Ecuador President Daniel Noboa Announces Record Poverty Drop and Expanded Security Gains

President Daniel Noboa presented his government report, noting that poverty fell from 26 % to 21.4 % by the end of 2025, the lowest level in Ecuador’s history, while extreme poverty dropped from 10.4 % to 8.4 %. About 3.8 million people remain below the $92.40 monthly poverty line, but roughly 1.2 million have risen above it.

Economic indicators improved: a 1.9 % GDP contraction in 2024 is projected to turn into 3.7 % growth in 2025; the country‑risk rating fell from 1,098 to 400 basis points, enabling a return to international capital markets and a $5 billion financing line. Foreign reserves rose from $8.3 billion to $11.2 billion, and foreign investment in 2025 grew 191 % year‑on‑year.

Security operations intensified, with the national security bloc conducting over one million actions, dismantling 551 criminal groups, neutralising 170 members, capturing 17 high‑value targets and arresting 255 high‑risk offenders. Law‑enforcement seized more than 296 tonnes of controlled substances, 4,000 firearms, 372,000 explosives and immobilised 2.2 million gallons of fuel, estimating a financial impact of $11.9 billion on illicit economies.

The administration also expanded its operational capacity with new vehicles, motorcycles, radios and specialised equipment for police and armed forces.