A. M. 
With just a few weeks until the start of the school year, school supply vendors reported that prices for several basic items remain stable, making it easier for salvadoran families to prepare for the return to school without a significant impact on their budgets.
According to vendors, many businesses are still maintaining last year’s prices, as they continue to sell the same inventory. However, they warned that prices could fluctuate in the coming weeks, depending on the prices set by distributors.
“We haven’t changed our prices because we still have the same costs as last year, but we don’t know what the distributors’ prices will be; that could change”, explained one of the vendors interviewed.
Prices of main school supplies
Among the most requested items, a ream of paper is currently selling for approximately US$5, while notebooks are within an affordable range, with prices ranging from 60 cents to US$1, depending on the type and quality.
Regarding writing and coloring materials, retailers noted that prices vary depending on the brand. For example, a box of colored pencils can be found for US$3.50 for budget-friendly brands like Facela, while more well-known brands, such as Norma, reach US$4.50.
Modeling clay also offers options for different budgets, with prices ranging from US$1 to US$1.25, and colored pencils, regular pencils, and other school supplies are available in various sizes, prioritizing affordable options.
A wide selection for every budget
In addition to basic supplies, retailers offer a wide variety of complementary products, such as finger paints, acrylic paints, and other art materials, designed to meet the needs of students at different educational levels.
Vendors agreed that the current offerings aim to remain affordable for salvadoran families, allowing parents to purchase everything they need for the school year without excessive spending.
Anticipation of possible price adjustments
Although prices remain stable for now, vendors recommend that parents plan their purchases in advance, as costs could change as inventories are replenished and supplier prices are finalized.
Overall, the school supply market presents a favorable outlook for the return to classes, with accessible prices, a variety of products, and budget-friendly options, which helps ease the financial burden on families during this season.
You can also read:
