Investment Rating - The report evaluates Costa Rica's One-Stop Shop for Investment (VUI) as a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the country's investment climate through simplification and digitalization of business setup procedures [30][40]. Core Insights - The VUI is designed to centralize and streamline the procedures necessary for establishing a business in Costa Rica, originally focusing on free trade zone procedures but now encompassing all types of businesses [30][43]. - The initiative aims to improve Costa Rica's competitiveness by eliminating regulatory barriers, reducing processing times, and enhancing transparency for investors [44][40]. - The report highlights the importance of strong political commitment and proactive leadership from PROCOMER in driving the VUI's development and effectiveness [33][40]. - Despite progress, challenges remain in coordination between PROCOMER and the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce (MEIC), particularly in aligning regulatory strategies [34][40]. - The VUI has made strides in digitalization, but not all processes are fully end-to-end digital, with low adoption of digital signatures and an underdeveloped inspection platform [35][40]. - Recommendations include improving coordination with MEIC, establishing formal mechanisms for collaboration, and enhancing user-centric approaches to simplify the business setup journey [36][40]. Summary by Sections 1. The One-Stop Shop for Investment in Costa Rica - The VUI is an inter-institutional initiative led by PROCOMER to simplify and digitize business setup procedures [30][43]. - The initiative has evolved from focusing solely on free trade zones to encompassing all business types, reflecting its growing demand [30][43]. 2. Comparative Analysis on Best Regulatory Practices - The report assesses the VUI against OECD principles, identifying strengths in political commitment and regulatory foundation while noting areas for improvement in coordination and stakeholder engagement [33][34]. 3. Analysis of the Level of Simplification and Digitalization of Procedures - The VUI has implemented essential digital tools, including a procedures registry and payment engine, but faces challenges in achieving full digital integration [35][40]. - The report outlines the need for increased adoption of digital signatures and further development of the inspection platform to enhance the user experience [35][40]. 4. Assessment and Recommendations - To maximize the VUI's impact, the report recommends enhancing coordination with MEIC, establishing clear performance indicators, and increasing efforts to promote the platform among businesses [36][40]. - Strategic planning and systematic public consultation mechanisms are essential for continuous improvement and stakeholder satisfaction [38][40].