Mary Ching Sojo appointed as new Vice Minister of Administrative Management and Public Procurement

President Laura Fernández Delgado has appointed Mary Ching Sojo as the new Vice Minister of Administrative Management and Public Procurement at the Ministry of Finance. Mary Ching Sojo assumed the position on Thursday, November 12, 2026. While the appointment was made by the President, Costa Rican media reported that the government made the appointment official on Friday, November 13, 2026.

Objectives and responsibilities

The primary objectives of this appointment include strengthening the implementation of the General Law of Public Procurement and improving state purchase controls. The Ministry of Finance leadership currently includes Minister Rodrigo Chaves Robles and Vice Minister of Revenues and Expenditures Víctor Julio Carvajal Porras. According to a Ministry of Finance official statement, the experience of Mary Ching Sojo in leading various public boards supports her capacity for governance and inter-institutional coordination.

Professional background

Mary Ching Sojo is a lawyer and a business administrator with an emphasis in Human Resources. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in Intellectual Property. Her previous experience within the Ministry of Finance includes serving as the Chief Officer and Administrative and Financial Director, as well as working in the former General Directorate of Asset Administration and Administrative Contracting of the Ministry of Finance.

The new Vice Minister has also held significant roles in other government entities. Mary Ching Sojo formerly served as the Administrative Vice Minister and Legal Director at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG). Additionally, Mary Ching Sojo has worked as a specialist at the National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Management (CNE). Throughout her career, Mary Ching Sojo has served on the boards of directors of various public institutions.

Impact on state administration

The appointment aims to strengthen the management and supervision of state contracting processes. By placing a professional with experience in administrative and financial direction into this role, the government seeks to enhance the oversight of how public funds are utilized for procurement. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and efficiency in the administrative management of the Ministry of Finance.

Glossary

• public boards — Public boards are boards belonging to public authorities. They are subject to legislation regarding gender representation to encourage participation by women.