Introduction

Costa Rica’s electronics industry is witnessing remarkable growth, thanks to the flourishing medical device manufacturing and semiconductor production sectors. The country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive government policies have attracted major international companies to invest in the region, further boosting Costa Rica’s position in the global electronics manufacturing landscape.

Medical Device Manufacturing

In 2017, medical devices became Costa Rica’s top export, surpassing the agricultural sector for the first time in the country’s history. With more than 70 medical device companies operating in Costa Rica, the nation has developed a thriving and fast-growing medical technology sector. Manufacturers of surgical instruments, therapeutic devices, and diagnostics have all found success in the country, capitalizing on its unique combination of resources and infrastructure. The presence of medical equipment giants such as Baxter, Medtronic, Allergan, Boston Scientific, and Hologic has solidified Costa Rica’s status as a global hub for medical device production.

Semiconductor Manufacturing

Intel, a leading semiconductor company, has recently announced plans to invest $600 million in a micro-chip plant in Costa Rica. This nearly doubles their previously proposed investment of $350 million, demonstrating the company’s confidence in Costa Rica’s potential for semiconductor manufacturing. As the global demand for chips surges and shortages are expected to continue until 2023, Intel’s reestablishment of its footprint in the Central American country signals an optimistic outlook for the sector.

Moreover, BriskHeat Corp., a North American manufacturing company, has chosen Costa Rica as the location for its Latin American operations to better serve its U.S. customers. The company specializes in heating parts, controls, and accessories for various industries, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. With its Costa Rican operations, BriskHeat aims to primarily supply the semiconductor industry while also exploring growth opportunities in the consumer goods and life sciences sectors.

A Promising Future

The Costa Rica Aerospace Cluster, established in 2010, has successfully fostered an ecosystem of over 30 component manufacturers and service providers, exporting to nearly 40 countries worldwide. The cluster has been instrumental in facilitating collaboration between multinational corporations and SMEs, providing certification and growth opportunities for companies of all sizes.

Costa Rica’s unique tax infrastructure, offering income tax payments as low as 0% for the first eight years of a company’s operations in the free trade zone regime, has attracted significant foreign investment. This, coupled with the nation’s young, industry 4.0-educated workforce and status as a key nearshoring destination, has paved the way for the development of key specialisms within the electronics industry.

Conclusion

Costa Rica’s thriving electronics industry, fueled by its booming medical device manufacturing and semiconductor production sectors, offers an abundance of opportunities for manufacturers and investors looking to expand their operations in the region. The country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment make it an ideal destination for international companies seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality electronics products.