Ecuador Reports $2.14 Billion Trade Surplus in Early 2026 Amid Import Surge

Ecuador reported a trade surplus of $2.144 billion for the first five months of 2026, indicating that the country's earnings from exports exceeded its spending on imports, according to the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE).

While this surplus represents a 38% decrease compared to the same period in 2025, the reduction was not driven by a decline in exports, which actually grew by 5%. Instead, the diminished surplus is attributed to a substantial 18% increase in imports. This surge in imports was primarily fueled by greater purchases of fuels, raw materials, and capital goods, reflecting increased economic activity and investment.

During the January-May 2026 period, Ecuador's total exports reached $16.288 billion, with imports totaling $14.143 billion. This positive balance was supported by both the oil and non-oil sectors. Oil exports generated $4.054 billion, marking a 16% year-on-year increase. This growth occurred despite a 6% reduction in the volume of oil exported, as the average price of Ecuadorian crude rose by 25%, compensating for the lower volume.

Non-oil exports saw a more modest 2% increase compared to the previous year. Among the leading non-oil products, shrimp exports generated $3.892 billion (up 12%), with China as the main destination. Mining products reached $2.221 billion (up 47%), and banana and plantain exports amounted to $2.023 billion (up 7%). However, exports of cocoa and its derivatives fell by 59% to $820 million, acting as a significant drag on the non-oil sector's growth.