Costa Ricans Split On Free Trade Agreement
Adults in Costa Rica are divided over the benefits of an international commerce agreement, according to a poll by Universidad Nacional. 41 per cent of respondents support the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), while 38 per cent are opposed.

In May 2004, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua agreed to the trade deal with the United States. The Dominican Republic followed suit in August. The agreement - which would reduce or eliminate taxes and tariffs on imports - still has to be approved by each country’s legislative branch.

Costa Rican president Abel Pacheco has postponed debate on the trade deal until the National Congress approves a series of bills related to the country’s fiscal (tax) system. Public support for the agreement fell by 16 per cent since 2004.


Polling Data

Do you support or oppose the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA)?

Source: Universidad Nacional
Methodology: Interviews to 600 Costa Rican adults, conducted from Mar. 30 to Apr. 7, 2004. Margin of error is 4 per cent.