El Salvador - 1 Country Profile
Generic Information
El Salvador, officially the Republic of El Salvador, is a sovereign country in Central America located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean with a territorial extension of 21,041 km². In January 2023, the country registered an estimated population of 6,348,987 people. Its climate is warm tropical, but due to the geographical contrast the climate can vary. El Salvador borders Guatemala to the west and Honduras to the north and east, to the southeast the Gulf of Fonseca separates it from Nicaragua and is flanked to the south by the Pacific Ocean. Its territory is organized into 14 departments, 35 districts and 262 municipalities. The city of San Salvador is the capital of the country; its metropolitan area includes 14 nearby municipalities and concentrates the political and economic activity of the republic. The cities of San Miguel and Santa Ana are other important centres of the country.
In 1986, an earthquake destroyed a large part of the city of San Salvador with a total of 3,500 deaths and 200,000 victims. On January 13, 2001, another earthquake caused great destruction throughout the country. One of the most important human tragedies that occurred as a result of the earthquake was a landslide in the so-called Bálsamo mountain range, in the city of Santa Tecla (La Libertad), which caused the death of 700 people and in total the earthquake killed 944 people and left several thousand homeless. In 2001, exactly one month later, another earthquake killed 315 people, leaving hundreds of families without their homes, especially in the interior of the republic, where most of the poor people live.
On February 3, 2019, the politician, businessman and former mayor of San Salvador, Nayib Bukele, of the Gran Alliance for National Unity (GANA) party and in alliance with Nuevas Ideas, won the presidential election, period will end on May 31, 2024.
The coronavirus pandemic spread to El Salvador on March 18, 2020. As of April 12, 2022, the Government of El Salvador reported 162,089 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country, 162,089 confirmed cases, 4,122 deaths and 157,967 recovered.
The Salvadoran economy has experienced a mixture of results during the successive governments of the ARENA party in the initiatives of the free market and the fiscal management model that include the privatization of the banking system, telecommunications, public pensions, electricity distribution, and a part of electricity generation, reduction of tariffs, elimination of price controls and an improved enforcement of intellectual property rights.
Since 2001, the country adopted, by legislative decree, the dollar as its official currency and the old colón was replaced. Since the change was made, interest rates have fallen and Salvadorans with access to credit have obtained it at the lowest rates in three decades.
Remittances from Salvadorans who work in the United States and send their family members are an important source of income from abroad and make up for the substantial trade deficit of around $ 4,000,000,000. Remittances have increased steadily over the past decade and have reached an absolute high of $ 3,780,000,000 in 2008 — roughly 17.1% of gross domestic product (GDP).
In April 2004, international reserves were estimated at $ 1.9 billion. In recent years, inflation has fallen to single-digit levels and total exports have grown substantially.
For a generic country overview, please consult the following sources:
EL SALVADOR: Pirámide de población de El Salvador en 2023 - Pirámides de población (population-pyramid.net)
EL SALVADOR Wikipedia Country Information https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Salvador
EL SALVADOR IMF Country Information https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/SLV
EL SALVADOR Economist Intelligence Unit Information* http://country.eiu.com/el-salvador
(*note - this is a paid service)
Humanitarian Info
EL SALVADOR World Food Programme Information https://www.wfp.org/countries/el-salvador
EL SALVADOR UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Information https://www.unocha.org/sites/unocha
Facts and Figures
EL SALVADOR Wolfram Alpha Information https://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=el+salvador
EL SALVADOR World Bank Information https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/elsalvador
EL SALVADOR Population Information https://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/el-salvador-population
EL SALVADOR General Directorate of Statistics and Censuses https://www.digestyc.com.sv
El Salvador - 1.1 Humanitarian Background
Disasters, Conflicts and Migration
Natural Disasters |
Occurs |
Comments / Details |
---|---|---|
Drought |
Yes | 6 drought events from 1900-2016 affecting a total of 1,100,000 and causing US$320,400 in damage |
Earthquakes |
Yes | 9 earthquake events from 1900-2016 affecting a total of 2,549,991 and causing US$3,406,500 in damage |
Epidemics |
Yes |
Arbovirus (5 events from 1900 - 2016 the number affected: 13,595) Bacterial disease (2 events from 1900 - 2016 number affected: 5,975) Respiratory (1 event from 1900 - 2016 the number affected: 50,000) Viral Infectious Diseases (Zika) (7 events from 1900 - 2016 the number affected: 30,976) |
Extreme Temperatures |
Yes | 1 Cold Wave event 1900-2016, killed 1 person |
Flooding |
Yes | Flash flooding and general flooding (16 events from 1900 - 2016 affecting 481,842 and causing US$ 1,563,000 in dammage) |
Insect Infestation |
No | n/a |
Landslides |
Yes | 1 event from 1900-2016, killed 22 people |
Volcanic Eruptions |
Yes | 2 ash fall events from 1900-2016 affecting a total of 65,079 |
High Waves / Surges |
Yes | 1 Tsunami from 1900-2016, killed 185 people |
Wildfires |
No | n/a |
High Winds |
Yes |
13 Hurricanes (from 1900 - 2016 affecting a total of 266,201 and causing US$ 1,745,410 in damage) 1 Connective Storm (from 1900 - 2016 affecting a total of 20,000) |
Man-made |
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Civil strife |
Peace treaty signed 1992, ending 12 year civil war. |
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International conflict |
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Displaced in country |
1 million people were displaced from certain rural areas to the capital and other safer places during the civil war. However, during 2016 52,560 migrants have returned to El Salvador from other countries (USA, Mexico, etc.) and as from January to July 2017, 16,847 migrants have returned to the country (59.5% from USA, 40.2% from Mexico and 0.3% from other countries.) |
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Refugees in country |
People in shelters: in total 559,728. 466,000 during Hurricane Mitch (1998); 68,777 during 13 January 2001 earthquake; and 44,951 in the tropical storms in 2011 (Ida, Agatha, Alex, Matthew, Tropical Depression No. 16 Nicole and E12). |
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Refugees from country |
No records available. |
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Landmines casualties / year |
Mine clearance was carried out in 1993 and 1994 by former combatants from both sides of the conflict. No accidents involving landmines have been reported since 1994, although some accidents from UXO have occurred - from January 1994 through mid-1995, 271 people, including 42 children, were injured by UXO. |
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Other comments |
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* Centre for Research on Epidemiology of Disasters, Belgium.
El Salvador is extremely prone to natural disasters. It ranks among the ten most vulnerable countries to natural hazards in the world (CRED/OFDA), and is rated first by the World Bank in terms of overall vulnerability based on Economic Risk to GDP from two or more natural hazards (WB, 2005). Nearly 90 percent of total country area is at risk of disaster, representing over 95 percent of the population and 96 percent of GDP. In the past 11 years, the country suffered three major disasters which impacted thousands and severely hampered economic progress. Two major earthquakes in 2001 affected 1.5 million people with economic losses of US$ 1.6 billion. In 2005, the country was simultaneously affected by the eruption of the Ilamatepec Volcano and tropical storm Stan; the total impact of the two phenomena was US$355.6 million (with US$196.2 million in damages and US$159.5 million in losses). In 2011, Tropical Depression 12E hit El Salvador, affecting more than 0.5 million people and causing US$840 million in damages and losses.
Seasonal Effects on Logistics Capacities
Seasonal Effects on Transport |
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Transport |
Time |
Comments |
Primary road transport |
Wet season from May to November |
Transport is affected during the rainy seasons as rivers flood and some primary and secondary roads suffer severe deterioration, leaving some communities cut off. |
Secondary road transport |
Wet season from May to November |
Transport is affected during the rainy season as rivers flood and secondary roads suffer severe deterioration, leaving some communities cut off. |
Rail transport |
|
This type of transportation does not exist in the country. |
Air transport |
Wet season from May to November |
Air transport could be affected during the rainy seasons due to the lack of visibility. |
Waterways transport |
Wet season from May to November |
Waterways transport could be affected during the rainy due to the lack of visibility. |
Seasonal affects on storage and handling |
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Activity |
Time |
Comments |
Storage |
From April to November |
The accessibility to the storage facilities could be hampered due to floods or landslides. Therefore, cargo has to be properly protected from the departure point onwards. |
Handling |
From April to May |
Sea currents occasionally affect the port operations at Acajutla, ships need to abandon their berths to avoid collisions. The rainy season also affects break bulk/bulk cargo discharge at Acajutla. During the rainy season, overland transporters should be reminded that tarpaulins need to be in good state. |
Other |
No potential risk identified |
Capacity and Contacts for In-Country Emergency Response
Government
The government has since 2009 changed some of the former structures. WFP's main counterpart in Supply Chain is SIS/DAA (Secretaría de Inclusión Social/División de Asistencia Alimentaria – Secretariat for Social Inclusion/Food Assistance Division), responsible for warehouse management and staffing.
The Government of El Salvador’s (GoES) response to the tropical storms (Agatha, Alex, and E12) can be seen as a step forward compared with previous emergencies (i.e. lesson learned from Ida and E12). The Government had available in its warehouses relief items (mattress, clothes, hygiene kits, medical kits, etc.) and food rations to assist the affected populations. The humanitarian community also provided support in terms of food assistance (WFP and others). The capacity of response has to be improved in view of possible major emergencies, especially in the area of coordination with all actors involved in the response. The humanitarian community, in coordination with GoES’ Civil Protection, has initiated the creation of a humanitarian network, which is currently ongoing.
The Coordination Center for Disaster Prevention in Latin America (CEPREDENAC as per Spanish acronym), is a regional inter-governmental entity, working under the Central America Integration System (SICA as per Spanish acronym) as a specialised secretariat. It has been created with the mandate of promoting activities, projects and programmes focused on reduction of risks during natural disasters. The Center promotes and coordinates the international cooperation, information sharing, with the exchange of experiences and technical/scientific evaluations regarding prevention, mitigation and emergency response.
Ministry / Department / Address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
Government Agency Dealing With Emergency Relief and/or Disaster Management: Civil Protection Ministerio de Gobernación y Desarrollo Territorial, Centro de Gobierno, San Salvador, El Salvador |
Name: Mr. Jorge Antonio Meléndez Title: Director |
Tel.: (503) 2527-7122 |
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Principal Interacting Government Official/ Division Of Food Aid Assistance- Social Inclusion Secretariat/ SIS/DAA 17 Avenida Norte, Centro Gobierno Edif.# 1, San Salvador, El Salvador
|
Name: Ms. Wendy Rogel de Fuentes Title: Director Email: wdefuentes@inclusionsocial.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2281-0981 (Direction Office) (503) 2244-2724 Fax: (503)2281-0058 (503) 2264-3152 |
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Air Handling Services /Aerodespachos de El Salvador /El Salvador International Airport |
Name: Mr. Jaime Jiménez Cromeyer Title: Manager Email:j.jimenez@aerodespachos-sal.com |
Tel.: (503) 2243 2557
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Principal Port Authority - Port Manager Puerto de Acajutla
|
Name: Mr, Roberto de Jesús Mendoza Title: Port Manager Email: roberto.mendoza@cepa.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2429-3201 Tel.: (503) 2429-3384 Fax: (503) 2405-3390 |
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Air Cargo Operations Ilopango
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Name: Mr. Jorge Gómez Title: Head of Operations Email: Jorge.gomez@ccepa.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2250-9300 Fax: (503) 2250-9333
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Principal Government International Airport of El Salvador |
Name: Mr. Jaime Parada Title: Airport Manager blanca.velasco@cepa.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2349-2200 Tel. (503) 2349-2201 Fax: (503) 2397-2393
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www.aeropuertoelsalvador.gob.sv
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Principal Government Aviation Traffic Authority, International Airport of El Salvador, San Luis Talpa, La Paz |
Name: Rene Lopez Title: Chief AIES Email: Rene.lopez@cepa.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2366-2441 Fax: (503) 2366-2464 |
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Principal aviation military and/or civil defense authority El Salvador Air Force Aeropuerto Ilopango, Kilometro 9 ½, Ilopango, El Salvador |
Name: Mr. Carlos Jaime Mena Torres Title: Col., Chief of Civil Affairs Department: Air Force Name: Jorge Gómez Title: Chief Airport Operations Email: Jorge.gomez@cepa.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2250-0070 (503) 2508-0226 Fax: (503) 2250-0319
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Humanitarian Community
A Contingency Plan preparing for floods and landslides caused by hurricanes and rainfall was developed between June and November in 2006. This was updated in 2007, 2008 and it is being re-drafted in 2017. This plan has been prepared by the United Nations Emergency Team (UNETE) which is composed by the main UN actors involved in emergency response (WFP, FAO, UNICEF, IOM, WHO, UNDP, UNFPA, OCHA). UNETE members are fully involved in the establishment of the Humanitarian Network for El Salvador together with some NGOs (CARE, OXFAM, Plan International, CRS, Lutheran World Federation, WVI, Save the Children), the National Red Cross and National Civil Protection. WFP in El Salvador developed the Central American Early Warning System (SATCA) to monitor weather hazards. This is a tool that has provided timely and consolidated information on natural events in the region.
The following web resources have been established to support a humanitarian response in terms of preparedness and emergency response:
SATCA website Central America Early Warning System to monitor weather hazards
Redhum - Latin America Humanitarian Information Network
Humanitarian Coordination |
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Type |
Name / Address |
Contacts |
Comments |
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 HCRC |
Mr. Andrew Stanhope Address: Edif. Naciones Unidas, Blvd. Orden de Malta Sur, #2-B, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad, El Salvador. |
Tel. (503) 2263-0066 Fax (503) 2209-3588 Email: andrew.stanhope@wfp.org |
UN System Resident Coordinator, OIC Leading agency for: 1) Programming (PMT) and 2) Monitoring & Evaluation (GTME) Alternate leading agency for Communications (GICOM) |
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Coordination mechanisms / committees / Groups |
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Org. Name |
Contact / Address |
Contacts |
Comments |
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UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME – UNDP/PNUD
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Representative: Ms. Georgiana Braga-Orillard Edif. Naciones Unidas, Blvd. Orden de Malta Sur, #2-B, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad, El Salvador. |
Tel. (503) 2209-3503 Fax (503) 2209-3590 Email: georgina.braga@undp.org
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Leading agency for: 1) Citizen security and violence prevention, and 2) Operations (OMT) Alternate leading agency for: 1) Democratic governance and state´s modernization, and 2) Environmental sustainability and disaster risk reduction |
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UNITED NATIONS WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME – WFP / PMA
|
Representative: Mr. Andrew Stanhope Blv.el Hipódromo No.738 Colonia San Benito San Salvador, El Salvador, Centro América. Apartado Postal No.114 |
Tel. (503) 2263-6144, Fax (503) 2510-7142 Email: Andrew.stanhope@wfp.org |
Leading agency for emergencies (UNETE) Alternate leading agency for: 1) SAN, and 2) Operations (OMT) |
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UNITED NATIONS FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION - FAO |
Representative: Mr. Diego Recalde Boulevard del Hipódromo No. 110. Colonia San Benito, Zona Rosa San Salvador |
Tel. (503) 2264 – 2326 ext: 106 Tel 2. (503) 2264 - 4064 Fax: (503) 2264-3887 Email: diego.recalde@fao.org |
Leading agency for environmental sustainability and disaster risk reduction Alternate leading agency for inclusion economic development and employment |
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Pan-American Health Organization – PAHO/OPS WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION WHO/OMS |
Representative: Dr. Carlos Roberto Garzón. 73 Av. Sur No.135, Colonia Escalón, San Salvador, El Salvador. |
Tel. (503) 2511-9502 Fax (503) 2298-1168 Email: garzonc@paho.org |
Leading agency for HIV/AIDS and SAN Alternate leading agency for citizen security and violence prevention. |
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UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN´S EMERGENCY FUND - UNICEF
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Representative: Rose Nadine Perrault Blvd. Santa Elena, Calle Alegría, Edificio Interalia, 4to. Piso, Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad. |
Tel. (503) 2252-8800/02 Fax (503) 2252-8811 Email: nperrault@unicef.org |
Leading agency for: 1) Democratic governance and state´s modernization & reform, 2) Communications (GICOM). Alternate leading agency for: 1) Equality, Social inclusion, Poverty Reduction, 2) Programming (PMT), and 3) Monitoring & evaluation (GTME) |
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UNITED NATIONS DEPARTMENT OF SAFETY AND SECURITY - UNDSS |
Security Adviser: Mr. Luis Castro Edif. Naciones Unidas, Blvd. Orden de Malta Sur, #2-B, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad, El Salvador. |
Tel. 503) 2251-9500 or 9560 Fax (503) 2209-3615 Email: luis.castro@undss.org |
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UNITED NATIONS POPULATION FUND - UNFPA
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Representative: Mr. Hugo Gonzalez Edif. AVANTE, 10 nivel, Urb. Madre Selva. Santa Elena. Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad. El Salvador.
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Tel. (503) 2246-5800 Fax (503) 2246-5823 Email: hgonzalez@unfpa.org |
Leading agency for: 1) Equality, Social inclusion, Poverty Reduction, and 2) Gender |
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UNITED NATIONS FOR PROJECT SERVICES -UNOPS |
Directora y Representante: Mrs. Alexandra Kianman Colonia San Benito y Calle N° 1, Casa N° 121, entre Calle La Mascota y Calle Loma Linda, San Salvador |
Tel. (503) 2506-3900 or 3917 Fax: (503) 22 63 44 82 Email: AlexandraK@unops.org |
Mission: aid people in need through UN efforts and associated Government agencies. Vision: promote promote sustainable practices Value: present services to others |
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UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANIZATION – ILO/OIT |
Principal Technical Adviser: Mr. Jesús de la Peña Avenida José Matías Delgado No 345, Colonia Escalón, San Salvador |
Tel. (503)2263-7442 Fax (503)2263-7008 Email: delapena@ilo.org |
Leading agency for inclusion economic development and employment |
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UNAIDS/ONUSIDA |
Director: Dra. Celina Miranda Edif. Naciones Unidas, Blvd. Orden de Malta Sur, #2-B, Antiguo Cuscatlán, La Libertad, El Salvador. |
Tel. (503) 2209-3591 Fax. (503) 2209 3588 Email: mirandace@unaids.org |
Alternate leading agency for HIV/AIDS
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INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR MIGRATION – IOM |
Head of Mission: Mr. Jorge Peraza Urb. Madre Selva, Pje. H #5, Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlan. La Libertad. |
Tel. (503) 2521-0531 Fax (503) 2521-0534 Email: jperaza@iom.int |
Alternate leading agency for emergencies (UNETE)
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El Salvador - 1.2 Regulatory Departments & Quality Control
Overview
The tables below show the governmental entities that oversee collecting revenues, ministries that control the entrance of medical or agricultural products to the country and import exemption taxes.
The import process starts by requesting tax exemption to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, then authorization of Customs in order to collect the products at customs warehouse. When food is being imported, the permission needs to be requested to the Ministry of Health and Agriculture, depending on the type of food.
This document also provides a list of requirements and certificates to obtain permission to import.
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK (MAG) Address: Final 1ª. Av. Norte, 13 calle Oriente y Avenida Manuel Gallardo, Santa Tecla. La Libertad |
Name: Lic. Oscar Enrique Guardado Calderón Title: Agriculture and Livestock Minister E-mail: info@mag.gob.sv |
Tel. (503) 2210-1700, ext.2355 Tel. (503) 2210-1755 Min. Off. Fax (503) 2534-9850 Min. Off. |
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Summary of Role and Services: The roles of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock are set out in the Regulations of the Executive and special laws. Its general functions are:
Main UN counterparts in Country: WFP, FAO Other Governmental counterparts: IICA |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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FINANCE DEPARTMENT Boulevard "Los Héroes" No. 1231, San Salvador, El Salvador, C.A. |
Name: Mr. José Alejandro Zelaya Title: Treasurer |
Tel. (503) 2244-3000 PBX (503) 2244-3001 Min. Off. Email: ministro@mh.gob.sv |
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Summary of Role and Services: Carry out technical assessment of economic projects or programs pre-investment and public investment requiring funding of public money and other powers as are prescribed by law or regulation. Within the powers previously understood, especially the incumbent Deputy Minister of Finance, there are following: - Ministry of administrative management, including matters relating to buildings and equipment; - Monitor and evaluate the overall damages/losses after natural disasters; - Management of FOPROMID fund (Civil Protection and Military Fund for Disaster management). |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH Calle Arce No.827 ,San Salvador, El Salvador |
Name: Mr. Francisco Alabi Montoya Title: Health Minister
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Tel.: (503) 2591-7000 PBX (503) 2591-7551 Email: francisco.alabi@salud.gob.sv |
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Summary of Role and Services: The below list describes the information on the formalities or services that the Ministry of Public Health offers in relation to the supervision and control of food and beverages. The Ministry is also in charge to monitor the increase of diseases in emergency situations, being part of the Emergency Technical Health Commission. Main UN counterparts in Country: PAHO (WHO) |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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OIRSA (International Regional Organization for Agricultural Sanitation) Final Pasaje Isolde, Calle Ramón Belloso 1,Colonia Escalón, San Salvador, El Salvador, Centroamérica |
Name: Mr. Efrain Medina Guerra Title: Executive Director
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Tel.: (503) 2209-9200 Ext 102 (Dir. Office) (503) 2228-7841/7899 Email: comunicaciones@oirsa.org Fax: (503) 2263-1128 |
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Summary of Role and Services: Oirsa strategy recognizes the importance of working to strengthen, maintain and manage an information system on agricultural health and food safety; for the prevention, control and eradication of pests and diseases, facilitating agricultural trade and knowledge of current legislation. All incoming food to El Salvador must be inspected and cleared by OIRSA. |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Calle El Pedregal, Blvd. Cancillería. Ciudad Merliot, Antiguo Cuscatlan, El Salvador. C.A. |
Name: Mrs. Alexandra Hill Tinoco Title: Minister of Foreign Affairs |
Tel.: (503) 2231 1001 Fax: (503) 2231-1180 Email: webmaster@rree.gob.sv |
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Summary of Role and Services: Provide guidance and support to the Humanitarian organizations for what regards to bi-lateral and multi-lateral agreements/MoUs/contracts with Government institutions. It is the main counterpart for the import/export of commodities/items/equipment in/out of the country. Consular services, scholarships, authenticates govt. documents, step visas for foreigners, libraries, step income for Salvadorans, historical archive. |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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Division of Food Assistance 10 Avenida Sur y Calle Mexico Barrio San Jacinto, frente a ex casa Presidencial, San Salvador |
Name: Ms. Wendy Rogel de Fuentes Title: Chief Department Email: |
Tel.: (503) 2133 1206 (503) 7288 3531
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Summary of Role and Services: Responsible for coordinating humanitarian food assistance in country. Through DAA manages the 4 Government warehouses in Zapotitán, Santa Ana, San Rafael Cedros and San Miguel. It provides assistance to vulnerable groups and emergency response rations. |
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Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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Civil Protection Lotificación Las Americas, KM 23.5 Carretera de San Salvador a Quetzaltepeque, Municipio de Nejapa, San Salvador, El Salvador |
Name: Mr. Luis Alonso Amaya Durán Title: Director Building E-mail: prensa@proteccioncivil.gob.sv |
Tel.: (503) 2201-2440
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https://www.proteccioncivil.gob.sv/
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Summary of Role and Services: Manage and coordinate with the institutions of the National System of Civil Protection, the actions of Prevention and Mitigation of Disasters and Emergencies throughout the country, in order to safeguard the life and protect the assets of the inhabitants of El Salvador, through an optimal use of resources in order to assist affected people, guaranteeing an immediate and effective response to the needs derived from a catastrophic event.: It is responsible to procure for the Emergency Technical Commissions for:
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Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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FUSADES Boulevard y Urbanización Santa Elena ,Antiguo Cuscatlán, La libertad, El Salvador
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Name: Lic. Javier Castro Title: Director Ejecutivo Name: Ms. Mirian Santos Title: Laboratory contact |
Tel.: (503) 2248-5600 PBX Fax: (503) 2278-3356 Tel.: (503) 2248-5681 Lab Off. Fax: (503) 2248-5669 Lab Off. Email: laboratorio@fusades.org.sv |
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Summary of Role and Services: The Quality Laboratory Comprehensive FUSADES is a research center and laboratory services, characterized by excellent quality, reliability and credibility, and whose objective is to contribute to sustainable development of El Salvador. It is a key support for the agricultural sector, food and beverages sector and in the area of environment. |
Dept/Agency Name and address |
Contact Names / Email |
Tel / Fax |
Website |
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CEN - POSCO |
Name: Mr. Edgar Morales Barahona Title: General Manager |
Tel. & Fax: (503) 2262-1510 Cell.: (503) 7643-4871 Email:cenposco@yahoo.com. |
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Summary of Role and Services: Supervise and certify the quality and quality (Q&Q) of the food at origin in Country and upon to the arrival to the different warehouses; pest control for maize, beans, rice, flour, sorghum, among others. Also, supply of equipment, installation of fumigation systems and calibration of lab equipment.
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El Salvador - 1.3 Customs Information
Duties and Tax Exemption
For contact information regarding government custom authorities, please click check section 1.2 Regulatory Departament & Quality Control.
Customs is part of the Treasury and is in charge of the following:
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Authorise and registration of international land transport
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Increase of decrease of bonds imposed to duty free shops.
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Approving tax exemptions
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Authorization of importing vehicles
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Authorization of forwarding agents
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Authorization of introduction of vehicles and personal items of diplomatic Salvadorian staff abroad.
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Authorization of importing vehicles through diplomatic tax exemption.
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Authorization for the registration of sea transport.
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Classification of product duties.
Customs Information Authorities
DIRECCION GENERAL DE ADUANAS |
LIC. BENJAMIN MAYORGA |
Direcctor General de Aduanas |
2244-5002 |
|
ARQ. JOSÉ ALEXANDER FUENTES PORTILLO |
Sub Director General de Aduanas |
2244-5072 |
Emergency Response:
Upon the declaration of a State of Emergency by the Congress (“Asamblea Legislativa”) or by the President himself, all humanitarian aid coming from abroad is channeled through Civil Protection (for all imported food commodities, a control is done by the Ministry of Agriculture) and enters the country through an expedited process coordinated with the Government parties mentioned above (Art. 556 RECAUCA).
When relief items are destined to entities/organizations of social interest, humanitarian organizations etc., their entry will be authorized provided that the transport documents are endorsed by the Government Authority in charge (Art. 556 RECAUCA inciso tercero).
https://www.wipo.int/edocs/lexdocs/laws/es/sv/sv039es.pdf
The following agreements and conventions apply to the country:
Agreements / Conventions Description |
Ratified by Country? (Yes / No) |
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WCO (World Customs Organization) member |
Yes - 07 07 2005 |
Annex J-5 Revised Kyoto Convention |
No |
OCHA Model Agreement |
Yes |
Tampere Convention (on the Provision of Telecommunication Resources for Disaster Mitigation and Relief Operations) |
Yes – 18 04 2002 |
Secretariat for Central American Economic Integration (SIECA) |
Yes – 14 10 1951 |
The following legal data provides exemption information:
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Franquicias de la Presidencia de la República: Disposiciones Generales del Presupuesto, Decreto Legislativo No. 6, publicado en el Diario Oficial No.126, Tomo No. 324, de fecha 07/07/1994.
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Franquicias para la Asamblea Legislativa: Decreto Legislativo No. 461, publicado en el Diario Oficial No. 189, Tomo No. 329, de fecha 13/10/1995.
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Acuerdos Legislativos que conceden franquicia a favor de otros: Art. 131 de la Constitución de la República.
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Franquicias Municipales: Código Municipal, Decreto Legislativo No. 274, publicado en el Diario Oficial No. 23, Tomo No. 290, de fecha 05/02/1986.
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Franquicias Diplomáticas: Decreto Legislativo No. 45, publicado en el Diario Oficial No. 148, Tomo No. 324, de fecha 15/08/1994.
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Franquicias para Residentes Rentistas: Ley Especial para Residentes Rentistas y su Reglamento, Decreto Legislativo No.476, publicado en el Diario Oficial No.222, Tomo No. 241 de fecha 28/11/1973 y Decreto Legislativo No. 681, Reformas a la Ley Especial para Residentes Rentistas, publicado en el Diario Oficial No. 208, Tomo No. 341 de fecha 10/11/1993.
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Artículo 317 del Reglamento del Código Aduanero Uniforme Centroamericano (RECAUCA)
Organizational Requirements to obtain Duty Free Status |
United Nations Agencies |
Letter addressed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, invoice, packing list, bill of lading, copy of NIT and duty exemption solicitation format. |
Non Governmental Organizations |
Requesting letter addressed to the president, containing the following: description of the donation, destination, donor identification, reception entity and its legal representative, transportation, bill of lading, number of packages, value, pro-forma invoice (original and copy) packing list, donation letter to the receiving entity, |
Exemption Certificate Application Procedure:
Duties and Taxes Exemption Application Procedure |
Generalities (include a list of necessary documentation) |
Same as above |
Process to be followed (step by step or flowchart) |
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Exemption Certificate Document Requirements
TABLE OF DOCUMENTS FOR TAX EXEMPTION REQUIREMENTS
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Food |
NFI (Shelter, WASH, Education) |
Medicine |
Vehicle and Spare Parts |
Staff (office) Supplies |
Telecoms Equipment |
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Duties & Taxes Exemption |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Invoice |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document detailing values and quantities |
AWB, B/L, C.P. other transport documents. |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
Donation/Non-Commercial Certificate |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
1 copy of the original document |
Phytosanitary Certificate |
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It is entered as personal stuffs or household goods |
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Other Documents |
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If the car is second hand, it needs the title issued by the Department of Motor Vehicle in the country of origin, detailing the characteristics of the vehicle. |
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Customs Clearance
General Information
Customs Information |
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Document Requirements |
1. Invoice trading. 2. Transport Documents, including: Bill of Lading, waybills, Air waybill or other equivalent documents. 3. Custom’s declaration and valuation of goods, if necessary. 4. Certificate of origin for all goods, as appropriate. 5. Licenses, permits, certificates or other documents relating to compliance with the regulations and non-tariff restrictions on the goods, and other authorizations or guarantees required by virtue of their nature and customs. |
Embargoes |
None |
Prohibited Items |
See Customs Law in Annex IV (Regulations for import vegetables and animal products.) |
General Restrictions |
See Customs Law in Annex IV (Regulations for import vegetables and animal products.) |
Customs Clearance Document Requirements
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Food |
NFI (shelter, wash, education) |
Medicine |
Vehicles and Spare Parts |
Staff (office) Supplies |
Telecoms Equipment |
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Exemption of Duties & Taxes |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Invoice |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
AWB, B/L, C.P. other transport documents |
2 Original and 2 copies |
2 Original and 2 copies |
2 Original and 2 copies |
2 Original and 2 copies |
2 Original and 2 copies |
2 Original and 2copies |
Donation/Non-Commercial Certificate |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Original and 2 copies |
Packing List |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
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Original and 3 copies |
Original and 3 copies |
Phytosanitary Certificate |
Original and 3 copies |
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It is entered as personal stuffs or household goods |
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Other Documents |
Certificate of origin |
Fumigation certificate (second hand clothes) |
List of specifications for each drug, production and expiry date. |
If the car is second hand, it needs the title issued by the Department of Motor Vehicle in the country of origin, detailing the characteristics of the vehicle. |
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It does not need special permissions by country agreement with WFP, UN. |
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Free sale certificate (FSC) |
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Prescribed control substances for personal use, must have approval from DAN. |
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Weight Certificate |
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Quality Certificate |
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Radioactive Certificate |
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Fumigation Certificate |
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Some fats and oils have special permits from the Ministry of Health. |
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Note: 1. Goods entering into the country coming from South America are checked by DAN (Dirección de Anti-narcóticos).
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2. For the goods which need approval from the Ministry of Health, a pharmaceutical chemicals visa is required.
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3. Food entering to the country need to go through a scan and pay
Transit Regime
Internal transit is a simple process through Central American countries. Basically, a declaration must be stated at the Customs office where the goods are entering the region in order to obtain a temporary permit for internal transit. Depending on whether the goods have origin in Central America or not, a different kind of declaration will be stated in each case. For Central American products, the declaration is called FAUCA, Formulario Aduanero Unico Centroamericano. For products with origins outside Central America, the declaration is called, Declaración de Mercancías para el Tránsito Aduanero Internacional Terrestre, or also known as DTI.
All regulations concerning this declaration are expressed in the Reglamento sobre el Régimen de Tránsito Aduanero Internacional Terrestre ,Formulario de Declaración e instructivo (pages 313-336: RECOPILACION DE LEYES ADUANERAS, Editorial Jurídica Salvadoreña, 6ª Edición Lic.Ricardo Mendoza Orantes 2006).
The following Flow shows the process for transit trucks in El Salvador