A. M. The salvadoran industrial sector experienced a significant rebound in its exports, increasing by 6% during the first six months of 2025. According to the Asociación Salvadoreña de Industriales (ASI), 90% of total exports correspond to industrial goods.
The most dynamic sectors were textiles and clothing, which represented 29% of exports, followed by food and beverages with 14%. The ASI emphasized that this progress is due to greater diversification and strategic positioning in destination markets. “We are moving towards a positive trend”, stated the association, referring to the dynamism shown by each industrial branch.
Regarding international trade, the ASI also mentioned the negotiations with the United States to reduce or eliminate tariffs. An official response from the White House is expected next week. “We have to wait for the announcement from both the US and salvadoran governments to learn how the agreements will be implemented,” said Jorge Arriaza, President of ASI, during an export sector event.
Arriaza also noted that El Salvador is close to completing its incorporation into the customs treaty with Honduras and Guatemala. In october, the country will implement the FIDUCA, a tool that will facilitate commercial registration between the three countries.
Jorge Arriaza also expressed moderate optimism regarding the country’s export outlook. Arriaza emphasized that, if the current trend continues and considering the usual rebound in the second half of the year, salvadoran exports could achieve an ideal growth of 8% to 10%. This projection represents an ambitious and beneficial goal for the national economy.
Regarding the issue of tariffs imposed by the United States, Arriaza anticipates a resolution soon. The Trump administration has set a deadline of August 1 to issue a response to the efforts made by El Salvador. The productive sector eagerly awaits a resolution, whether positive or negative, next week.
Arriaza emphasized the crucial importance of investment for economic development. Citing the positive figures from the Banco Central, the ASI president highlighted the growth in investment this year. He called for collaboration between the private sector and the government to support the attraction of new investment, considering it the “key word” for the country’s progress.
