El Salvador, a Central American nation known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is making headlines for tourism and its burgeoning economic potential across various sectors. Recent Central Reserve Bank (BCR) reports highlight a remarkable turnaround in foreign investment in El Salvador, showcasing the country’s growing appeal as an investment destination. In the first quarter of 2024, the country experienced a commendable eight percent increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), signaling a positive economic confidence and growth shift.

Surge in Foreign Investment in El Salvador

The Salvadoran economy, which struggled with low FDI levels in 2023, has seen a significant boost in foreign investment in El Salvador. In the first three months of 2024, El Salvador attracted $176.3 million in foreign direct investment. This represents a substantial $14.33 million increase from the $161.96 million reported during the same period in 2023. This increase is not just a numerical improvement; it reflects a broader trend of renewed interest and confidence in El Salvador’s economic stability and growth prospects.

Douglas Rodríguez, President of the BCR, attributed this boost primarily to reinvested earnings and capital contributions. After a period of economic contraction, the manufacturing sector emerged as a significant beneficiary of this investment influx. The manufacturing industry received $154.1 million in the first quarter, followed closely by the commerce sector with $119.1 million. These figures illustrate how foreign investment in El Salvador catalyzes growth and expansion in key economic areas, contributing to a more diversified and robust economic landscape.

Investment Areas and Opportunities

In particular, El Salvador’s manufacturing sector presents several promising foreign investment areas. Historically, textiles and apparel have been fundamental to the country’s economy. With its strategic location, favorable trade agreements, and well-developed infrastructure, El Salvador is an ideal hub for garment manufacturing. The sector benefits from increasing global demand for high-quality, ethically produced garments, enhancing its appeal to investors looking for growth opportunities.

Manufacturing Sector: Beyond textiles and apparel, electronic and electrical equipment manufacturing is another sector poised for significant growth. With a skilled workforce and increasing government support for technological advancements, this area presents substantial investment opportunities. El Salvador’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and supporting manufacturing infrastructure provides a strong foundation for growth in this sector.

Automotive Industry: The global shift towards electric vehicles drives growth in the auto parts industry, presenting substantial opportunities for foreign investment in El Salvador. As automotive electronics become more complex, the demand for high-quality auto parts rises. With its developing industrial base, El Salvador is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering investors a chance to be part of the evolving automotive sector.

Food and Beverage Processing: The food and beverage processing sector in El Salvador also shows considerable potential. Driven by increasing demand for locally and internationally processed and packaged foods, this sector is expanding rapidly. Investment in food and beverage processing aligns with global consumer trends and leverages El Salvador’s agricultural strengths and growing consumer market.

Sustainable Manufacturing: Sustainable manufacturing and green technologies are gaining traction as investors increasingly prioritize environmental sustainability. El Salvador’s initiatives to promote eco-friendly practices and reduce carbon footprints support the growth of this sector. Investments in green technologies and sustainable manufacturing processes contribute to environmental goals and align with global sustainability trends.

Major Investors and Their Impact

The first quarter of 2024 saw diverse contributions from international investors, highlighting El Salvador’s growing appeal on the global stage. Spain emerged as the leading investor, injecting $97.2 million (55.1%) into the Salvadoran economy. The United States followed with over $69.04 million (39.1%), and Mexico made a notable contribution of $42.8 million (24.3%). Other countries such as the Bahamas ($22.12 million), Guatemala ($14.37 million), Switzerland ($12.16 million), the Netherlands ($10.40 million), and the Cayman Islands ($8.59 million) also played significant roles in this investment surge.

This diverse investor base underscores El Salvador’s attractiveness as an investment destination. The influx of capital from various international sources reflects the country’s growing importance in the global economic landscape and its potential as a hub for diverse economic activities. The surge in foreign investment in El Salvador showcases the country’s growing role on the global stage.

Potential Investment Sectors

Several sectors in El Salvador offer substantial opportunities for direct foreign investment:

Renewable Energy: El Salvador’s commitment to sustainability positions the renewable energy sector as a standout investment opportunity. The country boasts abundant natural resources, including solar, wind, and geothermal. Supported by government incentives to foster growth in this sector, renewable energy offers a promising avenue for investors interested in contributing to environmental sustainability while capitalizing on emerging energy markets.

Tourism: Tourism remains a vibrant sector with significant investment potential. El Salvador’s rich cultural heritage, archaeological sites, beautiful beaches, and national parks present opportunities for developing ecotourism, adventure tourism, and high-end hotel infrastructure. The country’s diverse attractions make it an appealing destination for investors looking to build and enhance the tourism industry.

Agribusiness: The agribusiness sector, encompassing coffee, sugar, cocoa, and advanced agricultural technology, leverages El Salvador’s fertile land and favorable climate. This sector presents opportunities for investment in traditional and innovative farming practices, capitalizing on the country’s agricultural strengths and market potential.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT): The ICT sector is expanding rapidly, with new opportunities emerging in financial services, including banking, insurance, fintech, and cryptocurrencies. Following the groundbreaking adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender, El Salvador is positioning itself as a hub for digital and financial innovations, attracting investors interested in the intersection of technology and finance.

Conclusion

The rise in foreign investment in El Salvador highlights a positive and encouraging trajectory for the country’s economic development. As it continues to diversify and expand its economic activities, El Salvador presents a dynamic and attractive landscape for investors. With its strategic location, favorable trade agreements, and growing sectors, the country is poised to become a key player in the Central American economic arena, offering a wealth of opportunities for those looking to invest in a burgeoning market.

The Colombian Caribbean is consolidating itself as a commercial hub thanks to its modern port infrastructure and the attraction of investments.

Traditionally known for its tourist appeal and rich culture, the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub is emerging as a decisive player in the national economy. Its strategic location and the modernization of its port and logistics infrastructure have made it a key point for attracting investments and developing industrial projects.

With its strategic ports like Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Barranquilla, the Caribbean region is cementing its role as the country’s main entry and exit point for goods. Recent infrastructure advancements, such as the expansion of the Panama Canal and the modernization of the Palermo port in Barranquilla, have increased cargo and storage capacity, allowing for the handling of up to 780,000 tons of cargo annually and an additional 120,000 tons in vertical silos for grain, further solidifying its status as a commercial hub.

Furthermore, Barranquilla has gained international recognition for its rapid growth in attracting foreign direct investment. According to FDI Intelligence magazine, the city ranked among the top one hundred globally for investment attraction growth. It holds the third position in Latin America and the Caribbean, reflecting its appeal as a Colombian Caribbean commercial hub and business platform for international markets.

Strategic investments driving regional development

In terms of investment, the Department of Atlántico has witnessed significant initiatives to attract investment and promote the expansion of key sectors such as food and beverages, renewable energy, and the circular economy—all sectors that contribute to the growth of the Colombian commercial hub.

ProBarranquilla, as a development agency, has led investment missions that have connected local companies with fourteen potential national and international investors. The success of these missions is reflected in the arrival of projects that seek to take advantage of Barranquilla’s strategic location and free trade zone regime, which offers favorable conditions for business expansion and optimization of commercial activities within the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub.

In 2023, Barranquilla attracted over six hundred million dollars in investments, surpassing the previous year’s results by 130%. This figure and the creation of more than 2,200 jobs highlights the region’s potential as an industrial development hub, especially for projects with an export profile, strengthening its role as a Colombian Caribbean commercial hub.

Economic diversification and sustainability

One key to the commercial hub’s competitive growth has been its ability to diversify its economy and align its projects with global sustainability trends. The region has demonstrated a strong commitment to investing in renewable energy, with projects like the wind farms in La Guajira standing out. These initiatives contribute to the country’s energy security and respond to the growing global demand for clean energy.

This sustainable approach is also reflected in investments in the circular economy, a sector that increasingly attracts companies seeking to minimize their environmental impact. These initiatives foster the region’s economic development and position the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub as a model for sustainable development in the Latin American context.

The Colombian commercial hub continues to position itself as a key player in Colombia’s economic competitiveness. Regional integration, driven by strategic investments, modernized infrastructure, and a focus on sustainability, has allowed the region to stand out as a global logistics and commercial hub. Although it still faces challenges, the Caribbean is on an upward trajectory, playing an increasingly vital role in the national economy.

Examples of growth in the Colombian Caribbean

When examining this growth in recent years, three significant projects stand out:

Expansion of the Port of Cartagena: The Port of Cartagena, one of the most important in Colombia, has undergone significant expansion and modernization in recent years. This expansion includes the construction of new terminals and the implementation of advanced technology for cargo handling. As a result, the port has increased its capacity and efficiency, attracted major shipping companies and become a key point for international trade. Its strategic location in the Caribbean region facilitates access to global markets, consolidating its role as an essential node in the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub.

Development of Barranquilla Airport: The Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport in Barranquilla has undergone significant infrastructure improvements, including terminal expansion and the modernization of its services. These improvements have increased capacity for cargo handling and passenger transport, facilitating more efficient access to national and international markets. Strengthening air connectivity has made Barranquilla a strategic point for companies looking to optimize their logistics and commercial operations, further boosting this commercial hub.

In conclusion, the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub rapidly evolved into a key logistics and commercial hub, underpinned by its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and increasing foreign investment. With major projects like the expansion of the Port of Cartagena and the modernization of Barranquilla’s airport, the region is positioned to serve as a vital gateway for international trade. Coupled with a focus on economic diversification and sustainability, the Caribbean’s growth enhances Colombia’s global competitiveness and sets a precedent for regional development. As investments continue to pour in, the Colombian Caribbean commercial hub is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of the country’s economy.

Sonora has made significant strides in attracting foreign investment, positioning itself as a leading state for economic development in Mexico. Last year, it ranked as the second state nationwide with the highest foreign investment, positively impacting job creation and economic growth. This trend is expected to continue, according to Juventivo Félix Lugo, president of the National Chamber of Commerce (Canaco) in Hermosillo, who highlighted the importance of foreign direct investment for the region’s commerce and services sector. He expressed optimism that the state’s economic momentum will persist over the next three years, with the continued success of the Sonora Plan contributing to further growth.

Recent Investments in Sonora’s Manufacturing Sector

Sonora’s manufacturing sector has played a vital role in driving this growth. The state has become a significant hub for the aerospace, automotive, electronics, and mining industries. In recent years, significant foreign investment has been made in the state’s advanced manufacturing, with several global companies establishing or expanding their regional operations.

One of the most notable developments is the influx of foreign investment in the Sonoran aerospace industry. The state is home to one of Mexico’s most significant aerospace clusters, with over 50 companies operating in the region. These include major international players such as Bombardier, Safran, and Honeywell, who chose Sonora for its strategic location, skilled workforce, and competitive costs. The state’s proximity to the U.S. border and its well-developed infrastructure make it an attractive destination for aerospace companies seeking to optimize their supply chains and reduce transportation costs.

The automotive industry has also seen substantial growth in Sonora, particularly in producing components for electric vehicles (EVs). With the global shift towards cleaner energy and sustainable transportation, Sonora has become a focal point for companies looking to invest in the EV market. Recent foreign investment in Sonora has resulted in thousands of jobs and the development of new production facilities, further boosting the local economy. Companies such as Ford, Bosch, and Lear Corporation have expanded their operations in the state, leveraging Sonora’s skilled labor force and favorable business environment.

Sonora’s Role in Renewable Energy Development

In addition to its growing manufacturing sector, Sonora is emerging as a leader in renewable energy development. The state is rich in natural resources, particularly solar energy, and has become a key player in Mexico’s efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources. The state government has actively promoted foreign investment in Sonora’s renewable energy projects, offering incentives to companies committed to sustainability.

One of the most significant projects in this regard is the construction of large-scale solar farms. For instance, the Puerto Libertad Solar Plant is one of Latin America’s most important solar power projects, with the capacity to generate up to 404 megawatts of electricity. This project alone has attracted considerable foreign investment in Sonora and has the potential to supply clean energy to thousands of homes and businesses in the region. Additionally, the Sonora Plan includes ambitious goals for increasing renewable energy capacity, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy efficiency.

The renewable energy sector contributes to the state’s environmental sustainability and creates new job opportunities for engineering, construction, and maintenance. This influx of green jobs is expected to continue as more companies invest in Sonoran renewable energy projects.

Mining Industry’s Contribution to Sonora’s Economy

Sonora has long been recognized for its mining industry, which has significantly contributed to the state’s economy. The region is known for its rich deposits of copper, gold, silver, and other valuable minerals, and it has attracted significant the state’s sector. The state is the top producer of copper in Mexico, and its mining sector is expected to see continued growth due to rising global demand for metals used in electronics and renewable energy technologies.

Recent foreign investment in Sonora has focused on modernizing extraction techniques and improving environmental sustainability. Mining companies operating in the region are increasingly adopting advanced technologies to reduce their ecological footprint, such as water recycling systems and energy-efficient machinery. This focus on sustainability has made Sonora a more attractive destination for environmentally conscious investors, further boosting foreign investment in Sonora.

Moreover, the mining industry has created many employment opportunities in the region, from engineers and geologists to laborers and support staff. The economic benefits of mining extend beyond direct job creation, as the industry supports a network of suppliers, transportation companies, and service providers, contributing to the state’s overall economic growth.

The Sonora Plan: A Roadmap for Future Growth

The Sonora Plan, a driving force behind the state’s economic progress, aims to foster further growth across key industries. The plan includes strategies for improving infrastructure, promoting innovation, and enhancing workforce development. It also emphasizes the importance of creating a business-friendly environment encouraging domestic and foreign investment in Sonora.

One key component of the Sonora Plan is the development of industrial parks and logistics hubs that facilitate the efficient movement of goods and materials. These infrastructure improvements are critical for attracting new businesses to the region and supporting the growth of existing industries. The state government works closely with private investors and international companies to ensure Sonora remains competitive globally.

Furthermore, the Sonora Plan strongly emphasizes education and workforce development. By partnering with local universities and technical institutes, the state is working to ensure its workforce is equipped with the skills needed to meet the demands of modern industries. This focus on education and training has made Sonora an attractive destination for companies seeking highly skilled labor.

Conclusion

Sonora’s commercial and manufacturing sectors are thriving, thanks in large part to the state’s ability to attract foreign investment in Sonora. With its strategic location, strong infrastructure, and skilled workforce, Sonora has become a hub for aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy industries. The Sonora Plan has been instrumental in driving this growth, providing a roadmap for continued economic development. As the state continues to invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and sustainability, it is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leading destination for foreign investment in Sonora.

In recent years, nearshoring has emerged as a critical trend in global trade, driven in part by the pandemic. While much of the focus has been on Mexico due to its proximity to the United States, other Latin American countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Colombia also position themselves as attractive destinations for foreign investment in Latin America. According to JLL Global Consulting Services, the trend of nearshoring requires the development of hubs that offer logistical advantages and favorable economic and business conditions. These emerging markets could reshape the nearshoring landscape in Latin American foreign investment.

Mexico: The Main Beneficiary of Nearshoring

Nearshoring, a business strategy in which companies move production closer to their home countries, has significantly benefited Mexico. The country’s proximity to the U.S. and deep integration into North American logistics and manufacturing make it a prime destination for nearshoring initiatives. According to a JLL study, “Mexico has been the main beneficiary, placing its cities in a league of their own compared to other Latin American countries and Southeast Asia.”

Mexico’s strategic location, large economy, and established infrastructure make it a strong candidate for companies seeking to optimize their supply chains. The country acts as a hub for exports and a robust internal market. In addition to its manufacturing capacity, Mexico offers the advantage of cultural and economic alignment with the U.S., further enhancing its role as a nearshoring destination. However, Mexico is not the only Latin American country that can benefit from foreign investment in Latin America.

Brazil: The South American Giant

Due to its size, population, and economic prowess, Brazil is often called a continent within a continent. As the largest economy in Latin America, Brazil boasts a strong logistics network, a vast labor market, and a history of manufacturing. It has long been a global player in the agriculture, automotive, and technology sectors and is increasingly seen as a prime candidate for foreign investment in Latin America.

JLL’s analysis highlights Brazil’s potential, noting that nearshoring could boost its manufacturing exports by billions of dollars. However, given the country’s already well-established industrial base, the overall impact on its exports may not be as dramatic as in other countries. São Paulo, the country’s financial and industrial hub, is singled out as a critical destination for Latin American foreign investment. The city’s track record in attracting international businesses, strong logistics performance, and highly skilled labor force make it a pivotal player in Brazil’s nearshoring prospects.

Moreover, Brazil’s size and infrastructure development are significant advantages. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in transportation, ports, and highways, positioning itself as a logistics powerhouse in the region. Its role in global trade, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, further underscores Brazil’s importance in foreign investment in Latin America.

Colombia: A Growing Industrial Base

While Colombia’s economy has traditionally been more focused on raw materials, the nearshoring trend offers the country an opportunity to diversify and expand its industrial base. According to JLL, Colombia could leverage nearshoring to create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and administrative services, thus enhancing its role in foreign investment in Latin America.

Colombia can potentially attract significant foreign investment in Latin America, particularly in cities like Bogotá and Medellín. These urban centers benefit from a well-qualified labor force, competitive operating costs, and improving infrastructure. Bogotá, the country’s capital, is emerging as a business hub, with many multinational companies operating in the city. Medellín, once known for its turbulent past, has transformed into a center of innovation, technology, and manufacturing.

Colombia’s currency devaluation against the U.S. dollar also makes the country an attractive destination for Latin American foreign investment. Lower wages and a relatively skilled labor force provide cost advantages that can help international businesses reduce operational expenses. As Colombia continues to improve its business environment, it is likely to see increased interest from companies looking to nearshore their operations.

Chile: A Stable Business Environment

Chile has long been recognized for its political and economic stability, making it a prime destination for foreign investment in Latin America. JLL’s study points out that Chile offers one of Latin America’s most favorable business environments thanks to its transparency, low credit risk, and streamlined business procedures. The country’s commitment to democracy, rule of law, and fiscal responsibility has made it an attractive market for international companies.

Chile’s small but highly educated population and its reputation for transparency and good governance enhance its appeal as a nearshoring destination. The country is known for its ease of doing business and offers investors a clear legal framework, competitive tax incentives, and access to a stable economy. These factors position Chile as a strategic hub for companies looking to serve both Latin American and global markets through foreign investment in Latin America.

Conclusion: A Diversified Nearshoring Landscape

While Mexico remains the primary beneficiary of nearshoring, other Latin American countries such as Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Costa Rica increasingly position themselves as attractive destinations for foreign investment in Latin America. Each country offers unique advantages, from Brazil’s economic scale and logistics potential to Chile’s stability and transparency, Colombia’s growing industrial base, and Costa Rica’s dynamic business ecosystem.

As nearshoring continues to evolve, these countries will likely see increased interest from companies looking to optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and tap into new markets. By investing in infrastructure, improving business environments, and offering competitive incentives, Latin American nations can further strengthen their positions in the global landscape of Latin American foreign investment.

Central America, a region known for its unique and diverse beverage industry, has seen the rise of iconic brands. With its distinctive flavors and innovative products, this sector has won awards and the hearts and palates of discerning consumers.

The region’s beverage industry in Central America is vast, with standout products such as multi-award-winning rums. These century-old beers have earned accolades in global competitions, sodas that evoke nostalgia among consumers with flavors reminiscent of their childhood, and a new generation of innovative beverages.

The Central American beverage industry is not just about drinks; it’s about economics. Over the past two decades, it has experienced significant dynamism and continues to rise. It generates foreign exchange, is a major driver of employment, and has become a source of national pride.

The beverage industry in Central America is not just about what’s in the bottle; it’s about people. Julio César Orozco, Executive Director of the Food and Beverage Guild of Guatemala (GREMAB), explains that in Guatemala, the industry’s economic impact goes beyond its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Thanks to its evolution in recent years, it has become a significant employment engine, providing jobs and livelihoods to many.

The beverage industry in Central America is not just about taste; it’s about jobs. According to an economic impact and footprint study conducted by GREMAB, the manufacturing sector generates more than 440,000 direct jobs, an increase of nearly 60,000 over the past decade. This is comparable to the services sector and exceeds the finance, telecommunications, and real estate industries. It’s not just about what’s in the bottle; it’s about the people behind it.

Guatemala, the home market for highly recognized and successful regional and global brands such as Zacapa (rum) and Gallo (beer), also boasts a diverse range of other industry players. With their unique offerings and unwavering commitment to quality, these players stand out in the global market.

According to the Bank of Guatemala (Banguat) figures, the food and beverage industry contributes approximately US$5.63 billion annually. Orozco notes that this represents 6.65% of GDP. “Regarding the specific non-alcoholic beverage subsector, it is estimated to contribute 11% of the total food and beverage sector.”

El Salvador: Resilience and Innovation

Karla Domínguez, Industrial Intelligence Manager at the Salvadoran Association of Industrialists (ASI), explains that the beverage industry in Central America is broad and can be grouped into two main categories: non-alcoholic beverages (such as refreshing drinks, pure water, carbonated drinks, fruit juices, coffee derivatives, among others) and alcoholic beverages, which include wines, liquors, and beers.

El Salvador is home to brands with significant consumer recognition, such as the soda Kolashanpan. In recent years, however, the sector has gained new strength, developing a product offering that includes juices and rums, thanks to business groups that have invested in the sector’s growth and sophistication.

“Today, you can walk into a supermarket and see a variety of beverages produced in El Salvador, tailored to all ages and tastes, addressing nutritional needs. But this has required significant investments in cutting-edge technology to preserve flavors and maintain the consistency of the liquid, adopt more environmentally friendly practices in production processes, and promote a healthier lifestyle,” said Domínguez.

The researcher highlights that many local brands have been creative in generating specific flavors and rethinking their packaging with innovative designs and labels that emphasize aspects of the country and appeal to national identity.

Domínguez adds that in El Salvador, the Central American beverage industry has managed to integrate into national and international markets due to its resilience. This quality has allowed it to overcome disruptive events like the COVID-19 pandemic and inflationary pressures, which present significant challenges for businesses in the sector. They also face a market that is not static and demands new product offerings and quality qualities.

“It is evident that there is a new generation of consumers (…) Flavors, consistency, preparation formulas, and the creativity of the presentation of these products are essential,” she notes. Domínguez adds that Salvadoran offerings generally stand out for telling a story or highlighting a sense of identity, underscoring the need for strategic alliances to continue innovating in processes, safety, and flavors.

According to ASI data, El Salvador’s beverage production reaches more than 25 destinations worldwide and shows an upward trend. “In the last five years, from 2019 to 2023, the sector posted an average annual growth of 6.4% in exports,” said Domínguez.

The specialist praised the sector’s performance despite the global context. Companies like Beliv, a subsidiary of the multilateral CBC, operate in El Salvador. Beliv’s portfolio includes well-known regional brands like Petit and key players like La Constancia (an AB InBev subsidiary), which produces iconic brands such as Pilsener.

Domínguez described the beverage industry in Central America as dynamic. Its characteristics facilitate links with other industries since it involves sectors such as plastics, paper and cardboard, and graphic arts.

Costa Rica: New Opportunities

According to an analysis by the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (Procomer), the beverage industry in Central America is constantly evolving, and 2024 will witness its reinvention and innovation.

“The beverage segment is known to be one of the most active in global launches and innovations,” says a report published this year.

Procomer’s analysis emphasizes that companies must recognize innovation as a key strategy for successfully entering international markets.

Between 2018 and 2022, Costa Rica’s beverage industry in Central America maintained an average annual growth of 6%. Panama was the leading destination for these exports (accounting for 51%), followed by Nicaragua (25%), Guatemala (5%), and the United Kingdom (5%).

One of the key players in Costa Rica is FIFCO, a company operating in 13 markets and owner of relevant brands such as Imperial and Bavaria beers. In recent years, the company has evolved and explored new niches, such as flavored alcoholic beverages, a popular offering among new generations but not the only one.

Procomer’s study highlights that the Central American beverage industry is constantly evolving and that 2024 “promises to witness a series of innovations.”

It cites the popularization of kombucha, known for its health benefits and variety of flavors, as an example.

According to data from the international consulting firm Nielsen, cited by Procomer, the non-alcoholic beverage category is also one of the fastest-growing segments for adult consumers. “This could signal a growing demand in international markets for these alternatives (non-alcoholic beverages), which could benefit Costa Rican exporters able to meet this demand,” notes a report from the entity.

The agency’s analysis adds that this results from a trend where modern consumers are more concerned about what they put into their bodies and prioritize health. Non-alcoholic beverages made with clean, natural ingredients appeal to international markets, presenting opportunities for Costa Rican producers focusing on sustainable and organic production.

Challenges Ahead

Julio César Orozco adds that the beverage industry in Central America generally faces challenges related to infrastructure development, regulatory stability, and inflationary trends.

Domínguez from ASI shares this view, adding that vulnerabilities affect not just the beverage industry in Central America but the world as a whole.

“Disruptions in the supply chain and the rising costs of raw materials and capital goods due to the current situation have caused price increases. Likewise, since much of the sector’s products are sold internationally, additional effects are being analyzed, such as in the United States, where domestic consumption is slowing due to economic conditions,” she said.

Orozco emphasizes that while significant challenges exist, good commercial opportunities are also on the horizon.

“A key factor that continues to drive the beverage industry in Central America is Guatemala’s solid network of trade relations and agreements with countries and commercial partners, especially in the Central American region. These agreements have helped establish clear and technical rules, facilitating smooth and consistent trade.

The sector is confident that we can continue strengthening these agreements and rules to foster sustainable long-term growth,” he said.

Domínguez, for her part, believes that as international regulations related to the consumption of these products advance, the beverage industry in Central America is also progressing in its commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

“Many aspects are more related to raising awareness and recognizing that different demographic groups and regions have varying consumption patterns, which also align with the consumers’ health conditions and lifestyles,” she concludes.

In conclusion, the beverage industry in Central America stands as a testament to the region’s rich tradition and innovative spirit. From the esteemed rums of Guatemala to El Salvador’s evolving soda and juice market and Costa Rica’s dynamic sector poised for new opportunities, the industry showcases a blend of heritage and modernity. Despite facing challenges such as infrastructure development, regulatory stability, and inflationary pressures, the sector’s resilience and adaptability highlight its potential for continued growth. As Central American companies embrace innovation, sustainability, and strategic trade relationships, they are well-positioned to meet regional and international demands. The future of the beverage industry in Central America promises to be vibrant and transformative, driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and consumer satisfaction.