San José, Costa Rica — In a move reflecting a commitment to technological advancement, Costa Rica is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to modernize its public services and enhance workforce skills. A recent report from the country’s economic development agency, Procomer, revealed that 76% of Costa Rican companies are utilizing generative AI tools, with 33% developing solutions based on this technology. The survey, which included 86 companies, found that 37% engage in formal AI activities, encompassing machine learning, intelligent digital agents, and natural language processing.
The outgoing administration of President Rodrigo Chaves, who will leave office in May, launched its first AI strategy in 2024. This initiative aims to establish ethical frameworks for AI regulation, upskill the population for responsible AI usage, improve public sector services through AI, and promote research and development across various sectors. Minister of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications, Paula Bogantes Zamora, emphasized the government’s commitment to using technology as a means to enhance Costa Rica’s global competitiveness.
“When the current administration took office, Costa Rica did not have a national roadmap in this area,” Bogantes stated. “Faced with this situation, the government designed a strategy that sets out objectives, priorities, and actions to integrate artificial intelligence across various sectors.” The focus is to ensure that AI technology brings benefits to the public sector, the productive sector, and society at large.
Costa Rica spurring talks on AI ethics in the region
In November, Costa Rica hosted the first National Dialogue on Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence, supported by the United Nations. This meeting aimed to align AI development with human rights and sustainability goals. Allegra Baiocchi, UN Resident Coordinator in Costa Rica, noted, “Artificial intelligence is the most powerful tool of our generation. We can use it to close gaps or to deepen them to unimaginable levels. It is essential that we lead by example, moving from principles to practice.”
Minister Bogantes highlighted that Costa Rica’s strategy includes strengthening data usage, enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting technological training, and cultivating AI-based solutions. The country has also brought the discussion on AI to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), seeking to assist regional countries in shaping their AI policies. “This international project aims to provide a clear assessment of each country’s progress in the field of artificial intelligence,” she explained.
Innovation plays a crucial role in Costa Rica’s technology policy, which is closely tied to its national innovation strategy. The government recognizes that innovation necessitates increased investment, improved technological infrastructure, and a culture of experimentation. To facilitate this, Costa Rica is fostering an ecosystem that encourages creativity and the development of new technological solutions.
To this end, the government has supported the establishment of innovation labs equipped with drones, 3D printers, and virtual reality tools across various regions. These centers enable collaboration with universities and communities to develop technological solutions. The agricultural sector exemplifies the success of Costa Rica’s innovation policy, with pilot projects utilizing sensors and drones to monitor and improve crop productivity.
“These initiatives optimize resources such as water, fertilizers, and sunlight, benefiting both producers and the country’s technological advancement,” Bogantes noted. The interest in AI extends to the services sector as well, with Drew Naukam, CEO of Gorilla Logic, an AI software engineering firm in Costa Rica, remarking on the increasing enthusiasm for AI across Latin America. He stated, “There is definitely a level of excitement in what the technology can unlock and how quickly it’s creating new opportunities.”
However, challenges remain for Costa Rica in terms of increasing investment in research, development, and innovation. Currently, Costa Rica allocates less than 0.3% of its Gross Domestic Product to these activities, starkly contrasted with the average of 2.7% among OECD countries. This gap underscores the need for a significant boost in resources directed toward innovation.
Despite the advancements, the rise of artificial intelligence introduces several challenges, including potential disruptions to the labor market. Automation could lead to the obsolescence of certain administrative and technical roles, compelling nations to prepare their workforces for emerging digital skills. “Against this backdrop, Costa Rica’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy seeks to balance innovation and responsibility,” Bogantes stated. The government’s agenda aims to leverage AI to enhance public services, drive economic development, and support the country’s digital transformation while ensuring that the technology yields widespread societal benefits.
As President-elect Laura Fernández Delgado prepares to take office in May, her policy outline indicates a strong focus on using AI to improve healthcare services, including predictive medicine and patient care, alongside enhancing educational and public sector efficiencies. This commitment suggests a forward-looking approach for Costa Rica, positioning the nation as a growing player in the global conversation on artificial intelligence.
See also
OpenAI’s Rogue AI Safeguards: Decoding the 2025 Safety Revolution
US AI Developments in 2025 Set Stage for 2026 Compliance Challenges and Strategies
Trump Drafts Executive Order to Block State AI Regulations, Centralizing Authority Under Federal Control
California Court Rules AI Misuse Heightens Lawyer’s Responsibilities in Noland Case
Policymakers Urged to Establish Comprehensive Regulations for AI in Mental Health
