Key Economic Insights: The economy of Costa Rica generates an estimated GDP of $86.5 billion ($14,260 per capita) supporting a population of 5.2 million. Productive output is anchored by 68.8% services, 20.5% industry and manufacturing, and 3.6% agriculture and natural resource extraction. Key merchandise exports include Manufactured goods, mineral resources, and agricultural commodities, directed primarily toward Global and regional trade partners.
Costa Rica’s GDP reached $86.5 billion in 2023, rising to $95.35 billion in 2024, according to the World Bank. GDP per capita stood at approximately $14,260 in 2023 and $18,587 in 2024. Costa Rica’s economy demonstrates consistent growth, driven by its services sector, high-tech medical device exports, and tourism industry.
Costa Rica Economic Structure & Sector Analysis
| Economic Dimension | Official Indicator (2024–2026) | Authoritative Source |
|---|---|---|
| GDP & Macro Output | Nominal GDP: $86.5 billion | Per Capita: $14,260 | World Bank WDI / IMF |
| Sector Breakdown | Services: 68.8% | Industry: 20.5% | Agriculture: 3.6% | World Bank National Accounts |
| Trade & Commodities | Top Exports: Manufactured goods, mineral resources, and agricultural commodities (Total: $28.9 billion) | UN Comtrade / OEC |
| Demographics & Labor | Population: 5 | Distributed workforce across formal & primary sectors | ILO / UN Population Division |
| Strategic Trade Corridors | Leading Trade Partners: Global and regional trade partners | World Bank WITS / IMF DOTS |
- Primary activities: approximately 3.6% of GDP (2024).
- Secondary activities: approximately 20.5% of GDP (2023).
- Tertiary activities: approximately 68.8% of GDP (2024).
Primary Sector of Costa Rica
With approximately 35% of the land dedicated to agriculture, the country produces a variety of crops including sugarcane, pineapples, bananas, and more. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing contributed approximately 3.6% to GDP in 2024, reflecting a gradual decline as services and manufacturing have expanded. Products like milk, oil palm fruit, fruits, oranges, chicken, cassava, and rice are vital to the sector, showcasing the continued importance of agriculture in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s diverse geology provides abundant natural resources, with a strong focus on hydropower. This renewable energy source plays a crucial role in the economy, driving sustainable development and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Secondary Sector of Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, main industrial products include medical equipment, food processing, textiles, construction materials, fertilizers, and plastic products. These goods are produced for both domestic consumption and export markets.Manufactures play a crucial role in Costa Rica’s total exports, accounting for 61.4% in 2023. This sector significantly contributes to the country’s economy and international trade competitiveness.Tertiary sector of Costa Rica
International Trade of Costa Rica
Import Activities of Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s import activities are substantial, with total imports of goods and services reaching approximately $28.9 billion in 2023, representing around 33.6% of GDP, according to World Bank balance of payments data.Costa Rica’s key imports include refined petroleum, plastic products, medical instruments, cars, and broadcasting equipment. The country’s main import partners are the US (39%), China (14%), Mexico (5%), Guatemala (3%), and Brazil (3%).Exports Activities of Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s total exports of goods and services in 2023 amounted to approximately $34.6 billion, representing around 40% of GDP, according to World Bank balance of payments data. This reflects Costa Rica’s strong export orientation, particularly in high-value medical devices and agricultural products.Costa Rica’s export activities focus on medical instruments, orthopedic appliances, bananas, tropical fruits, and other foods. The country’s top partners include the US (40%), Netherlands (7%), Guatemala (5%), Belgium (5%), and Nicaragua (3%).Costa Rica economy challenges
Costa Rica faces ongoing challenges including managing public debt and sustaining fiscal discipline. Despite being a regional leader in renewable energy and environmental sustainability, income inequality and poverty remain concerns. The country’s trade-oriented economy continues to expand, driven by free trade zones attracting high-tech manufacturers and service providers.Sources
- World Bank Data: Costa Rica
- IMF Data Mapper: Costa Rica
- CIA World Factbook: Costa Rica
- World Bank WITS: Costa Rica Trade Summary
- UN Comtrade Plus: Trade Flow
Last updated: August 2026
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