... High Technology Enterprises ...
by Infocostarica Staff

Costa Rica is blessed with a background of social, economic and political stability. It has the second best social indicators in all of Latin America: 76 years life expectancy for males; 95% literacy rate and a 1.3% infant mortality rate. This country’s economy is characterized by a controlled inflation and low unemployment rates.

The trade liberalization process began in 1985, when customs tariffs decreased to 11% and a 0% on raw materials and 1% on capital goods. Other tariff barriers were completely eliminated as well. Because of these tariff concessions and other favorable elements, direct foreign investment (DFI) has increased during these years. From 1990 to 1997, the DFI increased 200%. If this index is considered from the point of view of per capita, Costa Rica is in second place in all of Latin America.

Even though the investment situation in Costa Rica is favorable, recent governments have always made it their priority to expand business opportunities in the country. Legally speaking, the Concessions Law that was recently passed, ensures legal security as well as administrative efficiency. The Juan Santamaria International Airport is also undergoing a significan renovation and modernization that will meet the air cargo needs of investors. Telecommunications, which are essential for conducting today’s business, are also under close scrutiny, in order to offer an acceptable service to investors.

Another reason why high-tech companies have chosen Costa Rica as a site for their company, is because of the Free Zone Laws that offer tax holidays (12-18 years!!!) and incentives of reinvestment, by extending the tax-free period from 16 to 20 years. These companies have also chosen Costa Rica, because most of its labor force is highly educated, has some knowledge of English and is easily trainable.

Some of the companies that have come to Costa Rica to take advantage of these benefits are: INTEL, ACER AMERICA, DCS Communications (ALCATEL), BAXTER Healthcare, Panasonic, LUCENT Technologies, Conair, Siemens, Hitachi, and many, many more. If you or your company are considering investing in Costa Rica, you may inquire at the following addresses:

High-tech business is taking over traditional industries, such as the agricultural one, even in countries like Costa Rica. Unlike some of its neighbors, Costa Rica has a developed country’s benefits, including a highly educated labor force, important economic concessions and agreements, and the needed infrastructure to serve national and international investors.