Free trade zone companies lead in quality jobs, and therefore demand strong technical preparation and soft skills
Working for a free trade zone company in Costa Rica has become a goal for thousands of people—and for good reason: the regime offers the highest salaries in the country, competitive working conditions, growth opportunities, and international exposure. According to data from CINDE and PROCOMER, salaries in free trade zones are, on average, 1.8 times higher than the private sector average. A study by PROCOMER indicates that for every dollar exempted under this regime, the country receives US$2.8 in benefits, demonstrating its positive impact on the economy. In addition, free trade zones are a significant generator of jobs and local purchases, with more than 250,000 people employed and US$1.6 billion in local procurement.
Costa Rica’s Free Trade Zone Regime has proven to be an engine for competitiveness and economic growth, generating benefits for both companies and the country at large. The regime not only attracts foreign investment and fosters job creation, but also drives the development of human talent and the inclusion of women in the workforce.
Furthermore, the free trade zone regime in Costa Rica contributes significantly to the country’s current account as a net exporting sector. Local purchases by these companies have grown 24% annually, strengthening the local economy.
In summary, free trade zones in Costa Rica are a key sector that generates higher salaries, attracts investment, creates jobs, boosts local purchasing, and contributes to the country’s economic and social development.
What are Free Trade Zones?
Free trade zones are a special regime that offers tax incentives to companies that export goods or services from Costa Rica. This model has been crucial to the country’s economic development, particularly in areas such as medical technology, business services, advanced manufacturing, and electronic devices, among others.
Free Trade Zones: Higher Salaries and More Opportunities
According to the study “Performance of Companies under the Free Trade Zone Regime,” published by PROCOMER in 2023, average monthly salaries in this regime reach ₡947,000, compared to a national private sector average of around ₡460,000. These companies also tend to offer additional benefits such as private health insurance, transportation, subsidized meals, and professional development programs.
What Are Free Trade Zone Companies Looking For?
The sustained growth of the free trade zone regime has generated high demand for specialized talent. To qualify for these jobs, companies primarily value:
- Technical or university education in areas such as engineering, business administration, information technology, finance, quality, biotechnology, or languages.
- Bilingualism—especially in English—is one of the main required competencies. Some positions require a B2 level or higher.
- Experience in manufacturing processes, shared services, or call centers, although many companies also train staff from entry levels.
- Soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.
- Availability for rotating shifts in some sectors, especially in manufacturing.
What Are the Challenges for the Free Trade Zone Regime?
Although free trade zones clearly offer economic and professional development opportunities, they also face challenges such as:
- The skills gap, particularly in languages and specific technical knowledge.
- The need to decentralize opportunities, as most companies are located in the Greater Metropolitan Area.
- The challenge of including more women and people outside the metropolitan area in the benefits of the regime.
Free trade zones continue to establish themselves as the most attractive sector for those seeking stability, high income, and professional growth in Costa Rica.
Accessing these opportunities requires continuous preparation, English proficiency, and a proactive attitude toward learning. With projected growth in the coming years, investing in training may be the key to opening the door to a promising professional career.
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