The commercial sector expressed strong criticism against the country’s customs authorities, regarding the managing of the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
The Chamber of Commerce of Costa Rica specifically indicated that most of the problems are happening with the trade agreements in force with Mexico, China and the European Union.
Businessmen prefer not to use the benefits of FTAs,”
said Jason Cháves, the Chamber’s economic adviser.
The adviser explained that customs authorities are observing form errors rather than material misstatements, which makes the operation and procedures more expensive.
We are denied certificates of origin for minimal errors. We are not allowed to correct those errors as with the CAFTA and this must change,”
added Cháves.
The Chamber also mentioned the few improvements perceived at the border posts, although there is a specific tax that should finance the maintenance of existing infrastructure.