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In order to encourage tourism and strengthen the link with salvadorans abroad, the Finance Commission of the Legislative Assembly issued a favorable opinion that will allow travelers to bring in goods without paying taxes, up to an amount of US$3,000. The provision will benefit salvadorans returning to their country during the Christmas and New Year holidays, as well as foreign tourists visiting El Salvador.
According to the opinion, which temporarily modifies the Law on Luggage for Travelers Coming from Abroad of 1993, travelers will be able to bring in new goods whose total value does not exceed US$3,000 without incurring in customs duties or Value Added Tax (VAT). This provision will be in effect from december 1, 2024 to january 31, 2025.
The measure exempts certain goods purchased abroad from taxes, thus promoting the arrival of products to the country without additional costs for travelers. The deputies consider this exemption as a way to reward the contribution of the diaspora, which contributes with remittances to strengthen the local economy.
The deputy director of Customs, José Luis Maradiaga, expressed his support for this provision, pointing out that, thanks to the regulations promoted by the new Legislative Assembly, it is possible to favor salvadorans abroad who, through their shipments and visits, boost the national economy during each holiday season.
This provision, however, does not apply to transporters, parcel managers, or officers and crew members of air or sea transportation that operate regularly between El Salvador and other countries. This group of people must continue to comply with the tax obligations established by the regulations.
With the influx of tourists and the return of thousands of salvadorans, the authorities expect a positive boost in sectors such as commerce and tourism, which will see greater economic activity. In addition, the benefits of this measure could extend to the family economy in local communities, especially those that depend on remittances.
Thus, El Salvador is preparing for a holiday season where both nationals and foreigners will be able to enjoy the festivities with greater ease and safety, contributing to the economic reactivation at the end of the year.
