Doing Business 2024

Central America is a region with vast economic potential, composed of countries offering diverse advantages for foreign investors. Each nation in this region presents unique characteristics and a favorable investment environment, supported by solid legal frameworks, skilled labor forces, and stable economic policies. Below are concise summaries of the reasons to invest in some of the main countries in Central America:

Guatemala is the largest economy in Central America, with a GDP of USD 92.7 billion in 2022. It has a young and growing market, with foreign direct investment of USD 1.552 billion in 2023. Its laws favor free trade zones and maquiladora operations.

Download our Doing Business guide Guatemala.

El Salvador has great economic potential in Central America, with a swift post-pandemic recovery and a 2.6% GDP growth in 2022. It offers a favorable legal framework with incentives for foreign investment, including streamlined procedures and property protection.

Download our Doing Business guide El Salvador.

Honduras is the second-largest country in Central America, attracting significant foreign direct investment, growing over 73% between 2019 and 2023. Inflation has been controlled, standing at 5.19% at the end of 2023, supported by strict monetary policies.

Download our Doing Business guide Honduras.

Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America by area, has experienced substantial economic growth since 1990. It offers a solid legal framework with innovative laws and favorable regulations to attract foreign investment.

Download our Doing Business guide Nicaragua.