US Finalizes Trade Deal with El Salvador

U.S. Finalizes Reciprocal Trade Agreement with El Salvador

President Donald Trump announced last week that the United States has finalized a new trade deal with El Salvador, establishing a framework for an agreement on reciprocal trade between the two countries. The agreement is expected to strengthen export opportunities for U.S. producers and reinforce economic partnerships in Latin America.

Exports of U.S. goods and services to El Salvador totaled $6.7 billion in 2024, highlighting the country’s importance as a regional trading partner. The newly finalized agreement aims to reduce trade barriers and improve market access, particularly for U.S. agricultural products.

According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, “El Salvador will address and prevent barriers to U.S. agricultural products in its market, including with regard to fumigation requirements, facility registration, product registration, and acceptance of currently agreed certificates issued by U.S. regulatory authorities.” These changes are expected to streamline export processes and reduce regulatory hurdles for American producers.

The agreement also provides clarity and protection for U.S. food product labeling and terminology. The Office of the United States Trade Representative noted that “El Salvador has committed to ensuring that market access for U.S. agricultural exporters will not be restricted due to the mere use of certain cheese and meat terms, including parmesan, gruyere, mozzarella, feta, asiago, salami, and prosciutto, among others, in El Salvador.” This commitment is particularly significant for U.S. dairy and meat exporters seeking consistent access to international markets.

Ambassador Jamieson Greer emphasized the broader strategic importance of the agreement, stating, “President Trump’s vision is building a new trade order for partnership and prosperity in Latin America, further advancing the economic and national security interests of the American people. Today’s signing of the first Agreement on Reciprocal Trade in the Western Hemisphere will further strengthen markets for U.S. exports and lower trade barriers facing American workers and producers.”

Greer added, “This Agreement is an important step in the deepening of our strategic partnerships in Latin America, and I want to thank my counterparts from El Salvador for their strong commitment to achieving fair and balanced trade with the United States. This Agreement builds on our longstanding trade partnership and recognizes important supply chain linkages.”

U.S. officials say the agreement represents a key step toward expanding agricultural exports, improving supply chain efficiency, and promoting fair and balanced trade across the Western Hemisphere.

Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.