El Salvador’s coffee sector is marking a historic turnaround as the 2025–2026 harvest reaches 963,650 quintals, its highest production volume since the devastating 2012 coffee rust outbreak. Driven by a 12.2% year-over-year increase, this cycle highlights the country’s gradual recovery from a fungal crisis that cut yields by nearly 60% over a decade ago.

International demand for Salvadoran coffee remains strong, particularly in primary markets like the United States. Exports climbed to 591,086 quintals, generating $190.15 million in revenue—a 13.76% boost in total earningscompared to the previous cycle. This financial growth reflects higher market valuations even as total export volume experienced modest growth.

Supported by 18,484 local producers across 151,488 cultivated manzanas, the sector’s infrastructure continues to drive economic activity across processing mills and roasting operations. However, industry leaders warn that climate challenges lie ahead. Severe El Niño-driven dry spells totaling 89 drought days have damaged coffee cherry growth, signaling potential yield reductions for the upcoming 2026–2027 season.

Addressing these climate realities, Sergio Ticas, president of the Coffee Association of El Salvador (Acafesal), noted that while recent rain has provided relief, “the reduction in production is a certainty,” with forecasts dropping between 750,000 and 800,000 quintals for the next cycle. Despite future weather headwinds, the current cycle establishes a strong benchmark for Central American coffee trade.