According to the Investment and Export Promotion Agency of El Salvador (Invest), eight out of ten investment opportunities generated in 2024 were for new capital, reflecting growing global interest in the country. Between January and September 2024, Invest generated 161 investment opportunities, with 80.7% focused on new capital inflows, 15.5% on business expansions, and 3.7% aimed at diversifying production.

The diverse interest came from countries including Spain, France, Honduras, Uruguay, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan. Additionally, Salvadorans living abroad showed significant interest, particularly in sectors like aeronautics, technology, tourism, infrastructure, and construction. Of the 72 opportunities channeled with the Salvadoran diaspora, 27.8% focused on tourism, 23.6% on infrastructure, and 18.1% on trade.

While the specific outcomes of these opportunities, such as new investments or funding amounts, have yet to be confirmed, the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCR) reported $387.44 million in net foreign direct investment (FDI) by September 2024. However, this figure represents a 27.2% decrease compared to the same period in 2023.

Despite the drop in FDI, El Salvador continues to attract international attention, positioning itself as a hub for investment, particularly in emerging sectors like technology, bitcoin, and renewable energy. The country’s efforts to facilitate new investments could prove pivotal in its economic future, especially as the global economy shifts toward more diversified and innovative industries.