Costa Rica Accelerates AI Adoption to Reinforce Its Digital Export Economy

By IDEAS

Artificial intelligence is becoming a central component of Costa Rica's technology sector. According to a recent survey by the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (PROCOMER), 76% of information and communication technology (ICT) companies are already using generative AI tools or AI-powered agents, while 72% export their products or services to international markets. The findings underscore how AI is increasingly viewed not only as a productivity tool but also as a competitive advantage for companies operating globally.

The survey reflects a sector that has become one of the pillars of Costa Rica's export economy. Companies reported using AI across software development, business intelligence, customer support, cybersecurity, process automation and data analytics. More than one-third are already developing AI-based solutions, while many others are incorporating machine learning and natural language processing into commercial products and internal operations.

The expansion of AI adoption aligns with Costa Rica's broader digital transformation agenda. In 2025, the government introduced its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which aims to promote innovation, strengthen digital skills, encourage responsible AI governance and support the development of high-value industries. The strategy identifies artificial intelligence as a key driver of productivity and estimates that its widespread adoption could significantly increase the country's economic output by the end of the decade.

Costa Rica's digital ambitions are reinforced by its membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which has encouraged policies supporting digital transformation, innovation and data-driven economic growth. The OECD has noted that foreign direct investment continues to play an important role in creating high-productivity jobs, while improvements in digital capabilities are expected to contribute to the country's long-term competitiveness.

Unlike many Latin American economies that remain heavily dependent on commodity exports, Costa Rica has spent more than two decades developing a knowledge-based economy centered on advanced manufacturing and services. Global companies in medical devices, semiconductors, software engineering, business services and cybersecurity have established operations in the country, supported by a bilingual workforce, political stability and an extensive free trade network. PROCOMER continues to position Costa Rica as a nearshoring destination for technology investment and digital services.

The rapid adoption of AI also reflects a global shift. Businesses worldwide are moving beyond experimentation with generative AI toward integrating the technology into core business functions, with automation, software development and customer interaction among the fastest-growing applications. For export-oriented economies such as Costa Rica, AI is increasingly becoming a factor in attracting investment, expanding high-value services and improving international competitiveness.

PROCOMER said the survey confirms the increasing sophistication of Costa Rica's ICT industry and its growing international orientation. As companies continue incorporating artificial intelligence into commercial products and internal processes, the agency expects the sector to strengthen its contribution to exports, innovation and foreign investment in the coming years.