Guatemala's economy expanded by 4.5% in the first quarter of 2026, accelerating from the 3.8% growth rate recorded in the same period last year.
The stronger-than-expected performance was primarily driven by a surge in construction activity and robust inflows of remittances from abroad.
Despite the positive headline figure, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned that this level of growth may represent the peak for Guatemala in 2026.
The data highlights the continued importance of domestic investment and external transfers in supporting Central American growth.
Construction projects, likely fueled by infrastructure spending and private development, provided a significant boost to output, while remittances remained a steady pillar of household income and consumption.
Despite the positive headline figure, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned that this level of growth may represent the peak for Guatemala in 2026.
The IMF's assessment suggests that the momentum seen in the first quarter may not be sustained throughout the year, potentially due to fading construction demand or other macroeconomic headwinds.