The political system is represented by three powers, which are: The Executive Power, the Legislative Power and the Judicial Power. The Elections Supreme Court is considered the fourth power of the Republic. Every four years national elections are carried out. Among other positions of popular representation, the President of the Republic is elected through direct representation by secret ballot.

In its 2004 World Investment Report, the UNCTAD classified Costa Rica in 3rd place in Latin America in the reception of FDI per capita.

Main Exports

Electronic components, textiles, bananas, coffee, sugar, medical equipment, pineapples, ornamental plants & foliage, fish and seafood, processed foods.

According to the United Nation’s Human Development Index (HDI) for 2002, Costa Rica is placed in 45th position and in the HDI ratings among developing nations Costa Rica is ranked 4th.