The Economy of Costa Rica
Costa Rica at a Glance
Costa Rica is a small Central American democracy known for ecotourism, high-tech exports, universal health care and clean electricity.
Costa Rica has about 5 million people and one of the highest living standards in Latin America.
Economy
Services, tourism, medical devices, electronics, bananas, pineapples and coffee.
Model
Stable democracy, no army, and heavy investment in education and health.
Challenges
Inequality, fiscal strain and unemployment.
A green brand
International visitors come for rainforests, volcanoes and beaches.
Assuming Costa Rica is only bananas and coffee
High-tech exports are large.
Key takeaways
- Costa Rica is stable and prosperous by regional standards.
- Tourism and manufacturing lead.
- Health and education are priorities.
- Inequality remains.
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