Costa Rica is experiencing an economic phenomenon where growth is not leading to traditional positive outcomes. Typically, a prospering economy results in increased employment and stronger public finances. Currently, businesses are not expanding production or hiring, despite economic growth. Consequently, government tax revenues are not increasing as expected. This disconnect suggests a fundamental issue with the nature of the country’s economic expansion, creating a situation of growth without the usual accompanying benefits for citizens or the state. The situation is being described as an economic mirage, indicating a disconnect between reported growth and tangible improvements in economic wellbeing.