Costa Rica’s service exports continues to grow

October 4^th, 2012 – The Costa Rican Foreign Trade department said yesterday that Costa Rica exported $2.92 billion in services during the first semester of this year, 12% more than the same period last year.

Service exports are those related to computers and information – such as software and digital animation, amongst others; as well as professional services such as payroll services, customer service, and human resource management.

Last year, service exports were $2.59 billion during the same period.

Anabel Gonzalez, Foreign Trade Minister, explained that the export in services has become very important and has shown continued growth in the Costa Rican economy. The sector continues to grow at a 9.5% average yearly increase. In 1999, service exports were $1.68 billion, and has quickly grown since, to $4.97 billion last year.

The service sector in Costa Rica represents 32% of the country’s total exports.

Many of these companies and call centers are located in the greater San Jose area, especially Heredia and Santa Ana, where thousands are employed in the sector.