The recent staging of the Miss Universe competition in El Salvador has proven to be a significant economic boon for the country, as it raked in a staggering $177 million in tourism revenue. The Minister of Tourism, Morena Valdez, shared this news, highlighting the positive impact of the international event on the nation’s economy.
Over the course of the event, El Salvador played host to an impressive 65,000 international visitors, contributing substantially to the nation’s tourism sector. Minister Valdez reported a remarkable 100% occupancy rate in accommodations and restaurants, showcasing the success of the country’s hospitality industry during the Miss Universe weeks.
“It’s been a great outcome. We experienced full occupancy in accommodations, restaurants, and even our tour guides and tour operators were at full capacity. This edition of Miss Universe stands out as the most-watched beauty pageant in the entire history of the organization. We should all take pride in this accomplishment,” expressed Minister Valdez.
These promising figures align with the year-end projections of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), which anticipates hosting approximately 3.2 million visitors by the close of the year, translating to a substantial $3,600 million in foreign exchange earnings.
“With these numbers, our sector solidifies its position as one of the most crucial contributors to the national economy,” added Valdez, emphasizing the vital role tourism plays in El Salvador’s economic landscape.
In addition to the economic windfall, statistics from the Salvadoran Social Security Institute (ISSS) reveal a positive trend in formal employment within the tourism sector. Since 2019, formal employment in the industry has seen a commendable 10% growth, while the number of employers has increased by an impressive 9 to 10%.
As El Salvador continues to showcase its potential as a top-tier tourism destination, the Miss Universe event has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the country’s economic landscape, setting the stage for further growth and prosperity in the sector.