Costa Rica, a country with a growing economy and stable policies, has in recent years emerged as a strong player in the Latin American investment landscape. According to the latest reports from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Costa Rica is projected to achieve the second-highest economic growth among member states in 2025. The expected GDP growth is 3.5%, only 0.2% lower than Ireland, which will take the top spot. This positive trend highlights Costa Rica as an excellent opportunity for investors seeking high-potential growth markets.
According to the OECD, Costa Rica’s economic growth in 2025 is forecast at 3.5%, a significant increase compared to many other global economies. This growth will be fueled by strong domestic demand, continued inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI), and rising household incomes. A key contributing factor is high business confidence, further strengthened by robust export growth in 2024 and 2025. While export growth is expected to slow slightly in 2026 due to anticipated stagnation in the U.S. economy, Costa Rica’s main trading partner, the overall outlook remains positive.
Inflation in 2025 is projected at 1.6%, rising to 2.6% in 2026. This modest inflation rate is considered stable, and within the Latin American context, Costa Rica is seen as a country with relatively low and controlled inflation. For investors, this translates into a stable environment for business and long-term investment.
Strong Economic Growth: With expected GDP growth of 3.5% in 2025 and 3.6% in 2026, Costa Rica positions itself as a regional leader, attracting investors seeking high-growth emerging markets.
Significant FDI Inflows: Known for its stable political environment, strong institutions, and skilled workforce, Costa Rica offers favorable conditions for foreign direct investment. In 2024, the country attracted record-breaking FDI inflows, proving its global appeal.
Rising Domestic Demand: Higher household incomes and increasing business confidence support domestic consumption, creating opportunities for investments across sectors from manufacturing to services.
Low Operating Costs: Compared to other regional economies, Costa Rica offers relatively low business and living costs, making it attractive for investors seeking competitive operational expenses.
Strong Infrastructure: Costa Rica has well-developed infrastructure and is strategically located for regional trade. It also boasts strong technology and manufacturing sectors, offering growth potential in biotechnology, IT, and advanced manufacturing.
According to the OECD outlook, Costa Rica ranks second among OECD economies for GDP growth in 2025.
Ireland – 3.7%
Costa Rica – 3.5%
Poland – 3.4%
Lithuania – 3.1%
Colombia – 2.7%
Turkey – 2.6%
Slovenia – 2.6%
Denmark – 2.5%
Czech Republic – 2.4%
United States – 2.4%
Source: OECD
This ranking demonstrates Costa Rica’s competitiveness not only within Latin America but also globally, outpacing larger economies. For Czech investors, Costa Rica’s higher growth rate compared to the Czech Republic (2.4%) offers an attractive opportunity for higher returns.
According to BN Valores, forecasts for Costa Rica’s economic growth in 2025 even suggest a rate of 3.9%, higher than initially projected. Growth is expected to be driven by financial services, agriculture, and construction. Free trade zones and the services sector will play a key role in continued expansion and job creation.
Stable import prices and low inflation are expected to sustain domestic consumption. Combined with anticipated lower interest rates, this will improve access to financing for both businesses and households, further boosting investment.
While investment prospects are optimistic, Costa Rica is not without risks. Its geographic location makes it vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. Additionally, global trade tensions and market fluctuations could impact the export sector.
In 2025, Costa Rica is projected to rank second among OECD countries by GDP growth, just behind Ireland. Although smaller in size, Costa Rica’s growth outlook is highly competitive compared to major economies such as the U.S., France, and Germany.
Costa Rica is increasingly regarded as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Latin America, thanks to its stable economy, business-friendly environment, and robust GDP growth. With expected growth of 3.5% in 2025, strong FDI inflows, and stable inflation, Costa Rica offers an ideal environment for long-term investors.
Investments in infrastructure, technology, and manufacturing are particularly promising and could be the key to success for investors seeking opportunities in this dynamic and expanding market.
If you are considering an investment opportunity and exploring the purchase of property in Costa Rica, I would be happy to assist you. With my expert knowledge of the real estate market and deep understanding of Costa Rica’s tourism and business landscape, I can guide you in selecting the right property aligned with your investment goals.
With my support, you can be confident that your investment will be both secure and profitable.
