Costa Rica Leads Business Delegation at MD&M West 2026
Costa Rica is taking bold steps towards enhancing its presence in the medical devices sector by leading its largest-ever business delegation at MD&M West 2026. This flagship global event for medical manufacturing will take place from February 3 to 5 in Anaheim, California. The Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) proudly spearheads this initiative, emphasizing the significance of connecting talent, innovation, and business opportunities.
Participating Companies and Collaborative Efforts
A remarkable total of 16 Costa Rican businesses will gather at the essential COSTA RICA booth, showcasing their unique capabilities and innovations. In addition, more than six firms are set to participate through the Walk to Show modality as part of the Country Pavilion arranged by PROCOMER. This unprecedented collaboration signifies a united front in promoting the varied strengths of Costa Rican companies within the global market.
Strengthening Costa Rica's Position in MedTech
This participation represents Costa Rica's seventh attendance at MD&M West, an esteemed event that attracts over 1,700 exhibitors and nearly 14,000 visitors from across the globe. Establishing a stronger presence in the MedTech sector will open doors for new export and investment opportunities. Costa Rica aims to enhance its reputation as a dependable, innovative, and competitive partner in the medical manufacturing landscape.
Strategic Importance of Participation
Laura López, the CEO of PROCOMER, expressed, "MD&M West is a global showcase and a key component of our strategy to promote Costa Rica's export sector and position the country to attract more foreign direct investment." This platform not only highlights the skills of the highly trained talent within the country but also frames Costa Rica as a place that delivers quality along with knowledge and innovation.
An Array of Solutions Offered
The participating Costa Rican companies boast a comprehensive portfolio of high-value solutions. These encompass electronics manufacturing, software development for medical devices, precision molds, CNC machining, and packaging. They also provide engineering consulting, quality and regulatory services, and contract manufacturing across the medical, automotive, and aerospace industries.
Engagement Beyond the Exhibition
Beyond showcasing products, Costa Rica's agenda at MD&M West 2026 includes personalized meetings with buyers, investors, and decision-makers. A special Coffee Talk session will present the country’s capabilities to leaders in the MedTech field. For the first time, the Costa Rica Medical Devices Cluster will actively engage at the event, further strengthening national coordination.
Impact on Multinational Partnerships
As highlighted by Albán Sánchez, CEO of Lantern Med Digital, PROCOMER’s Country Pavilion is pivotal in facilitating logistics and validating the quality of the Costa Rican firms in the global marketplace. This significant participation allows local companies to connect with leaders driving medical innovation.
Opportunities for Growth in Medical Manufacturing
From the viewpoint of multinational firms operating in Costa Rica, MD&M West 2026 serves as an essential opportunity to strengthen relations and showcase the diverse capabilities developed in the country. As highlighted by Octavio Matus, General Manager of Zollner Costa Rica, the event represents a strategic meeting point to combine technological excellence with a global outlook.
Trade Relations and Economic Growth
The United States remains Costa Rica's primary trading partner and the leading source of foreign direct investment. The presence of over 90 multinational MedTech companies in Costa Rica further cements this bond, with many firms either headquartered in the U.S. or serving significant clients there. Thus, MD&M West provides a natural platform to explore new opportunities and deepen connections.
Trends in Medical Device Exports
As of late 2025, Costa Rica's medical device exports reached approximately US$10.168 billion, marking an impressive 28% increase compared to the previous year. The leading export products include essential medical devices like needles, catheters, and prosthetics. Over 100 foreign direct investment companies thrive within Costa Rica's MedTech sector, showcasing its importance in the global arena.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MD&M West 2026?
MD&M West 2026 is a key global event for the medical devices and advanced manufacturing industry held in Anaheim, California.
Why is Costa Rica participating?
Costa Rica aims to highlight its capabilities in the MedTech industry and foster new business connections while showcasing its strengths in innovation.
How many companies are participating from Costa Rica?
A total of 16 companies will showcase their innovations, with more expected to participate through various modalities.
What types of solutions do Costa Rican companies offer?
They offer a range of solutions including electronics manufacturing, software development, and engineering consulting for medical devices.
How significant is Costa Rica's presence in the MedTech sector?
Costa Rica has over 90 multinational MedTech companies, showcasing its growing importance in medical manufacturing and exports.
