During the inauguration of the 25th National Meeting of Private Enterprise (ENADE 2026), Agustín Martínez, president of the National Private Enterprise Association, stated that El Salvador has a unique opportunity to become a regional leader in the responsible application of Artificial Intelligence. Martínez emphasized that while public and private efforts are underway, the country must integrate AI into its value proposition to close the gap in attracting regional investment.
El Salvador has the opportunity to become a regional benchmark in the responsible application of this technology, he noted during the event focused on sectoral AI applications. The business leader urged a deep reflection on how to position El Salvador as an attractive destination by integrating technology into services, manufacturing, and back-office operations. He pointed out that the impact of these tools is already measurable, as companies incorporating AI into their processes have reported productivity increases of up to 30 percent.
According to Martínez, the goal is not to view AI as an isolated tool but as a strategic pillar for efficiency and competitiveness.
Highlighting the practical benefits, Martínez explained that while AI handles complex data analysis and real-time customer service, businesses gain a greater capacity for response. While AI serves customers in real time and analyzes complex data, companies gain competitiveness and responsiveness, he affirmed. He also addressed the transformation of various sectors, such as tourism and bio-foods, where AI can anticipate needs and strengthen food security, respectively, without replacing the human worker but rather liberating them from repetitive tasks.
Despite the optimistic outlook, the head of the National Private Enterprise Association warned that this shift in paradigm requires caution regarding cybersecurity, data protection, and algorithmic bias. He stressed that human supervision is not optional but essential to mitigate risks like deep fakes. The rule is clear: AI proposes, but human judgment disposes, Martínez emphasized, reinforcing that technology should serve as an amplifier of human capabilities rather than a total replacement.
To conclude, Martínez described AI as the new standard of global competitiveness rather than a technological luxury. He delivered a direct message to the Salvadoran youth, encouraging them to study the past to understand the present but to take an active role in the future. He reminded the younger generation that the future is not something to wait for; it is designed, built, and now, it is programmed.