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Chinese Goods Receive Mixed Opinions in Costa Rica

Costa Rica News

Chinese-made products are generally cheap and popular in Costa Rica, but locals have mixed opinions.

Many Costa Rican consumers say that Chinese products are in big demand because of their affordability.

Electronics, refrigerators, toys, cars, clothing, food and furniture are among the broad range of Chinese products filling Costa Rican stores.

Durability and low prices attract many to Chinese-made decorations and utensils.

However, Chinese products have a dubious image in this Central American country. Many locals doubt they're quality and durability.

Maria Vargas, director of foreign trade at the Foreign Businesses and Exporters Representatives Chamber, told Xinhua that Costa Rican importers are to be blamed for the problem, saying when Costa Rican businessmen go to China to seek construction equipment -- tiles, finished goods, steel, as well as medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and televisions, they choose not to buy those of higher value and better quality.

In 2006, Costa Rica imported a total of 400 million U.S. dollars of Chinese goods.