Yes, purchasing Everclear (190-proof ethanol) is legal in Costa Rica but strictly controlled under Ley 9047 (Ley de Estupefacientes, Sustancias Psicotrópicas y Drogas de Uso No Autorizado) and Decreto Ejecutivo 42770-MP-S-MINAE. The Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud) and the Consejo Nacional de Drogas regulate its sale, requiring permits for commercial use. Personal importation is permitted in limited quantities (≤1L) for scientific or industrial purposes, but recreational use remains prohibited.
Key Regulations for Purchasing Everclear in Costa Rica
- Permit Requirement: Commercial or bulk purchases demand a Permiso Sanitario de Funcionamiento from the Ministry of Health, with ethanol content declarations.
- Quantity Limits: Individuals may import ≤1L for personal use; larger quantities trigger customs scrutiny under Ley 9047.
- Purpose Restrictions: Only licensed entities (e.g., laboratories, pharmaceuticals) may purchase Everclear for approved industrial or medical applications. Recreational use is criminalized under Código Penal (Art. 77).
Local enforcement has intensified since 2024 due to rising methanol poisoning cases linked to unregulated ethanol. The Fiscalía de Delitos Complejos prioritizes illegal distribution networks. Travelers should declare Everclear at customs; failure to do so may result in confiscation or fines. For legal purchases, consult the Dirección de Salud Ambiental for updated compliance guidelines.