Life in El Salvador
El Salvador’s Exports Up 2.9% Through 2026, Despite a Drop in May
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCR) reports that Salvadoran exports have increased by 2.9% in 2026, despite a decline registered in May. Thus far this year, Salvadoran companies have exported goods worth $2.8 billion, up $78.4 million from … Read more
El Salvador’s Basic Food Basket: Urban Cost Rises to $258.22, Rural Basket Falls to $185.51 in May
The price of the urban basic food basket (CBA) reached $258.22 in May, according to data from the National Office of Statistics and Censuses (ONEC), a branch of the Central Reserve Bank (BCR). May’s food basket cost was $10.00, or … Read more
Iudop-UCA Survey: Security Tops List of El Salvador’s Strengths; the Economy Remains Biggest Issue
According to a public opinion survey by the University Institute of Public Opinion (IUDOP) at José Simeón Cañas Central American University, most Salvadorans continue to identify public security as El Salvador’s greatest strength while viewing economic conditions as the country’s … Read more
Salvadorans Abroad Have Until November 29, 2027 to Update DUI for Upcoming Elections
Salvadorans residing outside the country have until November 29, 2026, to update the address on their Unique Identity Document, or DUI, to remain eligible for online voting in El Salvador’s 2027 elections, scheduled for February 28. The Supreme Electoral Tribunal, … Read more
Nayib Bukele’s Approval Rating: The President Achieves an 87.8% Approval in the Latest Survey
Since taking office in 2019, President Nayib Bukele has maintained an approval rating above 75%, the highest sustained by any Salvadoran president during their Presidential term. Nayib Bukele’s popularity remains strong in 2026, driven by his distinctive leadership style, emphasis … Read more
El Salvador State of Exception Security Measure Extended for the 52nd Consecutive Time
El Salvador’s Legislative Assembly approved the 52nd consecutive extension of the state of Exception, prolonging the extraordinary measure that has restricted key constitutional rights since March 2022. The motion passed with 57 votes from deputies of the Nuevas Ideas Party … Read more
What Is El Salvador Known for Worldwide Today: From Violence to Travel Destination
For years, El Salvador was primarily associated with gang violence and insecurity, which shaped global perceptions and limited its appeal. Headlines emphasized crime rates, migration pressures, and instability rather than culture or opportunity. By 2026, that narrative has shifted. The … Read more