Since 2009 companies eligible under the free zone regime "... must be included in one or more of the categories set out in the law, including: handling, processing, manufacturing, production, repair and maintenance of goods, repacking and redistribution of goods and provision of services for export or re-export. "

Alvaro Valverde, executive director of the Association of Free Zones in Costa Rica (Azofras) assured Crhoy.com that "... this regime has positively impacted the country, not only in terms of the arrival of fresh resources for the country, but also because of the creation of jobs, both directly and indirectly through production linkages. "

For entrepreneurs the regime has allowed the country to remain competitive with other neighboring countries in terms of attracting foreign investment, but there are still problems that impair competitiveness and can not be offset by the benefits of the free zone scheme.

Valverde noted that "... 'There are issues of concern: every three or four months the cost of energy goes up and this increases the cost of production and make us less competitive; It is a very big concern. Road infrastructure is a necessity and, for example, the planned extension of Route 32 and the one in San Carlos and the new terminal in Moin, which is another a project where it is important that it goes ahead'"

Source: Crhoy.com

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