Costa Rica confirmed its potential and leadership in the global meetings industry at IBTM World 2025
Fourteen Costa Rican companies specializing in meetings tourism demonstrated the growth of our country in organizing high-level international events
Costa Rica participated in the IBTM World 2025 international trade show, held at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via venue from November 18-20. Our country stood out as one of the most attractive, competitive, and fastest-growing destinations with the greatest potential for hosting international MICE events.
During the show, B2B meetings were held with specialized international buyers interested in including Costa Rica in their future planning for congresses, conventions, and incentive trips.
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) , the Costa Rica Convention Bureau (CRCVB) , and 14 Costa Rican tourism companies from the sector implemented a strategic agenda aimed at strengthening business opportunities and positioning the country as a sustainable, innovative, and high-value destination for hosting international events.
“Costa Rica successfully concluded its participation in the last international meetings tourism trade show of the year, with more than 2,650 buyers and over 15,000 professional attendees. The Costa Rican delegation generated high-value opportunities that will strengthen the event calendar for 2026. This has been an extremely positive year for the development of the meetings industry in the country.” Rafael Quesada, Head of the Promotion and Specialized Segments Department.
“Today we conclude our participation, positioning Costa Rica as a strategic destination for meetings, events, and conventions. Together with the private sector and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), we will continue to implement a solid international promotion strategy with a view to 2026, strengthening the country's leadership in the region.” Tatiana Orozco, Executive Director of the Costa Rica Convention Bureau.
Global Modernization of the MICE Segment.
This year, IBTM World 2025 embraced new technologies that optimize the attendee experience and developed an academic program focused on inclusion, diversity, and culture as key elements for business transformation and the growth of the global meetings industry. Costa Rica reinforced its commitment to sustainability and excellence, highlighting its specialized offerings, high-quality infrastructure, and the country's natural beauty, solidifying its image as a destination where business and nature converge in harmony.
The national participation concluded with very positive results, reflected in a significant increase in the number of business appointments, inquiries, and commercial opportunities managed by the Costa Rica Convention Bureau.
According to data collected by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), the meetings industry represents more than 20% of global tourism, and participants have high purchasing power, spending three to four times more than traditional tourists. The national pavilion featured a 72-square-meter stand and hosted the following specialized companies: El Mangroove Autograph Collection, Amstar DMC, Costa Rica Convention Bureau, Costa Rica Convention Center, Costa Rica Top Tours, Travel Excellence, Marriott Hotels Costa Rica, CAST Central America, Hotel San Bada Manuel Antonio, The Westin Reserva Conchal, W Costa Rica, Green World Adventures, TAM DMC, Costa Rica DMC, ST Costa Rica DMC, and Parador Nature Resort & Spa.
Source: ICT.