Talks between Costa Rica and South Korea to sign a free trade agreement have stalled due to resistance from both parties to open their markets to key products in which they have greater advantages.
Costa Rican businesses in machinery, tires, plastic, chemical, and electrical are in favor of keeping import tariffs against competitors in South Korea. While the Koreans have demanded Costa Rican pork be excluded from free trade, according to Renato Alvarado, president of the association of pig breeders.
The countries have already held four rounds of negotiations. The fifth meeting is scheduled on August. Negotiators hope to conclude discussions in November.
Another point of contention has been South Korea pursuit of a free trade agreements with all Central American countries.
Source: La Nación.