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El Salvador recorded a 4% year-over-year increase in exports, a 6% rise in imports, and a 7% rise in remittances, while in the month-over-month analysis (from february to march), exports rose 12%, imports 26%, and remittances 19%, according to Economy minister María Luisa Hayem, who emphasized that these are “very positive figures” reflecting the dynamism of the national economy.
During a radio interview, the minister explained that these indicators point to an expanding economy, where the rise in exports demonstrates a greater capacity to place salvadoran products in international markets, while the growth in imports reflects increased domestic demand and the purchase of inputs for production.
As for remittances, their sustained growth continues to be a key driver of household consumption, boosting sectors such as retail and services. The combination of these three factors, he noted, points to more robust economic activity with signs of continued growth.
Hayem linked economic performance to the strengthening of trade relations with the United States, noting that El Salvador is experiencing one of its best periods with this strategic partner, which is crucial for attracting investment.
The minister highlighted that she recently held a meeting with Caleb Orr, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs, with whom she discussed the need to move toward a more active phase in the bilateral relationship, focused on concrete results and greater economic integration.
As he explained, one of the main objectives is to increasingly integrate the country into value chains linked to the U.S. market, particularly in sectors related to inputs for technology products, which would open new opportunities for local industry.
He also emphasized that the economic environment is supported by a modern regulatory framework that includes regulations on cybersecurity, data protection, artificial intelligence, and digital assets—aspects that have been highly valued by international investors.
Regarding foreign direct investment, the Minister of Economy noted that the country attracted $475 million last year and reported a 13% increase in corporate profitability. In addition, 100 announcements of new investments were recorded, from both local and international companies, including projects from South Korea and Germany.
The official also highlighted the coordinated efforts with institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador, Invest in El Salvador, and the Ministry of Commerce and Investment, as well as close follow-up with investors from countries such as Canada and Mexico, which aims to facilitate the implementation of new projects.
At the same time, she highlighted progress in economic diversification, noting that in 2025 El Salvador exported more than 200 new products and saw the creation of over 8,300 companies, driven in part by the streamlining of procedures through the National Registry Center, which allows businesses to be incorporated in a single day.
Finally, the minister noted that factors such as low fuel prices in the region and gas subsidies help mitigate external pressures in a complex international context. These measures, she said, aim to protect the population’s purchasing power while the country consolidates its economic growth.
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