The economic relationship between Peru and El Salvador is entering a new phase of strategic growth as bilateral trade reached approximately 85 million dollars in 2025. Following a working meeting with the Peruvian Ambassador to El Salvador, César Jordán, the Association of Exporters (ADEX) reported that the market has maintained a steady 14% average annual growth rate since 2021. While recent figures showed a slight 0.7% dip in Peruvian shipments last year, totaling 70.4 million dollars, officials view the current exchange as being well below its true potential.
The trade flow has traditionally been dominated by the chemical and steel-metallurgical industries, but a shift toward diversification is now a top priority. ADEX identifies significant room for expansion in the agro-industrial sector, specifically regarding high-quality cacao, coffee, and grapes. Ambassador Jordán emphasized that Peru’s ability to supply markets during off-season periods provides a unique competitive edge in the region. Peru has advantages such as seasonality, which allows it to supply markets in periods of lower supply, the Ambassador noted during the session.
Beyond agriculture, new niches are emerging in the Salvadoran market for Peruvian businesses, including the construction industry and the rapidly growing pet care sector. To support this expansion, trade leaders are focusing on technical improvements to streamline the movement of goods. Jordán highlighted the necessity of strengthening rules of origin certifications to effectively reduce logistics costs and facilitate smoother commercial operations between the two nations.
A major catalyst for this burgeoning partnership is the ongoing negotiation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which officially commenced in March 2025. Exporters from both countries report that the talks are showing positive momentum, signaling a long-term commitment to integration. By removing trade barriers and formalizing economic ties, both nations aim to create a more robust framework for investors and distributors looking to capitalize on the Central American market.
The push for a diversified export portfolio is seen as the key to moving beyond traditional industrial shipments and fostering a more dynamic exchange. With the FTA on the horizon and a clear roadmap for new sectors, the commercial bond between Peru and El Salvador is poised to strengthen significantly in the coming years. As the Peruvian trade guild stated, the goal remains clear: The diversification of the offer and the strengthening of commercial relations are seen as keys to boosting bilateral exchange.