U.S. Dairy Imports Surge in Costa Rica
The value of U.S. dairy products entering Costa Rica grew by 69% through August 2026 following tariff changes.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Organic Food
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Costa Rica imported $66.4 million in United States dairy products between January and August 2026. This reflects a 69% increase in import value compared to the same period in 2024, driven by tariff-free trade policies.
Why it matters
The surge in imported dairy products is affecting the local Costa Rican market, where domestic producers report increased competition and reduced demand for locally sourced milk. These shifts follow the elimination of tariffs on these goods in 2025.
Official trade data shows $66.4 million in dairy imports from January to August 2026, marking a 69% increase versus the same period in 2024. The long-term effect on domestic production capacity remains under investigation.
The players
Senasa
The Costa Rican regulatory agency responsible for authorizing foreign dairy plants to export into the country.
Cooperativa Dos Pinos
A major Costa Rican dairy processor that collects 1.3 million litres of milk daily.
The details
Cheese currently accounts for 75% of the total value of United States dairy imports, with mozzarella making up nearly two of every three kilograms of that cheese. Trade is supported by the DR-CAFTA agreement, which enabled a 0% tariff on these imports starting January 1, 2025. Additionally, a faster registration process for United States dairy plants, implemented by Senasa in May 2025, has streamlined the volume of products entering the market.
Timeline
January 1, 2009: Costa Rica joined the DR-CAFTA trade pact.
January 1, 2025: Dairy products began entering Costa Rica at 0% tariffs.
May 2025: Costa Rica approved the first dairy plant via a faster registration process.
January to August 2026: United States dairy imports to Costa Rica totaled $66.4 million.
Health Landscape
The current influx of dairy products follows the evolution of regional trade agreements under the DR-CAFTA trade pact. These changes represent a broader shift in how domestic food supply chains interact with international markets.
Readers in Costa Rica may notice shifts in the availability and variety of dairy products in local markets as import volumes rise. It is worth monitoring product labels to understand the origin of dairy goods and discussing dietary sourcing preferences with a nutritionist.
The takeaway
The rise in imported dairy highlights a significant shift in food availability driven by international trade agreements. Keep an eye on local food supply reports if you prioritize domestic products in your daily diet.
Further reading
For more on food sourcing and quality, visit the Organic Food section.
Live Poll
Do you believe free trade agreements provide more benefit than harm to local farmers in your area?
