AGP Executive Report

Disaster Response: Costa Rica is sending a second 48-person Urban Search and Rescue team to earthquake-stricken Venezuela, adding firefighters, medics, paramedics, extraction specialists and life-detection gear as the death toll climbs. AI & Industry Supply Chains: The US-led Pax Silica push keeps expanding: the UAE joined the summit’s AI supply-chain agenda, and the Philippines signed on to a “trusted AI supply chains” declaration—aimed at semiconductors, critical minerals and advanced manufacturing. Trade Integration: CPTPP ministers agreed to move toward Costa Rica’s accession and speed up Uruguay’s, while starting preparatory talks with the Philippines, Indonesia and the UAE. Public Health & Infrastructure: A new global map highlights how safe drinking water remains out of reach for over 2 billion people—an infrastructure gap that matters for long-term health and productivity. Work Mobility: Costa Rica citizens aged 18–35 can access Canada’s International Experience Canada work permits up to two times, easing repeat entry for early-career workers. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms issued additional recalls over possible plastic contamination, keeping pressure on food handling and compliance. Reputation & Investment: Costa Rica scored above the average in a Latin America reputation study, positioning “country brand” as a lever for attracting business.

Trade & Logistics: CPTPP ministers agreed to move quickly on Costa Rica’s accession and to expedite Uruguay’s, while starting preparatory talks with the Philippines, Indonesia and the UAE—an expansion that could reshape regional market access for Costa Rican exporters. AI Supply Chains: The US-led Pax Silica push added new countries and a “trusted AI supply chains” declaration, with Costa Rica listed among partners—signaling more cooperation around semiconductors, critical minerals and advanced manufacturing. Disaster Response: Costa Rica deployed a Red Cross rescue and humanitarian mission to Venezuela after back-to-back earthquakes, sending specialists, equipment and food to support search-and-rescue and aid distribution. Agri & Food Security: The “new world screwworm” fly threat returned to the US, raising risks for cattle and livestock operations and accelerating eradication efforts. Business & Services: El Salvador launched “Servicio Pro,” a home-services marketplace with Costa Rica and Chile next—another sign of regional growth in verified, on-demand services.

AI Supply Chains: Kazakhstan and the Philippines signed on to the US-led Pax Silica push, backing “trusted” AI supply chains and pro-innovation rules as the coalition expands. Semiconductors & Minerals: South Korea’s vice foreign minister urged partners to build a stable semiconductor business environment, while the summit highlighted critical minerals processing and advanced manufacturing. Costa Rica in the Mix: Costa Rica is listed among the Pax Silica partners, alongside Argentina, Panama and others, as the initiative grows to 24 economies. Trade Logistics Pilot: The US plans an AI supply chain credentialing pilot in Panama to speed vetted shipments of semiconductors, AI infrastructure and critical minerals. Local Business: Servicio Pro launched a home-services marketplace in El Salvador and says Costa Rica is next for expansion. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled specific frozen nuggets and sausage patties sold in the US, Puerto Rico and Costa Rica due to possible plastic contamination.

AI & Supply Chains: The U.S.-led Pax Silica push added new partners and momentum as 35 countries signed a “Joint Statement on AI Opportunity,” backing pro-innovation rules and trusted supply chains for semiconductors, critical minerals, advanced manufacturing and digital infrastructure; Costa Rica is listed among the new joiners, and the initiative also expanded membership to 24 economies. Trade & Shipping: CPTPP ministers welcomed steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and urged stronger cooperation to keep energy sea lanes open, highlighting the knock-on effects for logistics and industrial inputs. Public Finance: Costa Rica economists warn the government’s proposed up-to $13.5B eurobond authorization could be excessive and add pressure to public finances and the exchange rate. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled specific frozen nuggets and sausage patties in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Costa Rica due to possible plastic contamination. Animal Health: Costa Rica confirmed a new H5 avian influenza case in a wild marine bird in Manuel Antonio; Senasa says it doesn’t affect poultry export status and is focusing on surveillance. Construction/Services: Servicio Pro launched a home services marketplace in El Salvador and says Costa Rica is next for expansion.

AI & Supply Chains (Pax Silica): The US launched Pax Silica’s push for “trusted and resilient” AI supply chains, with 35 countries signing an AI Opportunity declaration at the second summit; Costa Rica is among the participants, alongside major partners like the EU, India, Panama, and others. Public Finance Watch (Costa Rica): Costa Rican economists warn the government’s plan to authorize up to $13.5B in eurobond issuance could be excessive and add pressure to public finances and the exchange rate. Food Safety (MorningStar Farms): FDA-linked recalls hit Costa Rica too: MorningStar Farms recalled Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties over possible plastic contamination. Animal Health (Bird Flu): Senasa confirmed a new H5 avian influenza case in a wild marine bird (blue-footed booby) in Manuel Antonio; officials say it’s limited to wildlife and doesn’t affect poultry export status. Regional Livestock/Trade (New World screwworm): Central America and Mexico agreed to strengthen coordination on veterinary medicines, residue monitoring, and New World screwworm control, with Costa Rica among the countries involved.

AI Supply Chains: 35 countries, including Costa Rica, signed on to the US-led Pax Silica “AI opportunity” push, backing trusted, resilient tech supply chains and a pro-innovation approach. Trade Logistics: The US also launched PaxPass to speed trusted shipments of critical AI goods, pairing cargo verification with risk assessment and expedited processing, plus a Foundry School with Stanford to build workforce capacity. Consumer Protection: Costa Rica’s MEIC reported 100% non-compliance in a nationwide outlet inspection, flagging missing price tags, weak warranty info, Spanish labeling gaps, and improper handling of used/refurbished items. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled plant-based Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties in the US, Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica due to possible plastic pieces. Agriculture & Livestock Health: Central America and Mexico agreed to strengthen coordination on New World screwworm control and residue monitoring in milk and meat, with Costa Rica among the participants. Tourism & Industry: UnCruise Adventures announced a return of its 14-night Costa Rica & Panama itinerary for 2027–2028, highlighting wildlife, reefs, and Panama Canal transit. Currency Watch: Costa Rica’s dollar exchange rate appears to be stabilizing near recent lows, with economists suggesting a possible floor for the colón’s strength.

Tourism & Logistics: UnCruise Adventures is bringing back its 14-night Costa Rica & Panama “Ultimate Adventure” for 2027–2028, with rainforest hikes, Coiba National Park snorkeling, Guna Yala cultural days, Darien Gap time, and a full 48-mile Panama Canal transit. Consumer Protection: Costa Rica’s MEIC says 100% of outlet stores inspected in a nationwide operation violated consumer rules, citing missing price info, weak warranty/exchange disclosures, and improper labeling for used/refurbished goods. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms is recalling Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica over possible plastic pieces. Wildlife & Construction: Costa Rica’s Supreme Court upholds construction regulations around the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge buffer zone, protecting sea turtles, aquifers, and habitat corridors. Regional Trade & Investment: ECLAC reports Latin America and the Caribbean received US$194.2B in FDI in 2025 (+1.7%), with Costa Rica among the smaller gainers. Agriculture & Shipping Tech: Research suggests ordinary clay could help reduce fruit spoilage by trapping ethylene during transport and storage. Regional Biosecurity: Central America and Mexico agreed to strengthen coordination on New World screwworm control and residue monitoring in milk and meat.

Food Safety & Retail: MorningStar Farms is recalling Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets (10.5 oz) and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties (8 oz) in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica due to possible plastic pieces; consumers should discard affected “better if used by” batches and request refunds. Wildlife & Biosecurity: Texas officials say rodents and small wildlife may be linked to the New World screwworm spread, while the original source is still under investigation—an issue with clear knock-on effects for livestock and animal health. Local Environment & Construction: Costa Rica’s Supreme Court upheld construction rules in the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge buffer zone, reinforcing protections for sea turtles, aquifers, and habitat corridors amid coastal development pressure. Trade & Agriculture: Costa Rica escalated its dispute with Panama, urging action to lift bans on Costa Rican exports after a WTO ruling—while Panama retaliated by suspending electricity sales. Tourism & Real Estate: Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique launched eight new private resort residences in Guanacaste, targeting longer stays and higher-end residential-style demand. Investment & Finance: ECLAC reports Latin America and the Caribbean received US$194.2B in FDI in 2025 (+1.7%), with Costa Rica among the countries seeing gains. Fintech: Costa Rica-based Catchnex announced expansion into North Africa and the Middle East, pushing copy trading and other investment tools to new markets.

Organized Crime Crackdown: Costa Rica’s OIJ and prosecutors carried out 146 raids in the “Riverside” operation against an alleged drug-trafficking and money-laundering network linked to “Pecho de Rata,” with about 1,500 agents focused on the southern Caribbean. Mining & Public Safety: Authorities opened a preliminary investigation into a blast that interrupted President Laura Fernández’s Crucitas visit amid the illegal gold-mining crisis; no injuries were reported, though one lawmaker was taken to hospital. Ag Trade Tensions: Costa Rica escalated its dispute with Panama, urging concrete action to end Panama’s bans on Costa Rican exports after a WTO ruling; Panama retaliated by suspending electricity sales. Food Industry Alert: MorningStar Farms recalled Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties over possible plastic contamination; products were sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica. Logistics & Infrastructure: A new Panama Canal chief will push an $8.5B-plus capital plan, including a Trans-Isthmus logistics corridor with potential LNG pipeline and new container terminals. Tourism & Hospitality: Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique launched eight private resort residences in Guanacaste, targeting longer stays and larger groups. Investment Climate Watch: ECLAC reported Latin America and the Caribbean received $194.2B in FDI in 2025, with U.S. investment down 11% as Europe gained ground. Fintech Expansion: Costa Rica-based Catchnex announced copy-trading and other investment tools expansion into North Africa and the Middle East.

Food Safety Recall: MorningStar Farms is voluntarily recalling two plant-based frozen items—Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets (10.5 oz) and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties (8 oz)—due to possible plastic pieces; affected “Best if Used By” dates run from July 5–8, 2027, and the products were sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica; consumers should discard and request a refund. Trade & Agriculture: Costa Rica escalated its agricultural trade dispute with Panama, urging concrete action to lift bans on Costa Rican exports after a WTO ruling; the standoff has included retaliatory steps and a push for a joint working agenda to avoid supply shortages. Security & Justice: Costa Rica carried out major raids tied to an alleged drug-trafficking and money-laundering network linked to “Pecho de Rata,” with 146 raids and about 1,500 agents focused on the southern Caribbean. Mining Fallout: Costa Rica opened a preliminary investigation into a blast heard during President Laura Fernández’s Crucitas visit amid the illegal gold-mining crisis; no injuries were reported, but the source of the detonation is still unclear. Infrastructure: Route 32’s Río Sucio bridge will see lane closures starting June 22 through early July as crews repair columns, reinforce the deck, service bearings, and repave.

Organized Crime Crackdown: Costa Rican authorities carried out “Riverside,” one of the biggest recent anti-drug operations, with 146 raids across Limón, Heredia, Cartago, San José and Alajuela, involving about 1,500 agents, targeting an alleged drug-trafficking and money-laundering network linked to “Pecho de Rata,” Edwin Danney Lopez-Vega. Mining Safety & Governance: The OIJ opened a preliminary probe into a blast that interrupted President Laura Fernández’s Crucitas visit, where she was evacuated after a loud detonation; officials are still checking whether it involved explosives, a firearm, or another source. Food Industry Recall: MorningStar Farms is voluntarily recalling Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Costa Rica due to possible plastic contamination, with no injuries reported. Infrastructure & Logistics: Route 32’s Río Sucio bridge will see lane closures starting June 22 through early July as crews repair columns, reinforce the deck, service bearings and repave. Local Business & Tourism: PROCOMER highlights Costa Rica’s push toward Asia with value-added food products in South Korea, signaling continued trade and agrifood expansion.

Tourism & Transport: Costa Rica logged a record 1,390,842 air arrivals (+9.4% y/y) but the U.S. source market cooled at SJO (Alajuela) with U.S. arrivals down 7.3%, while Europe surged (+16.3%), as the country expands its secondary airport hub. Cash & Retail Operations: The Central Bank says old-design ₡5, ₡10 and ₡25 coins stop being legal tender on July 1, pushing businesses and consumers to swap or deposit before the deadline. Infrastructure Disruption: Route 32’s Río Sucio bridge will see one-lane closures starting June 22 through early July, with around-the-clock delays possible. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled select frozen nuggets and sausage patties sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Costa Rica due to possible plastic contamination. Mining & Security Politics: Legislator Claudia Dobles renewed calls for Rodrigo Chaves’ resignation after a blast during President Laura Fernández’s Crucitas visit raised questions about risk management. Regional Business Context: Colombia’s rightward political shift (Abelardo De La Espriella’s narrow win) signals a broader Latin America turn that could affect security, taxes, and investment priorities.

Tourism & Aviation: Costa Rica logged a historic air-tourism milestone: 1,390,842 international arrivals by air in the latest month, up 9.4% year-on-year, but with a key warning sign—Juan Santamaría (SJO) saw a 1.4% overall dip and a 7.3% drop in U.S. arrivals, while Europe surged 16.3% (notably Germany +30.2%, Italy +29.2%, Poland +20.8%, Netherlands +18.8%). Payments & Retail Ops: The Central Bank confirmed old-design ₡5, ₡10 and ₡25 coins stop being legal tender for transactions on July 1; people can still exchange them through authorized financial intermediaries, but shops and markets won’t have to accept them after the cutoff. Food Safety: Morningstar Farms recalled frozen Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot & Spicy Sausage Patties after customers reported plastic pieces inside; products were sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica. Trade/Compliance: A U.S. DOJ case highlights offshore sports betting laundering tied to Costa Rica associates, with a California defendant sentenced to 27 months and ordered to forfeit $3M.

Colombia Politics: Right-wing nationalist lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella edged out leftist senator Iván Cepeda in a tight presidential runoff, with a preliminary quick count showing 49.7% vs 48.7%, setting up a major shift for the region’s security and economic agenda. Costa Rica Tourism: Costa Rica hit a historic air-tourism milestone, welcoming 1,390,842 international arrivals by air in Jan–May 2026 (+9.4% y/y), but the U.S. segment at SJO showed a slowdown while Europe surged. Infrastructure & Logistics: The Comptroller approved the central section of Route 35 to San Carlos, clearing a key legal barrier for a four-lane highway project that should improve access to major inland destinations. Mining Security: President Laura Fernández was evacuated after a loud blast during a Crucitas visit tied to illegal gold mining, underscoring ongoing security risks around extraction zones. Industry & Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled two frozen plant-based products sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica due to possible plastic pieces.

Tourism & Air Connectivity: Costa Rica logged 1,390,842 air arrivals in Jan–May 2026, up 9.4% year-on-year, with total entries (land/sea included) reaching about 1.5 million—its strongest start on record, driven by better flight access and diversified source markets. Infrastructure & Logistics: The Comptroller General approved the central stretch of Route 35 to San Carlos, clearing a major legal hurdle for the ~30 km, four-lane highway segment (Sifón de San Ramón to La Abundancia) that should improve inland access and freight flow. Mining Security: President Laura Fernández was evacuated after a loud blast during a Crucitas visit tied to illegal gold mining; authorities are still investigating the source, with officials using the incident to spotlight the security crisis. Food & Consumer Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled two frozen plant-based items sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica due to possible plastic pieces. Business & Community: San José will host an International Yoga Day event at La Casa del Cuño (Antigua Aduana), open to the public with registration. Legal Services: A Costa Rican law firm was selected to lead an Intellectual Property practice group within a global alliance of independent firms.

Tourism Surge: Costa Rica logged 1,390,842 air arrivals in Jan–May 2026, up 9.4% year-on-year, with overall entries topping about 1.5 million when land/sea crossings are included—fuelled by better air connectivity and diversified source markets. Infrastructure Watch: The Comptroller General approved the central segment of Route 35 to San Carlos, clearing a key legal hurdle for CHEC to build nearly 30 km of four-lane highway linking the Central Valley to the Northern Zone. Security & Mining: President Laura Fernández was evacuated after a loud blast during a Crucitas visit tied to illegal gold mining; authorities are still determining the cause. Legal/Business Services: A Costa Rican law firm was selected to lead an Intellectual Property practice group within a global alliance, signaling growing regional clout for cross-border IP work. Food Safety: MorningStar Farms recalled two frozen plant-based products sold in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica due to possible plastic pieces. Trade & Agriculture: PROCOMER highlights Costa Rica strengthening its Asia push with value-added food products in South Korea. Circular Economy: Coverage spotlights Costa Rica’s circular economy as a “million-dollar opportunity” in waste management and reuse.