Friday, June 5, 2026.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua, often referred to as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” is a country of remarkable contrasts, resilience, and enduring character. Situated in the heart of Central America, it is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty, from the vast waters of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America, to dramatic volcanic chains, lush rainforests, pristine beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and charming colonial cities that tell the story of centuries of history and cultural development. For those who have had the opportunity to visit Nicaragua, one quickly discovers that beyond its landscapes lies a warm and welcoming people whose hospitality and pride in their nation are among its greatest strengths.
Today, Nicaragua continues to occupy an important place within the Central American region. While international headlines often focus on political developments and debates surrounding governance and human rights, the country itself remains far more complex than the headlines suggest. Nicaragua is a nation of entrepreneurs, farmers, business leaders, professionals, and families who continue to work toward building opportunities and prosperity despite the challenges that have shaped much of its modern history. Like many nations, Nicaragua faces obstacles, yet it also demonstrates a remarkable ability to adapt, endure, and move forward.
Economically, Nicaragua has shown notable resilience in recent years. While much of the world has experienced periods of uncertainty and fluctuating growth, Nicaragua has continued to attract investment in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, construction, and tourism. Remittances from Nicaraguans living abroad continue to play a significant role in supporting families and contributing to economic activity, while ongoing infrastructure projects seek to improve transportation, connectivity, and development opportunities throughout the country. These efforts have helped position Nicaragua as an increasingly relevant participant in regional commerce and trade.
Tourism remains one of the country’s most promising sectors. Travelers seeking authentic experiences are discovering Nicaragua’s unique combination of adventure, culture, and affordability. Destinations such as Granada, León, San Juan del Sur, and Ometepe Island offer visitors opportunities to explore colonial architecture, active volcanoes, world-class surfing, ecological reserves, and rich cultural traditions. Increasingly, Nicaragua is being recognized as a destination that provides many of the attractions found elsewhere in the region while retaining a sense of authenticity and tranquility that has become increasingly rare.
At the same time, Nicaragua continues to navigate significant political and social challenges. The country’s leadership remains the subject of international attention, and discussions surrounding governance, democratic institutions, and civil liberties continue to be important topics both within Nicaragua and throughout the international community. These developments have influenced diplomatic relations, migration patterns, and international perceptions of the country. Nevertheless, the Nicaraguan people continue to demonstrate resilience and determination, qualities that have characterized the nation throughout its history.
Migration also remains an important issue affecting many Nicaraguan families. Like several countries throughout Latin America, Nicaragua has seen citizens seek opportunities abroad, contributing to vibrant Nicaraguan communities in neighboring countries, the United States, and beyond. These communities maintain strong ties to their homeland, helping support economic growth and preserving cultural connections across borders.
For members of the Council of International Investigators and the broader investigative profession, Nicaragua represents a country of growing importance within the region. Its expanding business environment, international commercial activity, legal developments, and cross-border economic relationships create opportunities for investigative professionals, security specialists, compliance experts, and risk management practitioners. Understanding Nicaragua requires looking beyond simple narratives and appreciating the complexity of a nation that continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in its traditions, culture, and identity.
As we turn our attention to Nicaragua this week, we recognize a nation shaped by history, strengthened by adversity, and defined by the determination of its people. Whether viewed through the lens of business, security, culture, or regional development, Nicaragua remains an important and fascinating part of the Central American landscape, one whose future will undoubtedly continue to influence the region for years to come.
Brett Mikkelson
Fundador, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama
Nicaragua’s Exports to China Decline During the First Quarter of 2026
Nicaragua’s exports to China fell by 50.4% during the first quarter of 2026, accounting for just 1.4% of the country’s total exports, while the United States absorbed 41.1%, according to an analysis by La Prensa based on official statistics from the Central Bank of Nicaragua. The data show that despite the political and commercial rapprochement between Daniel Ortega’s regime and Beijing, Nicaragua’s economy continued to concentrate its external sales on the U.S. market.
Between January and March, Nicaragua exported goods worth USD 1.983 billion, excluding free trade zones, according to the Central Bank of Nicaragua. Of that total, the United States purchased USD 814.5 million, while China bought only USD 27.9 million, according to the analysis.
The difference was also reflected in the trade balance. Nicaragua imported USD 553.4 million worth of goods from China during the quarter and, having sold only USD 27.9 million to that market, accumulated a trade deficit of USD 525.5 million with China, according to BCN data.
The opposite occurred with the United States. Imports totaled USD 485.8 million, while exports reached USD 814.5 million, resulting in a trade surplus of USD 328.7 million for Nicaragua, according to the official figures cited by La Prensa.
Exports to China Fell from USD 56.1 Million to USD 27.9 Million in One Year
The decline in the Chinese market was measured year-over-year. Export revenues to China dropped from USD 56.1 million in the first quarter of 2025 to USD 27.9 million during the same period in 2026, according to La Prensa’s analysis based on BCN data.
Conversely, exports to the United States increased from USD 435 million to USD 814.5 million over the same period. This increase of USD 379.5 million represented growth of 87.2%, according to official statistics.
La Prensa argued that these figures contradict the Nicaraguan government’s narrative regarding the economic benefits of its closer relationship with China. The analysis added that Managua sought to strengthen ties with Beijing in order to reduce its dependence on Washington and mitigate the effects of potential international sanctions related to allegations of human rights violations.
The key finding is that China has not established itself as a significant destination for Nicaraguan exports. According to the Central Bank of Nicaragua report, China does not even rank among the country’s ten leading export markets.
Gold Accounted for Much of the Export Growth
After the United States, the principal buyers of Nicaraguan products were Canada, El Salvador, and Mexico, according to the Central Bank of Nicaragua. China remained outside this group despite the growing political significance of its relationship with Managua.
A substantial portion of Nicaragua’s export performance was driven by gold. The commodity generated USD 898.7 million in revenue and recorded year-over-year growth of 152.1%, while the United States continued to be one of its primary destination markets, according to the BCN.
Marco Rubio Excludes Nicaragua from the U.S. Allies Bloc
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Tuesday that Latin America is currently “full of allies” of Washington, but identified Nicaragua as one of the principal exceptions within the region.
During a hearing before the U.S. Senate, Rubio argued that most Latin American governments maintain a favorable orientation toward the United States and cooperate on strategic security and regional affairs.
However, he specifically mentioned Nicaragua, along with Cuba and Venezuela, as countries that are not part of that network of allies. He also included Brazil and Colombia’s current government among the nations with which Washington maintains political differences.
“Generally speaking, this is now a region full of U.S. allies, leaders aligned with the United States, and a favorable orientation toward the United States,” Rubio told U.S. lawmakers.
Nevertheless, he emphasized “the exception of Nicaragua, Cuba, and obviously Venezuela.”
The remarks reflect the continued deterioration of relations between Washington and the government of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, which in recent years have been marked by U.S. sanctions, concerns regarding human rights, and disagreements over foreign policy.
Rubio also stated that the United States currently has a “coalition of friendly countries” that collaborate on hemispheric security initiatives, including efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized crime.
According to the Secretary of State, this cooperation represents a change from what he described as decades of reduced U.S. presence in the region.
The comments by the head of U.S. diplomacy reaffirm the position of President Donald Trump’s administration regarding Nicaragua, a country that Washington continues to view as outside its circle of strategic partners in Latin America.
Government of Nicaragua Receives Legislative Approval to Secure a USD 97 Million Loan from CABEI
Nicaraguan authorities received legislative approval to secure a USD 97 million loan from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), aimed at expanding and modernizing the country’s national road network.
The agreement, published in the Official Gazette La Gaceta and cited by EFE, granted the Executive Branch the legislative authorization required to move forward with obtaining the financing.
The approval was granted during a unanimous session of the National Assembly, where the ruling party maintains complete control of the votes, according to the presidential agreement. The initiative was promoted by the government led by Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, who serve as the country’s co-presidents.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure (MTI) assumed responsibility for implementing the so-called “XI Road Expansion and Improvement Program.” The agreement specified that the funds would be used to finance projects on several strategic road segments.
The Executive Branch granted full authority to Deputy Minister of Finance and Public Credit Nicolás Espinoza Rivera to sign the agreement with CABEI. Espinoza Rivera formalized the contract five days after receiving authorization, on February 5.
The loan arrangement coincided with recent changes within the country’s economic cabinet. In October, the government had delegated the signing of a larger USD 235 million loan to then-Minister of Finance Óscar Danilo Mojica Aguirre.
That amount included the recently approved USD 97 million. Mojica Aguirre’s departure from the Ministry of Finance in December resulted in the transfer of financial management responsibilities to Nicolás Espinoza Rivera. According to official information, Mojica Aguirre is the son of the current Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Óscar Salvador Mojica Obregón, who became responsible for managing the CABEI-funded resources.
CABEI is the principal multilateral financial institution supporting infrastructure projects in Central America and maintains close relationships with governments throughout the region. The approved financing forms part of the government’s strategy to strengthen road connectivity as a driver of development and mobility.
Nicaragua Authorized to Pursue a USD 138 Million CABEI Loan in 2025
In October 2025, the National Assembly swiftly approved authorization for the Executive Branch to secure a USD 138 million loan from CABEI. The authorization, submitted on an urgent basis by Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, was rapidly ratified by the legislature, which is controlled by the ruling party.
The agreement, signed between the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit and CABEI, was formalized on October 13 and 15 of that year. The funds were allocated to the “XI Road Expansion and Improvement Program,” which forms part of the National Poverty Reduction and Human Development Plan.
The program includes the expansion and improvement of 52.52 kilometers of roadways through five infrastructure projects. Among them are the expansion of the access road to the Las Manos border crossing in Dipilto (11.67 km) and the access road to the El Guasaule border crossing in Somotillo (6.13 km), both located on the Honduran border, according to EFE.
Additional projects include the construction of the Diriamba-Jinotepe bypass (13.67 km), the Estelí city bypass (12.02 km), and the expansion of the Las Piedrecitas-Los Brasiles highway along with the construction of a new overpass in Managua (9.03 km).
Various opposition organizations have called on CABEI to condition disbursements to the Ortega-Murillo government on compliance with human rights standards. These requests emerged amid ongoing international concerns regarding the country’s political and social situation.
UN Experts Call for Investigation into the Death of Imprisoned Indigenous Leader in Nicaragua
The UN Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua called on Monday for an investigation into the death of former lawmaker and Indigenous leader Brooklyn Rivera, who was considered a political prisoner of the Nicaraguan government.
Rivera, 73, was arrested in September 2023 after denouncing the situation of Indigenous communities during an international conference.
The group of experts on Nicaragua “strongly condemned” his death while in detention.
“Rivera’s enforced disappearance while in State custody constitutes an international crime for which the State of Nicaragua is legally responsible,” said Ariela Peralta, one of the experts, in a statement.
The experts, who were appointed by the UN Human Rights Council but do not speak on behalf of the United Nations, expressed their “deep concern” over reports indicating that authorities took control of Rivera’s remains, restricted his family’s participation in funeral arrangements, and detained several relatives and supporters who sought to pay tribute to him.
“In accordance with international law, Nicaragua must conduct an independent investigation into Brooklyn Rivera’s death in custody, ensure a transparent autopsy, return his remains to his family without delay, and guarantee accountability for his enforced disappearance and related human rights violations,” said Jan-Michael Simon, Chair of the Group of Experts.
On May 1, other UN experts demanded that the Nicaraguan government provide evidence that Rivera was still alive.
Rivera was a leader of the Indigenous political party YATAMA (Yapti Tasba Masraka Nanih Aslatakanka), which advocates for the rights of Nicaragua’s Indigenous communities.
Amnesty International had designated him a “prisoner of conscience” under co-presidents Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, who have been in power since 2007, while the United States had repeatedly called for his release.
“Unfortunately, he has left this earthly life,” Nicaragua’s Ministry of Health stated in a communiqué published Sunday by official media outlets.
According to the report, Rivera’s “physical and neurological deterioration” was “the consequence of a bacterial infection resulting from the COVID-19 virus.”
From exile, Rivera’s daughter, Tininiska Rivera, rejected the government’s claim that the Indigenous leader was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments and held the government responsible for the deterioration of her father’s health.
On March 12, the Group of Experts on Nicaragua had already requested that the government provide information regarding Brooklyn Rivera’s whereabouts and place of detention.
Tourism Figures for Holy Week 2026 in Nicaragua
More than 5.8 million people traveled throughout Nicaragua during Holy Week 2026, confirming one of the busiest seasons for domestic tourism. A total of 5,806,819 vacationers participated in seasonal activities, of whom 4,123,365 visited 1,570 tourist sites nationwide, demonstrating a strong preference for beach destinations, nature attractions, and religious traditions.
Nationally, the season’s activity was marked by 4,139 religious events attended by 899,305 worshippers, as well as 2,026 recreational activities organized by various government institutions.
The departments recording the highest visitor numbers were Rivas (1,251,750), Managua (668,437), Granada (566,227), León (467,122), Chinandega (373,700), and Masaya (371,752). These areas have strengthened their position as preferred tourist destinations. Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Jinotega, and Estelí also stood out, reflecting a broad distribution of tourism across the country, encompassing coastal regions, mountain destinations, and culturally significant cities.
Nicaragua recorded significant growth in visitor arrivals during the period from March 28 to April 5, 2026, with a total of 74,018 arrivals, surpassing the 64,979 recorded in 2025. This represented an increase of 9,039 visitors and growth of 13.9%. Of the 2026 total, 38,541 were Nicaraguan nationals, demonstrating the return of citizens from abroad; 24,748 were Central Americans, primarily from Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador; and 10,729 were visitors from other nationalities, notably from the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Regarding border crossings, Peñas Blancas remained the country’s principal point of entry, followed by El Guasaule, Las Manos, San Pancho, and Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, highlighting the importance of land transportation within the tourism sector. This trend remained consistent with 2025, when land-border entries also predominated, although at lower volumes.
Finally, a comparison of the first four months of the year reflects a positive trend for tourism in Nicaragua. For 2026, projections indicate 499,899 arrivals into the country, surpassing the 463,131 recorded in 2025 and representing growth of 36,768 visitors. Of the 2026 total, 215,289 corresponded to Nicaraguan nationals and 284,610 to foreign visitors, of whom 131,935 indicated tourism as their primary purpose of travel, also exceeding the figures recorded during the previous year.
These results confirm the continued strengthening of tourism in Nicaragua, driven by institutional coordination, a diverse range of activities, and the consolidation of destinations that continue to position themselves as attractive options for both domestic and international visitors.
