These terms can be renewed. Either regime is available to foreign or domestic investors upon application to the Ministry of Foreign Trade. Temporary entry for equipment used in construction projects, sound or film equipment used by the entertainment industry, commercial samples of a significant value, etc., can be granted temporary entry by Customs upon depositing an amount equal to the duties that would be paid if the items were imported. The amount is refunded when the item is re-exported. Pharmaceuticals, drugs, cosmetics, and some chemical products, such as solvents and precursor chemicals, require an import permit and registration in the Ministry of Health that are valid for five years.
Food products require registration when imported for the first time.
The Ministry of Agriculture requires Phytosanitary and animal health certificates. The Costa Rican importer must obtain the permits. Surgical and dental instruments and machines can be sold only to licensed importers and health professionals. There are no general requirements in Costa Rica for marking the origin of general merchandise. Although expiration dates are required to be on all food product labels, Costa Rican importers are of mixed opinion regarding their utility, and the Government of Costa Rica is inconsistent in enforcing this requirement.