Local representation

By law, foreign companies require a local representative to promote/sell their products in Costa Rica. In practice, this requirement is not always applied for sales to the private sector, but is stringently enforced in dealings with the public sector (e.g. public tenders). In theory, the law protects the rights of both the foreign company and the local agent, but in practice, tends to favour the latter. For this reason, caution is advised when naming an agent, preferably consulting a local lawyer. The local UKTI trade team can also provide assistance to new exporters to the market, including finding a suitable agent.

Labelling and packaging regulations

Food products must be labelled in Spanish, showing weight, contents, health registration and details of the importer.

Import controls

Import licensing

Import licences are required for the following:
• beverages with a high alcohol content
• small arms
• narcotics
• pesticides
• some fertilisers

Import controls

A pre-shipment inspection is not mandatory for Costa Rica but can be provided by an inspection agency, such as SGS United Kingdom Ltd.

For more information about the laws and import regulations in Costa Rica, including anti-dumping and countervailing, customs duties, export controls and other topics, visit the Costa Rica Country page in the UK Trade and Investment website.