Long-Term Business Outlook Drives Continued Interest

Companies from the Netherlands continue to view Mexico as a strategic destination for international expansion. Despite ongoing global economic shifts and the uncertainty triggered by U.S. tariff policies, Dutch investment in Mexico is gaining momentum. According to Steven Büter, representative of the Netherlands Business Support Office (NBSO) at the Dutch Embassy in Mexico, Dutch companies are drawn to the country not for short-term gains but for long-term operational plans that span decades.

“There is a solid long-term vision behind these investments,” Büter explained. “Even in the face of short-term challenges, Dutch businesses are planning for the next 30 to 40 years, not just for the next U.S. administration or policy cycle.”

Ten Projects Underway Across Strategic Regions

The NBSO currently tracks at least ten Dutch investment projects in various stages of development. These initiatives are being launched in strategically important Mexican states, including Querétaro, Jalisco, and Nuevo León. These regions have become magnets for foreign investment thanks to their robust industrial ecosystems, well-developed infrastructure, and skilled labor pools.

Specifically in Querétaro, two manufacturing-related investments are underway. One company from the Netherlands is entering the automotive sector, while another will produce television stands. “We’re working on about 10 projects for Mexico and about two or three for Querétaro, which are almost finalized—they are going to happen,” said Büter, highlighting the growing confidence in the local business climate.

Job Creation and Capital Inflows

These new investments will have a significant economic impact at the local level. Bueter estimates that the two projects in Querétaro alone will result in an influx of €30 to €40 million and create between 300 and 400 jobs. One of these ventures is already in the installation phase, while the other is set to commence operations within the month.

Dutch investment in Mexico brings capital, technology, innovation, and best practices in sustainable and efficient manufacturing. These advantages enhance Mexico’s position as a preferred destination for nearshoring and foreign direct investment.

Expanding Beyond Manufacturing: Interest in Agriculture

While the manufacturing sector remains a dominant attraction for Dutch investors, there is also rising interest in the agricultural industry, particularly in protected agriculture, such as greenhouse farming and high-tech cultivation systems. Bueter pointed out that Dutch companies involved in greenhouse technology have found a receptive and mature market in Mexico.

“When 50 Dutch companies are coming here, it shows strong interest in Mexico’s agricultural sector,” he said. “For example, if you go to the area in the Netherlands where greenhouses are located, they’re all already here in Mexico, they already have business in Mexico—so it’s a very mature market, and the production market can mature even more. That’s why Dutch companies keep coming.”

This segment of Dutch investment in Mexico is helping to introduce advanced agricultural technologies that improve productivity and reduce environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Navigating U.S. Tariff Uncertainty with Long-Term Strategies

The threat of U.S. tariffs, such as the proposed 25% duties on goods from Mexico, has introduced uncertainty into global supply chains. However, Bueter emphasized that these developments do not deter Dutch companies because their investment decisions are made with a long-term perspective.

“It’s challenging to gather all the information about what’s happening,” Bueter said. “We’re trying to bring all the companies together and have conversations to figure out what’s happening. Even so, companies that invest in Mexico don’t do so for just four years—they do so for 30 to 40 years. So, they’re looking at the long-term horizon of the investment, which means the projects continue.”

While higher tariffs could temporarily increase production costs, the structural advantages of producing in Mexico, such as lower operating expenses, trade agreements, and access to regional markets, still outweigh the risks.

Talent Availability: A Critical Asset for Investors

One of the most cited advantages driving Dutch investment in Mexico is the availability of skilled human talent. Mexico offers a young, trained, and competitively priced workforce compared to the United States, where labor shortages in specific sectors have created bottlenecks.

“Obviously, 25% tariffs are significant, but sometimes it’s still easier to produce in Mexico,” Bueter noted. “Especially due to the availability of human talent, which the United States lacks. Even if you can get it cheaply, how can you produce it if it is unavailable?”

This abundance of capable labor makes Mexico an increasingly attractive base for Dutch companies looking to optimize cost and efficiency in their global operations.

Nearshoring Trend Continues to Gain Momentum

The global trend of nearshoring—relocating supply chains closer to consumer markets—continues to benefit Mexico. Dutch firms are taking advantage of Mexico’s proximity to the United States, its network of trade agreements, and its expanding logistics infrastructure.

A recent example is the February 2024 opening of Trouw Nutrition’s facility in Colón, Querétaro. The Dutch company invested 1 billion pesos to produce animal feed in the region. This move illustrates how Dutch investment in Mexico supports the region’s industrial development and food security.

Nuevo León: The Leading Destination for Dutch Capital

Nuevo León is the primary recipient of Dutch investment in Mexico, attracting over USD 5.13 billion between 2006 and 2024. This figure represents 32.2% of Dutch capital inflow into the country. The state’s strong industrial base, skilled workforce, and developed infrastructure make it a preferred destination for international investors.

Following Nuevo León, Quintana Roo ranks second with 11.3% of Dutch investment, followed by Veracruz (9%), the State of Mexico (8.7%), and Mexico City (8.3%). These statistics, provided by Mexico’s Ministry of Economy, underscore the geographical diversity and scale of Dutch investment in Mexico, totaling approximately USD 15.95 billion over the 18-year years.

Ecuador has taken a significant step in its economic development strategy by creating two new free trade zones. These zones, located in Posorja and Pascuales within the coastal province of Guayas, represent a significant policy shift that aims to attract investment, boost employment, and strengthen Ecuador’s role in regional and global trade networks. These developments are part of a broader legislative and regulatory modernization effort intended to make the country more competitive and responsive to the demands of international commerce.

The first of the two free trade zones is managed by ZOFRAPORT S.A., which successfully transitioned from the previous ZEDE (Special Economic Development Zones) regime. The second zone is managed by PASEO TABLADO ZONA FRANCA PTZF S.A., a new player in the field that is taking advantage of the updated framework. These two investments account for a combined private capital injection of USD 10,532,002.71, representing investor confidence in the country’s revised trade and investment policy.

Strategic Importance of Location and Scale

The Posorja and Pascuales free trade zones span over 117 hectares of industrially strategic land in Guayas. The location is critical, especially considering Posorja’s proximity to the DP World Port, which enhances its logistical advantage for exports and imports. These zones are poised to become industrial and commercial hubs with the potential to impact local and national economies.

According to official data, the development of these zones is expected to generate 414 direct jobs in their initial phases. These employment opportunities are significant in the context of Guayas, a province that, despite being the country’s economic engine, faces challenges in employment generation and poverty reduction in its peri-urban and rural zones. The creation of jobs tied to industrial and logistical infrastructure can be a catalyst for more inclusive and sustained growth.

This progress is rooted in the Organic Law on Economic Efficiency and Job Creation, passed in 2023. The law replaced the outdated ZEDE model with a more dynamic, business-friendly free trade zone regime. The new rules, officially published in February 2024 in Official Register No. 496, outline the conditions under which public and private sector actors can establish or transition into free trade zones. The simplified regulatory framework is designed to lower entry barriers for investors and encourage broader participation in economic zones.

Investment Commitments

According to data from the Ministry of Production, ZOFRAPORT committed USD 563,472.71 for its transition to the new framework. Meanwhile, the newly created Paseo Tablado free trade zone in Pascuales has pledged USD 9,968,530 in capital investment. These figures represent the beginning of physical development and a larger vision for positioning free trade zones in Ecuador as magnets for innovation, manufacturing, and logistics.

These zones attract investors because of their special customs and tax regimes. In contrast to other jurisdictions in Latin America, free trade zones in Ecuador do not impose minimum investment thresholds or specific land extension requirements, which means that even medium-sized firms and startups can participate. This flexible approach enhances Ecuador’s competitiveness and makes the zones more accessible to a broader range of domestic and international investors.

Tax Benefits of Free Trade Zones

One of the most compelling advantages of the free trade zones in Ecuador lies in the generous tax incentives provided under the new law. Companies operating within these zones are granted a five-year exemption from income tax, a significant financial benefit during the critical early years of a business’s operation. Following the exemption period, a reduced 15% income tax rate applies for the remaining duration of their license within the zone.

Furthermore, tariffs on imported raw materials, supplies, and capital goods are eliminated. This measure drastically reduces upfront costs and encourages installing high-tech or capital-intensive operations. In addition to these benefits, companies are exempt from the Foreign Currency Exit Tax (ISD), a longstanding concern for multinational firms that must repatriate earnings or move funds across borders.

Other key incentives include VAT refunds on domestic purchases and eliminating income tax on dividends for shareholders. These financial tools collectively lower operational costs and enhance the profitability of businesses within the zones. These conditions are expected to attract new and existing international firms looking for stable, pro-business environments in the region.

Employment and Local Economic Development

The Posorja and Pascuales free trade zones are expected to play a vital role in Ecuador’s broader employment and economic inclusion strategies. The initial estimate of 414 direct job openings is only the beginning. As infrastructure develops and companies begin full operations, the number of indirect jobs created across supply chains, logistics, and supporting services is projected to grow significantly.

These zones also create meaningful opportunities for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to plug into global supply chains. A critical aspect of this is nearshoring, a practice where businesses relocate manufacturing or services closer to target markets. By doing so within free trade zones in Ecuador, MiSMEs can benefit from shared infrastructure, lower logistics costs, and a reduced regulatory burden. This opens up access to international markets that would otherwise be difficult for smaller enterprises to enter.

The zones promote employment and export diversification, especially in high-value sectors. With the proper support, Ecuadorian firms can move up the value chain, offering manufactured goods and specialized services to global buyers. Such diversification is key to shielding the country from fluctuations in commodity markets and ensuring more stable long-term growth.

Legal Framework and Institutional Support

The creation of these zones is grounded in Ecuador’s broader legislative efforts to modernize its economic development framework. The Organic Law on Economic Efficiency, published in Official Register No. 461, is central to this shift. It repeals the older ZEDE model and provides a flexible and transparent structure for establishing and operating free trade zones.

The law’s implementation guidelines, published in early 2024, simplify bureaucratic procedures, especially land designation and investment requirements. This facilitates quicker project implementation and increases investor confidence in the regulatory environment.

The new framework aligns with global best practices by removing outdated constraints and focusing on results-driven incentives. By doing so, Ecuador is signaling to international investors that it is open for business and capable of adapting to a fast-changing global economy.

Internationalization and Global Market Access

Ecuador’s new free trade zones serve a dual purpose: they attract foreign direct investment (FDI) while enabling Ecuadorian companies to access international markets more easily. These zones are vital for advancing the government’s internationalization agenda, which seeks to improve the country’s export profile and reduce dependency on raw commodities.

As mentioned earlier, nearshoring is a critical aspect of this strategy. With global firms looking to shift production closer to key markets like the U.S. and Latin America, free trade zones in Ecuador offer a viable and cost-effective alternative to Asia-based manufacturing. Ecuador’s strategic location on the Pacific coast and its free trade agreements with countries in the Americas make it a logical destination for such operations.

The zones enhance Ecuador’s competitive edge by lowering logistical costs and simplifying cross-border procedures. In doing so, they create a more dynamic and resilient economy capable of weathering external shocks and benefiting from global trade flows.

Conclusion: A Path Toward Sustainable Growth

In summary, Ecuador’s creation of the Posorja and Pascuales free trade zones is a bold and forward-looking move. These zones prove the country’s commitment to fostering a more efficient, diversified, and inclusive economy. Through innovative policy reforms, strategic location choices, and a supportive legal framework, free trade zones in Ecuador are poised to become powerful engines of national development.

As these zones attract new investment, generate employment, and promote the internationalization of local industries, their impact will extend well beyond the borders of Guayas. Ultimately, the evolution of free trade zones in Ecuador reflects a broader vision of sustainable, globally connected growth—one that balances economic efficiency with social inclusion and long-term prosperity.

In relative terms—measured by the number of factories and per capita production—the Dominican Republic’s cosmetics industry stands out as the largest in Latin America and the Caribbean. This dynamic sector plays a significant role in the country’s economic activity, not only due to its direct contributions through sales and exports but also because of its ability to generate jobs and linkages across various industries such as packaging, logistics, retail, and advertising.

According to data from the Dominican Association of the Cosmetics, Personal and Home Care Industry (Afaper), the country is home to 347 formally registered cosmetics companies. This thriving sector comprises various businesses ranging from microenterprises to large-scale manufacturers. Of these, a remarkable 81.27% are microenterprises, showing the importance of small-scale entrepreneurship in fueling the growth of this industry. Additionally, 2.68% are categorized as small businesses, 2.31% are medium-sized, and 3.75% are large enterprises, underscoring a diverse ecosystem that includes local innovators and established market players.

A Resilient Sector with Growing Global Reach

Despite logistical difficulties, climate-related challenges, and global supply chain disruptions—especially concerning raw materials—the Dominican Republic cosmetics industry has shown strong resilience and continued to thrive in domestic and international markets. During their recent participation at the HOY Economic Forum, Afaper leaders, including former presidents Pedro Alorda and José Antonio Lomba, board secretary Zaira Mártir, and executive director Yndhira Hernández, underscored the industry’s ability to meet growing demand despite these external pressures.

This resilience is reflected in the sector’s export performance. In 2024, exports reached approximately US$144.64 million, representing a solid 12.64% growth compared to 2023. These figures demonstrate an upward trajectory, reinforcing the industry’s capacity to scale and compete in global markets.

The Dominican Republic ranks seventh in the region in terms of beauty product exports, holding a 2.1% share. While not the highest in absolute export volume, this ranking is particularly impressive considering the country’s size and population, further affirming its leadership in per capita production.

Key International Markets and Export Dynamics

The Dominican Republic’s cosmetics industry has an impressive international footprint. In 2024, 95.64% of exports were directed to just a handful of key markets. These include the United States, Colombia, Curaçao, the Netherlands, Japan, Panama, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and Caribbean territories such as Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba.

The United States remains the top destination, consistently accounting for nearly 49% of total exports over the past five years. This sustained demand from the U.S. underscores the industry’s ability to produce high-quality, competitively priced products that resonate with international consumers.

Moreover, Dominican cosmetic products are now present in over 70 countries, reflecting the industry’s increasing global appeal and capacity to meet diverse markets’ regulatory standards and consumer preferences.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The Dominican Republic cosmetics industry’s positive economic impact extends beyond export revenue. In 2024, the sector directly employed 7,053 individuals, reflecting a 0.99% increase over the previous year. Women play a significant role in this workforce, holding around 48% of direct jobs, highlighting the industry’s contribution to female employment and empowerment.

In addition to direct employment, the industry generates approximately 185,000 indirect jobs across related areas, such as beauty salons, independent product sales, and brand promotion. These indirect roles help sustain a broad network of small business owners and service providers, many of whom operate in underserved or rural communities.

Moreover, the average monthly salary within the sector increased to RD$39,508.20, a 7.46% rise compared to 2023. This salary growth reflects the sector’s economic stability and commitment to improving its workforce’s livelihood.

Sales Growth and Market Expansion

According to Euromonitor data, the Dominican Republic cosmetics industry closed in 2024 with total sales of US$1.569 billion, equivalent to approximately RD$93.355 billion. This figure marks a 2.28% increase compared to 2023’s total of US$1.528 billion. Despite global economic headwinds, the industry continues to expand, driven by both local consumption and international demand.

This consistent growth is attributed to a combination of factors: the adaptability of local companies, increasing consumer awareness, improved branding and packaging, and the rise of natural and organic product lines that appeal to global markets.

The Role of Packaging and Graphic Design in Product Success

One key factor in the success of the Dominican Republic’s cosmetics industry is the synergy it has developed with other local industries—particularly packaging and graphic design. Afaper executives noted that advancements in these complementary sectors have significantly enhanced the quality and presentation of locally manufactured cosmetics.

Dominican plastics manufacturers have improved the functionality and sustainability of packaging materials, while the country’s graphic design sector has evolved to produce modern, appealing, and competitive labels and branding. This has allowed domestic producers to increase consumer acceptance and better compete on international shelves, where aesthetics and first impressions are often decisive factors in purchasing behavior.

Supporting Microenterprises and Innovation

Since microenterprises comprise more than 80% of the industry, fostering innovation and providing technical support for small business owners remains crucial. Many of these microenterprises operate at a community level, often producing artisanal and specialty products using natural ingredients sourced from the Dominican Republic’s diverse ecosystems.

Efforts to formalize and support these enterprises—through access to credit, training, and quality control mechanisms—are essential to ensuring that the industry continues to grow inclusively. Moreover, several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are beginning to invest in research and development, aiming to differentiate their offerings through product innovation, sustainable practices, and tailored marketing strategies.

Future Outlook and Continued Growth

Looking ahead, the Dominican Republic cosmetics industry is well-positioned for continued expansion. The combination of a skilled workforce, favorable trade relationships, improving infrastructure, and growing demand for health and beauty products—both locally and abroad—points to a positive future.

Industry leaders believe targeted investments in technology, e-commerce, and logistics will help overcome current raw materials and transportation challenges. Expanding trade agreements and partnerships, particularly with neighboring Caribbean and Central American countries, will likely open new growth opportunities.

As the country continues to strengthen its manufacturing base and diversify its export portfolio, the Dominican Republic’s cosmetics industry is a shining example of how small and medium-sized enterprises can fuel sustainable economic development, job creation, and international competitiveness in the modern economy.

In the ever-evolving economic landscape of Latin America, few countries stand out for their monetary policy as distinctly as Panama. While nations across the region struggle with inflation, exchange rate volatility, and currency devaluation, Panama has quietly emerged as a beacon of stability through a century-long reliance on the U.S. dollar. This unique approach to monetary policy has set Panama apart and made it a central reference in discussions on dollarization in Latin America.

No Central Bank, No Problem: Panama’s Unconventional Model

Panama officially adopted the U.S. dollar in 1904, just a year after it gained independence from Colombia. It has operated without a central bank ever since, an arrangement that might appear risky on the surface. Yet, this system has resulted in remarkably low inflation, a resilient and well-capitalized banking sector, and consistent financial stability.

According to economist Carlos Arauz, “The key advantages of this model, since 1904, are commercial certainty and financial soundness.” Panama lacks a central bank and cannot print money or conduct traditional monetary policy. Instead, it relies on fiscal discipline, sound financial regulation, and its globally connected services economy—particularly banking, logistics, and the Panama Canal—to drive growth and manage economic pressures.

A Diverse Regional Landscape of Dollarization in Latin America

Examining the broader picture of dollarization in Latin America is essential to understanding Panama’s unique place in the region. Countries in the region have adopted varying degrees of reliance on the dollar, ranging from official, full dollarization to informal or partial use.

Ecuador is the most prominent example of another officially dollarized country. In 2000, following a severe financial and currency crisis, Ecuador transitioned to the U.S. dollar. The move helped stabilize inflation and restore confidence, but challenges remain. Despite monetary stability, Ecuador faces issues such as low levels of foreign direct investment and limited tools to respond to economic shocks.

Argentina, by contrast, represents a case of informal or de facto dollarization. Plagued by repeated currency collapses, runaway inflation, and capital flight, many Argentines have turned to the dollar as a store of value and a medium of exchange. In 2024, estimates indicated that Argentines held over $246 billion in U.S. currency outside the formal financial system—nearly ten times the country’s official foreign reserves of $25 billion. Recent discussions within the Argentine government about allowing “currency competition” reflect ongoing public disillusionment with the peso and an openness to new monetary alternatives.

Venezuela, another informally dollarized nation, has turned to the dollar out of necessity. Years of hyperinflation rendered the bolívar nearly worthless, prompting many businesses and individuals to transact in dollars. While this shift has helped restore price stability, it has also deepened economic inequality. Not all citizens have equal access to foreign currency, leaving marginalized groups further behind.

Panama’s Enduring Stability

Against this backdrop, Panama’s approach to dollarization is not only long-standing but also relatively successful. Unlike Ecuador or Argentina, Panama did not adopt dollarization to respond to the crisis; it embraced the dollar as a strategic tool for integration with the global economy and as a foundation for a stable, open financial system.

Panama’s service-based economy, which includes international banking and logistics, benefits tremendously from the trust and familiarity associated with the dollar. Foreign investors and multinational corporations often view Panama as a safer, more predictable environment for business, precisely because of its consistent monetary framework.

The Influence of the Dollar Beyond Official Adoption

Even countries that have not officially dollarized exhibit deep connections to the U.S. dollar. For example, Brazil retains the real as its national currency, but approximately 95% of its exports are invoiced in dollars. This reflects the greenback’s dominance in global trade, particularly in commodities.

Similarly, while maintaining the peso, Mexico is heavily influenced by the U.S. economy. More than 80% of Mexico’s exports are destined for the United States. As a result, its exchange rate and economic performance often fluctuate based on U.S. monetary policy and market dynamics.

In Peru, the sol and the dollar coexist as a structural norm. Peruvians use both currencies interchangeably, especially for large transactions like real estate or car purchases. This form of partial or “monetary” system reflects a compromise between maintaining a national currency and acknowledging the practical advantages of dollar use.

Bolivia, on the other hand, is currently experiencing a dollar shortage. Amid growing economic uncertainty, the demand for dollars has surged, leading to the rise of a parallel market. The scarcity of foreign currency is hampering imports and investment, highlighting the challenges faced by countries that are not fully dollarized but are still deeply dependent on the dollar.

Lessons from Panama for the Region

Panama’s century-long experience offers valuable lessons for policymakers across Latin America. While dollarization is not a one-size-fits-all solution, Panama’s example suggests that, under the right conditions, adopting the U.S. dollar can deliver long-term economic benefits. Key factors in Panama’s success include:

• A robust and well-regulated financial system.
• Fiscal discipline and political commitment to maintaining monetary stability.
• An economy that naturally aligns with global trade and services.
• Strong integration with the U.S. and international markets.

However, dollarization also comes with trade-offs. Panama lacks tools like interest rate adjustments or currency devaluation to respond to economic shocks without a central bank. This makes sound fiscal policy and external competitiveness even more critical.

Conclusion: A Model of Resilience

Panama stands out as a pioneer and model of resilience in the complex and varied landscape of dollarization in Latin America. While other countries have turned to the dollar in response to economic collapse or inflationary spirals, Panama adopted it proactively and has stayed the course for over a century.

Panama offers a compelling case study as countries like Argentina debate the merits of full dollarization and others like Bolivia grapple with foreign exchange crises. Experience suggests that when combined with sound governance and open markets, dollarization can provide a foundation for long-term stability in a region often marked by monetary volatility.

International Production Companies Choose Costa Rica for Filming

In 2024, Costa Rican film investments reached an impressive milestone, surpassing $11 million in expenditures tied to the film and audiovisual content production industry. This achievement highlights the growing interest of global media entities in utilizing Costa Rica’s unique natural landscapes, professional talent, and film-friendly infrastructure for their projects.

Well-known international streaming platforms and media networks—including Netflix, Hulu, BBC, and Hallmark—were among the major players who chose Costa Rica as their production destination. These companies took advantage of one or more of the country’s officially designated Film Friendly Zones; areas explicitly developed to accommodate and support audiovisual production.

What Are Film Friendly Zones?

Costa Rica has designated seven regions across the country as Film Friendly Zones, making them attractive and accessible for local and international film crews. These zones were selected based on their scenic diversity, logistical advantages, and available infrastructure to support productions from pre-production to post-production stages.

These areas offer various environments, from tropical rainforests and pristine beaches to colonial architecture and modern urban settings. They aim to facilitate filming and accelerate economic growth in different parts of the country. Productions in these zones have led to significant Costa Rican film investments, supporting various services and industries.

Breakdown of Film Investments by Region

The Chorotega Film Zone emerged as the top recipient of investments in 2024, attracting a substantial $8.3 million in film-related expenditures. This region, known for its sun-soaked beaches and biodiversity, has become a favorite for productions looking for striking visuals and logistical ease.

Trailing behind Chorotega was the Central Region, which includes the capital city of San José, with investments totaling $1.5 million. The Central Pacific Zone secured the third position, receiving $879,035 in production-related spending. These regions have shown their capability to cater to the demands of international crews, offering not only beautiful landscapes but also professional services and accommodation.

Additional investments were recorded in the following regions:

• Huetar Norte Film Zone: $597,910
• Huetar Caribe Film Zone: $376,800
• Brunca Film Zone: $80,070
• Western Region Film Zone: $65,618

Each dollar of these Costa Rican film investments contributes to the development of local economies, empowering communities through job creation and the use of local resources.

Services Supported by Film Investments

The more than $11 million in Costa Rican film investments reflects expenditures made during the production teams’ stay in the country. These investments benefit multiple economic sectors and are not limited to the filming process.

Services that received a financial boost include:

• Transportation and logistics for crew and equipment
• Lodging and accommodations at local hotels and rentals
• Food and catering services that support local agriculture and restaurants
• Set design and construction using local materials
• Wardrobe and makeup, often handled by Costa Rican artists
• Technical and artistic personnel, including cinematographers, sound technicians, camera operators, and local actors
• Post-production services, such as editing, sound design, and visual effects

This multifaceted impact illustrates how Costa Rican film investments ripple through the economy, benefiting many industries beyond media and entertainment.

Institutional Support and Procomer’s Role

The Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (Procomer) is vital in facilitating and promoting audiovisual investment in the country. According to Laura López, General Manager of Procomer, every production that comes to Costa Rica helps raise the nation’s global profile.

“Each production that arrives puts us on the international map, generating productive linkages, opportunities for hundreds of professionals and local businesses, and a positive ripple effect on other industries such as tourism by showcasing Costa Rica’s scenic and cultural richness to the world,” said López.

In 2024 alone, the Costa Rica Film Commission, under the auspices of Procomer, processed more than 360 filming requests, ensuring regulatory compliance, coordinating local logistics, and streamlining the onboarding process for international crews. These efforts have made the country more accessible and desirable to foreign producers and reinforced the visibility of Costa Rican film investments on a global scale.

Economic and Social Benefits of Film-Friendly Policies

Creating Film-Friendly Zones was a strategic decision to attract foreign capital and encourage regional development. These zones serve as magnets for investment by offering streamlined permits, a local talent and vendors database, and guidance on local filming laws.

More importantly, these zones promote inclusive economic development by distributing the benefits of foreign investment across different provinces. Through job creation and the stimulation of local service providers—from drivers and tour operators to craft services and construction teams—Costa Rican film investments are fostering sustainable development.

Looking Ahead: Costa Rica Media Market 2025

To further position the country as a global hub for audiovisual production, the Costa Rica Film Commission is organizing the Costa Rica Media Market, a landmark industry event held June 24–25, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Corobici Hotel in San José.

The two-day event will attract decision-makers and executives from more than 20 countries. It will focus on creating real business opportunities for Costa Rican creatives, production companies, and service providers. This event underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing local talent while continuing to attract Costa Rican film investments.

Key Features of the Event Include:

• One-on-one meetings with content buyers and distributors
• Matchmaking opportunities for international co-productions
• Master classes led by global experts in cinematography, storytelling, production, and visual effects
• Screenings and pitch sessions to spotlight Costa Rican and regional audiovisual projects
• Field tours of the country’s film-friendly zones to give producers firsthand knowledge of filming locations

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Costa Rican Audiovisual Production

The year 2024 marks a significant chapter in the history of Costa Rican film investments. The nation has proven its ability to accommodate and enrich international productions, earning the trust of prestigious media companies and streaming giants. From picturesque film zones and skilled labor to institutional support and investment in infrastructure, Costa Rica is fast becoming a major player in the global film industry.

The outlook for 2025 and beyond is promising. With continued support from government institutions, strategic industry events like the Costa Rica Media Market, and the country’s ongoing appeal to international audiences, Costa Rican film investments are poised to grow even further, driving economic development and cultural recognition for years to come.