RECOPE

RECOPE, also known as the Refinadora Costarricense de Petróleo, is the state-owned enterprise responsible for the importation, refining, storage, and distribution of petroleum products in Costa Rica. Its primary activity involves processing crude oil at the Limón refinery to produce fuels such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and liquefied petroleum gas for domestic consumption. The organization also manages the logistics of importing refined products when refining capacity is insufficient and operates a network of storage terminals and service stations across the country. By supplying fuels to transportation, industry, and residential sectors, RECOPE plays a central role in maintaining Costa Rica’s energy security and supporting economic activity. Its market is essentially the national market, serving both public and private consumers throughout the territory. The entity operates under the oversight of the Costa Rican government and aligns its operations with national energy policy objectives.

RECOPE’s scale is defined by its status as the sole state-operated refinery in the country, giving it a unique position in the national fuel supply chain. While specific production volumes or employee numbers are not provided in the source material, the organization’s operational footprint includes the Limón refinery complex, associated storage facilities, and a distribution network that reaches all provinces. A distinguishing attribute is its mandate to ensure continuity of fuel supply even under adverse conditions, as demonstrated during the November 2024 ransomware attack when manual processes were employed to service over 200 fuel trucks and extend terminal hours. This incident highlighted RECOPE’s role as critical public infrastructure and its coordination with national cybersecurity authorities and international experts during crisis response. Structurally, RECOPE is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Costa Rican state, reporting to the Ministry of Environment and Energy or an equivalent governmental body, and operates without private shareholders. Its public ownership underscores its responsibility to serve the national interest rather than commercial profit motives.