynspan is among the candidates in the UN secretary-general contest as the Security Council begins its straw-polling process.

Organized Crime Crackdown: Costa Rica’s most wanted fugitive, Alejandro “El Diablo” Arias, was arrested after a violent Sarapiquí shootout that left eight officers injured, with authorities saying he was linked to hundreds of homicides and major drug trafficking. Tourism & Local Economy: La Fortuna’s Catarata Río La Fortuna keeps drawing global attention after being named among Tripadvisor’s top 1% attractions, with a community-owned model (Adifort) that reinvests visitor fees into local pools, infrastructure, security and programs. Public Health: The CDC issued a Level 2 travel health notice for Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta amid confirmed chikungunya transmission, urging enhanced mosquito-bite precautions. Trade & Business Costs: The U.S. imposed new forced-labor Section 301 tariffs on 60 economies, including Costa Rica, with rates of 10% or 12.5% depending on country and product—raising compliance and pricing pressure for exporters and importers. UN Leadership Watch: Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan is among the UN secretary-general candidates facing a high-stakes reform debate as the Security Council begins its secretive straw-polling process.

Forced-Labor Tariffs Hit Costa Rica: The U.S. USTR finalized Section 301 “forced labor” duties on 60 economies, effective July 24, with Costa Rica listed among the 12.5% group (subject to product rules and exclusions), adding fresh cost pressure for importers and supply chains. Health Alert for Travelers: CDC issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta after chikungunya local transmission was confirmed, meaning visitors face mosquito-borne risk beyond imported cases. Wildlife Enforcement: SINAC, OIJ and prosecutors rescued an endangered squirrel monkey (titi) from illegal trade in Agua Buena, with veterinary care and possible reintroduction planned. Security Spotlight: Costa Rica’s “El Diablo” (Alejandro Arias Monge) was captured after a decade-long manhunt, underscoring ongoing pressure on organized crime. Tourism Demand Signal: Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica a top Gen Z destination, highlighting Manuel Antonio, Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo and Peninsula Papagayo.

Forced-Labor Tariffs Hit Costa Rica: The U.S. imposed new Section 301 duties on imports from 60 economies over forced-labor concerns, with Costa Rica listed among the 12.5% tier (effective July 24 after the Section 122 surcharge expired). Public Health Watch: CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice for Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta after chikungunya local transmission was confirmed, urging enhanced mosquito precautions. Wildlife Enforcement: Costa Rica authorities rescued an endangered squirrel monkey (titi) from illegal trade after a citizen complaint, with the animal headed to a licensed care center. Tourism Spotlight: Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica a top pick for Gen Z travelers, highlighting Manuel Antonio, Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo and Peninsula Papagayo. UN Leadership: Costa Rican diplomat Rebeca Grynspan joined the UN secretary-general town hall, where candidates pushed for Security Council reform and better financing.

Forced-Labor Tariffs Hit Costa Rica: The U.S. USTR finalized Section 301 “forced labor” duties covering 60 economies, with Costa Rica listed among the 12.5% tier; the levies start July 24 after the Section 122 surcharge expired, raising new cost pressure for importers. Chikungunya Warning for Guanacaste: CDC issued a Level 2 travel notice for Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta after local mosquito transmission was confirmed, prompting enhanced precautions for visitors. UN Secretary-General Race (Costa Rica in the Mix): Six candidates, including Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan, faced a UN town hall on Security Council deadlock and restoring trust as the selection process tightens. UN Leadership Momentum in Global South: Separate coverage highlights growing support for UN court action on climate obligations, with Vanuatu’s push gaining backing from dozens of countries. Agriculture Border Rules Return (Screwworm): USDA outlined a phased reopening of southern U.S. livestock ports tied to Mexico’s New World screwworm control plan, with Costa Rica and Panama cited as part of the outbreak’s spread. Costa Rica Press Freedom Concern: A report says Costa Rica’s press freedom ranking has fallen sharply since 2021, raising questions about what changed in the country’s media environment.

US Tariff Shock for Costa Rica: The Trump administration’s new Section 301 tariffs took effect Friday, with Costa Rica hit at 12.5% on imports as Washington claims countries failed to ban and enforce forced-labor import rules. The wider package covers 60 economies (about 99% of US imports), with rates set at 10% for partners deemed compliant and 12.5% for others, replacing expiring stopgap levies. UN Leadership Watch (Costa Rica in the race): In New York, the six candidates for UN secretary-general—including Costa Rican Rebeca Grynspan—held a public town hall focused on restoring the UN’s credibility amid financial strain and geopolitical gridlock. Press Freedom in Costa Rica: A new analysis says Costa Rica has slid from No. 5 (2021) to No. 38 (2026) in RSF’s press freedom ranking, pointing to democratic backsliding, polarization, and disinformation. Trade & Food Chain Ripple: Separate reporting flags how forced-labor tariff rules could complicate sourcing for textiles and apparel shipping into the US. Local Tourism/Heritage: A feature spotlights San Lucas Island’s former prison history and its transformation into a national park.

UN Leadership Race: Six candidates for UN secretary-general, including Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan, faced a high-stakes town hall and televised debate as the UN battles a trust and budget crisis. US Tariffs Hit Costa Rica: The U.S. confirmed new 10%–12.5% tariffs on 60 countries over forced-labour claims; Costa Rica is listed at a 12.5% rate, effective Friday as temporary levies expire. Local Accountability Watch: Costa Rica’s Contraloría says the Junta de Protección Social failed to properly track beneficiaries, including thousands of deceased people still counted in 2024–2025 records, raising concerns about how lottery funds reach social programs. Fintech Funding: Ábaco Technologies (El Salvador) raised US$53m, positioning itself as Central America’s biggest fintech capital raise, with a focus on fast SME receivables financing. Business Crime Case: A California man was sentenced to federal prison for running an illegal Costa Rica-based gambling and money-laundering operation tied to U.S. bettors. Tourism & Travel: Costa Rica’s air and hospitality momentum continues, including new airport hotel developments and broader regional travel growth signals.

UN Leadership Race: Six candidates, including Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan, will face a televised UN secretary-general debate Thursday as the organization grapples with financial strain and renewed scrutiny. Costa Rica Accountability: Costa Rica’s Contraloría says the Junta de Protección Social failed to properly track beneficiaries tied to lottery-funded social programs, including thousands of deaths still showing in records, and flagged ₡21,045 million moved without required accountability reporting. Sports Business Branding: Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando is rebranding to Inter.co Stadium, signaling how major sports venues are tying physical fan experiences to digital customer platforms. Gambling Crackdown: A California man was sentenced to federal prison for running an illegal gambling and money-laundering operation using Costa Rica as a base. FDI Spotlight: Costa Rica ranks among the top performers for greenfield FDI relative to economy size, scoring 6.5 in a global index that puts the UAE at #1. Travel Infrastructure: San José’s Juan Santamaría airport is getting a new Marriott Moxy hotel with a pedestrian bridge for walk-in access to the terminal, targeting mid-2027 operations.

Airport & Tourism: Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría airport in San José is getting its first on-foot hotel link: construction is underway on the $20M Moxy (173 rooms) with a pedestrian bridge to the terminal, expected to open mid-2027, plus check-in kiosks and baggage-tag printing inside the hotel. Air Connectivity: Southwest is launching a new Saturday nonstop Austin–San José route starting March 13, signaling growing U.S. demand for Costa Rica travel. Guanacaste Growth: WestJet will add a direct Ottawa–Guanacaste (Liberia) flight from Dec. 20, 2026, running Sundays through April 4, 2027, boosting Canada’s role as the destination’s key source market. Cybersecurity & Governance: Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly shut down key information systems after an attempted cyberattack, moving the day’s agenda to the official gazette to keep lawmakers’ work moving. Local Business Spotlight: Peptides Costa Rica is positioning itself as a Costa Rica-only supplier focused on reliability and local logistics after founders struggled with delays and customs issues buying research-grade peptides abroad. Labor Watch: A guide explains how Costa Rica’s July 25 and Aug. 2 holidays are paid differently under the Labor Code, depending on salary type and whether employees work.

Aviation & Tourism: Southwest Airlines will launch a new Saturday nonstop route from Austin to San José, Costa Rica, starting March 13, positioning Texas as a growing Caribbean gateway and giving travelers their first nonstop link to Costa Rica’s main international hub. Film & Creative Economy: Costa Rica’s Dos de Patos joined Páramo Films as co-producer for Luis Diego Pérez’s queer coming-of-age “The Beast Is Not to Blame,” after it won a residency prize at the Desde El Centro showcase during the Costa Rica Media Market—another sign of the country’s expanding screen-production ecosystem. Digital Skills for SMEs: MICITT is rolling out a 200-hour 5G digital growth program for Costa Rican MSMEs, aiming to boost local capability in the fast-moving connectivity economy. Energy & Investment: Guanacaste Airport is expanding its Canadian network with a new direct Ottawa route, supporting tourism demand and regional air connectivity. Business & Policy: Costa Rica businesses are questioning new SINPE Móvil tax monitoring rules, raising concerns about compliance and operational impact as the payments system tightens oversight. Co-ops & Social Economy: Costa Rica participated in global #CoopsDay2026 activities, reinforcing the role of cooperatives in jobs, inclusion, and sustainable development.