
The Asociación Salvadoreña de Industriales (ASI) highlighted that investments in modernizing the country’s ports are contributing to strengthening industrial activity by facilitating both raw material imports and finished product exports.
According to the association, strengthening logistics infrastructure is part of the objectives outlined in the 2025-2029 Industrial Development Plan, which aims to improve conditions for companies to operate with greater efficiency and competitiveness.
ASI noted that the results of industrial trade reflect increased economic activity. Based on data from the Banco Central de Reserva (BCR),industrial imports totaled US$10.449 billion through july 2026, representing an 8.5% increase compared to the same period of the previous year, equivalent to an additional US$814.6 million.

Regarding exports, the association indicated that the industrial sector registered foreign sales of US$3,812.6 million between january and july 2026, a 3.7% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This figure includes maquila exports and represents an increase of US$137.3 million.
According to ASI, these results demonstrate the importance of having modern infrastructure that streamlines the movement of goods, reduces logistics times, and facilitates the connection of salvadoran companies with international markets.
Among the highlighted projects is the modernization promoted by the Unión Portuaria del Pacífico (UPDP). Its general manager, Luis Canto, reported that the so-called phase zero involved an investment of US$52 million, resources that allowed for the acquisition of 40 trucks, the hiring and training of local personnel, and the reduction of internal transport times within the port facilities.

Likewise, the UPDP projects an investment of over US$500 million in the port of Acajutla, where the construction of a new 610-meter-long pier with a depth of 17 meters and a specialized container yard is planned. The project aims to expand the operational capacity of the country’s main seaport and respond to the growth of foreign trade.
The ASI also highlighted initiatives such as the Maritime Single Window, a tool designed to simplify procedures and centralize the management of documentation related to the entry and exit of goods. This measure seeks to reduce administrative times and improve the efficiency of commercial operations.
According to the industrial association, the combination of new port investments, technological improvements, and process simplification creates favorable conditions for companies to continue expanding their production, strengthening value chains, and increasing their participation in international markets. The ASI reiterated that it will continue working with public and private institutions to promote projects that foster the competitiveness and growth of the salvadoran industrial sector.
You can also read:
