Articles

GDP growing at 2%, inflation at just 1.5%, a new US trade deal boosting exports, and the basic salary up to $482/month. Here's what Ecuador's 2026 economy actually looks like — and why it matters if you live here.

The White House raised tariffs on Ecuador from 10% to 15%, hitting shrimp, bananas, tuna, and broccoli exports. Ecuador's production minister is in damage-control mode, and the ripple effects could reach Cuenca's grocery shelves.

Ecuador received a record $7.9 billion in remittances last year — more than bananas, shrimp, or cacao exports. Now a combination of ICE enforcement, deportation fears, and a new US tax on cash remittances is cutting those flows. In Cuenca, families report receiving half what they used to.

On February 13, the US and Ecuador announced they've 'substantially concluded' a new trade agreement. Ecuador is dropping tariffs on American wine, nuts, fruit, and wheat. Here's what might actually change for expats shopping at Supermaxi.