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Shipping to El Salvador | Imports and Exports
With ongoing economic reforms, a focus on tech and renewable energy, and a young, tech-savvy population, this small but strategic country is opening up exciting opportunities for international businesses. But as promising as it is, shipping to El Salvador comes with its share of challenges.
Tax
13%
Duty
16%
Lead Times
4-5 Weeks
Restricted Items
Trade War COO Goods
Best Carrier Option
Courier or Freight Forwarder
Non-Working Days
Saturday, Sunday, And Public Holidays
Prominent Language
Spanish
Why Consider Shipping to El Salvador?
Located in the heart of Central America and bordered by Guatemala, Honduras, and the Pacific Ocean, El Salvador is the most densely populated country in the region. Despite its small size, the country is positioning itself as a future hub for digital innovation and regional trade.
Recent government initiatives have focused on diversifying the economy, particularly in the tech, renewable energy, and tourism sectors. One notable example is the country’s move to attract crypto-related businesses, branding itself as a “Bitcoin Nation,” a bold initiative that signals its commitment to becoming a digital economy leader.
El Salvador is also a member of the CAFTA-DR (Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement), which offers preferential market access to the United States and facilitates smoother trade relations with neighboring countries.
Population
6.36 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Textiles
Capital City
San Salvador
Biggest Industry by Import
Fuel and Oil
Opportunities in El Salvador’s Tech and Data Markets
Though the data center market in El Salvador is still in its early stages, the potential is significant. High mobile phone penetration indicates a digitally engaged population and an increasing demand for cloud and digital services.
However, challenges such as high energy costs, limited internet bandwidth, and regulatory uncertainty can create barriers to scaling tech operations. Recent legislative changes, such as data localization mandates for credit information and the formation of a new energy policy directorate, add complexity for companies looking to enter the market.
Still, opportunities abound. With government incentives, regional trade integration, and a young, tech-savvy workforce, El Salvador is poised to become a key player in Central America’s digital economy, particularly for smaller, energy-efficient data centers powered by renewable sources.
El Salvador Customs Challenges
While the future looks bright, the present reality of El Salvador’s customs can be tricky. Importers often face hurdles such as:
- Complex customs regulations
- Lengthy clearance procedures
- High logistics costs and limited infrastructure
- Bureaucratic red tape
- Limited digital infrastructure for data-heavy industries
The Customs General Directorate (DGA) requires several key documents to process imports, including a commercial invoice, bill of lading, and, where applicable, an import license. Additionally, El Salvador’s Consumer Protection Law mandates Spanish-language labels, visible pricing, and measurement markings on products.
El Salvador also uses the DUCA (Declaración Única Centroamericana), a regional initiative to streamline customs declarations by combining multiple forms into a single online document. This is part of the larger CAUCA-IV and RECAUCA framework, which aims to modernize and unify customs across Central America.
Customs may authorize temporary imports under specific conditions, particularly for goods destined for transformation or repair in free trade zones. However, a bond is required to guarantee re-export within the allowed timeframe.
Top Global Trade Partners of El Salvador
North America
Guatemala
North America
Honduras
How TecEx Makes Importing to El Salvador Simple
We understand that shipping tech equipment into El Salvador isn’t just about moving goods; it’s about navigating a maze of regulations, paperwork, and potential delays.
Your End-to-End IOR and Compliance Partner
As your Importer of Record (IOR) partner, TecEx offers a full spectrum of services designed to take the guesswork and hassle out of shipping to El Salvador:
Customs Clearance Support
From DUCA filings to Spanish-language labeling, we handle every regulatory requirement, so you don’t have to.
Fast-Track Logistics
We coordinate with trusted freight forwarders in El Salvador to optimize routes and minimize delays.
Data Compliance
We help you navigate local data localization laws and ensure your tech shipments comply with national and international standards.
Post-Clearance Support
We don’t just get your goods through customs. We help you stay compliant long after they arrive.
Ready to start shipping to El Salvador?
Let’s talk about your import needs and how TecEx can help you unlock the country’s full trade potential.