El Salvador has taken a decisive step to strengthen its regional trade footprint by signing a Partial Scope Agreement with Belize. The trade deal incorporates 400 tariff lines designed to eliminate non-tariff barriers and grant preferential access for Salvadoran goods entering the Belizean market. Negotiated since December 2023, the accord was formally signed by El Salvador’s Minister of Economy, María Luisa Hayem, and Belize’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Marconi Leal, unlocking key opportunities across key growth sectors including agro-industry, pharmaceuticals, plastics, textiles, and metalworking.
The strategic partnership marks a key milestone in deepening Central American economic integration and enhancing market competitiveness. Highlighting the broader vision for regional cohesion, Belizean Minister Marconi Leal noted that “today commemorates a historic milestone, not only in the relationship between Belize and El Salvador, but also in our collective commitment to a more integrated, resilient, and competitive Central America.” Foreign Affairs Vice Minister Adriana Mira added that the agreement reflects strong political willpower, constructive dialogue, and rigorous technical cooperation across multiple government institutions.
The timing of the trade deal coincides with solid commercial momentum for El Salvador, which recorded over $15.29 million in exports to Belize at the end of 2025, positioning Belize as the 23rd destination for Salvadoran shipments. Building on this foundation, Minister Hayem reported that El Salvador’s total global exports surpassed $3.4 billion in the first half of 2026—representing a 4% growth in monetary value and a 10% increase in volume—underscoring the country’s expanding productive capacity.
By establishing clearer regulatory frameworks and reducing tariff hurdles, the agreement significantly expands market access for businesses in both nations while laying the groundwork for a more interconnected regional economy. As implementation begins, the strategic pact is set to drive sustained trade volume, diversify export portfolios, and foster stronger bilateral investment channels between El Salvador and Belize.