El Salvador’s service sector launched into 2026 with powerful momentum, generating $1,526.5 million in foreign revenue during the first quarter—a 12.4% year-over-year surge. According to official Central Reserve Bank data released by the Corporation of Salvadoran Exporters (Coexport), this performance added $168.4 million over the same period in 2025, firmly establishing a multi-year upward trajectory for the nation’s export economy.

The impressive growth was overwhelmingly anchored by a booming travel sector. Tourism alone delivered $884.4 million, accounting for 58% of total service export revenues between January and March. Global transport operations ($144.2 million) and technology services ($131.8 million) also provided strong backing, proving that El Salvador is rapidly broadening its international business footprint beyond physical goods.

This expanding portfolio brought service exports within striking distance of traditional goods, which totaled $1,663.4 million in Q1. Business leaders view this close competition as clear evidence of an evolving market structure. Commenting on the momentum, Coexport President Silvia Cuéllar highlighted that “seeing the first quarter of 2026 repeat the same growth pattern we had in 2025 gives us great confidence: this is not an isolated result, it is a trend that Salvadoran companies are building with constant work.”

Building on a standout 2025 where total national exports reached $12,642 million, service industries continue to serve as a high-growth engine for Central America’s smallest nation. Supported by world-class aeronautical maintenance, modern transport logistics, and a flourishing tourist influx, El Salvador is cementing its position as an increasingly competitive hub for cross-border services across the Americas.