El Salvador: A Growing Hub for Regional and Global Expansion

El Salvador: A Strategic Investment Destination Transforming Opportunities Across the Americas

By: Jorge Rosa, Key Account Manager, BFI El Salvador

El Salvador is undergoing a remarkable economic, social, and institutional transformation that has positioned the country as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Latin America. With a renewed business climate, strong security indicators, and a forward-looking approach to innovation, the nation stands at a pivotal moment inviting global partners, investors, and companies to explore the advantages of establishing operations in its territory.

At BFI El Salvador, we continue to work hand in hand with international partners and investors seeking secure, efficient, and scalable solutions. As part of our mission, we also support business leaders in understanding why El Salvador has become a strategic hub for regional and global expansion.


1. A Stable and Reliable Economic Environment

One of the pillars of El Salvador’s attractiveness is its monetary system. The adoption of the US Dollar as legal tender provides long term stability, minimizes currency risk, and allows investors to operate in a predictable financial environment. This framework facilitates international transactions, financial planning, and corporate operations with greater confidence and efficiency.

In addition, the government has implemented reforms and incentives that strengthen the country’s competitiveness and simplify investment processes. Today, El Salvador offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the region, with a clear commitment to transparency, modernization, and legal security.


2. A Strategic Location with Direct Access to Key Global Markets

Located in the heart of the Americas, El Salvador provides a geographical advantage that few countries in the region can match. Its connectivity through modern roads, an expanding international airport, and highly active seaports allows companies to reach North, Central, and South America quickly and cost-effectively.

This logistics positioning makes the country an ideal hub for:

  • regional distribution
  • nearshoring and reshoring strategies
  • supply chain optimization
  • multimodal cargo operations

El Salvador’s infrastructure continues to grow, reinforcing its role as a central point for international commerce.


3. A Young, Productive, and Skilled Workforce

El Salvador possesses a young, dynamic labor force that is internationally recognized for its strong work ethic, productivity, and adaptability. With more than half of its population under 40 years old, the country offers a long-term human capital advantage for industries such as logistics, manufacturing, services, technology, and specialized operations.

This workforce continues to gain access to technical programs, engineering careers, English language training, and advanced vocational programs strengthening the country’s capacity to support high-performance industries.


4. Modern Infrastructure That Supports Business Growth

El Salvador ranks among the top countries in Central America for road connectivity and infrastructure development. Major projects including airport expansion, the modernization of port terminals, and new logistics corridors are enabling greater agility for international trade.

For companies evaluating location competitiveness, El Salvador offers:

  • short transit times
  • efficient cargo handling
  • multimodal logistics capabilities
  • a growing ecosystem of free trade zones and industrial parks

These components create a strong foundation for operational efficiency and supply chain success.


5. One of the Safest Countries in Latin America

El Salvador’s historic improvement in public security has been widely recognized internationally. With crime indicators at historic lows, the country now stands as one of the safest in Latin America an attribute that directly increases investor confidence, tourism demand, and long-term economic development.

This new environment strengthens business continuity, workforce stability, and project feasibility, making the country a reliable destination for foreign companies.


6. A Wide Array of Investment Incentives

Investors in El Salvador benefit from a robust and competitive incentives framework that includes:

  • income tax exemptions
  • municipal tax exemptions
  • customs duty exemptions on machinery, equipment, and raw materials
  • incentives for technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics, agribusiness, and more
  • access to legal stability contracts

These benefits significantly reduce startup and operating costs, making investment scenarios more favorable and scalable.


7. Strategic Advisory and Expert Support from BFI El Salvador

At BFI El Salvador, we understand that entering a new market requires clarity, strategy, and reliable local support. For this reason, our team provides specialized guidance in:

✔ Market Insights & Industry Intelligence

We help investors evaluate opportunities across high-growth sectors, understand cost structures, and analyze the competitive landscape.

✔ Guidance on Government Institutions Supporting Investment

We collaborate closely with institutions that promote foreign investment, facilitate permits, offer incentives, and accompany international businesses throughout the establishment process.

✔ Relocation & Repatriation Support for Investors

We provide assistance for investors who wish to relocate or establish residence in El Salvador, including:

  • investor visas and residency programs
  • relocation logistics
  • exemptions for household goods and vehicles
  • local integration and cultural orientation
  • repatriation programs for Salvadorans abroad who wish to reinvest in the country

This personalized support ensures that executives, entrepreneurs, and families enjoy a smooth and efficient transition into the Salvadoran ecosystem.


8. A Transforming Country Ready for Global Partnerships

El Salvador is not only growing it is transforming. The country is shaping a new identity centered on economic strength, security, infrastructure development, and global competitiveness. This transformation is creating exceptional opportunities for organizations seeking expansion, strategic positioning, or a new regional base.

At BFI El Salvador, we stand ready to support our partners and investors in exploring these opportunities and developing projects that contribute to sustainable growth.


Contact Information

For more details, personalized advisory, or to explore opportunities in El Salvador, feel free to reach out:

Jorge Rosa
Key Account Manager – BFI El Salvador
Phone: +503 7398 5117
Email: jrosa@bfielsalvador.com

The Hidden Advantage in Latin America Every Investor Is Looking At

El Salvador is entering a transformative phase of growth. With unprecedented momentum in construction, foreign investment, and national development, the need for a reliable, experienced, and strategic logistics partner has never been greater.

At BFI El Salvador, we are proud to support this new era by delivering world class solutions in relocation, project logistics, and import management for clients with high operational standards.


A Market Defined by Expansion

El Salvador’s landscape is rapidly evolving:

  • New residential towers and luxury communities
  • Large-scale coastal and tourism projects
  • Urban development zones and mixed use complexes
  • A surge in foreign residents and returning Salvadorans

This wave of development demands precise coordination, compliance, and support from international mobility to heavy cargo, FF&E, and full import logistics.


A Government Backing Growth and Mobility

Under President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador is offering streamlined processes and incentives that are accelerating:

  • Residency and naturalization for foreign nationals
  • Repatriation for Salvadorans returning from abroad
  • Corporate expansion and foreign investment
  • Importation of materials, equipment, and personal effects

Your clients entering the country today experience a smoother, more efficient process and we ensure it stays that way.


A Country Reinvented Through Safety

El Salvador is now recognized as one of the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere.
This historic transformation has elevated:

  • Investor confidence
  • Corporate mobility
  • Tourism and hospitality development
  • Long-term residential demand

Security is no longer a barrier it is now a competitive advantage.


Why Global Partners Choose BFI El Salvador

BFI is the benchmark for professional relocation and project logistics in the region.
Our expertise includes:

  • International and corporate relocations
  • Full import coordination and customs management
  • FF&E and turnkey logistics for construction & hospitality
  • High-value project cargo and specialized transportation
  • End-to-end support for developers, builders, expats, and investors

We operate with precision, transparency, and a commitment to excellence in every move, delivery, and project.

Your clients deserve a partner with global experience and local mastery.


Let’s Build Success Together

Whether your clients are entering El Salvador for development, construction, investment, or residential relocation, BFI El Salvador is fully prepared to support their journey from day one.

I would be pleased to coordinate a call to discuss how we can assist with your upcoming projects.

Moises Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador
Email: mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com
Phone: +503 7398 3568


Research & Reference Links

Statista – El Salvador Safety Ranking
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1438685/el-salvador-homicide-rate/

Government of El Salvador
https://www.elsalvador.gob.sv

El Economista – Real Estate & Economic Growth
https://www.eleconomista.net

CASALCO – Construction Sector Reports
https://www.casalco.org

OPAMSS – Urban Development & Permits
https://www.opamss.gob.sv

New US–El Salvador Trade Framework: A Strategic Opportunity for Our Network

Dear Partners,

We are pleased to share an important development that will open new commercial opportunities for exporters in El Salvador and strengthen our collaboration across the region.

1. A New Trade Framework with the United States

On November 13, 2025, the governments of El Salvador and the United States announced a Framework for an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, building upon CAFTA‑DR and designed to expand bilateral trade and reduce costs for key product categories. The White House+2United States Trade Representative+2
You can read the joint statement here: Joint Statement – White House The White House
And the fact sheet here: Fact Sheet – USTR United States Trade Representative

2. Key Benefits for Salvadoran Exports to the U.S.

  • The United States will eliminate reciprocal tariffs on selected Salvadoran products, particularly those not sufficiently produced in the U.S. The White House+1
  • Textiles and apparel under CAFTA-DR will also benefit from strengthened preferential access. The White House+1
  • Exporters can expect lower landed costs, increased price competitiveness, and a faster entry into the U.S. market.

3. Reduced Non-Tariff Barriers

El Salvador will modernize its import procedures for U.S. goods, while both countries commit to:

These improvements create a broader environment of predictability and transparency, which benefits all regional trade partners.

4. What This Means for Our Agent Network

This framework represents a strategic opportunity:

  • Enhanced competitiveness for Salvadoran exporters seeking entry into the U.S.
  • New product categories that may qualify for preferential treatment.
  • Greater certainty for logistics, compliance, and transit requirements.
  • Stronger positioning for all agents supporting cross-border shipments.

As a network, this allows us to provide more valuebetter guidance, and a clear pathway for clients looking to expand into the U.S. market.

5. Let’s Prepare Your Customers

We invite our partners to proactively review their customers’ product lines and identify items that might benefit from:

  • Reduced or eliminated tariffs
  • Updated compliance or certification pathways
  • Optimised logistics planning under the new framework

Call to Action (CTA)

Contact us to schedule a 15-minute consultation to evaluate your clients’ products and determine how these upcoming changes can improve their competitiveness in the U.S. market.
Together, we can help companies seize new opportunities under this enhanced trade landscape.

El Salvador’s New Mobility Law Duty Free Benefits for Returning Citizens

our Trusted Partner for International Relocation and Customs Exemptions

El Salvador has introduced a new Special Law for the Diaspora and People in Human Mobility, a comprehensive framework that facilitates the return of Salvadorans and naturalized citizens by granting full import tax exemptions on household goods, vehicles, and work-related equipment.

This law positions El Salvador among the most diaspora-friendly countries in Central America, offering significant incentives for those who wish to return, invest, or reestablish their lives and businesses in the country.

At BFI El Salvador – Moving El Salvador, we are ready to assist agents, consulates, and families worldwide in managing every aspect of this process — from customs documentation and inspection coordination to door-to-door delivery.


🏠 1. Household Goods (Menaje de Casa)

Under the Special Law for the Diaspora and People in Human Mobility, Salvadorans returning to the country can import household goods tax-free for a total declared value of up to USD 100,000 per family group.

The term menaje de casa refers to all domestic items used to furnish and equip a household, including:

  • Furniture, appliances, and kitchenware
  • Clothing, electronics, personal items, and décor
  • Books, children’s items, and family belongings

These goods can be new or used, provided they are for domestic use only and not intended for resale.

BFI El Salvador handles the customs declaration, import coordination, packaging inspection, and final delivery, ensuring compliance with Salvadoran Customs Authority (DGA) guidelines.

For official requirements, visit:
🔗 Customs Service – Import of Menaje de Casa (sitio.aduana.gob.sv)


🚗 2. Vehicles

The law allows returning Salvadorans to import up to two personal vehicles per family, fully exempt from import duties, as long as the vehicles are for private use and in good condition.

Key requirements:

  • The vehicle must be registered under the owner’s name.
  • Proof of ownership (title and registration) must be provided.
  • The vehicle must be retained for at least two years before transfer or sale.

Eligible vehicles can arrive via Port of Acajutla or through authorized land border entries.
BFI El Salvador coordinates all steps — customs clearance, inland transport, DGA inspection, and delivery — under compliance with the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs.


⚙️ 3. Tools, Professional Equipment, and Work Implements

The new legislation also supports returning professionals and entrepreneurs by providing tax-free entry for tools, instruments, machinery, and work equipment necessary to restart a business or trade in El Salvador.

The exemption applies to both new and used items, up to a combined declared value of USD 100,000 per family group.

Examples include:

  • Mechanics’ tools, carpentry and construction equipment
  • IT, design, and professional office setups
  • Agricultural, industrial, or artisan machinery
  • Technical or educational materials for small enterprises

BFI ensures the correct classification, valuation, and documentation under the new diaspora benefits program, so your clients or partners receive full exemption without delay.


🧾 Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for these benefits, applicants must:

  1. Be Salvadoran by birth or by naturalization.
  2. Have resided abroad and now wish to return permanently or temporarily.
  3. Submit a sworn declaration to the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME) indicating their return and new residence in El Salvador.
  4. Not have any active migration restrictions or pending legal issues.

These measures reflect the Salvadoran government’s effort to strengthen ties with the diaspora and facilitate reintegration into the national economy.


🌎 BFI El Salvador — Your Partner in Central America

As members of the International Association of Movers (IAM), WCA World, Globalia Logistics Network, and JCtrans, BFI El Salvador acts as your destination partner for:

  • Door-to-Door Relocation Services
  • Customs Brokerage & Tax-Exemption Management
  • Packing, Storage, and Local Distribution
  • Project Cargo & Multimodal Transport Solutions

We provide full support for returning families, expatriates, diplomats, and corporate relocations, ensuring compliance with the new Salvadoran Mobility Law and offering end-to-end visibility throughout the process.


🤝 Work with Us

Whether you represent an overseas moving company, relocation agency, embassy, or private client, BFI El Salvador can assist you with every step of your client’s return — ensuring documentation accuracy, timely customs release, and secure delivery.

Our team will guide you through:

  • Law interpretation and eligibility verification
  • Documentation and customs pre-approval
  • Shipment coordination and DGA inspection assistance
  • On-site delivery at the client’s new home or facility

Contact Us

📧 moises@bfielsalvador.com
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com
📍 San Salvador, El Salvador

Moisés Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador – Moving El Salvador
The way to move. The way to care.

El Salvador connects to the world through technology and innovation

El Salvador reaffirms its commitment to technology, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The country recently inaugurated the Center for the Development and Application of Emerging Technologies, Ticongle Hub, a strategic space designed to strengthen research, prototyping, entrepreneurship, and connection with national and international networks.

This initiative, led by Asociación Conexión and Ticongle , promotes specialized technical training, innovation, and the development of local digital talent, boosting the nation’s competitiveness and positioning El Salvador as a hub for technological growth in the region.

El Salvador’s forward looking vision has attracted global investors such as Tether, DataTrust, and Google, who have recognized the country’s potential for innovation and transformation:

  • Tether announced a USD 1 billion investment in Volcano Energy to build one of the world’s largest renewable-powered Bitcoin mining facilities in Metapán (Tether.io). The company also received a Digital Asset Service Provider license and is planning the Tether Tower, its first regional headquarters (Reuters).
  • DataTrust inaugurated El Salvador’s first Tier III-certified data center, with a USD 30 million investment, strengthening national infrastructure and data resilience (Invest in El Salvador).
  • Google signed a 7 year strategic partnership valued at approximately USD 500 million, establishing Google Distributed Cloud services and opening a Google Cloud office in El Salvador to support digital transformation across education, health, and government sectors (Reuters).

Complementing these investments, El Salvador continues to implement modern legal frameworks such as the Laws for the Promotion of Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, and Technology Manufacturing, creating an environment conducive to sustained growth and international investment.


At BFI El Salvador, we celebrate these milestones that position our nation as a regional benchmark for innovation, technology, and competitiveness values that also inspire our logistics and digital operations.

Mariam Acosta
Sales & Relocation Support
📧 marketing@bfielsalvador.com
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com

New Rules for Vehicle Imports to El Salvador Effective 2025

Dear partners and clients,

As part of the new Special Law for the Diaspora and Human Mobility, the General Directorate of Customs (DGA) has updated the import regulations for Salvadorans returning to the country with their personal belongings and vehicles.

According to Resolution DGA-016-2025, each family group is entitled to import up to two vehicles with exemption from import duties and registration taxes, under the following conditions:

🚗 Conventional vehicles (gasoline or diesel): Up to 8 years old from the date of manufacture.
⚡ Electric or hybrid vehicles: Up to 7 years old from the date of manufacture.
🧾 Vehicles must be in good working condition not declared as salvage or total loss.
🔑 The vehicle must remain under the owner’s name for at least two years before transfer or resale.

This new regulation also allows the import of household goods and work equipment under the same law, offering returning Salvadorans greater flexibility and benefits when relocating to El Salvador.

At BFI El Salvador, we are ready to assist you through every step of your international relocation, ensuring smooth customs clearance and safe delivery of your belongings and vehicles.

Let’s make your return home simple, compliant, and stress free.

Best regards,
Moisés Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com

📧 mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com

Meet our team!

New Horizons: Open Skies Between El Salvador & Brazil

Dear Partners,
We are pleased to share exciting news: El Salvador and Brazil have officially signed an Open Skies Agreement, opening new opportunities for passenger, cargo, and logistics operations between both countries.

This milestone strengthens connectivity, supports tourism and trade, and creates the perfect environment for new partnerships and business expansion.

At BFI El Salvador, we stand ready to support you as your trusted partner, facilitating cargo, relocation, and logistics solutions that connect Latin America with the world.

🤝 The Embassy of El Salvador in Brazil invites all our partners to take advantage of this new framework by establishing contact through the Embassy as the official channel to explore opportunities, strengthen connections, and generate new business between both nations.
📩 For inquiries, you may reach the Embassy of El Salvador in Brazil at: rodrigo.monterroza@rree.gob.sv

For your reference, you may also consult the official publications regarding the Open Skies Agreement:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador
Diario El Salvador
Brazilian Senate – Legislative Decree No. 197/2025

Let’s work together to make the most of this new chapter in regional logistics.
BFI El Salvador

Your Trusted Partner in Logistics & Relocation
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com

El Salvador Air Hub: Exports & Imports with Priority

Dear Partners,

At BFI El Salvador, we know that every shipment is more than just cargo  it carries trust, value, and often, urgency. That’s why our commitment is simple: your air freight is always handled with care.

From sensitive medicines to delicate electronics and fresh flowers, our mission is to ensure safe, secure, and on-time deliveries. As a future mom, I personally understand the importance of care and protection  this same mindset guides how I manage each and every shipment.

El Salvador is now a strategic HUB for air exports, connecting you with global markets. But it doesn’t stop there: as proud members of WCA, IAMovers, JCTrans, and Globalia, we are also your trusted partner for air imports, ready to receive your cargo in El Salvador and deliver it with priority handling to its final destination.

With our expertise, you can count on the most suitable airfreight rates and the confidence that your shipments whether export or import  will always be handled with the highest standards of security and reliability.

 Let’s connect and explore new opportunities together. Your shipments are our mission.

👉 Let’s connect and explore new opportunities together. Your shipments are our mission.

Warm regards,

Haicel Paiz
Commercial Manager – BFI El Salvador   🌍 www.bfielsalvador.com 

✉️ hpaiz@bfielsalvador.com

Let’s Meet at Breakbulk Americas 2025 – El Salvador, Your Project Hub

Dear Partners,

I am pleased to share that I will be representing BFI El Salvador at Breakbulk Americas 2025, taking place in Houston, USA, from 30 September to 2 October 2025.

As Key Account  Manager, I look forward to presenting how El Salvador serves as a strategic hub for project cargo and specialized logistics in Central America. From oversized and complex shipments to international relocations and customs brokerage, our team has the expertise and trusted global network to support your success.

This event is a great opportunity to:
✔ Explore new collaborations in project logistics.
✔ Learn how El Salvador connects regional and global supply chains.
✔ Strengthen partnerships within the WCA Projects network and beyond.

Looking forward to connecting with you and showcasing how BFI El Salvador can be your project hub in the region.

Best regards,
Jorge Rosa
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador

📧 jrosa@bfielsalvador.com | 🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com.sv