Costa Rica

On October 19, 2026, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Finance (Hacienda) announced a new regulatory requirement mandating that all businesses register the Sinpe Movil mobile payment numbers used to receive commercial payments. The measure, administered by the General Directorate of Taxation (Direccion General de Tributacion), aims to enhance transaction traceability, combat tax evasion, and modernize the

As of 5 October 2026, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Finance reported a significant deterioration in public finances, with the financial deficit expanding due to a combination of rising government expenditure and a sharp decline in tax revenues. According to official data, total tax collection fell notably in the first nine months of 2026 compared to

On 22 September 2026, Costa Rica and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen customs cooperation, aiming to improve security and control of international trade. The agreement facilitates information exchange, joint risk management, and coordinated enforcement actions against illicit trade, including tax evasion and smuggling. This collaboration aligns with World Customs Organization

On 12 August 2026, the Costa Rican Ministry of Finance (Ministerio de Hacienda) released an official report (CP41-CIFRAS_A_JUNIO_2026) demonstrating that intensified efforts against tax evasion and smuggling have significantly strengthened public finances. The publication presents cumulative figures through June 2026, highlighting the direct correlation between enforcement actions and improved fiscal outcomes. The report underscores the

On 11 August 2026, the National Customs Service (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas) announced the launch of an electronic auction for seized merchandise to be held during August 2026. This initiative modernizes the disposal of confiscated goods, replacing traditional physical auctions with a transparent, accessible digital platform. The move aligns with the broader “Aduana Fácil” strategy

On 10 August 2026, the Fiscal Control Police (Policía de Control Fiscal – PCF) executed a major operation in the southern zone of Costa Rica, resulting in the seizure of 2.2 million cigarettes destined for the illicit market. This operation forms part of a sustained national strategy to combat cigarette smuggling, which undermines tax revenues,

On 7 August 2026, the Ministry of Finance disclosed that in a mere three-month period, the Fiscal Control Police increased seizures by 58% compared to the prior period and filed 15 criminal complaints (denuncias penales) against individuals and entities involved in tax evasion and smuggling. This announcement (CP38-2026) highlights the accelerating pace of enforcement actions