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 Projects Moderate and Sustained Economic Growth in 2026
Costa Rica’s economy is projected to grow by 3.6% in 2026, reflecting normalization after strong performance in 2025. Growth is expected to be driven by domestic demand and private investment, with inflation remaining low and public debt below 60% of GDP. Read more.
Costa Rica Explores Joining Pax Silica
Costa Rica is evaluating participation in Pax Silica, a U.S. initiative to strengthen semiconductor supply chains, reinforcing its strategy to attract high-value investment. Read more.
Electrical Infrastructure Modernization Investment
IDB Invest approved up to US$100 million to modernize Costa Rica’s electricity grid, including smart meters and hydroelectric upgrades. Read more.
Record Exports and Foreign Investment
Costa Rica exceeded US$22.8 billion in exports in 2025 and attracted record foreign investment outside the Greater Metropolitan Area. Read more.
El Salvador
Financial Inclusion Through Tokenization
El Salvador continues to lead financial innovation through tokenized assets, expanding access to capital markets. Read more.
Electricity Generation Trends
Thermal generation covered 30.2% of electricity demand in December 2025, reflecting seasonal shifts in energy production. Read more.
Guatemala
Carbon Credits as a New Export Sector
Guatemala generated approximately US$22 million from carbon credits, opening a new sustainable export opportunity. Read more.
Airport Growth and Connectivity Expansion
La Aurora Airport surpassed 5.1 million passengers in 2025, with new routes expected in 2026. Read more.
Honduras
IMF Engagement and Economic Strategy
Honduras is strengthening international cooperation through engagement with the IMF and multilateral organizations. Read more.
Nicaragua
Strong Foreign Investment Growth
Nicaragua recorded a 43% increase in foreign direct investment inflows in Q3 2025. Read more.
BLP Insights
Labor Law and Elections in Costa Rica
Employers must grant paid leave for voting during the 2026 presidential elections. Read more.
BLP ESG Initiative Recognized
BLP’s sustainability initiatives continue to drive ESG leadership in the region. Read more.
Economic Index
| Country | Exchange Rate | Passive Rate | Policy Rate | S&P | Moody’s | Fitch | Inflation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 496.55 | 3.72% | 3.25% | BB | Ba2 | BB+ | -1.23% |
| El Salvador | 8.75 | 4.63% | N/A | B- | B3 | B- | 0.91% |
| Guatemala | 7.66 | 4.94% | 3.75% | BB+ | Ba1 | BB+ | 1.65% |
| Honduras | 26.44 | 7.52% | 5.75% | BB- | B1 | N/A | 4.98% |
| Nicaragua | 36.62 | 2.49% | 5.75% | B+ | B2 | B | 2.70% |
January 30, 2026 | Source: SECMCA
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