On Sunday over 100,000 protesters gathered in downtown San Jose, to protest the Tratado de Libre Comercio (TLC), the free trade deal with the United States.  With just under a week now until the referendum (October 7th), thousands gathered to have their voice heard. 

With a country of only 4 million people this was a huge demonstration.  Many dressed in skeletons or as President Bush and shouted against the TLC.  The general consensuses of those that are opposed believe Costa Ricans will lose their jobs and the country would be flooded with cheap farm goods.   Many believe that Costa Rica should have some accord with the states but does not want to ¨sell¨ the country. 

The Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) also includes Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic.  Costa Rica is the only country who has yet to ratify the agreement and is the only country to hold a referendum. 

The country is almost split right down the center on the issue.  The pro side of the debate says that TLC will bring investment and jobs. 

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Filed under: Costa Rica News on October 1st, 2007