This guide offers a strategic overview of investments in Honduras’ infrastructure sector, designed as an initial guide for investors interested in exploring the potential of this industry in the country, as well as the benefits we offer in this sector. While it does not co- ver in detail all the processes necessary to establish an investment, it provides an overview that facilitates understanding of the local public and private infras- tructure landscape. The information contained herein has been collected and analyzed by the National Investment Council (CNI) and, although every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, it is not a substitute for profes- sional advice. It is recommended that you contact the CNI team directly for specialized guidance or, failing that, consult with experts before making investment decisions.
SECTORIAL GUIDE FOR INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE
Y TRANSPORTE INFRAESTRUCTURA
Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento President of the Republic of Honduras
Miguel Medina Minister of Investment Promotion Executive Secretary of the National Investment Council
Board of Directors National Investment Council 2023-2025
Editorial team: Aida Sandoval Mario Alexander Peña Gonzalo Granados Karen Cecilia Alvarenga
Design and layout: Luding Guzmán
Omar Pantoja Sergio Canales
Publication coordination: Carmen Rivera Aida Sandoval
Translation: David A. Cruz Pineda
Special thanks to the Honduran Chamber of the Construction Industry and the Secretariat of State for Infrastructure and Transportation.
Printed by: Papelería e Imprenta Honduras S. de R.L. Tegucigalpa, Honduras. This document is for public use and may be distributed, copied, and used for social good purposes, without altering its content, citing the source.
First Edition R 2025
Technical Directorate for Sectoral Development Directorate for Innovation and Investor Services Data Intelligence Unit National Investment Council Headquarters Government Civic Center, Tower 1, Level 12. Tegucigalpa, M.D.C. Honduras Website: www.cni.hn
San Pedro Sula Regional Office Cortés Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIC) Col. Las Brisas 22 and 24, between 1st and 4th Avenue Junior.
All rights reserved. The total or partial modification of this material by any means is strictly prohibited without the prior written consent of the CNI and the authors responsible.
Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento President of the Republic of Honduras
Together with the Honduran government, we seek to increase investment and trade flows, strengthening infrastructure and developing new mechanisms to drive economic growth. We are working to consolidate strategic relationships that generate greater opportunities and benefits for the country.
”
Miguel Medina Minister of Promotion and Investment and Executive Secretary of the CNI
The Infrastructure Guide is a strategic tool that reaffirms Honduras’ commitment to promoting investment in enabling projects that enhance the competitiveness, connectivity, and sustainable development of the country.
”
Gustavo Boquín President of the Honduran Chamber of the Construction Industry – CHICO
In a world where infrastructure is the cornerstone of economic and social development, Honduras offers real opportunities for strategic investment, with projects that promote connectivity, sustainability, and a prosperous future for the entire nation.
”
Octavio Pineda Secretariat of State for Infrastructure and Transport (SIT)
A nation is built with vision, clear paths, and strategic decisions. This Guide is more than a document: it is a compass for those committed to transforming Honduras through infrastructure. At SIT, we promote a connected, competitive country that is prepared to attract investments that leave a lasting mark.
”
Prioritized investment sectors
Infrastructure
Manufacture
Energy
Agroindustry
Tourism
This guide offers a strategic overview of investments in Honduras’ infrastructure sector, designed as an initial guide for investors interested in exploring the potential of this industry in the country, as well as the benefits we offer in this sector. While it does not co - ver in detail all the processes necessary to establish an investment, it provides an overview that facilitates understanding of the local public and private infras- tructure landscape. The information contained herein has been collected and analyzed by the National Investment Council (CNI) and, although every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, it is not a substitute for profes- sional advice. It is recommended that you contact the CNI team directly for specialized guidance or, failing that, consult with experts before making investment decisions.
Contents
10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 25 26 29 30 32 32 32 32 33 34 34 34 34 35 36
Executive summary Acronyms and abbreviations Reasons to invest in Honduras Honduras in figures Population of Honduras Human talent 1. Economic overview of Honduras 1.1 Economic growth
1.2 Economic growth outlook 1.3 Macroeconomic context 2. Investment overview of Honduras 2.1 Foreign direct investment 3. Overview of the infrastructure sector 3.1 Reasons to invest in the infrastructure sector in Honduras 3.2 Overview of the sector 3.2.1 Economic importance of the sector 3.2.2 Contribution to GDP and employment 3.2.3 Construction as an economic activity of the IMAE 4. Competitive advantages of the sector 4.1 Geographic location and access to key markets 4.2 Efficient interoceanic connectivity 4.3 Potential for the development of industrial zones 4.4 Specialized and competitive human capital 5. Public infrastructure 5.1 National Road infrastructure
36 40 42 42 42 44 45 49 50 50 51 53 54 55 55 56 57 58 62 69 70 72 75 78
5.1.1 Road network
5.1.2 Road corridors 5.2 Airport infrastructure
5.2.1 International airports
5.2.2 Domestic airport 5.2.3 Commercial airlines in Honduras 5.3 Port and cargo infrastructure 6. Health, education, telecommunications 6.1 1 Hospital infrastructure 6.2 Educational infrastructure 6.3 Telecommunications infrastructure
7. Private infrastructure 7.1 Vertical buildings
7.2 Industrial infrastructure 7.3 Smart urban development 7.4 Rural and productive road infrastructure 8. Legal and commercial aspects of investing and operating in the infrastructure sector 8.1 General steps for investing in the infrastructure sector in Honduras 8.2 Legal frameworks of the infrastructure sector 9. Public and private entities linked to the infrastructure sector
9.1 Public entities 9.2 Private entities
10. Success stories 11. Portfolio of investment opportunities
Executive summary
The 2025 Infrastructure Investment Sector Guide, prepared by the National Investment Council (CNI), is a technical tool of high strategic value that positions Honduras as a competitive destination for infras- tructure projects. Its purpose is to guide investors in identifying key sectors, evaluating enabling con- ditions, and facilitating decisions based on verified information that is institutionally backed and aligned with global standards. Honduras stands out for its privileged geographi- cal location, with access to the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and a logistics network that strengthens its interoceanic connectivity. Added to this is a national road infrastructure of more than 19,700 km, which in- cludes eight regional logistics corridors. The country also has five commercial airports, six active seaports and a telecommunications network with full coverage of the territory, thanks to the incorporation of techno- logies such as satellite internet and fiber optics. The Guide presents an integrated vision of strategic sectors such as road, airport, port, hospital, educatio- nal, and digital infrastructure, with special attention to projects that generate productive chains, reduce territorial gaps, and promote social cohesion. It also highlights advances in industrial and urban infras- tructure, including more than 45 industrial parks in operation, smart cities such as Altia Smart City, verti- cal developments in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, and logistics complexes with domestic and foreign investment. In the social sphere, Honduras has improved its pu- blic hospital network with new projects underway in Roatán, Ocotepeque, Olancho, and Santa Bárbara, while the private sector is expanding its participation with specialized clinics and hospitals. Educational in- frastructure has also been strengthened with school expansion projects in rural and urban areas, under international cooperation schemes.
From a regulatory standpoint, the country has a ro- bust legal framework that regulates and promotes infrastructure investment through government pro- curement laws and fast-track procedures for projects declared to be of national interest. This framework is reinforced by the technical and legal support provided by the CNI throughout the investment life cycle: from project structuring to the installation and post-invest- ment (aftercare) phases. In addition to its logistical and regulatory advantages, Honduras offers a young and skilled workforce, with more than 273,000 jobs in the construction sector and a growing base of professionals graduating from technical and engineering programs. These dynamic favors the operational sustainability of large-scale projects and enables the development of regional value chains. The Guide includes a validated portfolio of invest- ment opportunities, open to financing schemes, stra - tegic alliances and private capital, focused on sectors with high growth potential. Success stories such as Palmerola International Airport and vertical housing projects reaffirm the country’s ability to execute high impact projects under international standards of qua- lity and efficiency. Overall, this Guide Overall has established itself as a technical reference for the country and an essential tool for public and private actors interested in genera- ting economic, social, and territorial impact through the infrastructure sector. It reflects Honduras’ com - mitment to sustainable development, operational efficiency, and attracting investment as pillars of national growth through 2030.
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Abbreviations and Acronyms
BANHPROVI: Honduran Bank for Production and Housing BCH: Central Bank of Honduras BPO: Business process outsourcing CA: Central America CAFTA-DR: Dominican Republic-Central America FTA ECLAC: Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean CHICO: Honduran Chamber of the Construction In- dustry CIF: Cost, Insurance, and Freight CNI: National Investment Council CONATEL: National Telecommunications Commis- sion CSI: Container Security Initiative ECOPT: Quarterly Survey of Private Roofed Cons- truction Works FCN: National Coffee Fund FOB: Free On Board FDI: Foreign Direct Investment
INE: National Institute of Statistics INFOP: National Institute for Vocational Training IoT: Internet of Things km: Kilometers m2: Square meters MCCA: Central American Common Market MM: Billion PEA: Economically Active Population PET: Working-Age Population GDP: Gross Domestic Product PIP: Public Investment Program pp: Percentage Points RIT: Temporary Import Regime RTN: National Tax Registry SAR: Revenue Administration Service SECMCA: Executive Secretariat of the Central Ameri- can Monetary Council SESAL: Ministry of Health SIT: Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation EU: European Union
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IHSS: Honduran Social Security Institute IMAE: Monthly Economic Activity Index
National Investment Council of Honduras
REASONS WHY TO INVEST IN HONDURAS
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Efficiency 2
Located on the Carib- bean Sea, Puerto Cortes is positioned as one of the biggest and most efficient port of the region with Super Post Panamax cranes , its certification as a Mega Port, and the United States Integrated Cus- toms facility. Efficiency 3 Port Quality and
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Strategic Location and Connection to
Modern Infrastructure and Logistics
8 logistics corridors , including the Logistics Corridor , a vital route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. 8 mariti- me facilities , 6 in the Caribbean and 2 in the Pacific, 4 international airports and 1 domestic airport , as well as 21 airlines.
In the heart of Central America, with 671 km of Caribbean coastline and 133 km on the Pacific. 11 trade agreements in force covering 45 nations and the Central Ameri- can Common Market (CACM), providing access to more than 1.3 billion consumers.
Advantage 4 9.9 million inhabitants with an annual growth rate of 1.5% and an average age of 31 . 70.7% of the population is of working age, of which 55.7% is economically active. From 2020 to 2023, there will be more than 899,000 graduates in extracurricular educa- tion and 101,000 gradua- tes in higher education
Trained Bilingual Staff 5 in English proficiency according to the EF English Proficiency Index 2024 . Linguistic skills of the population and a solid educational environment, with more than 830 bilingual edu- cational centers. 1st in Central America and 3rd in Latin America
Solid and Growing Financial System. 6 9 foreign-owned banks and 6 domestic banks, 2 state-owned banks, and 12 insurance institu- tions, with optimal levels of solvency, profitability, liquidity and adequate administrative manage- ment, complying with national and internatio- nal norms and stan- dards.
Demographic
HONDURAS in Figures General Data:
Official Name
Honduras Republic
Capital City
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Tegucigalpa, M.D.C.
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Total area
President of the Republic of Honduras Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento
112,777 km2
Official Language Spanish Modern languages
Time zone Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6
Misquito, Pech, Tol, Tawahka, Chorti, Garifunas y Englis/speaking Black or Islander
Form of Government Republican, democratic and representative
HONDURAS Population 2024 Total Population:
9.9 million inhabitants
Male: 46.6 % Female: 53.4 %
Age percentage: 31 years
working-age population (WAP) 7.0 million of inhabitants 70.7 % of the total population (2024) 45.1 % Men Women 54.9 % Economically Active Population (EAP) 3.9 million of inhabitants 55.7 % of the working-age population (2024)
59.7 % Male
Female 40.3 %
Occupied Population: 3.7 million inhabitants (2024)
Unoccupied Population: 206 thousand inhabitants (2024)
Source: National Institute of Statistics (INE)
Human Resources Extra-curricular education
+of 986,668 graduates (2021-2024) 57,570 Agricultural 881,481 Commerce and services 47,617 Industrial
Higher Education
+of 108,250 professional graduates (2021-2024)
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
9,545 Postgraduates
16,641 Engineering 75,630 Degrees 5,494 Technicians
788 Specialties
158 PhDs
6 public and 15 privates
21 Superior Education Institutes
1
Economic overview of Honduras
Investment Sector Guide Infrastructure
1.1 Economic Growth In recent years, Honduras has shown remarkable resilience, with periods of sustained growth, reaching an annual GDP variation of 3.6% in 2024, higher than expected, exceeding the minimum target range established in the 2024-2025 Monetary Program review. In 2024, the country ranked as the fourth fastest-growing economy in Cen- tral America and the second fastest-growing in the Northern Triangle of Central America (El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras). Economic growth was mainly supported by financial intermediation; communications; electricity and water; tra - de; and construction. It should be noted that for 2024, estimates by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) projected lower growth for some of the subregions compared to 2023: South America by 2.1% (1.7% in 2023); the group comprising Central America and Mexico, 1.8% (3.2% in 2023), and the Caribbean (excluding Guyana), 2.4% (2.5% in 2023).
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STRUCTURE PERCENTAGE OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT TO GDP
Constant Values, 2024
28
%
Financial Brokerage, Insurance and Pension Funds
12 % 12 % 8 % 4 % 5 %
17 % 10 % 4 % 7 %
Agriculture, livestock, forestry and fishing
Manu- facturing Industries
Commerce: Hotels and Restaurants
Commu- nications
Property and Housing: Real Estate and Business Activities
19
Educational Services: Social and Health Services
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Electricity and Water Distribution
Transportation and Storage
3
%
Cons- truction
Public Administration and Defense
Community Services: Social and Personal Source: National Accounts Department, Short-Term Statistics Section, BCH. 2 %
0. 2%
Mines and Quarries Exploitation
National Investment Council of Honduras
GDP GROWTH IN CENTRAL AMERICA, 2024 (%)
3.7 Guatemala
3.6 Honduras
2.6 El Salvador
3.6 Nicaragua
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4.3 Costa Rica
2.9 Panamá
Source: Prepared by the authors with data from the Central Bank of Honduras and its counterparts in Central America.
1.2 Economic growth outlook In 2025, the region is expected to maintain a growth rate of 2.6%, 0.2 percentage points lower than in 2024. In this context, according to data from the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH), the Honduran economy is expected to perform well over the next two years, growing at a rate of between 3.5% and 4.0%, according to the recently published Monetary Program (2025-2026). Likewise, international organizations agree that Honduras will maintain its economic growth in the range of 2.8% to 3.3% for this year. ECLAC placed its GDP growth projection for Honduras at 3.2% for 2025, above several coun- tries in the region such as El Salvador (2.4%), Mexico (0.3%), and Nicaragua (3.1%). It also exceeds the average for the Latin American and Caribbean region (2.2%) and Central America (2.6%). By 2025, a 9.3% increase in goods exports is projected as a result of higher coffee prices due to lower production forecasts in Brazil caused by adverse weather conditions. Higher international prices and demand for shrimp, lobster, tilapia, and pineapples are also expected. Likewise, higher foreign sales of goods for processing, mainly textiles and clothing, and higher production of electrical appliances (harnesses) are expected, partly as a result of the expected improvement in external demand.
Growth Projections CENTRAL AMERICA 2024-2025
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3.5 4.3 2.4 2.6 3.6 3.7 3.2 3.6 3.1 3.6 4.2 2.9
3.5 4.0 2.2 2.9 3.5 3.7 2.8 3.7 3.4 3.6 3.5 2.6
3.4 4.3 2.5 2.6 4.1 3.7 3.3 3.6 3.2 3.6 4.0 2.9
Year: 2025 2024
Costa Rica
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
El Salvador
Guatemala
Honduras
Nicaragua
Panamá
Source: Own elaboration with data from ECLAC, WB and IMF.
National Investment Council of Honduras
1.3 Macroeconomic context 1.3.1 INFLATION AND MACROECONOMIC STABILITY
Economic activity continues to show strength, registering cumulative growth of 3.6% in 2024, supported mainly by domestic factors and the strong performance of most economic activities. Honduras ranked as the fourth fastest-growing economy in Central America, Panama, and the Dominican Republic in 2024. Total inflation continues to slow in 2024, falling within the medium-term tolerance range established by the BCH (4.0% ± 1.0 pp), after remaining outside it since December 2021. Thus, as of December 2024, it showed a year- on-year variation of 3.88%, 1.31 pp lower than that observed in the same month of 2023 (5.19%). The BCH’s forecasts for total inflation indicate that it will remain within the established tolerance range (4.0% ± 1.0 pp) throughout 2025, suggesting that the slowdown in inflation will be faster than predicted in the 2024-2025 RPM, as inflation in the services sector continues to moderate and international food and fuel prices register lower growth.
Inflation: year-on-year percentage change in the CPI
Period
2022 2023
2024
CPI Year-on-year change
9.80
5.19
3.88
Source: Prepared internally using data from the Central Bank of Honduras
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1.3.2 FOREIGN TRADE In 2024, exports of goods and merchandise (excluding services) totaled US$11,047.1 million. The manufacturing industry accounted for 41% of this amount (US$4,516.6 million), while textiles contributed 35% (US$3,904.8 million). Together, these two activities accounted for 76% of the country’s total exports. The manufacturing sector showed significant growth in the assembly of machinery and electrical appliances, especially in the production of harnesses, with an increase of US$65.4 million. Other products that registered an increase in export volume and value were precious metals and other non-ferrous metals (US$55.9 million), other food products n.e.c. (not previously classified) (US$45.8 million), and plastic products (US$28.1 million). In 2024, imports of merchandise and processing goods under the CIF regime totaled US$19,640.7 million. Of this amount, merchandise accounted for US$16,244.1 million (83%), while processing goods totaled US$3,396.6 million (17%). The main products imported were: machinery, equipment, electrical materials and parts, as well as recording equipment: US$3,176.3 million; fuels and lubricants: US$2,713.9 million; textiles and textile products: US$2,701.9 million; and chemical and related products: US$2,159.0 million. Together, these products accounted for 54.7% of total imports.
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Principal export products (2024)
Machinery and electrical equipment (mainly harnesses)
Crude palm oil
Banana
Clothing
Gold coffee
US$429.2
US$3,427.4 millions
US$1,369.0 US$1,218.2
US$506.2
millions
millions
millions
millions
Source: Own elaboration with data from the Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
Main export trading partners (2024)
United States of America
Central America
Mexico
Germany
Belgium
Netherlands
Italiy
Source: Own elaboration with data from the Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
Main import products (2024)
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Machinery and apparatus, electrical equipment and parts
Textile materials and articles
Products of chemical or related industries
Fuels and lubricants
Food Industry
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
US$3,176.3
US$1,956.3 US$2,713.9 US$2,701.9 US$2,159.0
millions
millions
millions
millions
millions
Source: Own elaboration with data from the Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
Illustration 11 - Main import trading partners (2024)
United States of America
Central America
China
Mexico
Germany
India
Brazil
Source: Own elaboration with data from the Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
National Investment Council of Honduras
Exports of Goods FOB (Millions of dollars)
US$12,246.9 US$11,348.2 US$11,047.1
2022
2023
2024
Source: Balance of Goods by Category, Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
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Imports of Goods FOB (Millions of dollars)
US$20,69 9.4 US$19,255.4 US$19,640.7
2022
2023
2024
Source: Balance of Goods by Category, Central Bank of Honduras, 2024.
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Honduras Investment Overview
Investment Sector Guide Infrastructure
2.1 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
FDI flows in several countries in the region have continued to experience significant growth after the post-pan - demic phase. Honduras since 2020 has stood out as one of the countries with the highest increase in FDI, registering a growth of 24.6% in 2022 and 17.0% in 2023, far outpacing other economies in the region. In comparison, Costa Rica registered a decrease of 2.1% in 2022 and a growth of 19.7% in 2023. Nicaragua presented a 22.9% growth in 2022, followed by a 13.5% decrease in 2023. In the case of Guatemala, there was a contraction of 58.3 % in 2022 and a recovery with a growth of 10.0 % in 2023. These data are based on official figures and estimates from the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH), its counterparts in Central America and SEMCA Data.
Central America: FDI inflows by recipient countries (Millions of dollars)
1,692.5 Guatemala
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Honduras 993.9
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El Salvador 639.6
Nicaragua 1,352.3
Costa Rica 4,321.6
Panamá 2,832.6
Source: Own elaboration with data from the Central Bank of Honduras and its counterparts in Central America.
At the end of 2024, companies with foreign direct investment (FDI) in Honduras recorded a positive cumulative inflow of US$ 993.9 million, reflecting a decrease of 7.66 % compared to 2023. This decrease was mainly affec - ted by sectors such as manufacturing and commerce, which registered lower FDI inflows compared to those recorded in 2023, mainly due to lower reinvested earnings and an increase in accounts payable. In contrast, Financial and Insurance Activities led foreign investment with US$ 542.8 million, while the energy sector received US$ 111.1 million, strengthening the development of renewable energies. Regarding the origin of FDI in 2024, a net inflow of US$ 857.5 million was recorded from the Americas, with Co - lombia, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Guatemala standing out. While from Europe and Asia, countries such as Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands and the Philippines, are the ones that allocated the most capital to the country.
Net FDI flows by country of origin, 2024 (Millions of dollars)
Irlanda $1.4
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Bélgica $120
$19.2 Canadá
España $78
$147 México
Japón $1.6
Bermuda $162
Países Bajos $35
Corea del Sur $4.3
Bahamas $20
$6.7 Rep. Dominicana
$124 Guatemala $42
Hong Kong $2.8
Islas Caimán $19
Filipinas $20.5
El Salvador
$22 Nicaragua
Islas Vírgenes Britanicas $26
$15 Costa Rica
$9 Italia
$161 Panamá $2 Ecuador
Singapur $6
$298 Colombia
Nueva Zelanda $1.9
FDI flows in Honduras over the past four years
738.7
920.3
1,076.4
993.9
2021
2022
2023
2024
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3 Overview of the
infrastructure sector in Honduras
Investment Sector Guide Infrastructure
REASONS INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR IN HONDURAS FOR INVEST IN THE
1
Honduras has an operational network that includes certified ports, international airports, interoceanic logistics corridors, and expanding electrical grids. This functional foundation allows investors to immediately integrate into an ecosystem that reduces costs and time.
Comprehensive Infrastructure
2 3
Honduras has a vast and diverse agricultural offering, with traditional and specialized crops such as basic grains, tropical fruits, high-value crops, vegetables, and legumes. It also excels in livestock farming, aquaculture, beekeeping and fishing. The country's agricultural tradition, combined with advanced technical knowledge, guarantees efficient and highly profitable processes.
Modernization in flagship projects
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With more than 70% of its population of working age and more than 273,000 jobs generated by the sector, Honduras offers a young, skilled and accessible workforce, backed by specialized training programs.
Availability of trained personnel
Growing demand for housing 4
With a housing deficit of 1.6 million units, Honduras faces a growing need for new and improved housing, creating clear opportunities for investment in residential developments and urban infrastructure solutions.
5
Honduras has 100% telecommunications coverage throughout its territory via satellite internet, opening investment opportunities in fiber optics, mobile networks, and digital connectivity.
Nationwide telecommunications coverage
6 7
Real estate is the activity with the greatest access to credit in the Honduran financial system, with more than US$5.669 billion in loans granted in 2023 alone. In addition, institutions such as BANHPROVI offer financing at preferential rates for social and middle-class housing, facilitating the development of residential projects with bank backing.
Consolidated financial system
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The dynamism in tourism, agribusiness, and manufacturing is driving the construction of hotels, logistics parks, industrial plants, and housing solutions, creating an active environment for new investments.
Expanding complementary markets Interoceanic digital connectivity 8
Honduras has an interoceanic telecommunications network that strengthens its digital sovereignty and positions it as a strategic regional hub for data transmission and technological development.
National Investment Council of Honduras
3.2 Overview of the sector
3.2.1 Economic importance of the sector Honduras stands out as an attractive destination for infrastructure investment, offering strategic opportunities that generate economic, social and environmental benefits. With its National Plan and Country Vision, it seeks to consolidate itself as a world-class logistics hub by 2030 through key investments in maritime, port, airport and land infrastructure as well as improvements in urban, rural and border logistics. 3.2.2 Contribution to GDP and employment In economic terms, construction activity contributes to GDP, generating significant economic value and activating a supply chain that encompasses materials, equipment and related services. This ecosystem creates a multiplier effect by increasing demand in these key sectors of the economy. In 2024, construction activities and the basic industries of iron, steel, cement, sand, stone and gravel, as well as the processing of sawn wood and refractory products, contributed 4.0% to the country’s GDP, highlighting the significant weight of these activities in national economic development. In 2024, the construction sector in Honduras generated 273,235 jobs, 7.3% of the national total, of which 98.9% are men and 1.1% are women in the construction labor market. Currently, the incorporation of women in the construction sector is evident, given that the number of women hired in this sector increased from 1,901 to 2,903 from 2022 to 2024, performing masonry, carpentry and heavy equipment and machinery operation and maintenance tasks. (INE, 2024) From 2019 to 2023, activities related to the construction sector accounted for an average of 4.32% of GDP in constant values. Of this proportion, 2.5% comes directly from construction activity, while the cement industry contributes 0.71%. Stone and gravel extraction contributes 0.15%, as does the use of sawn wood, and metal products add 0.08%. Refractory products, meanwhile, account for 0.01%. 3.2.3 Construction as an economic activity of the IMAE In 2024, the construction sector recorded an average IMAE of 231.4. Although it does not lead in terms of production volume, its consistent performance and stability consolidate it as one of the fundamental pillars of the Honduran economy. The private construction sector continues to experience remarkable dynamism for the third consecutive year, achieving 7.2% growth in 2024. This momentum is linked to the construction of commercial and residential buildings, extensions, and other buildings in the cities of San Pedro Sula, Tela, Danlí, Villanueva, Choloma, Puerto Cortés, and Tegucigalpa. This is partly due to the ease of obtaining loans from private banks and the BCH-BAN- HPROVI Investment Fund
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4
Competitive advantages of the sector
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4.1 Geographic location and access to key markets
4.3 Potential for the development of industrial zones The country has a territorial base suitable for the de- velopment of industrial, logistics, and free trade zones, thanks to its strategic location and direct access to ports on both coasts. This potential is enhanced by the road infrastructure connecting Puerto Cortés and Ama- pala, creating a functional corridor for the integration of regional and global supply chains. Added to this is a robust legal and commercial framework, backed by multilateral agreements such as CAFTA-DR, MCCA, and bilateral treaties with the European Union, Mexico, and other countries, which offer preferential access to more than 1.3 billion consumers, consolidating Honduras as a strategic platform for regional production and distri- bution.
Honduras is strategically located in the heart of America, representing a unique opportunity for medium- and long- term infrastructure investments. Its maritime, air, and land proximity to key markets such as the United States (4 days by sea, 3 hours by air), Mexico (4.5 days by sea, 2.5 hours by air), China (35 days by sea, 3 days by air), and the rest of Central America (1 to 3 days by sea, 0.5 to 3 hours by air) positions the country as a natural link for the regional and international flow of goods and people. The ongoing modernization of roads, ports, and airports strengthens this environment, consolidating Honduras as a strategic logistics hub in the region and facilitating the efficient management of intercontinental trade.
4.2 Efficient interoceanic connectivity
One of the country’s main strengths is its direct and functional access to both oceans: the Atlantic, through Puerto Cortés, and the Pacific, through the Gulf of Fon - seca. This dual connectivity is linked by a 407-kilometer logistics corridor that crosses the country from north to south in a minimum of eight hours, creating a com- petitive intermodal system that significantly optimizes transport times and costs. This structural feature, which is uncommon in the region, positions Honduras as a viable logistical alternative to traditional routes, with high potential to absorb part of international commercial traffic and attract investments aimed at productive transformation and re-exportation.
4.4 Specialized and competitive human capital
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Honduras offers a young, growing, and highly competiti- ve workforce in the field of construction and infrastruc - ture development. With a minimum wage in effect since January 1, 2025, in the sector, ranging from approxima- tely US$485 to US$678, the country combines accessi- bility with growing technical capacity. Between 2020 and 2023, more than 2,750 professionals graduated from academic programs in civil engineering, architecture, and design, consolidating a constantly evolving profes- sional ecosystem. The sector employs more than 7% of the national workforce, reflecting a significant technical density in infrastructure-related trades. In addition, INFOP strengthens this human resource through dual and alternating training programs, allowing trained workers to pass on their skills to others within the company, maximizing operational efficiency.
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
5
Public Infrastructure
Investment Sector Guide Infrastructure
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
National Investment Council of Honduras
5.1 National Road infrastructure Honduras has a strategic road network of more than 19,700 kilometers of paved roads, connecting the coun- try’s main production, logistics, and tourist centers. This network represents a solid foundation on which to pro- mote investment in mobility, transportation, and territo- rial development. Its coverage connects key regions of the country, and its modernization opens clear opportu- nities for rehabilitation, expansion, and private financing projects aimed at improving national competitiveness. (SIT, 2024) The paved network has remained stable in recent years, representing a concrete investment opportunity for the rehabilitation, expansion, and modernization of strategic corridors under public management schemes. The coun- try’s current focus is to move toward a resilient, efficient, and safe road network that supports national logistics dynamics, boosts interregional trade, and strengthens territorial connectivity in a sustainable manner. 5.1.1 Road network (land road infrastructure) The Honduran Road network is divided into four functio- nal categories: Main roads (Class P): these form the country’s backbo - ne. They connect key cities, ports, and airports and form part of the CA and Pan-American corridors. • Secondary roads (Class S): these link municipalities and population centers to the main network, facilitating intra-departmental and regional connectivity. • Local roads (Class V): connect rural communities and agricultural areas with higher-level routes. They are es- sential for local access and productive mobility. Penetration roads: routes with limited or temporary access, mainly intended for productive or logistical pur- poses. They are not under the direct management of the SIT.
By 2024, Honduras had made public investments tota- ling US$2.7 billion, of which US$2.3 billion was allocated to priority projects within the Public Investment Program (PIP). The remaining amount was directed toward ini- tiatives related to gross capital formation. By 2025, the approved budget for public investment will reach US$3.1 billion, reflecting an increase in the government’s com - mitment to infrastructure development and strategic sectors. In 2024, sectoral investment in infrastructure is mainly concentrated in the road sector, with an allocation of US$606.9 million to the Honduran Resilient Roads Pro- gram, implemented by the SIT. This program aims to rehabilitate and expand 351.23 kilometers of roads, prio- ritizing strategic sections in key regions of the country to improve connectivity, strengthen the climate resilience of the road network, and boost territorial economic development. Likewise, the Municipal Interconnection Program is promoting 96 hydraulic concrete paving projects in 2024, strengthening local connectivity and boosting economic development in municipalities with a productive vocation. By April 2025, the National Congress, with support from the World Bank, is promoting the Honduras Sustainable Connectivity program, implemented by the SIT with an investment of US$187 million. It includes 46 km of new highway between CA-4 and CA-13, 41 km of additional paving, sustainable road management, and institutional strengthening. The program prioritizes resilient connec- tivity and regional development. In addition, the housing sector has experienced a sig- nificant boost. In 2024, BANHPROVI, in its role as a second-tier bank focused on financing social and midd - le-income housing, disbursed a total of US$151.67 mi- llion in loans. This dynamic has contributed to the stren- gthening of the construction sector and has reinforced investor confidence in the national real estate market.
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Total length by type of road (km / %) Highway type
Extension (km)
Percentage (%)
Primary (Clase P) Secondary (Clase S) Neighborhood (Clase V)
3,245.96 3,650.15
17.1 % 19.2 % 63.7 %
12,830.43 19,726.54
Total
100.0 %
Source: Own elaboration with data from SIT, 2025
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
National Investment Council of Honduras
Belize
LOGISTICS CONNECTIVITY IN THE REPUBLIC OF HONDURAS (ROADS)
Guatemala
CA-5
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
CA-4
CA-11
CA-7
CA-6
El Salvador
CA-1
CA-1
CA-3
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Villages Primary Paved Main Select Material Secondary Paved SYMBOLISM Secondary Select Material
Nicaragua
National Investment Council of Honduras
Source: Department of Infrastructure and Transportation, 2024
5.1.2 Road Corridors Honduras’ eight road corridors represent the country’s most important arteries, concentrating the highest volume of traffic and facilitating international trade by connecting the borders with Honduran ports, espe- cially the Central American (CA) highways, which are strategic for economic and logistical development. 1. Central Corridor (294 km): This corridor con- nects the Río Dulce junction in Francisco Morazán with Saba, Colón (CA-13), improving access from the Aguan Valley to the main consumer markets in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula.
2. Agricultural Corridor (573 km): Connects the north and south of the country, boosting the ports of Amapala and Puerto Castilla. It is divided into two sections: the Northern Agricultural Corridor, which runs through Olancho and Colón to Puerto Castilla, and the Southern Agricultural Corridor, which con- nects Choluteca with Route 15. 3. Eastern Corridor (126 km): Part of the CA-6 ne- twork, it connects Tegucigalpa with the Nicaraguan border at Las Manos, passing through key municipa- lities such as Danlí and El Paraíso. Fully paved, it is essential for trade between Honduras and Nicaragua, facilitating the transport of cargo and passengers, and connecting agro-industrial areas with domestic and international markets.
Atlántida
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Cortés
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Yoro
Guatemala
Sta. Bárbara
Copán
Olanc
Comayagua
Ocotepeque
Lempira
Francisco Morazán
Intibucá
El Paraíso
La Paz
El Salvador
Valle
Pacific Ocean
Choluteca
4. Lenca Corridor (127 km): Benefits the depart - ments of Lempira, Intibucá, and Copán, promoting development in western Honduras. 5. Logistics Corridor (407 km): This is the backbone of transportation in Honduras, connecting the ports of Amapala and Henecán on the Pacific with Puerto Cortés on the Atlantic, facilitating regional trade mainly with the east coast of the United States. 6. Pacific Corridor (137 km): Part of the extensive Pan-American network that stretches from Alaska to Patagonia, connecting Honduras with El Salvador and Nicaragua in our area through the CA-1 and CA-3, promoting international trade in the region. 7. Western Corridor (120 km): This project seeks
to strengthen tourism and productivity in the west of the country in the departments of Copán and Ocote- peque through the reconstruction of important road sections. 8. Tourist Corridor (366 km): Also known as CA-13, this is a crucial route for access to tourist destinations on the Atlantic coast, promoting economic develop- ment through the promotion of tourism at beaches and national parks, as well as regional tourism.
Logistics Central Tourism West Pacific Agricultural East Lenca CORRiDOR
Atlantic Ocean
Colón
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
cho
National Investment Council of Honduras
Nicaragua
5.2. Airport infrastructure Honduras has five commercial airports, four of which are international, strategically located to boost trade and tourism at the regional and global levels. The Gui- llermo Anderson and Ramón Villeda Morales airports have the longest runways, allowing them to receive large aircraft. Palmerola and Juan Manuel Gálvez, with medium-length runways, also facilitate the arri- val of large aircraft. These four airports are located on the north coast of the country. Toncontín is also noteworthy. Although now dedicated to domestic flights, it previously operated international flights and remains a key component of the country’s air network.
5.2.1 International airports Guillermo Anderson International Airport (LCE): Lo- cated in La Ceiba, Atlántida, it is a strategic gateway to the country’s natural resources and a key connec - tion point for domestic flights. Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP): Located in the San Pedro Sula Metropolitan Area, Cortés, this airport is one of the main regional and domestic hubs, boosting trade and tourism. Palmerola International Airport (XPL): Opened in 2021, Palmerola is located in Comayagua, 70 km from Tegucigalpa. Its location is in the Logistics Corridor and its modern infrastructure, with a runway With a length of 2,440 meters and a cargo terminal covering 1,500 m², it is a key hub for the export of agricultural
Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB) Roatán, Bay Islands
Guillermo Anderson International Airport (LCE) La Ceiba, Atlántida
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SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
International Airport Villeda Morales (SAP) San Pedro Sula, Cortés
Guatemala
Palmerola International Airport (XPL) Comayagua, Comayagua
Toncontín National Airport (TGU) Tegucigalpa, Francisco Morazán
El Salvador
Pacific Ocean
Source: Prepared internally with information from airlines at each airport in Honduras.
It has an air cargo terminal in San Pedro Sula cove- ring 10,000 m², with a general cargo storage capacity of 1,480 pallets. It is equipped with refrigerated facili- ties and specialized areas, connecting Honduras with global markets. 5.2.2 National airport Toncontin National Airport: Located in Tegucigalpa, Francisco Morazán, this airport remains essential for national connectivity, especially due to its proximity to the center of the capital. Although it now focuses on domestic and private flights, it is a vital hub for local mobility and cargo transport.
and manufactured goods. It has a 10,000 m² air cargo terminal with cold chain technology, with a capacity for 450 pallet positions for general cargo in the export area and 200 in the import area. It has more than 1,200 parking spaces, most of which are covered. Equipped with state-of-the-art technolo- gy, specializing in logistics services for air and inter- modal cargo handling. Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB): Located in Roatán, Bay Islands, it is a crucial point for tourism, connecting visitors to beaches and coral reefs, attracting international tourists.
Large Width Track Material
Atlantic Ocean
LCE
2949
45
Asphalt
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SAP
2806
45
Concrete
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
XPL
2440
45
Asphalt
RTB
2090
45
Asphalt
TGU
2021
45
Asphalt
Nicaragua
National Investment Council of Honduras
COMMERCIAL AIRLINES OPERATING IN HONDURAS Airlines Origin / Destiny Conectivity
International Airlines
United States (Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Roatán) United States (Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Roatán)
Honduras - EE. UU.
Direct flights EE. UU. - Honduras
United States (San Pedro Sula)
Direct flights EE. UU.
Economic fares, direct flights
United States
Latin America, North America, Europa Latin America , Caribbean (Teg., San Pedro Sula, Roatán) México (San Pedro Sula)
International flights to/from Honduras
Hub in Panama
Hub in Mexico City Global connections
Flights to Belice
Beli z e
Touristic Flights to Honduras Madrid - Barajas National Flights
Espain
Espa in
International flights U.S.A., Central America, South America
Cayman Islands
Direct flights to Miami
United States
Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Roatán, La Ceiba
Domestic Flights
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Regional Connectivity (Honduras-Guatemala)
Guatemala
SECTORIAL GUIDE Infrastructure
Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Roatán, La Ceiba
National flights
National flights (Roatán)
La Ceiba, Honduras
Direct flights to U.S.A. and The Caribbean Direct flights to U.S.A., Mexico and Central America
United States
United States
CARGO AIRLINES OPERATING IN HONDURAS
Latin America, Europe, Asia and Middle East Latin America, Europe, Asia and Middle East Flights to The Caribbean Latin America México, EE.UU. y Latin America EE.UU., Latin America and The Caribbean
United States
Alemania
United States
México
United States
Source : Prepared internally with information from airlines at each airport in Honduras.
5.3Port and cargo infrastructure Honduras has a strategic port network connecting its Atlantic and Pacific coasts, facilitating foreign trade, regional logistics, and international tourism. The country has six commercial seaports: five in the Ca - ribbean (Puerto Cortés, Castilla, Tela, La Ceiba, and Roatán) and one on the Pacific (San Lorenzo), each with specific functions in containerized cargo, bulk cargo, agricultural exports, fishing, and cruise ships. Puerto Cortés, located on the Atlantic coast, is Hon- duras’ main seaport and one of the most modern in Central America. It has approximately 1,150 meters of docks and an operating draft of between 11 and 14 meters, allowing it to receive post-Panamax ves- sels. It is designed for handling containers, general cargo, and solid bulk, and has a bulk storage terminal with a capacity of 75,000 metric tons. In addition, it is certified as a “Mega Port” by the United States government and is part of the Container Security Initiative (CSI), which streamlines trade with North America and ensures operations under international standards. Its level of commercial use is high, with international-scale operations. It has a maritime cargo terminal specializing in con- tainers, general cargo, and bulk cargo. Puerto Castilla, located in the department of Colón, is the second largest port in terms of operational capacity nationwide. It has a pier approximately 600 meters long and a draft of between 9 and 11 meters, suitable for medium-sized vessels. It specializes in the export of agricultural products, especially bana- nas and pineapples, and is the main base of opera- tions for the Dole Fruit Company in Honduras. Its level of commercial use is medium, with a defined focus on export agribusiness. It has a maritime cargo terminal that handles bulk cargo, mainly minerals and agricultural products.
10 meters, subject to periodic dredging to maintain its operability. Its activity focuses on the handling of bulk cargo, agro-industrial products, minerals, and industrial fishing. Although its level of commercial use is moderate, it represents a strategic point with high logistical potential for diversifying destinations to South America and Asia. It handles bulk cargo, mainly agricultural products and minerals, with facilities suitable for the handling and storage of this type of merchandise. The Port of Tela, in the department of Atlántida, has a pier approximately 250 meters long and a draft of between 7 and 9 meters. Historically linked to the banana trade, it currently handles agricultural cargo and light general cargo, mainly serving the regional market. Its commercial use is low to medium, althou- gh there are opportunities for expansion focused on non-traditional agricultural products and coastal trade. The Port of La Ceiba, also in Atlántida, has a pier of about 200 meters and an operating draft of between 6 and 8 meters, suitable for passengers and small-scale general cargo. Its main function is related to regional transport, particularly to the Bay Islands, as well as the supply of basic products. Its level of commercial use is low, although it represents an opportunity for coastal tourism and cabotage. It has a maritime cargo terminal that handles general cargo with a regional focus. Coxen Hole, on the island of Roatán, is the country’s main cruise terminal. With a pier approximately 300 meters long and an operating draft of between 8 and 9 meters, it is designed to receive international tourist vessels, connecting Honduras with the main Caribbean cruise routes. Its level of commercial use is high within the tourism sector, being key to the island’s economy and the de- velopment of inbound tourism. ectos EE. UU. Vuelos de Roatán a Asia, Canadá y El Caribe
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Puerto San Lorenzo, located in the Gulf of Fonseca, is the only Honduran port with access to the Pacific Ocean. It has a pier approximately 300 meters long and an access channel with depths ranging from 7 to
Aerolíneas Regionales/Nacionales
National Investment Council of Honduras
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