🇨🇷 Costa Rica vs 🇲🇽 Mexico Tariffs — Import Duty Comparison (2026)

🇨🇷

Costa Rica

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementCAFTA-DR

Trade Volume$18B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇲🇽

Mexico

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementUSMCA

Trade Volume$779B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇨🇷 Costa Rica Advantages

+Unique export categories: Medical devices, Bananas, Pineapples

🇲🇽 Mexico Advantages

+Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $18B)
+Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Auto parts, Computers

Comparing import tariffs between Costa Rica and Mexico reveals key differences that can significantly impact landed costs for US importers.

Both countries face the same base tariff rate of 10% on most goods entering the United States.

These countries have largely distinct export profiles to the United States, serving different market segments.

In terms of trade volume, Costa Rica accounts for approximately $18B in bilateral trade with the US, compared to Mexico's $779B.

Both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026, following the Supreme Court's ruling striking down IEEPA tariffs. This rate expires approximately July 24, 2026 unless Congress extends it.

Costa Rica's advantages include: Unique export categories: Medical devices, Bananas, Pineapples. Mexico's advantages include: Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $18B); Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Auto parts, Computers.

With equivalent base tariff rates, the choice between Costa Rica and Mexico depends primarily on product-specific duties, shipping costs, lead times, and supply chain considerations rather than the base tariff rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has lower tariffs — Costa Rica or Mexico?

Both countries face the same base Section 122 tariff of 10%. The difference comes from product-specific duties, Section 301 (China only), and Section 232 (metals).

Should I switch sourcing from Costa Rica to Mexico?

The decision depends on more than tariff rates. Consider total landed cost (shipping, insurance, customs fees), lead times, quality standards, minimum order quantities, and supply chain reliability. With equivalent base rates, focus on non-tariff factors.

Do both Costa Rica and Mexico face the same Section 122 tariff?

Yes, both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026. This flat rate replaced the variable IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court. It expires approximately July 24, 2026.

What products overlap between Costa Rica and Mexico exports to the US?

Both countries export various products to the US. Costa Rica has total bilateral trade of ~$18B while Mexico has ~$779B.