Since its formulation in 2014, the PNGSS has been a key reference for institutions, organizations, professionals and companies in the sector, promoting principles of sustainability, health and equity in agri-food systems.
During this first decade, more than 65 entities have formalized their commitment as adherents and participated in the implementation and dissemination of the 12 strategic axes of the plan, impacting all dimensions.
However, global and national changes – including the impact of climate change, new lifestyle trends, the growth of knowledge about ancestral gastronomy, innovation with identity, cultural and migratory influences, and technological changes – demand a thorough review of the PNGCSS. The Costa Rican Gastronomy Foundation (FUCOGA) has been fulfilling the task of articulating and promoting initiatives to achieve the objectives of the PNGCSS, and today, together with Fundecooperación for Sustainable Development, has signed an alliance to promote the updating of the Plan, with the presence of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) as Honorary Witness.
Alfredo Echeverría, president of the Costa Rican Gastronomy Foundation, highlighted the importance of this new stage:
"This is a milestone that will mark a before and after in the evolution of this initiative. Our goal is to have a direct impact on agri-food systems, not only to contribute to the mitigation of climate change, but also to consolidate regenerative gastronomy that has a positive impact on society and the environment."
Marianella Feoli, Executive Director of Fundecooperación for Sustainable Development, highlighted the Plan's alignment with the national reality and its contribution to sustainable development:
"The update of the PNGCSS is a decisive step towards strengthening the productive sector and generating improvements in the quality of life of the Costa Rican population. We are pleased to be part of this alliance that promotes the growth of the gastronomic sector with a sustainable approach."
Additionally, Ireth Rodríguez, head of the vacation segment of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), reaffirmed the commitment of the tourism sector to this initiative:
"The ICT has supported this Plan since its conception and has integrated it into the development of national and international promotion strategies, so its updating and modernization in the face of future challenges is essential. Gastronomy is one of the main travel motivators for tourists and its strengthening contributes to the differentiation, positioning and competitiveness of our destination in our main issuing markets."
New adherents strengthen initiative
In addition, during the event, 11 new adherents were announced – including representatives of civil society, the private sector and local governments – who joined the initiative, reinforcing the national and inclusive nature of this update.
Finally, Alfredo Echeverría emphasized the comprehensive vision of gastronomy in the development of the country. “Gastronomy must be seen beyond the plate. It is not only a sensory experience, but a transversal axis in the life of Costa Rica, covering economic, environmental, social and health aspects. We must understand its role in the nutrition and well-being of our society.”
With this commitment, the update of the PNGCSS opens a national consultation process in 2025, allowing the construction of a shared vision that will guide the country's gastronomic development in the next decade.
Source: ICT.