US Maintains 12.5 Percent Tariff on Costa Rican Goods
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Since July 24, 2026, the United States has maintained a 12.5 percent tariff on Costa Rican goods, following a Section 301 investigation by the Office of the US Trade Representative that evaluated labor practices in 60 economies. Washington imposed the duties based on a finding that Costa Rica lacked an effective prohibition against imports of goods produced with forced labor. Despite diplomatic efforts by the administration of President Laura Fernández—including concessions on dairy imports, phytosanitary rules, and alignment with US 5G telecommunications policy—the tariff rate remained at 12.5 percent, placing Costa Rica in a group with seven other Latin American nations. While key agricultural exports like coffee and bananas remained excluded, the government successfully negotiated the addition of cuttings, seeds, and refined sugars to the list of exempt products.
Consequences
Costa Rican exporters of medical devices and other non-exempt goods will continue to face the 12.5 percent tariff rate, impacting the cost of trade with their primary market. The Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX) is expected to continue coordinated efforts with the domestic private sector and US authorities to seek improved access for national products.
Sources
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