El Salvador saw a significant rise in international tourism in the first seven months of 2024, according to the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur). Over 2.3 million international visitors traveled to the country between January and July, injecting more than $2.2 billion into the economy, a figure labeled as “record-breaking” by Tourism Minister Morena Valdez.
In a television interview, Valdez highlighted that the country’s beaches remained the most popular destination for international tourists, followed by the historic center of San Salvador. International tourism increased by 22% compared to 2023, with the current 2.3 million tourists representing 56% of the projected 4 million visitors for the entire year.
Valdez also emphasized the vital role of the tourism sector in El Salvador’s economy, contributing 11% of the country’s GDP in 2023. The Salvadoran Tourism Corporation (Corsatur) reported that the sector generated $3.66 billion in GDP last year. Over the past 11 years, tourism has brought in more than $17.46 billion in foreign exchange revenue, with at least 67,333 people employed in the sector as of the end of 2023.
The Ministry of Tourism also expressed its commitment to supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector. While specific projects were not detailed, the ministry confirmed that discussions are underway with the Ministry of Economy (Minec) and the Salvadoran Development Bank (Bandesal) to explore partnerships.
Recent investments in coastal areas were highlighted, including the opening of a new shopping center in Surf City last week. Additionally, Plaza Mundo Usulután was officially inaugurated this week following a $52 million investment. The government expressed optimism about further investment projects aimed at attracting more national and international tourism.