According to data from the Fundación Ciudadana por un Consumo Responsable, El Salvador stands out in Latin America for registering one of the largest reductions in the price of diesel, reaching a 24.9% drop between october 2023 and october 2024. This significant decrease places the country among the leaders in the region in terms of price reductions, providing significant relief to consumers and economic sectors that depend on this fuel, especially transportation and production.
This adjustment in diesel prices in El Salvador reflects a similar trend in other Central American countries, where significant decreases have also been seen. Honduras leads with a 26.1% decrease, followed closely by Panama and El Salvador (both with -24.9%), and Guatemala, which experienced a 24.8% drop. These decreases contribute to improving competitiveness and reducing operating costs for many companies in the region.
In addition to the benefits for El Salvador and Central America in general, 15 of the 24 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean have registered a decrease in the price of diesel over the last year. This regional reduction could be driven by several factors, such as international fuel price adjustments and local subsidy policies.
However, the trend is not uniform across the region. While most Central American countries are enjoying lower prices, other nations have experienced increases. Argentina, for example, has seen a 19.9% increase in diesel prices, followed by Colombia, with a 13.1% increase. These increases reflect differences in energy policies and domestic economic factors.
The notable decrease in the price of diesel in El Salvador is a positive development that benefits both consumers and businesses, promoting economic development and helping to mitigate the effects of inflation in other sectors. The reduction in the price of this fuel is a key advantage in a context of energy challenges at the regional level.