Recent data on Costa Rica’s economic growth indicate that the first quarter of the year has been positive, thanks to the boost from tourism and trade.

Specifically, sources indicate that “tourism and Costa Rican goods exports marked the first months of 2026 with significant growth, while remaining the mainstays of the country’s economy amidst an international context that authorities describe as complex.”

According to figures from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), from January to March the Central American country registered a record 959,738 tourists arriving by air (8.5 % more than in the same period of 2014), marking six consecutive months of growth.

Regarding tourism, it is important to highlight that Costa Rica is home to approximately 6% of the planet’s biodiversity, making it an attractive destination for tourists, in addition to its adventure sports, volcanoes, and beaches ideal for surfing.

Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez, stated: “The current tourism and global context is extremely challenging, but it motivates us to continuously improve our product and strengthen our sustainable tourism development model.”

Regarding exports, which have boosted the economy, data from the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter (Procomer) indicates that in the first quarter of the year, sales of goods reached $3.383 billion, representing a 6 % increase compared to the same period of the previous year.

The main exported products were medical devices, with a 44 % share, mostly from US companies operating in Costa Rica; pineapples (6 %), bananas (4 %), syrups and concentrates for beverages (3 %), and coffee (2 %).

M.Pino

Source: swissinfo

(Reference image: Jorge Luis Duarte G on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Tourism and trade are pillars of Costa Rica’s economy apareció primero en Bitfinance.

The New Deforestation Rules are scheduled to come into effect on December 31 of this year for large Venezuelan cocoa and coffee producers.

This was stated by María Madrid, International Relations Officer at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for the Environment, who added that Venezuelan companies will have to comply with the country’s laws regarding not only trade but also environmental and human rights matters.

The new deforestation regulations for the import of coffee and cocoa from Venezuela were presented on Tuesday, April 21, by the UN delegation in the South American country to producers, exporters, traders, and merchants.

Madrid emphasized that “the regulations were developed after analyzing the products that have the greatest impact on deforestation, including beef, soy, timber, coffee, cocoa, rubber, and palm oil, as well as their derivatives.”

M.Pino

Source: elnacional

(Reference image source: ALEXANDRE LALLEMAND on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada EU to establish new rules for imports of Venezuelan cocoa and coffee apareció primero en Bitfinance.

This Sunday, April 12, the electoral process will take place in Peru to choose the new president, vice president, senators, representatives, and representatives to the Latin American Parliament, with 27,325,432 registered voters.

In the general elections for the next five years, according to Bloomberg Linea, Keiko Fujimori leads in voter intention with 15 %; followed by comedian Carlos Álvarez with 8 %; in third place is Rafael López Aliaga with 7 %; and finally, businessman and journalist Carlos Belmont with 6 %.

Through its website, the Jurado Nacional Electoral has published all the relevant regulations for these elections and the schedule, which shows April 12 for the first round and June 7 for the second round.

More information about this electoral process and what to expect for the next presidential term in the South American nation can be found on the official website of the Government of Peru: https://www.gob.pe/.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Parlamento Andino (@parlamentoandino)

M.Pino

(Reference image source: Element5 Digital on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Peru holds general elections this Sunday, April 12 apareció primero en Bitfinance.

During the legislative elections in Colombia, held on Sunday, March 8, Petro’s party won 25 seats in Congress, thus strengthening the Historical Pact party, led by current President Gustavo Petro, in the Senate.

The results indicate that the Democratic Center, “driven by the leadership of former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez and a closed list system, grew from 13 to 17 seats, although falling short of expectations.”

From now on, the balance of power in Congress will depend on both alliances and internal party divisions.

The five parties with the most seats won are: Historical Pact 25; Democratic Center 17; Liberal Party 13; Conservative Party and Alliance for Colombia 11 each.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por EL TIEMPO (@eltiempo)

M.Pino

With information from CNN, other national and international media, and social media

(Reference image source: Jhonny Estrada on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Gustavo Petro’s party wins 25 seats in the Congress apareció primero en Bitfinance.

Today the world celebrates International Women’s Day. In this context, the United Nations is launching the theme: “Rights, Justice and Action for and by All Women and Girls,” to raise awareness about remaining challenges in areas such as labor rights, healthcare, equal justice, access to information and education, recognition of achievement, security, and respect.

According to the UN, “by 2026, women will only have 64 % of the legal rights that men have worldwide. In fundamental areas of life, such as work, money, security, family, property, mobility, business, and retirement, the law is systematically unfavorable to women.”

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por UN Women (@unwomen)

Women still face everything from “harmful social norms to discriminatory laws. Women and girls continue to face entrenched obstacles, and even setbacks, in achieving equality before the law. If progress continues at the current pace, it will take 286 years to close the legal protection gaps. That is not a deadline; it is a surrender.”

The UN will celebrate International Women’s Day this Monday, March 9, and will focus on “equality before the law, deliberately coinciding with the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) (March 9–19).”

This intergovernmental forum will serve as a meeting point for representatives of Member States, United Nations entities, and civil society to negotiate conclusions on the theme of “Ensuring and strengthening access to justice for all women and girls, including by promoting inclusive and equitable legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, and addressing structural barriers.”

M.Pino

Source: unwomen

(Reference image source: Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada UN celebrates the International Women’s Day apareció primero en Bitfinance.

Starting this Monday, March 9, Bancamiga opens the curtain on the Auction so that its individual and corporate clients can officially request foreign currency through Bancamiga Online.

With an innovative campaign spearheaded by Claudio Nazoa, highlighting the effectiveness of the first Masterdebit card launched in Venezuela, Bancamiga has begun a digital campaign across various media outlets to familiarize Venezuelans with this process, which is fast and secure at Bancamiga.

Under the scheme coordinated by the Central Bank of Venezuela (BCV), the foreign currency will be approved by the BCV and credited to the client’s Digital Foreign Currency Account (USD) for electronic use with any Bancamiga Debit Card or by reloading their Prepaid Foreign Currency Card.

Get ready for the auction!

Upon logging into Bancamiga Online and selecting Foreign Currency Transactions, the Private Auction option will appear. Once the client begins the steps to create the foreign currency request order, the system will automatically initiate the opening of the Digital Foreign Currency Account (USD). After accepting the terms and conditions and completing the form indicating the requested amount and exchange rate, the request is finalized.

Once the foreign currency has been allocated, the client can use it immediately by linking their Digital Foreign Currency Account (USD) to any of their Bancamiga Debit Cards or by reloading their Prepaid Foreign Currency Card to make purchases, travel, or pay for services both within and outside the country. The allocation to the USD Digital Foreign Currency Account is done through Bancamiga Online or Bancamiga Suite.

If you’re looking for convenience, freedom, and secure access to your foreign currency, Bancamiga is your best option. Get ready for the auction starting Monday.

We’re sharing the campaign video promoted by Claudio Nazoa:

Information and images provided by Bancamiga Banco Universal

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Bancamiga launches foreign currency auction apareció primero en Bitfinance.

The Venezuelan Confederation of Industries (Conindustria) recently indicated that the country’s growth this year could exceed 12 % despite certain obstacles that are slowing the economy’s momentum.

The organization referred to the “excessive” taxes, the exchange rate gap, and the lack of available foreign currency and financing as obstacles to growth. However, he highlighted that “Venezuela’s private manufacturing output increased by 5.4 % last year compared to 2024, and the industrial sector projects 12.7 % growth by 2026.”

Furthermore, production in the country increased by 6.8 % in the first quarter; 0.1 % in the second; 5.2 % in the third; and 9.5 % in the fourth quarter of last year.

Tito López, president of Conindustria, indicated that the figures obtained so far demonstrate that Venezuelan industry remains strong, “investing, producing, and generating employment.”

Regarding the investment needed to revitalize the country’s industry, López stated that $3.4 billion is required.

M.Pino

Source: notitarde

(Reference image source: Fatemeh Rezvani on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Conindustria estimates growth exceeding 12 % in Venezuela apareció primero en Bitfinance.

The elections to choose the new members of Congress in Colombia will be held on March 8. The presidential and vice-presidential elections will be held on May 31.

In this regard, the National Registrar of Civil Status, Hernán Penagos, presented the calendar for the electoral processes, with details on the start of candidate registration, the beginning and end of campaigns, and other relevant information.

“The National Registrar announced that the 2026 electoral processes will feature several innovations aimed at further increasing Colombians’ trust in the electoral process by ensuring its integrity, transparency, and full guarantees for all.”

He mentioned the implementation of “facial biometrics as a mechanism to fully validate the identity of citizens who go to the polls. The number of polling stations with facial and fingerprint biometrics will increase from 25,000 to approximately 60,000 or 65,000 to combat identity theft.”

Furthermore, the National Registrar stated: “We are going to digitize all electoral records. In the case of the presidential elections, 360,000 records will be digitized, and in the case of the congressional elections, more than 700,000 will be available to citizens so they can compare the preliminary results announced by the Registrar’s Office with the records completed by the poll workers.”

There will also be comprehensive audits of both the electoral process and the information systems, in order to guarantee the transparency of the electoral processes.

M.Pino

Source: registraduria.gov.co

(Reference image source: Element5 Digital on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Colombian elections to include technological innovation apareció primero en Bitfinance.

Opticolor, a leading Venezuelan company in visual health, announces the arrival of the 3rd edition of its emblematic 10K Race in Maracaibo, an event that is part of the sporting tradition of the Zulia capital and which this year celebrates the organization’s 27th anniversary, promoting and supporting both comprehensive health and well-being.

The health in motion event

The Opticolor 10K Race 2026 was born as a tribute to the city of Maracaibo, giving back with joy and sport for all the support shown to the company and brand. This year, more than 1,000 runners are expected to take part in a unique route designed to challenge professional athletes and motivate amateurs.

More than just a race, the event is envisioned as a “Health Fair,” featuring strategically placed entertainment points, live music, and activities for the whole family, guaranteeing a festive atmosphere from start to finish.

As we know, Maracaibo is the capital of Zulia State, located in northwestern Venezuela, and the second largest and most important city in the country. Known as “The Land of the Beloved Sun,” it stands out for its oil potential, its location on the shores of Lake Maracaibo, its attractive bridge, its distinctive gaita music culture, and the deep devotion its people have for the Virgin of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá, La Chinita.

Strategic alliance between Jagi and Opticolor

To enhance the experience and comfort of participants, this year a partnership and collaboration between Jagi Caps and Opticolor is being solidified. Thus, Jagi, a leading brand in style and dynamism, joins the wave of runners not only with brand presence but also by providing real value:

• Runner’s Kit: Many participants will receive an exclusive Jagi surprise in their kit.
• On-Route Activations: Presence at hydration stations and sensory experiences along the route.
• Awards: Special incentives for the winners, highlighting the value of perseverance.

Event fact sheet

• Event: 3rd Annual Opticolor 10K Race
• Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
• Location: Maracaibo, Zulia State (certified route)
• Participants: Over 1,000 runners
• Purpose: Opticolor anniversary celebration and promotion of visual and overall health

A successful collaboration

“At Opticolor, we believe that health is a holistic concept. We not only care for what you see, but also how you feel. This race is our way of thanking Maracaibo with a top-notch, professional event filled with the joy that characterizes us,” stated the Opticolor marketing management team, expressing their gratitude for the support and collaboration related to the event.

From Jagi Caps Venezuela, “…we continue to celebrate the action, creativity, effort, and passion of those who are moving forward; of the people who don’t fall behind, but always strive to be among those of us working to stay one step ahead.” That’s why coinciding with Opticolor and their 10K race in Maracaibo, besides being a constructive way to honor our beloved capital of Zulia state and a well-deserved birthday celebration for our partner, which we are honored to do, is also “to highlight the quality, innovation, and creativity that both companies and brands represent,” stated the Jagi communications team.

Opticolor is the leading and largest optical chain in Venezuela, operating since 1999 with more than 85 branches nationwide in the country’s main shopping centers.

More details will be released as the event date approaches.

Instagram: @Opticolor and @jagicapsve          

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Opticolor 10K Race 2026: Jagi Caps is part of this Maracaibo initiative for holistic health apareció primero en Bitfinance.

In its recent projections for 2026, the World Bank indicated that Bolivia could experience a 1.1 % contraction in its GDP.

According to the international institution, the nation could experience the steepest decline in Latin America, due in part to factors that have persisted over time, such as the dollar shortage and the decline in the hydrocarbons sector.

In its World Economic Outlook 2026 report, the World Bank also anticipates “a greater deterioration by 2027, when the Bolivian economy could contract by 1.5 percent.”

Regarding the outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean, the World Bank projects average growth of 2.3 % this year and 2.6 % in 2027, as trade flows normalize and domestic demand improves.

M.Pino

Source: xinhuanet

(Reference image source: Jakub Żerdzicki on Unsplash)

Follow our news on Google! For current, interesting, and accurate information, click here to see all the content on Bitfinance.news. You can also find us on X/Twitter and Instagram

La entrada Bolivia’s GDP could contract in 2026 apareció primero en Bitfinance.