El Salvador faces a specific set of challenges, including high population density and a crime rate that surpasses global temperature increases. Moreover, it has become a notable destination for increasing numbers of migrants.
In the fiscal year of 2023, which concluded in September, the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol encountered a historic 3.2 million migrants nationwide. Many individuals from Africa and other regions make their way to the U.S. through Central America in pursuit of a better life.
On Thursday, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele met with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian Nichols, to discuss addressing irregular migration and other pressing topics.
In an effort to combat this issue, the country plans to impose a $1000 fee on passengers. Currently, this fee will only apply to citizens of India and individuals originating from Africa.
The announcement was posted on the Salvadoran port authority’s website on October 20th. The funds collected will be allocated towards enhancing the country’s primary international airport, according to the authority.
Starting October 23, travelers from 57 countries in Africa, as well as India, will be subject to a $1,130 fee (₹94 thousand) inclusive of VAT, due to increased airport usage in El Salvador. Airlines are required to report daily on passengers originating from these countries to Salvadoran authorities.
