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 just a click away.
Costa Rica: Juan Santamaría Airport Breaks Record by Generating US$62 Million for the Government
Juan Santamaría International Airport handled more than 6.4 million international passengers in 2025, the highest figure in its history, cementing its role as the country’s main gateway and a driving force for tourism and connectivity. AERIS, its operator, invested US$28.3 million, of which US$23.1 million went toward Master Plan projects, and contributed more than US$62 million to the Costa Rican government. On the environmental front, the airport reduced its diesel consumption by 40%, increased the percentage of recycled waste to 9.3%, and trained 233 concessionaires in energy efficiency—a 482% increase over 2024. For the second consecutive year, the airport received the award for Best Airport in Latin America and the Caribbean in its category, as well as ACI Level 5 Accreditation in Customer Experience, the highest global distinction in passenger experience. These results reinforce Costa Rica’s competitiveness as a world-class investment and tourism destination.
Canada views Costa Rica as a priority destination for diversifying investment and trade
Yasir Naqvi, Canada’s Parliamentary Secretary for International Trade, noted that Costa Rica has become the second most popular tourist destination for Canadians, a fact that directly inspires confidence in investing and establishing business operations in the country. As part of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government strategy to diversify trade beyond the United States, Costa Rica is emerging as one of the partners with the greatest potential for deepening bilateral economic relations. Naqvi identified infrastructure and education as the two areas with the greatest potential for cooperation, highlighting Canada’s expertise in large-scale highway and bridge projects and complex construction works, as well as the possibility of academic partnerships between universities in both countries. The official also noted the growth of Canadian companies in technology, corporate services, and free trade zones, highlighting Costa Rica’s human talent and stability as key factors of attraction. The four major Canadian airlines operate direct flights to San José and Liberia, facilitating a flow that turns tourists into potential investors and business partners.
Government City is advancing as a driving force for government modernization and the revitalization of San José
A new legislative proposal is being drafted to expedite the construction of Government City through an expedited procedure that would bypass the traditional public bidding process, while maintaining oversight and monitoring mechanisms. The project calls for three to four towers in Plaza Víquez to house some 20 government agencies and 10,000 public servants. The initiative would allow the government to save nearly ¢30 billion annually in rent, significantly reducing current leasing expenses. The project would be financed and constructed by the BCIE, and the buildings would become government property after 25 years. Additionally, its proponents highlight its potential to drive economic recovery and the urban transformation of San José.
Costa Rica is strengthening agricultural innovation to boost competitiveness and investment in the agri-food sector
PROCOMER organized the Costa Rica Innovation Hub: AgriFoodTech, an event that brought together agribusinesses, startups, universities, investors, and international organizations, aiming to align innovation, technology, and investment with the real needs of Costa Rica’s agricultural and agribusiness sectors. As part of the event, PROCOMER and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to coordinate academia, the productive sector, and the business community through research, entrepreneurship, incubation, and talent development. PROCOMER’s General Manager, Laura López, highlighted that Costa Rica has the conditions to attract investment, research, and specialized services that enhance the value of the agri-food chain and generate employment in rural areas. The Minister of Agriculture, Juan Gabriel Ramírez, emphasized that AgriFoodTech serves as a platform for stakeholders in the agri-food ecosystem to connect and work jointly for the benefit of future agriculture. This hub positions Costa Rica as a regional leader in agro-industrial innovation and opens new opportunities for startups and investors in a high-potential sector.
Costa Rican coffee strengthens its presence in Asia with a trade mission to South Korea
A trade mission comprising six Costa Rican coffee companies traveled to Seoul and Busan, South Korea, to meet with representatives from 35 Korean buyers, roasters, and specialty coffee shops, marking Costa Rica’s first specialty coffee mission to that market. In 2025, Costa Rican coffee exports reached US$469.8 million, a 35% increase compared to 2024, positioning coffee as one of the country’s main agricultural export products alongside bananas and pineapples. South Korea has more than 100,000 coffee shops, the highest per capita coffee consumption in Asia, and one of the highest levels of consumer spending in the region, making it a high-value strategic market. PROCOMER General Manager Laura López highlighted that Korean consumers value the origin, quality, sustainability, and story behind every cup—attributes in which Costa Rica offers a distinctive and internationally recognized proposition. This mission opens a new door to diversify Costa Rican export destinations toward Asia and consolidate the country’s coffee in sophisticated, high-potential markets.
Moody’s highlights El Salvador’s economic resilience and forecasts 3.1% growth in 2026
Moody’s forecasts that El Salvador’s economy will grow by 3.1% in 2026, supported by strong performance in construction, domestic consumption, and the stability of the financial system. Although the conflict in the Middle East has generated inflationary pressures and an increase in fuel prices, the rating agency believes the impact on growth will be limited. The construction sector remains one of the main drivers of the economy, with projected growth of 9% following a 26% increase the previous year. Additionally, growth in bank deposits and increased liquidity in the financial system are boosting credit, trade, and consumption. Moody’s even notes that there is a possibility that economic growth could exceed current projections if this positive momentum continues.
El Salvador is strengthening its leadership in healthcare and opening up opportunities for the life sciences industry
El Salvador leads Central America in healthcare spending as a percentage of GDP, allocating 9.2%, according to an EY study that highlights the country’s potential to develop the life sciences sector. The consulting firm identifies opportunities to attract investment in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and digital health, driven by a more favorable business environment. It also highlights advances in telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and the adoption of connected medical technologies. Economic stability, dollarization, and pro-investment reforms strengthen the country’s appeal for new projects. Although regulatory and modernization challenges persist, the report notes that El Salvador has the conditions to establish itself as a key player in this high-value-added industry.
El Salvador’s pharmaceutical industry is strengthening its international presence and expanding opportunities in the United States
El Salvador exported pharmaceutical products worth US$172.9 million in 2025, reaching more than 40 international markets and cementing Central America as its primary destination. The United States stood out as one of the fastest-growing markets, with purchases totaling US$17.8 million, an 18.8% increase over the previous year. The Salvadoran pharmaceutical industry comprises 50 laboratories, generates approximately 6,500 jobs, and attracted more than US$154 million in foreign investment during 2025. In addition, the country seeks to capitalize on new opportunities arising from the reconfiguration of global supply chains and trade agreements with the United States. The sector is emerging as one of the strategic industries for boosting high-value-added exports and attracting new investments.
El Salvador is driving innovation with its first national AI data platform
El Salvador has launched Nemotron-Personas-El-Salvador, the first open dataset of synthetic personas designed using national statistics to develop AI solutions tailored to the country’s reality. The initiative, created in partnership with NVIDIA and WideLabs, will enable companies, universities, and developers to build more accurate, secure, and culturally relevant systems. The project uses synthetic profiles that protect citizens’ privacy while facilitating the creation and testing of new AI applications. Additionally, it will be available under an open license to foster innovation and reduce barriers to technological access. With this advancement, El Salvador strengthens its digital sovereignty strategy and place among the countries that are developing their own infrastructure for the artificial intelligence of the future.
Solar energy has significant growth potential in El Salvador with investment in storage
El Salvador has sufficient space to continue developing solar energy, driven by the significant drop in the prices of photovoltaic systems, according to Ismael Sánchez, a researcher and energy efficiency specialist. Among the notable opportunities is agrovoltaics, which allows the simultaneous use of the same plot of land for agricultural production and solar energy generation—an alternative already implemented in Costa Rica that could be adapted to the Salvadoran context. To maximize the country’s solar potential, the expert notes that the key lies in investing in storage systems such as batteries, which address the seasonal variability of this renewable source. Sánchez also highlights the importance of diversifying the energy mix by leveraging the resources El Salvador already possesses: hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal energy, thereby reducing dependence on costly sources such as thermal generation. This outlook opens up concrete investment opportunities in renewable energy infrastructure and storage technologies in a market with high growth potential.
Guatemala is promoting port modernization to strengthen its leadership in logistics and exports
Guatemala faces a strategic opportunity to modernize its port system and strengthen its competitiveness in international trade. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure, digitize processes, and optimize logistics operations to reduce costs and shipping times. The proposed General Law on the National Port System would help attract investment, improve governance, and expand port capacity. These advances would allow the country to take advantage of opportunities such as nearshoring and the relocation of supply chains. Port modernization is emerging as a key step in boosting Guatemala’s exports, investment, and economic growth.
Guatemala fortifies its economy with robust growth in remittances
Guatemala received $10.653 billion in family remittances between January and May 2026, a 7.5% increase compared to the same period last year, cementing remittances as one of the main drivers of the national economy, according to the Bank of Guatemala. In May alone, Guatemalan migrants sent US$2.2214 billion, with an annual growth projection of 5% for 2026, following a historic record of US$25.5302 billion in 2025. More than three million Guatemalans living in the United States support 1.7 million Guatemalan households with these transfers, directly impacting seven million people. The Bank of Guatemala estimates that 60% of remittances go toward consumption, 30% toward home construction or improvement, and the remaining 10% toward social investments, generating a multiplier effect on the local economy. This sustained flow of foreign currency strengthens the country’s macroeconomic stability and supports the dynamism of domestic consumption and the real estate sector.
Guatemala is accelerating its road development through strategic investments that strengthen the country’s competitiveness
Guatemala is moving forward with three road infrastructure projects that are transforming mobility and reducing logistics costs: the Southern Alternate Route (VAS), which optimizes metropolitan connectivity with a 24.8-km stretch between Villa Nueva and Santa Elena Barillas; the Xochi Highway in Suchitepéquez, which cuts travel time from over three hours to just 30 minutes along a 31-km stretch of the Southern Coast; and the Escuintla–Puerto Quetzal Highway (EPQ), a world-class logistics corridor under a public-private partnership model that connects directly to the country’s main port and is more than 60% complete in its first phase. Carlos Arias, president of CACIF, notes that Guatemala faces a deficit of 7,000 kilometers of roads, making infrastructure investment a strategic priority for national competitiveness. Former Minister of Economy Rubén Morales highlights that these projects relieve traffic congestion, save travel time, lower logistics costs, and drive real estate, industrial, and commercial development in their areas of influence. Guatemala is thus consolidating a model of private investment and public-private partnerships in infrastructure that strengthens its appeal to investors and regional logistics operators.
Guatemala is consolidating its tourism growth through improved connectivity and an increase in international visitor arrivals
Guatemala recorded a 2.1% increase in international visitor arrivals during the first four months of 2026, with 1,126,254 non-resident tourists entering the country between January and April, according to the Guatemalan Tourism Institute (INGUAT). The most dynamic markets were Honduras (+56%), Colombia (+28%), and Mexico (+23%), reflecting a growing interest among Latin American travelers in the country’s cultural, natural, and culinary attractions. Improved air connectivity has been a key factor: Avianca announced a direct flight between Guatemala City and San Francisco, the first direct connection between Central America and the U.S. West Coast, while BermudAir added a new route between Boston and Guatemala City via Belize. UNWTO highlights that strengthening international connections is essential for boosting tourism, a trend that Guatemala has strategically capitalized on. These new routes expand the reach of Guatemala as a destination and project a greater flow of visitors and foreign exchange for the second half of 2026.
Puerto Cortés plans to triple its capacity and strengthen Honduras’s leadership in logistics
Puerto Cortés, Honduras’ main port, which handles approximately 90% of the country’s exports, has the potential to triple its operational capacity to 3 million containers through new investments in port infrastructure, including the construction of a new pier and land reclamation from the sea, according to Héctor Guillén, secretary of the National Logistics Council. The Central American Port Operator (OPC) projects closing out 2026 by handling nearly 900,000 containers, a figure considered historic within the country’s logistics operations. The main products passing through the terminal are coffee, grains, manufactured goods, and industrial supplies—activities that generate foreign exchange, employment, and economic dynamism for the country. The projected growth is part of Honduras’ efforts to strengthen its logistical position in Central America and expand its foreign trade capacity in response to rising regional demand. The expansion of Puerto Cortés represents a strategic opportunity for investment in port infrastructure that would significantly boost Honduras’ logistical and commercial competitiveness at the regional level.
Honduras and CABEI are promoting an investment portfolio exceeding US$1.6 billion in infrastructure and development
The Executive President of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), Gisela Sánchez, met with President Nasry Asfura, the Minister of Finance, and representatives of the Central Bank of Honduras to strengthen institutional coordination and follow up on a project portfolio exceeding US$1.6 billion. The infrastructure portfolio exceeds US$1.4 billion and includes the Resilient Roads Program with the Danlí–Trojes and Ojo de Agua–Cantarranas sections, the Anillo Periférico–CA-5 South Highway bypass, and a tourism corridor from La Barca to La Ceiba, in addition to the hospitals in Choluteca and Tocoa. Notable among the new opportunities in the pipeline are the financing of a cable car in Tegucigalpa and the Quiebramontes Dam, along with projects for access to drinking water, sustainable water management, and the environmental restoration of Lake Yojoa. Sánchez reaffirmed that Honduras is a strategic partner and founding member of CABEI, committed to promoting investments that contribute to economic growth, resilience, and the well-being of the population. With AA+ international ratings, CABEI consolidates its position as the leading infrastructure financier in Honduras and a key ally for the country’s sustainable development.
Honduras’ private sector is pushing for electricity sector reform to strengthen legal certainty and attract investment
The Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (COHEP) presented its comments on the Electricity Sector Bill to the National Congress’s Energy Committee, proposing measures to strengthen legal certainty, technical independence, and the sector’s institutional framework as clear signals to the market that decisions will not be subject to political pressure. The private sector views positively the provisions aimed at strengthening the independence of the Electric Energy Regulatory Commission (CREE) and the System and Market Operator (OSM), key institutions for the stability of the national electricity market. Regarding the spin-off of ENEE, COHEP proposes that it be accompanied by a financial plan that adequately capitalizes the distribution subsidiary and includes effective mechanisms to reduce technical and non-technical losses, freeing up resources for public investment. Clarity regarding asset ownership and the continuity of contractual obligations during the transition are essential elements for building confidence among existing operators and potential new investors. This structural reform of the Honduran electricity sector opens significant opportunities for private investment in power generation, transmission, and distribution in the country.
Honduras and the European Union Sign a $6.9 Million Partnership to Promote Sustainable Investment
Honduras and the European Union signed the agreement “EU-Honduras Private Sector Partnerships for Sustainable Investment,” which is funded with $6.9 million and will run for five years, to strengthen relations between Honduran and European companies, improve the business climate, and enhance legal certainty in the country. Foreign Minister Mireya Agüero emphasized that the project seeks to improve national competitiveness, create jobs, and prepare the population for the modern economy, with a special focus on the inclusion of women and young people. EU Ambassador Gonzalo Fournier stated that Europe “believes in Honduras” and that the country has enormous potential for investment, advocating for the opening of a CNI office in Brussels and the creation of a European Chamber of Commerce in the country. The initiative will boost capabilities in digital transformation, innovation, environmental sustainability, and productive diversification, in addition to addressing technical education and innovative green solutions. This agreement reinforces Honduras’ appeal as a destination for European investment and consolidates its position within the European Union’s Global Gateway agenda.
Nicaragua Maintains Its Monetary Rate at 5.75%, Backed by Solid Macroeconomic Fundamentals
The Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN) decided to maintain the Monetary Reference Rate (TRM) at 5.75%, in line with domestic monetary conditions and trends in international rates, reaffirming the stability of the national financial system. The decision is based on the sustained growth trajectory of economic activity, driven by most sectors, domestic demand, merchandise exports, and robust credit to the private sector. The Nicaraguan labor market reflects a low unemployment rate, while domestic inflation remains low and stable, supported by the government’s subsidy policy and the BCN’s exchange rate policy. International reserves have strengthened, ensuring the stability of the national currency and supporting the exchange rate, which fosters favorable conditions for financial intermediation. This scenario of macroeconomic stability, with real growth, low inflation, and low unemployment rates, consolidates confidence in Nicaragua as an investment destination with solid fundamentals and conditions conducive to productive development.
Remittances to the Northern Triangle Exceed $15.852 Billion, Up 10.7%
Family remittances received by El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras exceeded US$15.852 billion between January and April 2026, an increase of 10.7% compared to the same period in 2025, equivalent to an additional US$1.5305 billion, according to data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Guatemala accounted for the largest share with US$8.4316 billion (53.2% of the total) and a 10.5% increase, followed by Honduras with US$4.1342 billion (26.1%) and the highest percentage increase among the three countries at 14.3%. El Salvador received US$3.2867 billion (20.7%) with a 6.8% increase. These remittance flows represent a key driver of domestic consumption, exchange rate stability, and economic development in the three countries, with a direct impact on millions of households. The robust growth in remittances reaffirms the importance of the Central American diaspora as an economic pillar of the region and a stable source of foreign exchange that strengthens the resilience of these economies.
New Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Law
The Congress of the Republic of Guatemala approved Decree 15-2026, enacting the Comprehensive Law for the Prevention and Suppression of Money Laundering or Other Assets and Terrorist Financing, repealing Decrees 67-2001 and 58-2005. For the first time, money laundering, terrorist financing and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are integrated into a single legal instrument, aligned with FATF Recommendations. The Decree expands the universe of obligated persons, establishes a risk-based approach and defines new compliance obligations and a strengthened sanctions regime. Learn about the key aspects of this new law in our latest Newsflash.
| Country | Exchange Rate (USD) | Basic Passive Rate | Monetary Policy Rate | S&P | Moody’s | Fitch | Inflation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 457,20 | 3,65% | 3,25% | BB | Ba2 | BB | -0,97% |
| El Salvador | 8,75 | 4,75% | N/A | B- | B3 | B- | 2,53% |
| Guatemala | 7,61 | 4,74% | 3,50% | BB+ | Ba1 | BB+ | 2,86% |
| Honduras | 26,69 | 7,28% | 5,75% | BB- | B1 | N/A | 6,09% |
| Nicaragua | 36,62 | 1,45% | 5,75% | B+ | B2 | B | 3,99% |
12/06/2026 | Source: secmca.org
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