Costa Rica in GVCs Introduction

The goal of this study was to provide a set of recommendations to the Costa Rican Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX) that provide guidance on improving the country's position in four value chains. These included medical devices, electronics & electrical, aerospace, and offshore services.

This introductory chapter explains the global value chain analytical framework and the methodology. Costa Rica’s institutional context is examined focusing on specific areas: trade policy, free trade zones (FTZs), business environment, human capital and key stakeholders. This chapter also explains the organization of the overall report.