Costa Rica Records Wider Merchandise Trade Shortfall
Costa Rica's merchandise trade shortfall accumulated to US$2.90 billion during January through September 2026. September alone contributed about US$502 million, exceeding August's gap, while exports to North America dropped 2% in the first eight months. Total goods exports for January-August rose 4% to US$15.68 billion.
Costa Rica’s central bank compiles the cumulative goods balance from customs data, adjusting for third-party processing and maintenance/repair work; the series is preliminary and labeled FUES. The running deficit moved from about US$1.96 billion through July to US$2.40 billion through August and US$2.90 billion through September.
North America absorbed 48% of Costa Rican goods exports in January–August, though those shipments slipped 2%. Overall goods exports still increased 4% to US$15.68 billion in that period. A 12.5% US tariff has covered some Costa Rican products since 24 July.
The wider deficit may signal that households and businesses are purchasing more imported goods than domestic producers sell abroad, which could pressure exporters and jobs tied to overseas sales. Consumers may face higher prices where the 12.5% US tariff affects specific products, while travellers and investors could watch exchange-rate and demand conditions. Because the figures are preliminary, the practical effects may become clearer as September export details and later central-bank data arrive.