Life Sciences
SECTOR
Costa Rica: The Life Sciences Hub of the Americas
The country is home to one of the most advanced life sciences ecosystems in the region, with a world-class medical device sector and a growing pharmaceutical industry. A resilient investment platform, backed by specialized talent, political stability, and a strategic location for nearshoring operations.
Why Costa Rica?
Key Facts
Ideal time zones for the Americas and Europe
18 Free Trade Agreements, including with the USA and the EU.
Only three hours from the USA
Access to the best human talent
A member of the OECD and the WTO
MedTech Sector
Costa Rica has emerged as a leading hub for advanced medical device manufacturing, with 13 of the world’s top 25 medical device companies operating in the country (OEM’s).
Key Capabilities of the Sector
- Medical devices are Costa Rica’s main export product.
- Production of Class I, II, and III medical devices covering 17 highly complex therapeutic segments.
- Global OEMs carry out advanced Research and Development (R&D) activities from the country.
- High level of engagement between the sector and local suppliers.
- Companies in the sector implement active sustainability strategies aligned with global ESG goals.
Pharmaceutical Sector in Costa Rica
With more than 50 years of global pharmaceutical presence, Costa Rica has consolidated an ecosystem that spans generic manufacturing, scientific-regulatory services, and regional distribution.
Key Capabilities of the Sector
- Clinical data management and analysis and pharmacovigilance
- Support for clinical studies
- Regulatory affairs and compliance
- Global Business Services (GBS)
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution
- Supply chain and regional support
- Research and development (R&D)
Leading Companies
Costa Rica is integrated into the operational networks of leading medical device and pharmaceutical companies, with operations strategically aligned to support regional and global business objectives
Stability and the Rule of Law
Political Stability
Ranked 2nd in Latin America for overall political stability.
Rule of Law
Secured the #2 spot in Latin America (World Justice Project).
Peace and Stability
77 years without a military, reflecting institutional stability and a strong focus on economic development.
Democracy
2nd in Latin America
(The Economist Intelligence Unit, 2024)
Intellectual Property Protection
3rd in Latin America in the International Property Rights Index
Free Trade Zone Regime
Tax-free incentive programs, ideal for mulltinational companies.
WHY INVEST
IN THIS SECTOR?
Specialized talent, proven experience, and a world-class regulatory environment make the country an ideal platform for operating in global markets.
