A. M. With an ambitious investment agenda and high-profile projects, the Cámara Salvadoreña de Construcción (CASALCO) projects surpassing record figures for 2024. This optimism is based on the conditions fostered by the government to attract investment. According to data from the Banco Central de Reserva, the sector has already grown 17.3% during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year.
This notable increase is attributed to tax incentives, greater security, and a significant streamlining of construction permitting. These factors have allowed the sector to approach 22.3% growth, a figure that could be even higher. CASALCO President José Velázquez highlights the large number of public and private projects under development as a key driver of this growth.
During the first quarter of 2025, construction projects reached an investment of nearly US$700 million. If this pace continues, the sector could close the year with a historic US$2.8 billion. This would represent an increase of approximately US$500 million compared to the close of 2024, a year already considered successful for the industry.
The metropolitan area of San Salvador is experiencing a cultural shift with the arrival of high-rise projects, reflecting the vertical growth necessary for the nation. This focus on vertical construction, according to CASALCO, reduces environmental impact by concentrating projects in already impacted areas. Collaboration with government institutions has also been crucial in streamlining processes.
This boom not only benefits investment but also has a positive impact on the labor market. The construction sector, along with real estate development, is creating thousands of opportunities, with an estimated 165,000 direct and indirect jobs. This sustained growth positions El Salvador as an emerging and reliable investment destination.
