Azofras celebrated the report marking the 35th anniversary of Free Trade Zones in Costa Rica
El Observador – A study presented by the Ministry of Foreign Trade (Comex), together with Procomer, indicated that Free Trade Zones generated more than 265,000 jobs in the country last year, both direct and indirect.
The report “Free Trade Zone: 35 Years Building Value for Costa Rica” generated satisfaction among the Free Trade Zone Association (Azofras).
The data reflects that the regime has experienced sustained annual growth of 11%, hosting 626 companies by 2024 in sectors such as services, industrial, and agro-industrial.
“Free trade zones have enhanced opportunities for the Costa Rican population. For example, female employment in Free Trade Zones is 45%, of which 37% was generated outside the Greater Metropolitan Area,” said Ronald Lachner, president of Azofras.
“The report shows that women not only participate, but also lead, occupying managerial positions that have allowed them to position themselves prominently in strategic sectors such as manufacturing, medical devices, and services,” he added.
Another piece of data revealed by the Free Trade Zones is that during the study period, 101 companies were identified operating outside the Greater Metropolitan Area, already tripling the number from 15 years ago, in 2010.
“We are pleased to learn of the results presented by Comex and Procomer, as it confirms the valuable contribution of free trade zones to the country, amid the challenging international context we face,” Lachner added.
They Support 4-3 Working Days
In 2024, the Free Trade Zone regime, according to Azofras, showed that purchases from local companies exceeded $6 billion, representing 57% of total purchases from free trade zones.
“This brings local suppliers increasingly closer to the sector and generates more resilient value chains.”
Also last year, for every dollar exonerated, the regime generated a return of $2.9. Free trade zones, Azofras says, represent 15% of GDP, and the wages they pay are double those of other industries.
Therefore, they affirm that to continue the growth and impact it is having on the Costa Rican economy, the exceptional working day bill, which is being discussed in the Legislative Assembly, must be approved.
They also consider other factors that must change: the exchange rate, electricity costs, high social security contributions, logistics and digital infrastructure, as well as the development of human talent.
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