
The Banco Central de Reserva de El Salvador projects that El Salvador’s economy will grow between 3.0% and 3.5% in 2026, an official estimate that exceeds the historical average of 2.5% recorded between 1991 and 2019, reflecting greater dynamism in the country’s productive activity.
According to the BCR, this projection is based on a series of internal factors that have gained momentum in recent years, including improved security, increased public and private investment, the tourism boom, domestic consumption, and the positive performance of various economic sectors.
Private investment is emerging as one of the main drivers of growth, with a projection exceeding $9 billion in 2026. These resources will be focused on housing, commercial, and logistics projects, driving job creation and the expansion of economic activity.
Public investment will also play a decisive role through the implementation of strategic projects such as the Pacific Airport, the National Stadium, the Metrocable, the revitalization of the Historic Center, and various municipal projects aimed at strengthening the country’s infrastructure and competitiveness.

The BCR report also highlights the performance of key economic indicators that point to a growth trend in 2026. These include:
• Economic Activity Volume Index (IVAE): 5.0%
• Industrial production: 6.4%
• Exports of goods: 3.3%
• Tax revenue: 5.8%
• Family remittances: 8.4%
• Apparent cement consumption: 11.9%
• Amount of public investment executed: 179.2%
• Total credit balance: 8.1%
• Tourism: 34%

These figures demonstrate widespread growth in key sectors of the economy, particularly in construction, financing, consumption, and tourism-related activities.
Likewise, during the first few months of 2026, several events have boosted the national economy, such as international concerts (including performances by the artist Shakira), as well as high-profile sporting tournaments, increased tourism, exports, and growth in the construction sector.
Overall, the BCR notes that these conditions paint a favorable outlook for 2026, with an economy that is not only growing above its historical averages but also showing signs of strengthening in its main drivers of development.
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