I have lived here for 11 years and love it. But I have never understood the rational of Costa Rica's import taxes. They charge 40 to75% tax on almost all imported items. And this includes some of the highest taxes being on items they do not or cannot produce in country. Therefore, often it is not a tax on items that would be competing with locally produced items. And now they are worried that Trump might impose a 35% tax on items coming from Costa Rica to the USA!
And I know that the high import taxes are their way of generating much of their revenue, but as is so often the case, especially in Latin countries, it is a tax designed to benefit the rich the most (they do not pay nearly as much in taxes as they would have to if the government was more dependent on other forms of taxes (income or business taxes). And it keeps the poor "down" and makes it almost impossible for them to buy many imported items. And everyone, whether they are living on minimum wage (often less than $100 a week) or make $1000 a week (or more) pays the same percentage tax when buying an imported item. A 32 inch cheap, off brand TV costs around $300 here (even in Walmart!). A car that can be bought for $20,000 in the States will cost around $35000 here.
In talking to many Ticos here it was very evident they, for the most part, were very pro Clinton! Why?? Though they seldom would say it nor admit to it, it was their fear that Trump would cut off the flow of aid, assistance, support, and giveaways to Costa Rica. They had no concept as to the real Clinton nor Trump. It was based solely on their fear of loosing the freebies!!!! And I am sure this is/was the case in most countries of the world!!
_________________
Old and retired but still bang, and bang, and bang!!!
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
Calendar
