Costa Rica’s recent decision to allow potato imports from the United States has triggered strong reactions from local producers, who fear economic and phytosanitary consequences. While officials insist the move aligns with trade norms, farmers warn it may threaten domestic harvests, undermine investment, and repeat past policy failures.
U.S. Potato Imports Stir Controversy in Costa Rica’s Agricultural Sector
In early 2025, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) authorized the import of table potatoes from the United States, sparking concern among local farmers and agribusinesses. Domestic producers, particularly in the central province of Cartago, warn that this decision could severely disrupt the local market, just as the region anticipates a promising mid-year potato harvest following severe weather-related crop losses in late 2024 and early 2025.
Kevin Gómez, Executive Director of the National Horticultural Corporation, likened the situation to the controversial “Rice Route” policy, under which domestic rice production declined following aggressive import practices. Gómez warned that U.S. imports could displace local potatoes from store shelves, triggering a speculative planting reduction and loss of seed potato reserves, both of which are critical for sustaining local production.
Market Disruption and Economic Consequences
Recent data indicates that Costa Rica consumes approximately 4,500 metric tons of potatoes annually, a volume traditionally met by local producers. However, in 2024–2025, extreme weather events—heavy rains followed by drought—reduced yields and damaged seed stocks, causing temporary supply shortages.
As a result, domestic prices rose, but industry representatives clarify this reflects scarcity, not profiteering. In fact, farmers report significant financial losses. According to testimony before the Legislative Assembly’s Agricultural Affairs Committee, potato and onion producers in Cartago alone lost ¢15 billion (~$29 million) due to ongoing import competition.
Despite this, imports continue. Farmers argue that instead of stabilizing prices, imports undermine recovery efforts by flooding the market and pushing down prices just as local harvests resume.
Phytosanitary and Biosecurity Concerns
Another major issue raised by growers is phytosanitary risk. Although the State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) claims that strict guidelines govern imports from the U.S., including documentation and treatment protocols, producers are skeptical.
A specific concern is zebra chip disease, caused by Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum and transmitted by psyllids, which has devastated potato crops in parts of North America. While anti-sprouting treatments are standard, experts warn these do not eliminate the risk of zebra chip infection—a pathogen not currently established in Costa Rica.
The potential introduction of such a disease could lead to long-term damage to Costa Rica’s potato sector, with consequences far outweighing short-term supply needs.
Policy and Producer Perspectives
Costa Rica’s Minister of Agriculture, Víctor Carvajal, defended the decision, stating it followed established trade protocols and was “not arbitrary.” However, the National Chamber of Agriculture and Agroindustry (CNAA) responded critically, warning that reliance on imports to manage short-term shortages sets a dangerous precedent and weakens food sovereignty.
With growers already battling high input costs, climate variability, and disease pressure, additional competition from foreign imports may reduce the incentive to invest in local production, risking a long-term decline in domestic capacity.
Costa Rica’s authorization of U.S. potato imports reveals a deep tension between trade liberalization and agricultural sustainability. While officials emphasize trade obligations and consumer price stability, domestic producers highlight the economic, environmental, and biosecurity risks of prioritizing imports over recovery. A balanced approach—prioritizing local resilience while managing short-term supply issues—is essential to ensure the future of Costa Rican potato farming.
