The rising trend of raw materials’ international prices threatens the production costs for Costa Rican companies that produce chicken, eggs, pork and milk.
These markets are facing volatility. Some of the prices fell last week, but the first half of 2016 has seen a generally upward trend: the cost of corn production rose 13%, and soybean and sugar’s price increased 34% and 31% respectively.
In addition, oil prices have also increased. This affects transportation costs, which increased 42% in this period. The value of wheat, however, remains more stable.
According to local businessmen, this increase is explained by supply and demand elements. Others, however, ascribe the problem to speculation and the colon’s devaluation against the dollar.