Historic increase reflects strong bilateral ties and improved business climate under El Salvador’s new security model.
Trade relations between El Salvador and Colombia have reached an unprecedented milestone. According to the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCR), exports to Colombia grew by 964.2% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, totaling $33.5 million between January and April.
In terms of volume, El Salvador exported over 6.1 million kilograms to Colombia—a 308.5% year-over-year increase. The most in-demand Salvadoran products include plastic household and hygiene items ($3.5 million), toys and doll cars ($1.4 million), and cleaning utensils such as brooms and brushes ($1.2 million).
This extraordinary growth underscores a robust and expanding commercial relationship between the two nations, supported by ongoing investment and bilateral cooperation.
“The Colombian market is very interesting for El Salvador. Salvadoran entrepreneurs who have believed in Colombia are doing very well,” stated Carlos Rodríguez Bocanegra, Colombia’s ambassador to El Salvador.
The ambassador highlighted key Salvadoran-led ventures in Colombia, such as Grupo Calleja’s acquisition of Grupo Éxito and the rapid expansion of Dollarcity, the retail chain founded by Salvadoran businessman Marco Baldocchi, now operating over 300 stores in Colombia.
Colombian investment in El Salvador has also been substantial, particularly in the banking sector and other industries. Ambassador Rodríguez emphasized that Colombian businesses have found a prosperous and reliable market in the country.
In a move that further deepens economic ties, Colombian meat producers are now certified to export to El Salvador, opening new avenues for agri-food trade.
A major factor behind this trade boom is the security transformation taking place in El Salvador.
“Security is an asset for any society, and what has happened in El Salvador has made it a destination for tourism, investment, and exports,” said Rodríguez.
He also noted that the country’s legal certainty and favorable tax policies have contributed to growing interest from Colombian investors and business delegations.
“The transformation El Salvador is experiencing today is a source of pride and further strengthens our bilateral relationship,” the ambassador concluded.
El Salvador and Colombia are expected to continue deepening their commercial ties, with the Colombian embassy actively promoting business missions and sectoral cooperation. The current momentum points to a new era of strategic trade partnership in the region.