
The director general of Customs, Benjamín Mayorga, announced the awarding of a contract for the implementation of state-of-the-art scanners with artificial intelligence, as part of a modernization process aimed at transforming the country into a world-class customs authority.
The project includes the incorporation of advanced X-ray inspection systems that will allow for the inspection of vehicles and containers in a matter of seconds, strengthening both border security and trade facilitation.
High-level technology for faster inspections
Smiths Detection, a globally recognized company in threat detection technologies, was awarded the contract to supply the General Directorate of Customs of El Salvador with a suite of high-energy inspection systems for cargo and vehicles.
The contract includes the HCVP Z60 system, a fixed vehicle portal designed to improve cargo scanning efficiency and support risk management operations. This equipment can inspect 100 to 120 vehicles per hour, significantly reducing the need for manual inspections.
In addition, the deployment includes the HCVM XT mobile system, a transportable X-ray unit that can be moved between different border crossings. Its compact design and minimal infrastructure requirements allow for use in demanding operational environments.
Inspections with artificial intelligence

The systems will be configured with advanced image enhancement tools and analysis algorithms, including machine learning options. These capabilities will facilitate faster and more consistent image analysis, allowing customs teams to identify illicit goods or high-risk shipments with greater accuracy.
According to authorities, the implementation of this technology will streamline processes at the country’s entry and exit points, maintaining the flow of legitimate trade while strengthening controls against smuggling and other illicit activities.
International support for implementation
The deployment of the equipment will be carried out by Smiths Detection with the support of Global Customs Solutions, a company specializing in solutions for customs administrations.
German Castro, Business Development manager at Smiths Detection, emphasized that the technology will help customs teams efficiently examine large volumes of goods and vehicles that transit through the country daily, ensuring fast and reliable inspections.

Security and trade facilitation
With this investment, the General Directorate of Customs seeks to balance two key objectives: strengthening national security through the timely detection of threats and, at the same time, reducing inspection times to improve the country’s logistical competitiveness.
The incorporation of high-energy X-ray scanners with artificial intelligence represents a strategic step toward modernizing customs processes, aligning El Salvador with international standards in border control and trade facilitation.
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