El Salvador’s export sector recorded a robust performance during the first half of 2026, driven by higher global demand and increased shipping volumes. According to the latest figures from the Central Reserve Bank (BCR), foreign sales generated $3,400.6 million between January and June, marking a 4.1% revenue growth compared to the same period last year. Export volume also saw a significant surge, rising 10.3% to reach 2,112.6 million kilograms, reflecting a substantial expansion in physical goods dispatched overseas.
The mid-year rally culminated in a strong June rebound, with monthly exports hitting $597.2 million—the highest monthly figure recorded so far this year. Traditional sectors like textiles and apparel continued to anchor this growth, led by t-shirt exports totaling $233.1 million and sweaters adding $198.7 million. Key agricultural and industrial commodities also delivered steady performance, with sugar bringing in $182.1 million and coffee exports reaching $147 million.
The United States solidified its position as El Salvador’s top trading partner, absorbing $1,106.1 million in Salvadoran products—far surpassing regional neighbors like Guatemala ($661.7 million) and Honduras ($525 million). Commenting on the favorable momentum, commercial analysts noted that “the mid-year results underscore the strategic reliance on North American buyers to sustain local manufacturing and agricultural output.”
Despite the positive export trajectory, the country’s trade deficit expanded as imports grew at a noticeably faster pace, totaling $9,319.6 million. Heavy dependence on imported energy, consumer goods, and raw materials fueled this balance, with petroleum oils leading domestic purchases at $1,146.2 million, alongside substantial imports of pharmaceuticals, vehicles, and food products.