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Though area planted with genetically engineered crops continued to fall in 2022, expanded operations of another cottonseed producer, opportunities to increase pink pineapple exports, and a new government opposed to ‘red tape’ could reverse this trend in 2023. While neither livestock nor other animal producers in Costa Rica appear interested in animal biotechnology applications at this time, a regulatory structure exists.

FAS/San José expects Costa Rican sugar cane production in marketing year 2021/22 to fall by 2 percent – remaining just below 4 million metric tons – driving sugar production down 2 percent to 416,000 metric tons on lower projected yields.

After more than three years of legislative effort, Costa Rica has legalized hemp production and commercialization as well as cannabis for medicinal and therapeutic purposes. The Government’s commitment to publish implementing regulations – including those related to import and export of value-added products – by May 8, appears unlikely to be reached.

U.S. dairy and seafood export volumes to Costa Rica hit new record highs in 2021, but access to this growing Central American market requires U.S. production facility as well as product registrations. The following guide provides insight into the registration process and tips to avoid lengthy delays.