About ISO
The International Sugar Organization is the unique intergovernmental body devoted to improving conditions on the world’s sugar market through Debate, Analysis, Special Studies, Transparent Statistics, Seminars, Conferences and Workshops. The proactive attitude to include ethanol from sugar crops in our activities already in the mid-90s helped to promote the increasing role of biofuels in the future energy-mix worldwide.
At its 65th Council meeting, the International Sugar Organization (ISO), headquartered in London, announced that Costa Rica will Chair the Organization for 2025, which includes hosting the 66th International Sugar Council (ISC) event and related activities, scheduled to take place from 26th May to 30th May 2025.
We look forward to welcoming you to the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica. Please take note of the following details to plan your trip and enhance your experience.
Language
The official language of the Conference is English, with French and Spanish interpretation services available.
Dress Code
Business attire is recommended for the conference sessions. For the industrial tour, comfortable and lightweight clothing is encouraged due to warm weather conditions.
Insurance
Attendees are strongly encouraged to secure travel and cancellation insurance. Ensure your policy covers personal accidents, health issues and loss of belongings, including theft or cancellation of bookings. The organizers assume no liability for such matters.
Registration Includes
- Access to the industrial tour at the LAICA Operations Center in Coyol, Alajuela
- Conference sessions featuring distinguished speakers
- Lunch TBD
- Coffee breaks and lunches during the event
- A welcome cocktail reception at the Marriott Hacienda Belén Hotel
Accommodation
We recommend staying at the Costa Rica Marriot Hacienda Belén or the AC Hotel San José Airport Belén.
Cancellation
To facilitate catering, name badge preparation, and other logistical arrangements, we kindly request that you notify us of any cancellations by May 10th, 2025
For accommodations cancellations, please contact the hotel directly. Note that all cancellations are subject to the hotel’s cancellation policy.
If you have any questions regarding registration for this invitation-only event, please contact us at: catherine@isosugar.org
Travel to Costa Rica
Costa Rica welcomes tourists from all countries. Visitors must comply with the immigration requirements established by the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners. During your stay, please adhere to the health protocols implemented by local businesses during tourist activities.
In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners (Law No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), the following documents are required for entry into Costa Rica:
- A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents must be electronically readable as per the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must remain valid for the period specified in these guidelines.
- A visa, if required under these regulations.
- Proof of financial means. Visitors must demonstrate a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred United States dollars) per month or part thereof for their legal stay in the country.
- A return ticket to the country of origin or proof of onward travel to another destination.
- No impediments to entering Costa Rican territory.
To check visa requirements for your trip to Costa Rica, visit the following resources:
- https://www.visahq.com/costa-rica/
- https://www.visitcostarica.com/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements
If you require a visa support letter, please contact the ISO team:
Accommodation
Delegates should book their accommodation directly to the hotels. The hotels will provide airport transfers upon your request.
In the beautiful city of Heredia, known for its variety of restaurants and shopping areas, you’ll find two excellent accommodation options for the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica:
The Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén: this family-friendly hotel in Belén offers an unparalleled experience, serving as the venue for the event. Located near Juan Santamaría International Airport, The San Antonio district, Britt's Coffee Tour, and Poás Volcano National Park, provides the perfect balance of convenience and luxury.
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belén: situated near Juan Santamaría Airport, this elegant hotel is an excellent choice for business or leisure travelers.
Costa Rica Marriot Hotel Hacienda Belén
Address: 700 meters west of Bridgestone/Firestone, Ribera de Belén, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 2-298-0000
BOOK NOW
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen
Address: Cityzen Epicentro Laboral y Social, La Ribera Street, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 -4036-7200
BOOK NOW
Tourism
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation -or both-, Costa Rica is the ideal destination. With over a quarter of our land dedicated to conservation, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Some of the country's top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park and Tamarindo Beach, which draw visitors from around the world. Vibrant cities also offer art, history, and entertainment. Additionally, Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is an official ‘Blue Zone’, know for its longevity due to a balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong community bonds, and integrated health care practices.
Find experiences in our beautiful country by following the links below:
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/rainforest-ecopass-6-in-1/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-tour/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/catamaran-to-tortuga-island/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-and-poas-volcano/
Event schedule
The names of speakers for various sessions will be added soon.
This agenda is subject to change.
Video: 85th Anniversary of LAICA
José Orive, Executive Director, International Sugar Organization.
Victor Carvajal, Minister of Agriculture, Costa Rica
Edgar Herrera Echandi
Speaker Nicole Bivens Collinson & Rob Johansson
Eswatini
Nontobeko Mabuza
Head of Advocacy & Stakeholder
Engagement
Eswatini Sugar Association
Egypt
TBD
Europe TBD
- Mike Levitz, Sucden
- Robert Huff, Alvean
Stone X
Eduardo Jimenez
Cargill Risk Management
Stone X
Nereo Rodriguez, Sulzer
Agustin Torroba, IICA & Panamerican Biofuels Coallition.
All the experiences
Rainforest EcoPass 6 in 1
Coffee Plantations Tour
Catamaran to Tortuga Island
Coffee Plantations and Poas Volcano
All the experiences
Rainforest EcoPass 6 in 1
Coffee Plantations Tour
Catamaran to Tortuga Island
Coffee Plantations and Poas Volcano
We look forward welcoming you to the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica. Please take note of the following details to plan your trip and enhance your experience.
Language
The official language of the Conference is English, with French and Spanish interpretation services available.
Dress Code
Business attire is recommended for the conference sessions. For the industrial tour, comfortable and lightweight clothing is encouraged due to warm weather conditions.
Insurance
Attendees are strongly encouraged to secure travel and cancellation insurance. Ensure your policy covers personal accidents, health issues and loss of belongings, including theft or cancellation of bookings. The organizers assume no liability for such matters.
Registration Includes
- Access to the industrial tour at the LAICA Operations Center in Coyol, Alajuela
- Conference sessions featuring distinguished speakers
- Lunch TBD
- Coffee breaks and lunches during the event
- A welcome cocktail reception at the Marriott Hacienda Belén Hotel
Accommodation
We recommend staying at the Costa Rica Marriot Hacienda Belén or the AC Hotel San José Airport Belén.
Cancellation
To facilitate catering, name badge preparation, and other logistical arrangements, we kindly request that you notify us of any cancellations by May 10th, 2025
For accommodations cancellations, please contact the hotel directly. Note that all cancellations are subject to the hotel’s cancellation policy.
If you have any questions regarding registration for this invitation-only event, please contact us at: catherine@isosugar.org
Travel to Costa Rica
Costa Rica welcomes tourists from all countries. Visitors must comply with the immigration requirements established by the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners. During your stay, please adhere to the health protocols implemented by local businesses during tourist activities.
In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners (Law No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), the following documents are required for entry into Costa Rica:
- A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents must be electronically readable as per the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must remain valid for the period specified in these guidelines.
- A visa, if required under these regulations.
- Proof of financial means. Visitors must demonstrate a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred United States dollars) per month or part thereof for their legal stay in the country.
- A return ticket to the country of origin or proof of onward travel to another destination.
- No impediments to entering Costa Rican territory.
To check visa requirements for your trip to Costa Rica, visit the following resources:
- https://www.visahq.com/costa-rica/
- https://www.visitcostarica.com/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements
If you require a visa support letter, please contact the ISO team:
Accommodation
Delegates should book their accommodation directly to the hotels. The hotels will provide airport transfers upon your request.
In the beautiful city of Heredia, known for its variety of restaurants and shopping areas, you’ll find two excellent accommodation options for the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica:
The Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén: this family-friendly hotel in Belén offers an unparalleled experience, serving as the venue for the event. Located near Juan Santamaría International Airport, The San Antonio district, Britt's Coffee Tour, and Poás Volcano National Park, provides the perfect balance of convenience and luxury.
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belén: situated near Juan Santamaría Airport, this elegant hotel is an excellent choice for business or leisure travelers.
Costa Rica Marriot Hotel Hacienda Belén
Address: 700 meters west of Bridgestone/Firestone, Ribera de Belén, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 2-298-0000
BOOK KNOW
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen
Address: Cityzen Epicentro Laboral y Social, La Ribera Street, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 -4036-7200
BOOK KNOW
Tourism
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation -or both-, Costa Rica is the ideal destination. With over a quarter of our land dedicated to conservation, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Some of the country's top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park and Tamarindo Beach, which draw visitors from around the world. Vibrant cities also offer art, history, and entertainment. Additionally, Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is an official ‘Blue Zone’, know for its longevity due to a balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong community bonds, and integrated health care practices.
Find experiences in our beautiful country by following the links below:
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/rainforest-ecopass-6-in-1/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-tour/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/catamaran-to-tortuga-island/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-and-poas-volcano/
Meet our speakers
ISO Overview
The ISO administers the International Sugar Agreement (ISA), 1992 aiming to:
- Foster International cooperation in sugar-related matters.
- Facilitate intergovermental discussions to improve the global sugar economy.
- Collect and disseminate market information.
Encourage expanded sugar use, especially in non-traditional applications.
The ISO is based in London, the 85 member states of the ISO represent (based on data for 2023):
- 87% of world sugar production
- 64% of world consumption
- 92% of world exports
- 37% of world imports
The Sugarcane Industry Association (LAICA; for its an acronym in Spanish), is a non-state public entity, with private and public qualities where producers and mills come together. The organization of Costa Rican sugarcane producers began in 1940 with the creation of the Protection Board for Sugarcane Agriculture. LAICA was created through Law no. 3579 in 1965, and was reorganized in 1998 through Law no. 7818.
The sugar cane sector is strong and generates progress, employment and wellness. We present some data that reflects our effort and contribution to the country.
- There are 10 mills and more than 6.000 independent sugar cane farmers.
- The Costa Rican sugar production is up to 420.00MT.
- More than 2.400 women working in sugar cane agriculture.
- The industry creates more than 58.000 direct and indirect jobs throughout the country.
- The sector contributes with more than $16 million in taxes and social contributions.
ISO Members
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Brazil
Bulgaria
Cameroon
Chad
Colombia
Congo Rep. of
Costa Rica
Côte d’Ivoire
Croatia
Cuba
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt Arab Rep.
El Salvador
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Fiji
Finland
France
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Guatemala
Guyana
Honduras
Hungary
India
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Ireland
Italy
Jamaica
Kenya
Korea
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Madagascar
Malawi
Malta
Mauritius
Mexico
Morocco
Mozambique
Netherlands
Nicaragua
Nigeria
Pakistan
Panama
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russian Federation
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Sweden
Switzerland
Tanzania
Thailand
Tunisia
Türkiye
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Viet Nam
Zambia
Zimbabwe
*The blue highlighted countries need to process their visa to enter Costa Rica.
We look forward to welcoming you to the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica. Please take note of the following details to plan your trip and enhance your experience.
Language
The official language of the Conference is English, with French and Spanish interpretation services available.
Dress Code
Business attire is recommended for the conference sessions. For the industrial tour, comfortable and lightweight clothing is encouraged due to warm weather conditions.
Insurance
Attendees are strongly encouraged to secure travel and cancellation insurance. Ensure your policy covers personal accidents, health issues and loss of belongings, including theft or cancellation of bookings. The organizers assume no liability for such matters.
Registration Includes
- Access to the industrial tour at the LAICA Operations Center in Coyol, Alajuela
- Conference sessions featuring distinguished speakers
- Lunch TBD
- Coffee breaks and lunches during the event
- A welcome cocktail reception at the Marriott Hacienda Belén Hotel
Accommodation
We recommend staying at the Costa Rica Marriot Hacienda Belén or the AC Hotel San José Airport Belén.
Cancellation
To facilitate catering, name badge preparation, and other logistical arrangements, we kindly request that you notify us of any cancellations by May 10th, 2025
For accommodations cancellations, please contact the hotel directly. Note that all cancellations are subject to the hotel’s cancellation policy.
If you have any questions regarding registration for this invitation-only event, please contact us at: catherine@isosugar.org
Travel to Costa Rica
Costa Rica welcomes tourists from all countries. Visitors must comply with the immigration requirements established by the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners. During your stay, please adhere to the health protocols implemented by local businesses during tourist activities.
In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners (Law No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), the following documents are required for entry into Costa Rica:
- A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents must be electronically readable as per the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must remain valid for the period specified in these guidelines.
- A visa, if required under these regulations.
- Proof of financial means. Visitors must demonstrate a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred United States dollars) per month or part thereof for their legal stay in the country.
- A return ticket to the country of origin or proof of onward travel to another destination.
- No impediments to entering Costa Rican territory.
To check visa requirements for your trip to Costa Rica, visit the following resources:
- https://www.visahq.com/costa-rica/
- https://www.visitcostarica.com/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements
If you require a visa support letter, please contact the ISO team:
Accommodation
Delegates should book their accommodation directly to the hotels. The hotels will provide airport transfers upon your request.
In the beautiful city of Heredia, known for its variety of restaurants and shopping areas, you’ll find two excellent accommodation options for the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica:
The Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén: this family-friendly hotel in Belén offers an unparalleled experience, serving as the venue for the event. Located near Juan Santamaría International Airport, The San Antonio district, Britt's Coffee Tour, and Poás Volcano National Park, provides the perfect balance of convenience and luxury.
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belén: situated near Juan Santamaría Airport, this elegant hotel is an excellent choice for business or leisure travelers.
Costa Rica Marriot Hotel Hacienda Belén
Address: 700 meters west of Bridgestone/Firestone, Ribera de Belén, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 2-298-0000
BOOK NOW
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen
Address: Cityzen Epicentro Laboral y Social, La Ribera Street, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 -4036-7200
BOOK NOW
Tourism
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation -or both-, Costa Rica is the ideal destination. With over a quarter of our land dedicated to conservation, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Some of the country's top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park and Tamarindo Beach, which draw visitors from around the world. Vibrant cities also offer art, history, and entertainment. Additionally, Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is an official ‘Blue Zone’, know for its longevity due to a balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong community bonds, and integrated health care practices.
Find experiences in our beautiful country by following the links below:
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/rainforest-ecopass-6-in-1/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-tour/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/catamaran-to-tortuga-island/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-and-poas-volcano/
Meet our sponsors
Coming soon…
Welcome to the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica
We look forward to welcoming you to the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica. Please take note of the following details to plan your trip and enhance your experience.
Language
The official language of the Conference is English, with French and Spanish interpretation services available.
Dress Code
Business attire is recommended for the conference sessions. For the industrial tour, comfortable and lightweight clothing is encouraged due to warm weather conditions.
Insurance
Attendees are strongly encouraged to secure travel and cancellation insurance. Ensure your policy covers personal accidents, health issues and loss of belongings, including theft or cancellation of bookings. The organizers assume no liability for such matters.
Registration Includes
- Access to the industrial tour at the LAICA Operations Center in Coyol, Alajuela
- Conference sessions featuring distinguished speakers
- Lunch TBD
- Coffee breaks and lunches during the event
- A welcome cocktail reception at the Marriott Hacienda Belén Hotel
Accommodation
We recommend staying at the Costa Rica Marriot Hacienda Belén or the AC Hotel San José Airport Belén.
Cancellation
To facilitate catering, name badge preparation, and other logistical arrangements, we kindly request that you notify us of any cancellations by May 10th, 2025
For accommodations cancellations, please contact the hotel directly. Note that all cancellations are subject to the hotel’s cancellation policy.
If you have any questions regarding registration for this invitation-only event, please contact us at: catherine@isosugar.org
Travel to Costa Rica
Costa Rica welcomes tourists from all countries. Visitors must comply with the immigration requirements established by the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners. During your stay, please adhere to the health protocols implemented by local businesses during tourist activities.
In accordance with Article 42 of the General Law on Immigration and Foreigners (Law No. 8764) and Article 30 of the Immigration Control Regulation (Executive Decree No. 36769-G), the following documents are required for entry into Costa Rica:
- A valid passport or travel document. Passports and travel documents must be electronically readable as per the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and must remain valid for the period specified in these guidelines.
- A visa, if required under these regulations.
- Proof of financial means. Visitors must demonstrate a minimum of US$100.00 (one hundred United States dollars) per month or part thereof for their legal stay in the country.
- A return ticket to the country of origin or proof of onward travel to another destination.
- No impediments to entering Costa Rican territory.
To check visa requirements for your trip to Costa Rica, visit the following resources:
- https://www.visahq.com/costa-rica/
- https://www.visitcostarica.com/planning-your-trip/entry-requirements
If you require a visa support letter, please contact the ISO team:
Accommodation
Delegates should book their accommodation directly to the hotels. The hotels will provide airport transfers upon your request.
In the beautiful city of Heredia, known for its variety of restaurants and shopping areas, you’ll find two excellent accommodation options for the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica:
The Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén: this family-friendly hotel in Belén offers an unparalleled experience, serving as the venue for the event. Located near Juan Santamaría International Airport, The San Antonio district, Britt's Coffee Tour, and Poás Volcano National Park, provides the perfect balance of convenience and luxury.
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belén: situated near Juan Santamaría Airport, this elegant hotel is an excellent choice for business or leisure travelers.
Costa Rica Marriot Hotel Hacienda Belén
Address: 700 meters west of Bridgestone/Firestone, Ribera de Belén, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 2-298-0000
BOOK NOW
AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen
Address: Cityzen Epicentro Laboral y Social, La Ribera Street, Heredia, Costa Rica
Tel: +506 -4036-7200
BOOK NOW
Tourism
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation -or both-, Costa Rica is the ideal destination. With over a quarter of our land dedicated to conservation, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Some of the country's top attractions include Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park and Tamarindo Beach, which draw visitors from around the world. Vibrant cities also offer art, history, and entertainment. Additionally, Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula is an official ‘Blue Zone’, know for its longevity due to a balanced diet, active lifestyle, strong community bonds, and integrated health care practices.
Find experiences in our beautiful country by following the links below:
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/rainforest-ecopass-6-in-1/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-tour/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/catamaran-to-tortuga-island/
- https://www.swisstravelcr.com/crm/st_tour/coffee-plantations-and-poas-volcano/
Registration
Attendance at the 66th International Sugar Council Costa Rica is by invitation only.
If you have not received an invitation but are interested in attending, please contact us to explore sponsorship opportunities.
All documents for the 66th ISO Council Session are available from your ISO user account https://www.isosugar.org/
For invites to register, please click on the REGISTER button below.