Investment in science and technology amounted to 2.41% of GDP in Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Dec. 8 (EFE). – Investment in science and technology in Costa Rica reached 2.41% of GDP in 2021, which is an increase compared to 2020 when the figure was 2.17% of GDP.

This is detailed in the Eleventh Report on National Indicators for Science, Technology and Innovation, presented Thursday by the Costa Rican government.

“The investment that the state makes in scientific activities, specifically in research and development, shows the importance of a country like ours linking the academic, public and private sectors so that knowledge generation fosters an economy that encourages inclusion and development,” said Minister of Science, Innovation, Technology and Communications Carlos Alvarado. Digital and regional vision, in light of the country’s intense competition.

The report notes that in 2021, Costa Rica invested $1,411.6 million in scientific and technological activities, while in 2020 the figure was $1,291.4 million.

These investments cover areas such as scientific and technological education and training, scientific and technological services, and research and experimental development.

Of the total for 2021, the private sector contributed $58.8 million, the academic sector $733 million, and the public sector $619.8 million.

In the field of research and development, investment in 2021 amounted to $ 185 million, equivalent to 0.32% of the gross domestic product, and includes what is allocated by the academic, public and private sectors, as well as non-profit organizations for experimental business development. Or theoretical work to obtain new knowledge.

Other data disclosed in the report showed that in 2021, Costa Rica had 1,614 full-time researchers, of whom 505 were women and 643 were men.

This means that compared to 2020, there has been a 4.5% increase in the number of researchers.

In addition, the report details that in 2021 more than three thousand research and development projects were developed in the academic sector, the public sector, and non-profit organizations.

The report also specified that in 2021, as a result of the covid-19 pandemic, companies increased their connectivity through optical fibers, in addition to computer security measures. EFE

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