Retalhuleu Department

Pacific sugar coast—Retalhuleu shares the southern coastal plain sugar economy with Escuintla and Suchitepéquez. Cane cultivation occupies most agricultural land; palm oil production expands. The department benefits from Pacific lowland productivity while facing monoculture risks.

Tourism differentiates from neighboring departments: Xetulul theme park and Xocomil water park attract domestic visitors. The combination of agribusiness and recreation creates more diverse economy than pure plantation departments.

Indigenous population lower than highland departments; plantation labor historically drew workers from throughout Guatemala. Contemporary labor conditions generate civil society concern similar to Escuintla.

2026 trajectory: Agribusiness expansion continues. Tourism attractions differentiate from neighbors. Palm oil sustainability concerns grow globally.