Ecuador's mining exports grow 65.3% in first quarter of 2026

Ecuador's mining sector has experienced a dramatic surge, with exports growing by an impressive 65.3% in the first quarter of 2026. This brought in $1.38 billion, solidifying mining's position as the nation's third-largest export category, trailing only shrimp and oil. The significant increase is attributed to a confluence of factors, including robust industrial production, historically high gold prices on international markets, and the Mirador mine operating at its full production capacity.

The economic boost from mining extends beyond export revenues. The sector attracted $80 million in investment for mining projects during the first three months of the year. Furthermore, the industry has become a substantial source of employment, generating over 47,000 jobs, encompassing both direct and indirect positions. This growth reflects a notable shift in Ecuador's export composition and economic landscape.

Copper concentrates led the export value, accounting for $622 million in sales. This performance is a direct result of increased output from industrial mines, record gold prices in early 2026, and the Mirador mine's full operational status, which boosted the volume of concentrates shipped abroad. The expansion in exports was mirrored by increased investment, with projects like Fruta del Norte, Cangrejos, and Curipamba receiving substantial funding.

This mining boom occurs within a broader context of economic dynamism for Ecuador. The Central Bank of Ecuador highlighted that exports, particularly from the mining sector, contributed significantly to the economic growth recorded in the first quarter of 2026. The sector's increasing participation underscores its growing importance within the national economy and its role in international trade.