San Salvador Liberty Plaza.
January 2026 news in El Salvador centers on cost-of-living debates, government policy shifts, and daily realities shaping how Salvadorans adapt to economic pressures, wages, and housing demands.
▼ Latest News ▼
Quijano Sentenced. A Salvadoran court handed Norman Quijano 13 years and four months in prison after finding he negotiated with gangs for votes in the 2014 election. Prosecutors linked him to talks with MS-13 and Barrio 18, saying he traded political favors for electoral support. His case now sits on appeal. The Supreme Court has not issued a ruling yet…
Domestic Tourism Milestone. El Salvador closed 2025 with 10.2 million domestic tourism visits, reflecting increased mobility, safer public spaces and stronger local economies nationwide. Parks, cultural sites and recreational areas drew families year-round, supporting small businesses and reshaping how residents and visitors experience the country. Officials say growth strengthens confidence in tourism as a long-term economic driver for communities nationwide…
Quincena 25 Is Approved. El Salvador’s Legislative Assembly approved the Quincena 25 law, granting eligible public and private sector workers an extra January payment equal to 50% of their salary. The measure aims to ease household finances during the year’s toughest month and stimulate economic activity nationwide…
Ilopango Air Show 2026: Skies to the Limit. El Salvador’s skies will roar again as the Ilopango Air Show 2026 returns January 31 and February 1. National and international pilots deliver daring aerobatics, extreme maneuvers, and nonstop adrenaline. Beyond the flights, enjoy food, music, and family-friendly attractions, all while supporting the Benjamín Bloom Children’s Hospital ICU during this iconic aviation event beloved by Salvadoran families every year nationwide…
1% Remittance Tax Starts in 2026. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, a new 1% federal tax will apply to remittances sent from the United States to El Salvador. The measure affects millions of Salvadorans who regularly send money home and marks a significant change in cross-border money transfers.