A. M. 
The construction sector in El Salvador is projecting record figures for 2026, with investment that could reach between US$3.5 billion and US$4 billion, according to estimates by the president of the Cámara Salvadoreña de la Industria de la Construcción (CASALCO), José Velásquez.
A historic goal for next year
The leader explained that, if the current growth rate is maintained, the sector will not only consolidate the progress made in 2025 (a year that would close with around US$3 billion in investment), but could also exceed it significantly in 2026.
Reaching US$4 billion would mean a new high for the industry, driven by both public projects and private developments. Among the factors supporting this project are new infrastructure works, mobility initiatives, tourism investment, and real estate expansion.
Boost from public works and private development
According to the association, the portfolio of projects planned for next year includes strategic works that will boost the economy, especially in areas related to transportation, urban planning, and tourism. Added to this is the sustained growth of residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
The combination of government investment and private capital has enabled the sector to maintain an estimated growth rate of between 25% and 30% in 2025, a trend that could be sustained if economic conditions remain favorable.
Impact on the national economy
If the target of between US$3.5 billion and US$4 billion is achieved in 2026, construction would reinforce its role as one of the country’s main economic drivers. Currently, together with real estate activities, the sector contributes around 17% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In terms of employment, it generates between 165,000 and 170,000 direct and indirect jobs, in addition to a multiplier effect in industries such as commerce, transportation, materials manufacturing, and professional services.
According to CASALCO, projections for 2026 reflect a scenario of sustained expansion which, if maintained, would consolidate construction as one of the pillars of national economic growth.
The president of the Cámara Salvadoreña de la Industria de la Construcción said that the sector is awaiting the official closing data to be published by the Banco Central de Reserva de El Salvador (BCR), which will confirm the final performance for 2025 and serve as a technical basis to support investment projections that point to historic figures for 2026.
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