Category Archives: News

Extension of the deadline for the implementation of changes to electronic invoices in Costa Rica

By means of press release CP-08-2025 dated February 11, 2025, the Ministry of Finance extends the deadline for the implementation of modifications to electronic invoices in accordance with version 4.4 until September 1st, 2025, as established in resolution MH-DGT-RES-0027-2024. This extension aims to allow taxpayers sufficient time to implement the changes to electronic invoices, which…

Creation of the First Mediation Center in Guatemala for matters related to Copyright and Related Rights

On January 24, 2025, the Intellectual Property Registry of Guatemala officially launched the Intellectual Property Registry Mediation Center, a new initiative that will be under its administration and will have the technological and technical support of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).  Initially, the center will focus on the mediation of Copyright and Related Rights,…

Tenders for Generation (PEG-5) and Transmission of Electric Energy in Guatemala

Guatemala is preparing to launch the upcoming PEG-5 bidding process, designed to add over 1,000 MW of installed capacity, with a strong focus on renewable technologies such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy. This process, set to be announced soon, will include 15-year contracts for new power plants and 5-year contracts for existing facilities,…

2025 Corporate and Tax Obligations Calendar: Costa Rica

Compliance with corporate and tax obligations is crucial for companies operating in Costa Rica. BLP’s 2025 Obligations Calendar provides an essential guide to staying on top of key legal and fiscal commitments. Adhering to current regulations helps avoid penalties, protects your company’s reputation, and ensures a strong relationship with authorities such as the Dirección General…

New SAR Requirement for the 2024 Fiscal Period in Honduras

The Tax Administration Service (SAR) has issued a new requirement that will come into effect starting with the 2024 fiscal period:  New Requirement: The “Financial Statement Report” must be submitted before the Income Tax Return Declaration.  What does the report include? • Balance Sheet • Profit and Loss Statements  Submission Deadlines: • From January 1…

BLP advised Davivienda in Scotiabank’s Acquisition in Costa Rica

In a significant move within the financial sector, BLP provided comprehensive legal counsel to Banco Davivienda during the acquisition and integration of Scotiabank’s operations in Costa Rica. This transaction, encompassing banking, insurance, and leasing businesses, highlights BLP’s expertise in navigating complex mergers and acquisitions in the region. This agreement is part of Davivienda’s strategic expansion…

2025 Labor Holiday Calendar: An Essential Resource for Business Planning

Effectively managing labor holidays is critical for any organization, especially when operating in multiple countries across Central America. For this reason, the Labor & Employment team at BLP has prepared the 2025 Labor Holiday Calendar, a comprehensive document that consolidates the official holidays for Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. This resource is…

Important Changes for Companies and Contract Signing in Costa Rica

Companies must have an email address for notifications and stamp tax for contracts is no longer required. Law 10597: Mandatory Electronic Notifications for Companies Published in Supplement 195 of La Gaceta on December 3, this reform changes the way a commercial company receives notifications: New company: New company bylaws must include a valid email address…

New Regulatory Reform in Honduras: What You Need to Know About Credit and Debit Card Transactions

The National Banking and Insurance Commission (CNBS) has introduced significant changes to Articles 5 and 20 of the Minimum Guidelines for the Prevention of Unrecognized Transactions involving debit cards, credit cards, and financing products. These reforms aim to strengthen security and transparency in financial transactions.  Key Highlights of the Reform  1.Notification to Cardholders  Financial institutions…