Costa Rica Trade and Investment Summit: Bridging Opportunities Between Costa Rica and the World
The Costa Rica Trade and Investment Summit (CRTIS), hosted by the Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica (PROCOMER), is quickly cementing its reputation as a cornerstone event for connecting Costa Rican exporters with the global marketplace and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). More than just a networking platform, CRTIS offers an immersive experience into the heart of Costa Rican hospitality, from engaging trade sessions to hands-on visits in lush coffee farms.
This year’s summit featured a notable delegation from the Middle East, including representatives from the General Authority of Foreign Trade of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Federation of Chambers, key businessmen from the Kingdom, and investors from the United Arab Emirates. This strategic engagement highlights Costa Rica’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral trade relationships beyond its traditional partners.
Karina Molina Arce, Costa Rica’s Trade Representative for PROCOMER in Dubai, expressed the significance of this year’s gathering: “The Costa Rica Trade and Investment Summit (CRTIS) offers a unique opportunity to connect Costa Rican exporters with international markets, attract foreign direct investment, and immerse in the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality beyond the virtual calls straight into the coffee farms.”
Throughout the event, exporters and investors had the chance to explore business opportunities in sectors such as specialty coffee, tropical fruits, technology, and manufacturing. CRTIS is not just about commercial transactions; it cultivates robust professional relationships and showcases Costa Rica’s tradition of excellence and innovation.
The summit also served as an invaluable occasion for industry leaders and government officials to reconnect and strategize, empowering the Costa Rican export community to expand its influence. As emphasized by Molina Arce: “Beyond strengthening ties with the Middle East, personally, CRTIS allowed me to reunite with my exceptional colleagues and friends who make all of it possible.” She acknowledged the collaborative spirit and teamwork demonstrated by professionals such as Johnny Vasquez Monge, Johnny Paz, and Daniela Escobar Catalán.
Reflecting Costa Rica’s emergence as a regional hub for international trade and investment, the summit hosted over 1,000 exporting companies and 400 investors from more than 40 countries—an impressive testament to the country’s appeal on the global stage.
Adding to the growing momentum, the summit comes at a pivotal time, following the formalization of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Costa Rica and the UAE. The agreement opens strategic markets, enhances opportunities for export diversification, and strengthens cooperation in renewable energies, technology, and agroindustry.
As Costa Rica’s business community looks ahead, the CRTIS is positioned as a must-attend annual event for anyone interested in tapping into one of Latin America’s most dynamic trade environments. Participants are encouraged to “save the date for next year as you wouldn’t want to miss this experience again!”
Team V.4-LKDN-UAE
