The Government of El Salvador, under President Bukele’s leadership, is making significant strides in expanding its global trade partnerships. The country is currently in active negotiations with China, Belize, Mercosur, and Peru, adding to an impressive portfolio of over 40 existing trade agreements. These include established partnerships with Central America, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, the United States, Mexico, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and the European Union, among others.

Minister of Economy, María Luisa Hayem, shared the exciting news, emphasizing the government’s dedication to positioning Salvadoran products in international markets. The negotiations are expected to unlock new opportunities for Salvadoran businesses, enhancing their global reach.

Hayem highlighted that discussions with China, one of the most advanced negotiations, are progressing well, with hopes to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of the year. Belize, a country with a significant Salvadoran population working in agriculture, is also a key focus, with many Salvadorans eager to export their products.

The negotiations with Mercosur—a bloc representing over 200 million consumers—are seen as a pivotal move for El Salvador’s economic development. This process began last year, and the country is optimistic about its potential impact. Similarly, discussions with Peru, a market of 34 million people, are progressing and are expected to reach a conclusion within the year.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to make El Salvador a more attractive destination for investment, according to Hayem. The new trade agreements will provide companies with valuable opportunities to expand their markets, a priority that has been shaped by consultations with businesses about their export interests.

As part of the ongoing negotiations, the Ministry of Economy will soon release surveys that will gather input from the business sector regarding the Mercosur and Peru agreements. This collaborative approach ensures that Salvadoran companies’ needs are considered as the government moves forward with these crucial deals.

With these advancements, El Salvador is poised to strengthen its economic ties with key international markets, creating new opportunities for growth and prosperity.