April 2025. The American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in El Salvador has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering trade and investment between the United States and El Salvador, unveiling a new set of policies aimed at attracting foreign direct investment and promoting sustainable economic growth.
During a high-level event held yesterday, AmCham brought together 90 business executives and key government officials to present its investment attraction strategy. The meeting served as a platform to showcase the country’s ongoing transformation and its potential as a strategic destination for U.S. companies looking to expand in Central America.
Among the keynote speakers was El Salvador’s Minister of Economy, María Luisa Hayem, who highlighted the government’s vision under President Nayib Bukele to modernize the economic landscape and actively collaborate with the private sector. “We were honored to have the participation of Minister Hayem, a key figure in revitalizing El Salvador’s economy and leading initiatives that support the country’s sustainable growth,” AmCham stated.
Also present was Rodrigo Ayala, president of Invest in El Salvador, who leads the nation’s efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen global partnerships. The event emphasized a shared vision between public institutions and private industry, aimed at building a prosperous future through coordinated action.
Recent data supports the country’s promising economic trajectory. According to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), El Salvador experienced a 344% increase in foreign direct investment, jumping from $171 million in 2022 to $760 million in 2023—most of it in the services and manufacturing sectors (source). Additionally, the World Bank projects a GDP growth of 2.9% in 2024, driven by public investment, exports, and private consumption (source). In early 2025, Fitch Ratings upgraded El Salvador’s credit rating from CCC+ to B- with a stable outlook, following a financing agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) worth $1.4 billion (source).
Government officials reiterated their full support for private sector unions and investment organizations, noting their essential role in boosting economic development and positioning El Salvador as a regional hub for innovation and trade. This strategic dialogue marks another step in El Salvador’s journey toward economic revitalization, aligning with international standards to foster long-term business confidence and strengthen ties with the global investment community.