Ecuador reports rising imports and improved economic growth forecasts

Ecuador is experiencing significant economic shifts, characterized by a surge in imports and improved macroeconomic indicators. According to the Central Bank of Ecuador, imports under the postal and express mail regime reached USD 978.3 million in 2025, a 75.9% increase compared to 2024. This growth in package movement has led to increased warnings from authorities like Servicios Postales del Ecuador and the National Customs Service (SENAE) regarding fraudulent messages via WhatsApp and other channels attempting to solicit personal information or fake delivery payments.

On the broader economic front, Ecuador's growth forecast for 2026 has been revised upward from 1.8% to 2.7%. Key indicators show a 19% increase in sales as of August 2026 and a trade surplus of $2.3 billion through July. While foreign investment rose by 83% in April and adequate employment increased from 33% in late 2023 to 37% in July 2026, challenges remain regarding labor reforms and the distribution of economic benefits across different social strata.