Driven by surging international prices and a sharp appetite from the American market, El Salvador’s coffee industry recorded its highest first-half export earnings in 13 years. According to the Central Reserve Bank (BCR), revenue reached $146.93 million between January and June 2026, marking a 25.9% increase compared to the $116.68 million generated during the same timeframe last year.

The United States cemented its role as the undisputed cornerstone of Salvadoran coffee trade, absorbing $90.80 million—equivalent to 61.78% of total exports. American demand experienced a dramatic 74.84% jump year-over-year, far outstripping shipments to secondary European markets such as Belgium ($11.63 million), Italy ($6.20 million), and the United Kingdom ($5.39 million).

While market value spiked significantly, volume growth remained comparatively modest. Exporters shipped 457,623 quintals in the first six months—an 11.9% rise over 2025, yet the lowest volume output for a first semester since 2023. Instead, the revenue boom was fueled by favorable pricing: Salvadoran coffee fetched an average of $321.20 per quintal, up 12.5% from the $285.30 average recorded in mid-2025.

This financial milestone represents the strongest performance for the sector since 2013, before a severe rust fungus outbreak severely impacted national production. Despite monthly fluctuations—including a strong start in January with revenue surging 260.5% before softening in June—the strong pricing and robust U.S. imports have positioned the industry for a remarkable financial recovery.