The United States and Costa Rica have a strong trade relationship, with billions of dollars worth of goods exchanged each year. Let’s explore the top 10 products that these two countries trade, along with some interesting facts and figures.
1. Medical Instruments
Medical instruments are the star of the show when it comes to trade between the USA and Costa Rica. Both countries export these high-tech devices to each other.
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2023, Costa Rica sent $3.52 billion worth of medical instruments to the USA.
- This makes it the top export from Costa Rica to the United States.
USA to Costa Rica:
- The USA exported $582 million in medical instruments to Costa Rica in 2023.
- It’s the second-largest export from the USA to Costa Rica.
These numbers show how important the medical industry is for both countries. Costa Rica has become a major producer of medical devices, while the USA continues to be a leader in medical technology.
2. Refined Petroleum
Refined petroleum is a crucial export from the United States to Costa Rica.
USA to Costa Rica:
- In 2023, the USA exported $1.98 billion worth of refined petroleum to Costa Rica.
- This makes it the top export from the USA to Costa Rica.
- The amount of refined petroleum exported has grown a lot in recent years.
Costa Rica relies heavily on the USA for its petroleum needs. This trade helps keep Costa Rica’s transportation and energy sectors running smoothly.
3. Electronic Equipment
Electronic equipment, including computers and broadcasting equipment, is a big part of the trade between these two countries.
USA to Costa Rica:
- The USA exported $254 million worth of broadcasting equipment to Costa Rica in 2023.
- Computers were also a significant export, with $203 million worth sent to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica to USA:
- Costa Rica exported $894 million worth of integrated circuits to the USA in 2023.
- In 2024, electrical and electronic equipment exports from Costa Rica to the USA reached $1.72 billion.
This trade in electronic equipment shows how both countries are important players in the global technology market.
4. Fruits and Vegetables
Costa Rica is famous for its delicious tropical fruits, and the USA is a big fan!
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2023, Costa Rica exported $1.1 billion worth of fruits to the USA.
- Tropical fruits like bananas and pineapples are especially popular.
- Costa Rica also sent $180 million worth of vegetables to the USA.
USA to Costa Rica:
- While not as large, the USA does export some fruits and vegetables to Costa Rica.
- This includes products that might not grow well in Costa Rica’s tropical climate.
This trade helps ensure that people in both countries can enjoy a wide variety of fresh produce year-round.
5. Orthopedic Appliances
Orthopedic appliances, which help people with bone and muscle problems, are another important trade item.
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2023, Costa Rica exported $1.17 billion worth of orthopedic appliances to the USA.
- This makes it the second-largest export from Costa Rica to the United States.
This trade shows Costa Rica’s growing expertise in medical technology and manufacturing.
6. Coffee and Spices
Costa Rica is world-famous for its coffee, and the USA is a big buyer.
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2023, Costa Rica exported $173 million worth of coffee, tea, mate, and spices to the USA.
- Costa Rican coffee is known for its high quality and unique flavors.
This trade not only satisfies American coffee lovers but also supports many small farmers in Costa Rica.
7. Plastics and Rubber Products
Plastics and rubber products are traded in both directions between the USA and Costa Rica.
USA to Costa Rica:
- In 2023, the USA exported significant amounts of plastics and rubber products to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2024, Costa Rica exported $235 million worth of rubber products to the USA.
- Plastic exports from Costa Rica to the USA reached $156 million in the same year.
This trade supports manufacturing and construction industries in both countries.
8. Processed Foods
Both countries exchange various processed foods, catering to different tastes and preferences.
USA to Costa Rica:
- In 2023, the USA exported $557 million worth of processed foods to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica to USA:
- Costa Rica sent $111 million worth of vegetable, fruit, and nut food preparations to the USA in 2023.
This trade allows people in both countries to enjoy a wide variety of foods from different cultures.
9. Chemicals
Chemicals are an important export from the USA to Costa Rica.
USA to Costa Rica:
- In 2023, the USA exported $728 million worth of chemicals to Costa Rica.
These chemicals are used in various industries in Costa Rica, from agriculture to manufacturing.
10. Optical and Photographic Equipment
Optical and photographic equipment is a growing area of trade between the two countries.
Costa Rica to USA:
- In 2024, Costa Rica exported $5.81 billion worth of optical, photo, technical, and medical apparatus to the USA.
This category includes a wide range of high-tech products, showing Costa Rica’s increasing role in advanced manufacturing.