President Trump. WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced a new round of tariffs on imports from various countries Wednesday, including a 10% tariff on goods from El Salvador.
The announcement, made during a White House ceremony Trump called “Liberation Day,” is expected to impact a significant portion of El Salvador’s exports to the United States.
This is one of the most important days… in American history; it’s our Declaration of Economic Independence. For years, hard-working American citizens were forced to sit on the sidelines… But now it’s our time to prosper. President Donald Trump.
The new tariffs will apply to about 31% of goods manufactured by Salvadoran companies that are exported to the U.S., affecting industries ranging from textiles to electronics.
Last year, El Salvador exported $2.13 billion worth of goods to the United States, including T-shirts, knit shirts, sweaters, leggings, electrical capacitors, and cane sugar.
All Central American countries will face a 10% tariff, except for Nicaragua, which will be subject to an 18% tariff. According to the Trump administration, Nicaragua will pay a higher tariff because it imposes a 36% tariff on U.S. imports.
The announcement has raised concerns among Salvadoran businesses that rely on the U.S. market.
Economic analysts warn that the tariffs could increase costs for American importers and affect the competitiveness of Salvadoran products in the U.S. market.
The Salvadoran government has not yet issued an official response to the tariffs, but business leaders in the country have expressed concern over potential economic repercussions.
The White House has framed the tariffs as part of a broader strategy to encourage domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign goods.
However, critics argue that the move could strain trade relationships and increase U.S. consumers’ prices.
It remains unclear whether El Salvador or other Central American nations will seek to negotiate tariff exemptions or reductions.
Meanwhile, businesses on both sides of the trade relationship are bracing for the impact of the new policy.
