USDA Trade Mission to Expand Exports in Guatemala

By Mayora IP

The U.S. Department of Agriculture finalized a trade mission to Guatemala City, Guatemala, from March 3-7, 2025, to strengthen trade ties and expand U.S. agricultural exports across Central America. The mission included more than two dozen agribusinesses, trade organizations, and representatives from two state departments of agriculture.

Guatemala is the largest economy and most populous country in Central America, with projections indicating continued economic growth. In 2024, it was the largest Central American market for U.S. agricultural products and the 16th largest globally, with exports totaling USD 1.9 billion. That same year, U.S. agricultural exports reached USD 1.4 billion to Honduras and USD 832 million to El Salvador. The value of agricultural exports to Guatemala saw a significant 15 percent increase from 2023, while exports to Honduras and El Salvador grew by four and five percent, respectively.

Guatemala and its Central American neighbors are covered by the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). Under CAFTA-DR, almost all tariffs have been phased out and the agreement further strengthens the position of U.S. products in the region.

The trade mission provided participants with the opportunity to meet directly with buyers from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador through tailored business-to-business meetings. 

Export opportunities exist in the following sectors:

Poultry, pork, beef, and related products
Dairy products
Consumer and processor-oriented foods
Condiments and sauces
Soups and food preparations
Fresh fruit
Bakery goods, cereals, and pasta
Chocolate and cocoa products
Alcoholic beverages, including distilled spirits, wine, and related products