The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE), a non-profit, apolitical organization in charge of attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Costa Rica, received the presidential candidate of PAC, Carlos Alvarado, the vice-presidential candidate, Epsy Campbell, and other members of his work and communication team to discuss topics related to the country’s competitiveness, which are key for attracting FDI and generating employment.

During the meeting, just like the last one held with representatives of Restauración Nacional, Fabricio Alvarado and his team, three strategic axes were identified that need to be strengthened in the next administration to continue generating quality employment in the multinational sector.

The first theme was the opportunity to promote a transformation of the education system in Costa Rica with key actions in the promotion of multilingualism and the preparation of more professionals in areas of high technical and professional demand, with an active role of INA, the Ministry of Education and the national academy. The second axis of dialogue was the development of capacities in communities outside the Greater Metropolitan Area to attract investment and generate employment in those areas; and finally, the third axis was focused on necessary projects to improve competitiveness in infrastructure areas, electricity costs and updating the national legislation.

Luis Gamboa, President of the Board of Directors of CINDE, commented: “The approaches that CINDE maintained with both presidential candidates of the second round of elections, have the objective to present the ideas and actions required for our country to continue advancing and improving its competitiveness. We are pleased to know that both candidates expressed an interest in these issues and, above all, their commitment to work on the constant improvement of the country’s competitiveness to continue attracting foreign direct investment. As an apolitical organization, we are ready to work with the next administration and continue to attract multinational companies that generate quality jobs for Costa Ricans. “

CINDE works in the attraction of companies from strategic sectors of life sciences, corporate services and manufacturing, also carries out an aggressive strategy of developing new investment markets and sub sectors according to the country’s potential and global dynamics. The organization also supports key projects to improve the country’s investment climate.

To date, the companies supported by CINDE generate 97,584 direct and 50,056 indirect jobs. In 2017, companies supported by the organization generated 13,754 new jobs.