(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most decided voters in Costa Rica will support the implementation of a commerce deal with the United States, the Dominican Republic and other Central American nations, according to a poll by Unimer published in La Nación. 56 per cent of respondents would vote "Yes" in the referendum to ratify the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), up 4.5 points since July.

In May 2004, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua agreed to the CAFTA with the U.S. The Dominican Republic followed suit in August. The agreement—which would reduce or eliminate taxes and tariffs on imports—must be approved by each country’s legislative branch. To date, Costa Rica remains the only country that has not ratified the CAFTA.

Óscar Arias—a member of the National Liberation Party (PLN)—won the February 2006 presidential election with 40.92 per cent of all cast ballots. He was sworn in as president for the second time in May 2006. Arias supports the CAFTA but promised to put its ratification to a nationwide vote. The plebiscite—which can only be binding if at least 40 per cent of all registered voters take part—is scheduled for Oct. 7.

On Aug. 14, Costa Rica’s mayors submitted a joint letter to Arias, expressing their support for the trade deal. At a meeting with the mayors, Arias said the deal is necessary but not sufficient, adding, "The agreement does not replace the investment we are making in improving public education, but does allow that effort to translate into better opportunities for young people."

Polling Data

How would you vote on the referendum to ratify the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA)?

(Decided Voters)

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