Ecuador's Non-Oil Exports Surge 25% in July 2026, Driven by Shrimp and Diversified Products

Ecuador's non-oil exports totaled $2,914 million in July 2026, as reported by the Ministry of Economic and Productive Development on Monday, September 21. This figure represents a 25% year-over-year expansion compared to the $2,330 million recorded in July 2025. The overall non-oil export volume increased by 19.2% during this period.

The non-traditional non-mining products segment generated $669 million in July 2026, an increase of approximately $29 million from the previous year. Within this category, fish oil led growth with a 165% increase, reaching $2.1 million. Animal feed exports expanded by 144.7% to $11.6 million, while garments showed a 92.7% increase, contributing $2.7 million.

Among traditional non-mining goods, shrimp continued to be the leading external sale, totaling $1,068 million in July 2026, a 64.4% increase from the prior year. Banana shipments registered $364 million, representing an 18.7% positive variation.

Regarding trade destinations, China solidified its position as the main buyer of Ecuadorian non-oil exports, with purchases amounting to $790 million, a 59.8% year-over-year increase. The United States followed with $713 million in purchases, marking a 52.9% increase. The European Union accounted for $585 million. Peru showed a 78.8% growth in purchases, and Russia experienced a 44% increase.

At the close of July 2026, Ecuador's total trade balance registered a surplus of $504 million. The non-oil trade balance remained positive, recording a favorable balance of $561 million.

What to watch

Continued monitoring of global demand for key Ecuadorian non-oil products, particularly shrimp and non-traditional goods, will be relevant. The sustained growth in diverse markets like China, the United States, Peru, and Russia indicates a broadening export base, which may influence future trade policy and investment strategies.

Sources: eluniverso.com.