Adriana Vargas Rosales
Senior Employment Attorney and HR Specialist Kreston Costa Rica
Advisory services see demand rise in Costa Rica
February 20, 2026
Advisory services have seen a rise in demand as Costa Rica positions itself as an attractive destination for foreign investors, citing political stability, a skilled workforce and a long-standing commitment to sustainability.
With a population of approximately 5.3 million and a long-standing democratic tradition, the country provides a reliable environment for medium- and long-term investment projects.
In recent years, Costa Rica has demonstrated solid macroeconomic performance. According to World Bank data, GDP reached approximately USD 86.5 billion in 2023, with GDP per capita close to USD 16,942. Average GDP growth over the past five years has been around 3%, with projections of 4% for 2025. Inflation remained controlled at approximately 0.8% in 2024, reflecting price stability and macroeconomic discipline.
This dynamism is reinforced by an extensive network of bilateral and multilateral trade and investment agreements with key economies in the Americas, Europe, and Asia, as well as active participation in international organisations such as the World Trade Organisation, the European Union, and the OECD. These frameworks facilitate preferential market access and strengthen legal certainty for investors.
Costa Rica’s territorial tax system and its Free Trade Zone Regime continue to play a central role in attracting multinational investment. The regime offers significant fiscal incentives to qualifying companies in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, services and technology, contributing to the country’s growing base of high-value export industries.
Despite these advantages, establishing or expanding operations requires careful navigation of regulatory, tax and labour frameworks. Compliance obligations, eligibility requirements under special regimes and ongoing reporting standards can present operational challenges for new market entrants.
According to Kreston Costa Rica, demand for specialised advisory support remains strong as foreign investors seek to structure operations efficiently and sustainably under local legislation. Firms report particular interest in guidance related to Free Trade Zone qualification, tax structuring and long-term regulatory compliance.
Kreston Costa Rica provides advisory services in financial, tax, labour and commercial matters, supporting both domestic and foreign investors in structuring and expanding operations under local regulations.
