A. M. The Corporación de Exportadores de El Salvador (Coexport) has reacted to the US government’s announcement regarding the imposition of a 10% tariff on salvadoran imports as of april 5, 2025. The entity has expressed its concern over the lack of detailed information on the measure, which generates uncertainty among local exporters.
The US government, under the administration of Donald J. Trump, has declared a national economic emergency and has decided to apply tariffs to all countries, including El Salvador. Even though the rate imposed on the country is the lowest, 10%, this measure could affect salvadoran exports, which in 2024 totaled US$2,134 million to this key market.
Coexport has urged salvadoran exporters to verify compliance with the rules of origin in their operations and to remain calm while the way the measure will be implemented is being clarified. The entity has also offered its support in negotiations, information, and accompaniment to those affected.
Coexport has highlighted that the United States is a historical trading partner of El Salvador, with a dynamic trade that also includes imports of US$4,423 million in essential goods. However, the lack of clear regulations on the application of the tariff leaves many doubts about its real impact on local businesses.
The corporation emphasizes that the U.S. measure is based on the Emergency Economic Powers Act, arguing that the U.S. trade deficit reached a record US$1.2 trillion in 2024. This, added to the drop in industrial production and employment, would have motivated the application of tariffs despite the Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA).
Salvadoran authorities are expected to act before the corresponding authorities to seek solutions and mitigate any negative effects that the tariffs could have on the national economy.
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