During 2017, Costa Rica imported more medicine, cell phones and vehicles with engines from 1,500 to 2,000 cubic centimeters, according to figures of the Annual Report of Intelligence of the Importing Sector, “Costa Rica Importa,” presented last week.
The study highlighted among a growth of 8.7% in the value of the Definitive Imports in 2017 compared to 2016.
According to the Chamber of Foreign Trade of Costa Rica and of Representatives of Foreign Houses (CRECEX), this report has as an exceptional feature, being the only source of data on national imports. In addition, it takes into account all purchases made in the country.
The document was developed by CRECEX, which took a year to prepare and conduct research, analysis and data collection.
In total, Costa Rica imported $14.47 billion in 2017 corresponding to 12.3 million tons in terms of Definitive Imports for a CIF Value. Adding the imports developed as a result of the Free Zone and Active Improvement (local purchases) regimes, would have the value of the Expanded Imports, which in this case represented a CIF Value of $23.12 billion and 15 million tons.
The real estate sector recorded a growth of 20% compared to 2016, climbing two places in the ranking, just like the mechanical sector.
The medical sector presented a growth of 15% in 2017 compared to 2016, highlighting purchases of x-ray machines and ozone therapy that showed growth of 82% and 72% respectively.
North America continues to be the main region of origin of domestic imports. China, on the other hand, has 18% of the market and experienced a 35% growth in the invoiced value.