This Selected Issues paper examines several real sector issues, including estimates of potential output, the effect of Intel's withdrawal on gross domestic product (GDP), labor market and inequality and electricity prices in Costa Rica. The production function approach shows that the main...

The 2010 staff report for the Third and Final Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) reviews the economic performance of Costa Rica. The structural benchmarks related to the deposit insurance and bank resolution framework were delayed owing to a longer-than-expected consultation process....

Despite the oil price shock, growth has been high. Discussions focused on the policies needed to reduce Costa Rica’s vulnerabilities, enhance growth, and reduce poverty in a lasting way. Passage of a substantial tax reform is essential. To bring inflation down to low single digits, the...

This paper discusses observance of standards and codes—data Module in Costa Rica, response by the authorities, and detailed assessment using the Data Quality Assessment Framework. The assessment reveals that all statistical agencies get high marks in assurances of integrity. Macroeconomic...

This paper discusses key findings of the IMF staff report for Costa Rica for the Second Review Under the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). Performance under the SBA has remained strong. All quantitative performance criteria for end-September were met, most with considerable margins. The authorities...

This paper presents key findings of the Financial System Stability Assessment for Costa Rica. The Costa Rican financial system exhibits some immediate strengths deriving from an environment with limited historic volatility and a predominant state participation in financial intermediation....