As of october 2024, El Salvador’s imports from the United States totaled 153,573 operations, generating a collection of US$584 million, which represents 32.6% of the country’s total imports. The information was provided by José Luis Maradiaga, Deputy Director of the General Directorate of Customs, during his participation in the Commission of Salvadorians Abroad, Legislation and Government of the Legislative Assembly.
Maradiaga pointed out that the United States continues to be El Salvador’s main trading partner, with a considerable flow of products including fuels, vehicles, machinery, cereals, plastics, textiles and dairy products. This trade exchange is fundamental for the salvadoran economy, which is highly dependent on bilateral relations with its North American neighbor.
The official stressed the importance of strengthening these trade ties. “El Salvador has a very significant trade relationship with the United States, which is our most important partner”, said Maradiaga, highlighting the positive impact this association has on national finances.
El Salvador’s exports to the United States are also relevant, with US$28,169.00 until october 2024. These exports constitute 31.6% of total salvadoran exports. Among the products exported are clothing, cane sugar, coffee, food preparations, and electrical capacitors, which contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.
Within the framework of this analysis, the Legislative Commission discussed the ratification of the “Agreement between the Government of El Salvador and the Government of the United States of America, regarding Mutual Assistance between their Customs Administrations”. This agreement seeks to strengthen customs cooperation between both countries and facilitate bilateral trade.
After the discussion, the committee issued a favorable opinion to move forward with the ratification of the agreement, a key step to further consolidate the trade relationship between El Salvador and the United States, to the benefit of both nations.