BLP’s summary of the most important regional news and opportunities offers an overview of the economic, social, and political landscape of Central America at a glance.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica opens an investment promotion office in Silicon Valley
Costa Rica established an Investment Promotion Office in Silicon Valley to attract projects in high-value sectors such as semiconductors, medical devices, and business services. Read more.
Railway bridge rehabilitation project
INCOFER will repair six railway bridges in the Greater Metropolitan Area with an investment exceeding US$1 million, strengthening infrastructure resilience. Read more.
Banking system outlook remains stable
Moody’s Local projects stability for Costa Rican banks in 2026, supported by strong liquidity and solvency levels. Read more.
Corruption Perceptions Index decline
Costa Rica scored 56/100 in 2025, reflecting stagnation in anti-corruption efforts. Read more.
Tourism growth continues
Air arrivals increased 10.3% in January 2026, reinforcing tourism as a key economic pillar. Read more.
El Salvador
Renewable energy incentives strengthen solar leadership
New legislation promotes investment in solar energy and energy storage systems. Read more.
Cable car system project
A US$155 million urban mobility project will connect Mejicanos with San Salvador’s Historic Center. Read more.
IDB financing support
The IDB will provide US$1.3 billion for housing, tourism, health, and education projects. Read more.
Digital agriculture initiative
A US$5.9 million project will support digital transformation in agriculture. Read more.
Guatemala
Urban transport integration projects
BRT and AeroMetro could form part of a multimodal metropolitan transport network. Read more.
Atlantic highway expansion
A Q1.35 billion project aims to expand a key logistics corridor connecting to Puerto Barrios. Read more.
Tourism growth continues
International arrivals increased 9% in January 2026. Read more.
Honduras
Business confidence improves
The confidence index reached expansion territory for the first time since 2022. Read more.
IMF program update
Discussions aim to adjust a US$823 million economic program. Read more.
Economic diplomacy strategy
Honduras strengthens ties to attract investment and financing. Read more.
Nicaragua
International reserves growth
Reserves reached US$8.59 billion in January 2026, reflecting strong macroeconomic performance. Read more.
BLP Insights
New flight schedule coordination directive
Costa Rica introduces new rules for airport capacity management. Read more.
Guatemala–U.S. trade agreement update
Zero-tariff treatment restored for approximately 70% of exports. Read more.
Biomedical labeling regulatory update
New criteria allow supplementary labeling clarifications. Read more.
Economic Index
| Country | Exchange Rate | Policy Rate | Inflation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 480.35 | 3.25% | -2.53% |
| El Salvador | 8.75 | N/A | 0.65% |
| Guatemala | 7.66 | 3.75% | 0.96% |
| Honduras | 26.49 | 5.75% | 4.23% |
| Nicaragua | 36.62 | 5.75% | 2.70% |
Source: SECMCA | February 20, 2026
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