El Salvador is making significant strides in trade facilitation, aided by key international partners like the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Through programs like the Trusted Operator Certification, the Salvadoran government is enhancing its capacity to help local businesses reach new markets, particularly in the United States.
The Trusted Operator program, developed in collaboration with the U.S. and Salvadoran authorities, including the General Directorate of Customs (DGA), the Ministry of Economy (Minec), and the Salvadoran Corporation of Exporters (Coexport), offers specialized training for Salvadoran export companies. The goal is to ensure these companies comply with international standards and customs regulations, streamlining the process of moving goods across borders.
Matthew Hutcherson, director of the USAID Office of Economic Growth and Education in El Salvador, highlighted the importance of this initiative in driving economic growth through trade. “Our strategy is to develop the economy here through trade facilitation and the export of products from El Salvador to markets like the United States,” Hutcherson explained.
The training, which typically takes around two years to complete, offers companies significant benefits. These include priority attention during customs procedures, fewer inspections, and faster processing of imports and exports. As a result, businesses can save time and reduce costs, boosting their competitiveness in global markets.
To date, 14 companies have completed the program and earned the Trusted Operator certification. Of those, USAID has directly assisted seven companies, including IMACASA, a Salvadoran manufacturer of work tools that exports to over 50 countries, including major U.S. retailers like Walmart and Home Depot.
Carlos Carranza, Logistics and Distribution Advisor at IMACASA, explained how the certification has strengthened their business. “Being a Trusted Operator helps us in audits related to security and personnel, as the training we received ensures we comply with the high standards required by our clients,” Carranza said. He also noted that having the certification allows IMACASA to expedite processes with Customs, saving time and ensuring smoother shipments.
For companies like IMACASA, the Trusted Operator certification offers a competitive edge by demonstrating adherence to rigorous security and regulatory standards. With this certification, they are better positioned to attract new partners, expand their footprint in the U.S. market, and increase international sales.
In total, USAID has assisted 34 Salvadoran companies in key areas of customs risk management, with some firms reporting savings of over $1 million annually due to reduced delays and lower operational costs. As El Salvador continues to work closely with the U.S. and other international partners, the Trusted Operator program is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting exports and strengthening the country’s economic ties with global markets.
