San Salvador, El Salvador – The Salvadoran Ministry of Tourism has outlined an ambitious plan for 2025, focusing on infrastructure development, international promotion, talent development, and investment attraction. Tourism Minister Morena Valdez emphasized the government's commitment to positioning El Salvador as a year-round destination, particularly targeting the North American market during their winter months.

"We are working closely with government institutions and private businesses to attract visitors seeking a 'summertime' escape to El Salvador," Valdez stated. "Our efforts are concentrated on the United States and Canada, with specific events designed to entice tourists to our shores."

To further enhance the country's tourism appeal, El Salvador is hosting several international surfing competitions in partnership with major organizations like the International Surfing Association (ISA), World Surf League (WSL), and the Latin American Association of Professional Surfers (ALAS). Notably, ALAS has chosen El Salvador as the host for an international surf camp, aimed at discovering new surfing talents from across the country.

"This is the first time ALAS has selected El Salvador for a surf camp," Valdez said. "We will be scouting for young surfing talent from the west, east, and central regions of our country. Our goal is to uncover new talents who can represent our world-class waves on the international stage."

The Ministry of Tourism is also collaborating with the Ministry of Economy, Invest in El Salvador, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to attract responsible and sustainable private investment. "We aim to attract more hotels, restaurants, and businesses that will create jobs in our country," Valdez added.

Infrastructure and Talent Development

In terms of infrastructure, the government is investing in various recreational sites, including La Costa del Sol, a new terminal in San Sebastián, San Vicente, and renovations to Cerro Verde, El Boquerón, and the tourist dock in La Libertad. Additionally, a $106 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will be used to develop Surf City II in the eastern part of the country.

To support the tourism industry's workforce, the government is expanding its Gastrolab program, which provides training for young people seeking employment in the hospitality sector. The Ministry of Education is also considering incorporating tourism into the national curriculum.