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El Salvador Prioritizes Rights of Honest Citizens in Security Strategy, Ambassador Tells U.S. Officials.
El Salvador reaffirmed its security and human rights strategy during a high-level meeting in Washington between Ambassador Milena Mayorga and Riley M. Barnes, a senior official at the United States Department of State. The discussion centered on democratic values, citizen protection, and ongoing cooperation between both nations.
During the meeting, Mayorga emphasized that the country’s security model is grounded in the protection of law-abiding citizens. For us, the human rights of honest citizens are a priority within our security agenda, she said, underscoring El Salvador’s position that public safety and human rights are not mutually exclusive but complementary pillars of governance.
The ambassador also outlined El Salvador’s intensified efforts to combat human trafficking, highlighting interagency coordination and strengthened enforcement measures. According to Mayorga, Barnes expressed interest in supporting initiatives aimed at reinforcing institutional capacity and ensuring the long-term success of these programs.
The dialogue reflects continued engagement between San Salvador and Washington at a time when U.S. policymakers closely follow developments related to security reforms and democratic institutions in the Central American nation. Cooperation in areas such as human rights oversight and anti-trafficking policy remains a shared priority in the bilateral agenda.
Following the meeting, Mayorga reiterated on social media that the conversation was constructive and forward-looking, noting that both sides are exploring avenues to deepen collaboration. The exchange signals sustained diplomatic momentum as El Salvador seeks international partnerships aligned with its national security strategy.
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El Salvador’s Export Revenue Hits Highest Level Since Mid-2025.
El Salvador began 2026 with a strong trade performance, as export revenue reached its highest level since mid-2025, according to new data released by the Banco Central de Reserva. In January alone, Salvadoran companies exported $559.4 million worth of goods, reflecting an 8.5 percent increase compared to the same month last year. The volume of exports rose even more sharply, signaling renewed momentum in the country’s productive sectors.
The surge in shipments was particularly notable in terms of weight, with nearly 386 million kilograms of goods sent abroad. That represents a dramatic year-over-year increase in volume, suggesting stronger international demand and improved output capacity. The January figures mark the most significant export volume recorded since early 2023, reinforcing expectations that 2026 could open with sustained external sector growth.
Agricultural products played a key role in the rebound. Sugar exports rose nearly 70 percent compared to January 2025, benefiting from the peak of the 2025–2026 harvest season and displacing apparel as the country’s leading export category. Coffee also delivered a standout performance, posting triple-digit growth and reaching its highest January earnings in years. Meanwhile, sweater exports expanded solidly, even as T-shirt shipments declined from last year’s levels.
Trade with the United States showed clear signs of recovery after several months of softer performance. Exports to the U.S. market grew 19.5 percent year over year, totaling more than $206 million and accounting for more than one-third of El Salvador’s total foreign sales. “The United States continues to be our principal commercial partner and a key driver of export growth,” the central bank noted in its report.
At the same time, imports declined both in value and volume, narrowing the trade gap at the start of the year. Analysts view the combination of rising exports and moderated imports as a positive indicator for economic stability in early 2026. If external demand remains firm—particularly from the United States—El Salvador could see stronger growth dynamics throughout the year.
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El Salvador’s El Imposible National Park Named One of Condé Nast Traveler’s Seven Wonders of the World 2026.
El Salvador has earned a new place on the global travel map after Condé Nast Traveler included El Imposible National Park in its 2026 list of the Seven Wonders of the World. The prestigious annual selection highlights extraordinary destinations that the magazine recommends travelers prioritize in their future itineraries, placing the Salvadoran reserve alongside some of the world’s most celebrated sites.
Located in the western department of Ahuachapán, El Imposible is described by the publication as a wild landscape of deep canyons, rare pumas, and waterfalls cascading into hidden pools. The article emphasizes the experience of hiking the historic trail once used by coffee farmers to transport their harvest from cloud-covered peaks down to the port town of Acajutla, calling it a highlight for visitors seeking both adventure and cultural heritage.
For Salvadoran authorities, the recognition is more than a tourism milestone. Javier Chavarría, Tourism Coordinator for Protected Natural Areas at the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), said the distinction reflects years of conservation work. “The recognition reflects the work we carry out as MARN in conserving our protected natural areas and reaffirms our commitment to showcasing what El Salvador contributes in terms of biodiversity,” he stated.
According to officials, El Imposible is one of the most visited national parks in the country, drawing more than 25,000 visitors over the past five years. Managed by MARN, the park shelters diverse wildlife including ocelots, deer, and pumas, as well as centuries-old trees that stand as living witnesses to the region’s ecological history. Its name dates back to a time when crossing the rugged mountains was considered nearly impossible by local coffee growers, who ultimately gave the park its now-iconic title.
Jorge Oviedo, executive director of the Environmental Investment Fund of El Salvador (FIAES), said the global spotlight invites Salvadorans to reflect on the value of their natural heritage. “As Salvadorans, it leads us to reflect on the great value of the country’s natural heritage, especially one of the most important jewels managed by MARN, El Imposible National Park,” he commented. As international travelers increasingly seek eco-tourism experiences, El Salvador’s latest recognition positions the country as a compelling destination for U.S. visitors looking beyond traditional travel hotspots.
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DataPoll Survey: President Nayib Bukele Holds 93% Approval as Nuevas Ideas Secures 89% Support Ahead of 2027 Elections.
A new nationwide survey shows that President Nayib Bukele maintains a 93% approval rating in El Salvador, while his political party, Nuevas Ideas, commands 89% voter preference ahead of the country’s 2027 general elections. The results, released by DataPoll and presented on the television program Las Cosas como Son, reflect sustained public support more than six years into Bukele’s presidency.
According to DataPoll director Rosmeo Auerbach, the survey was conducted between February 14 and 18 across key departments including San Salvador, La Libertad, Santa Ana, San Miguel, Sonsonate, and Usulután, with 960 valid interviews. “The 93% approval remains not just high, but extremely high,” Auerbach said, noting that only 5% of respondents disapproved and 2% declined to answer. Citizens also rated Bukele’s performance with a score of 9.3 out of 10.
Auerbach contrasted Bukele’s numbers with those of other international leaders. “Any president usually experiences wear after 12 months,” he said, referencing figures such as Donald Trump, Javier Milei, Gustavo Petro, and Gabriel Boric. He argued that Bukele’s sustained popularity stands out regionally and globally, particularly after multiple years in office.
Looking toward 2027, the survey suggests that voter loyalty extends beyond the president himself. When asked which party they would support in a presidential election without being shown candidate photos, 89% chose Nuevas Ideas. ARENA followed with 4%, the FMLN with 3%, while VAMOS, GANA, and PCN each received 1%. “People clearly identify the ‘N’ flag with the president’s project,” Auerbach said, emphasizing the strength of the party brand.
The poll also measured public opinion of the Legislative Assembly, which received a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Auerbach clarified that the score reflects perceptions of all parties represented in the body. Even so, the survey underscores a dominant political landscape in El Salvador, where both the presidency and the ruling party continue to enjoy overwhelming support heading into the next electoral cycle.
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El Salvador Positions Itself as a Fifth Industrial Revolution Hub with AI and Bitcoin Strategy.
El Salvador is advancing an ambitious vision to position itself at the forefront of what officials describe as the Fifth Industrial Revolution, combining security gains, digital innovation, and economic reform. That message was delivered in Europe this week as Vice President Félix Ulloa addressed members of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group at the European Parliament, outlining how the country’s internal transformation is now fueling a new development strategy centered on technology and investment.
During the forum, European lawmakers Nicola Procaccini and Carlo Fidanza welcomed the Salvadoran delegation and highlighted the country’s dramatic shift in public safety. They emphasized that long-term economic growth is closely tied to stability and rule of law. For U.S. observers, the presentation underscored how El Salvador’s security overhaul has become the foundation for broader structural reforms aimed at modernizing the state and attracting global capital.
Vice President Ulloa argued that the country’s current phase of development would not have been possible without first dismantling entrenched criminal structures and confronting corruption. He recalled that previous administrations were marked by scandals and impunity, contrasting that period with the present. There is no room for impunity in El Salvador today, Ulloa stated, stressing that institutions now operate with greater firmness within the legal framework.
With improved security, the government is now directing its focus toward technological transformation. Officials describe a strategy that integrates artificial intelligence into public services such as healthcare and education, strengthens digital skills across the public sector, and modernizes state institutions. At the same time, El Salvador continues to promote a legal framework designed to support its digital economy, including policies that encourage innovation around Bitcoin and related financial technologies.
The administration links these initiatives to tangible economic results. According to data cited from UN Tourism, El Salvador leads tourism growth in the Americas and ranks third globally, reporting a 92 percent increase in visitor arrivals and a 211 percent rise in tourism revenue. Authorities argue that this combination of security, digital policy, and institutional reform is redefining the country’s international profile and opening new opportunities for investment and strategic partnerships, including with the United States.
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El Salvador Expands Public School Internet Access Through EU and IDB-Backed Digital Connectivity Program.
El Salvador is accelerating efforts to modernize its public education system through the expansion of internet access in schools nationwide. This week, officials from the Secretaría de Innovación de El Salvador, alongside representatives of the Unión Europea and the Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo, visited Centro Escolar Fernando Llort in San Salvador Centro to assess the progress of the Digital Social Connectivity program.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy under President Nayib Bukele aimed at reducing the country’s digital divide. By equipping public schools with reliable internet connections and technological devices, the government seeks to ensure that students across urban and rural communities have equal access to digital learning tools.
During the visit, Secretary of Innovation Daniel Méndez highlighted the transformation taking place inside classrooms. “This project allows us to increasingly close the digital gap and bring technology closer to students, teachers, and the entire educational community,” he said, emphasizing the critical role of non-reimbursable funding provided by the European Union.
Classrooms that once relied solely on traditional materials are now functioning as technology-enabled learning environments. According to Méndez, students are integrating devices into their daily academic activities in a natural way, helping them develop digital skills essential for today’s global economy. “This initiative has accelerated digitalization within the education system and prepares students for the challenges of a technological environment,” he added.
European Union Ambassador to El Salvador Duccio Bandini praised the progress achieved so far, noting that improvements in infrastructure, equipment, curriculum, and teacher training reflect a comprehensive and long-term vision. As El Salvador strengthens partnerships with international institutions, the expansion of school connectivity signals a sustained commitment to innovation and inclusive growth.
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El Salvador’s Security Model: Bukele Argues the State Is Always Stronger Than Cartels.
On February 22, 2026, President Nayib Bukele shared a video clip recalling a speech he originally delivered to foreign business leaders on March, 2025. The repost came amid renewed cartel violence in Mexico, where coordinated criminal retaliation followed a major military operation.
According to Mexican authorities, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho” and leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), was killed during a security operation. In response, cartel-linked groups carried out coordinated “narcobloqueos,” triggering widespread violence in Puerto Vallarta and across much of Jalisco. Roads were blocked, vehicles were set ablaze, and multiple cities experienced significant disruption.
Against that backdrop, Bukele resurfaced his earlier remarks defending El Salvador’s security doctrine. In his 2025 address, he argued that no government lacks the capacity to eliminate organized crime. “I believe there is no government that cannot eliminate crime; that is absurd. The State is always stronger than any criminal organization,” he said, invoking the political concept of the Leviathan to emphasize sovereign authority over territory.
Bukele contrasted the situation in parts of Latin America with countries such as the United States and Canada, noting that despite social challenges and drug consumption, no cartel openly governs entire regions beyond state control. He argued that when criminal groups hold territory, it reflects not structural weakness but institutional failure. When an attendee suggested that such situations occur “because they are in the government,” Bukele replied, “Exactly.”
For U.S. readers and investors monitoring regional stability, the timing of the repost underscores El Salvador’s effort to position its security model as a counterpoint to cartel-driven unrest elsewhere. By revisiting his 2025 message in the wake of events in Mexico, Bukele reinforced his central claim: territorial control is ultimately a question of political will.
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El Salvador Emerges as America’s Tourism Leader and a Global Top Performer.
El Salvador has positioned itself as the leading tourism destination in the Americas and one of the fastest-growing in the world, according to the latest data released in January 2026 by the United Nations Tourism. The country now ranks first in the Americas for relative growth in international arrivals and third worldwide, marking a dramatic shift in the global travel landscape.
International visitor arrivals to El Salvador increased by 92 percent compared to 2019, placing the country behind only Bhutan and Qatar in global percentage growth. Within the Western Hemisphere, El Salvador outperformed regional destinations such as Curaçao, Colombia, Brazil and Guatemala, consolidating its status as the region’s top growth story.
The surge is not limited to visitor numbers. El Salvador also ranks third globally in growth of international tourism receipts, with revenues climbing 211 percent above pre-pandemic levels. Only Tajikistan and Namibia reported stronger percentage increases. This performance signals that the country is not only attracting more travelers, but also generating greater economic value from each visit.
Across the Americas, recovery has been steady but uneven. The region received 218 million international tourists in 2025, reflecting a 4 percent increase over the previous year. While countries like Costa Rica and Guatemala have posted notable gains in tourism spending, none have matched El Salvador’s combined strength in both arrivals and revenue growth.
For U.S. travelers and investors, the data point to a country that has moved beyond recovery into expansion. El Salvador’s performance suggests a tourism sector that is not only rebounding from the pandemic, but redefining its role in regional development, job creation and foreign exchange generation, establishing itself as a global benchmark in the post-pandemic era.
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El Salvador and the United States Reinforce Bilateral Trade Worth Over $10 Billion.
The United States and El Salvador have taken a significant step toward deepening their economic partnership, announcing a new Framework for an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade aimed at modernizing and strengthening bilateral commerce. The move builds upon the foundation of the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), which has governed trade relations between the two countries since 2006, and signals a renewed commitment to expanding opportunities for businesses and workers on both sides.
Two-way trade in goods and services between the United States and El Salvador surpassed $10.7 billion in 2024, underscoring the importance of the relationship. U.S. goods and services exports to El Salvador reached $6.7 billion last year, while the United States maintains a $2.2 billion goods trade surplus. The new framework is designed to preserve that momentum by reducing regulatory friction, streamlining approvals, and addressing long-standing non-tariff barriers that affect key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
Under the agreement, El Salvador has committed to simplifying import procedures, accepting U.S. standards in specific industries, and improving transparency in regulatory practices. The framework also includes provisions to protect intellectual property rights, prevent discriminatory digital services taxes, and support the free flow of data across borders. In addition, both nations pledged to strengthen cooperation on supply chain resilience, export controls, and national economic security matters.
Labor and environmental standards also feature prominently in the agreement. El Salvador has reaffirmed its commitment to internationally recognized labor rights and agreed to prohibit the importation of goods produced through forced labor. The framework further calls for stronger enforcement of environmental laws, including measures to combat illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and illegal mining, reinforcing broader sustainability goals tied to trade.
U.S. officials indicated that, in recognition of El Salvador’s commitments, certain reciprocal tariffs on qualifying Salvadoran exports will be lifted. As Washington and San Salvador move toward implementation, the agreement represents not just a policy update, but a strategic effort to solidify an economic relationship that already exceeds $10 billion annually.
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El Salvador’s Specialty Coffee Gains Ground in Vienna’s World-Class Coffee Scene.
El Salvador’s specialty coffee is carving out a strong position in one of Europe’s most demanding and refined markets: Vienna. Known globally for its historic café culture and sophisticated coffee standards, the Austrian capital has become an unlikely yet strategic gateway for Salvadoran beans seeking recognition among top-tier roasters and discerning consumers. At the center of this effort is Salvadoran entrepreneur Eduardo Hernández, founder of Santa Cristina GmbH, a Vienna-based importer dedicated to direct trade and high-quality Salvadoran coffee.
For more than a decade, Santa Cristina has connected Austrian and European roasters directly with farms located on the slopes of the San Salvador and Santa Ana volcanoes. The company’s portfolio includes coffees from Finca Santa Cristina, Santa Lucía, and San Francisco, grown at high altitude and processed using washed, honey, natural, and anaerobic methods. These coffees are known for their complex, balanced profiles and high specialty scores, allowing El Salvador to compete with some of the world’s most recognized coffee origins.
“Vienna is a world capital of coffee, and the fact that Café de El Salvador is present and appreciated in such a demanding market demonstrates the quality and potential of our country,” said El Salvador’s Ambassador to Austria, Kennedy Obed Reyes Lazo, following a recent meeting with Hernández at the Salvadoran Embassy in Vienna. The diplomat emphasized the role of Salvadoran entrepreneurs abroad in strengthening the country’s economic image and promoting coffee as a product of national identity.
The impact of Salvadoran coffee in Austria is tangible. Beans imported by Santa Cristina have been roasted or commercialized by respected industry names such as Kaffeelix, GOTA Coffee Experts, and Julius Meinl, among many others. Through a direct trade model centered on traceability and sustainability, the company has distributed hundreds of tons of green coffee to more than forty specialty roasters and cafés, while also expanding into Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania.
Beyond commercial success, the project reflects a broader strategy of environmental responsibility and long-term positioning. By prioritizing forest conservation, microclimate protection, and careful processing methods, Salvadoran producers are aligning with European consumers’ growing demand for transparency and sustainability. With the support of the Salvadoran Embassy and ongoing promotional activities in Austria and Central Europe, El Salvador’s specialty coffee is not only present in Vienna’s celebrated cafés — it is steadily becoming part of the city’s evolving coffee narrative.