Ecuadorian banana exports to China projected to double

Ecuadorian banana exports to China are experiencing significant growth, driven by a bilateral trade agreement, improved maritime logistics, and reduced production from competitors such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Under the current trade agreement, import tariffs for Ecuadorian bananas in China have been reduced from 10% to 7% in 2026. Industry leaders from Acorbanec and AEBE project that exports could double over the next five years as tariffs are expected to eventually reach 0%.

Statistical reports indicate that in 2025, exports to China totaled 15.1 million boxes, representing a 16% increase compared to the previous period. In the first half of 2026, shipments continued to rise, with volume growth recorded at approximately 2% to 5% depending on the specific reporting metric used by industry associations.