El Salvador is making a major leap forward in international trade and maritime logistics. Unión Portuaria del Pacífico (UPDP)—a public-private partnership between the Salvadoran state, via the Autonomous Executive Port Commission (CEPA), and Turkish port operator Yilport—has officially announced the implementation of a maritime single window. This digital platform is designed to streamline cargo dispatch and centralize paperwork by enabling seamless real-time data exchange among all key maritime stakeholders.

By modernizing operations at the strategic Pacific hubs of Acajutla and La Unión, the new system aims to eliminate administrative bottlenecks and accelerate vessel processing. Official statements from UPDP highlight that the platform’s rollout “will contribute to reducing processing times, streamlining ship attention, and strengthening the competitiveness of the ports of Acajutla and La Unión.” This milestone reinforces the country’s position as a rising logistics hub in Central America.

The impact of UPDP’s operational management is already showing drastic results. According to a recent report by the Inter-Guild Commission for Trade Facilitation in El Salvador (Cifacil), vessel turnaround times at the Port of Acajutla in Sonsonate dropped from 288 hours to just 24 hours after UPDP took over operations in December 2024.

This 91% reduction in handling times marks a historic turning point for El Salvador’s supply chain capacity. By integrating advanced technology with private-sector operational expertise, the nation is positioned to offer faster, more reliable maritime services for global shipping lines and foreign trade partners across the Americas.