Sorghum plantations with a drop of 14% and sugar cane with 36%, have been the most impacted.

According to the IDB report, worldwide, El Salvador ranks 28th among the countries most exposed to climate change, which mainly affects infrastructure and agriculture.

This has cost the country US$2.2 billion in the last 30 years, which represents 7.2% of the gross domestic product that climate events would have as of 2030 if ambitious and immediate measures are not taken.

Extreme weather events (mainly hydrometeorological) affect infrastructure and agriculture. It is urgent to advance in policies that increase the country's resilience, as well as in the development of agricultural practices that mitigate vulnerability to droughts and floods, according to the study.

Areas of intervention

The IDB considers these points crucial to transform the country into a modern, inclusive, sustainable economy with more tourism potential.

1.Promotion of human talent

There is an urgent need for more and better education and job training, to open doors for the population, especially for young people and women who are still unemployed or have been forced to migrate. It is also essential to provide timely health services and strengthen social protection mechanisms for vulnerable populations.

2.- Support for competitive companies

El Salvador must enable the necessary conditions to boost the business and investment environment. This requires closing gaps in productive infrastructure and digital connectivity. It is also essential to make progress in terms of resilience, risk management and environmental conservation, efficiently managing natural resources, especially water resources, given that they are highly vulnerable to natural disasters.

3.- Consolidation of effective institutions

Entities capable of managing solid, healthy, and transparent public finances are required, supported by a deep digitalization process and the generation of greater fiscal space to continue driving growth and welfare. For this, open government and citizen participation are decisive, so that public policies are the product of a permanent dialogue.

Translated by: A.M