Costa Rican farmer Enith Rojas throws a pineapple for export at a plantation in Pital of San Carlos, March 19, 2004. (Juan Carlos Ulate/Reuters)

China and Costa Rica move toward free trade agreement

China wants ties in the region, Costa Rica wants Chinese goods. But not everyone's pleased.

By Alex Leff , GlobalPost
Published: November 7, 2009 11:01 ET

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica — Jorge Vilarrasa's grandfather left Spain 50 years ago to start a wood production company. His business became a regional leader recognized for its forest conservation practices and eco-friendly plywood. 



"During our best times we were producing 2,000 cubic meters per month and we employed 400 people," boasted Vilarrasa, the company's...

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