In a landmark move for Costa Rica’s Pacific infrastructure, the Costa Rican Institute of Pacific Ports (INCOP) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced the launch of a tender to modernize Puerto Caldera’s infrastructure and equipment. This strategic initiative aims to transform the port, enhancing Costa Rica’s maritime capabilities and establishing it as a key player in the global trade network.
Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica’s largest port on the Pacific, is essential for economic growth and national logistics. The project, set to operate under a public-private partnership (PPP), will attract a private operator responsible for financing, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining state-of-the-art facilities. This new operator will take over from the current concession holder, leading the port’s advancement to meet international standards for both efficiency and sustainability beginning in 2026.
Project Highlights
The modernization of Puerto Caldera marks a pivotal investment in Costa Rica’s economic infrastructure, designed to boost the port’s capabilities and meet the demands of modern global trade. Key components of the project include upgrades to accommodate larger vessels, expanded storage, a focus on sustainable development, and an open, competitive bidding process to attract top-tier international expertise. Here’s a closer look at the project’s main highlights:
- Enhanced Berthing for Panamax Vessels: New berthing facilities will allow Puerto Caldera to receive Panamax ships with a larger capacity than ever before, improving accessibility for larger vessels and optimizing Costa Rica’s maritime trade routes.
- Expanded Storage Capacity: To meet the increasing needs of Costa Rican trade, the project includes significant expansion of storage areas, streamlining logistics and maximizing operational efficiency.
- Commitment to ESG Standards: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are embedded in the project, ensuring that the modernization effort aligns with sustainable practices, reduces environmental impact, and addresses the needs of surrounding communities.
- Global Participation and Open Competition: The bidding process is designed to encourage participation from international firms and consortia, ensuring a competitive and transparent environment that promotes the highest standards for Puerto Caldera’s modernization.
These enhancements collectively aim to establish Puerto Caldera as a leading port in the region, driving Costa Rica’s economic growth while setting a benchmark in sustainable port management.
IFC’s Role and International Sustainability Standards
This modernization project represents Costa Rica’s first PPP initiative since 2011, with IFC’s involvement ensuring adherence to global best practices in sustainability. “This partnership will channel private capital, expertise, and innovation into modernizing Puerto Caldera, bolstering both national and regional productivity,” said Sanaa Abouzaid, IFC’s Regional Manager for Central America. With a history of managing 185 PPP projects worldwide, IFC is well-positioned to guide INCOP in creating a future-focused port that balances operational efficiency with environmental stewardship.
The implementation of IFC’s environmental and social performance standards, globally recognized for their robust framework, will help manage the project’s impacts, enhance stakeholder engagement, and maintain transparency throughout the process. These standards offer a roadmap for identifying, mitigating, and managing risks while maximizing the project’s positive outcomes for all stakeholders, from local communities to global investors.
Aliant Costa Rica: Your Partner in Puerto Caldera’s Modernization
Aliant Costa Rica is excited to present this significant investment opportunity in public infrastructure to companies interested in Costa Rica’s expanding markets. As a trusted legal advisor with a strong grasp of Costa Rican regulations and international public-private partnership (PPP) standards, we offer tailored strategies that address the unique demands of large-scale infrastructure and logistics projects like Puerto Caldera.
With expertise spanning all phases—from structuring competitive bids to meeting rigorous ESG and operational standards set by INCOP and IFC—Aliant Costa Rica is dedicated to helping clients align private investment goals with the public sector’s sustainability and efficiency mandates.
If your organization is considering participation in this pivotal project, our team at Aliant Costa Rica is ready to provide the strategic insight needed for successful involvement. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your goals in this landmark transformation.
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