Ecuador's National Transit Agency Approves 25% Bus Fare Hike; Guayaquil Buses Receive $1,134 Monthly Compensation

The Agencia Nacional de Tránsito (ANT) issued Resolution No. 020‑DIR‑2026‑ANT, raising inter‑provincial and intra‑provincial bus fares by 25% effective 1 August 2026. The increase is justified by higher fuel, maintenance and parts costs. Operators under municipal control in Quito have not applied the hike, while those regulated by the ANT must adopt the new tariff. The agency will conduct checks at land terminals to ensure compliance, and seniors, children and people with disabilities will retain a 50% reduced fare.

In Guayaquil, the urban fare will remain at 30 centavos per ride. The Federación de Transportistas Urbanos del Guayas (Fetug) announced a monthly compensation of $1,134 per bus to offset operating costs, particularly fuel. Buses must pass technical inspections starting 17 August, with 400 units examined in the first phase and additional groups added monthly until the entire fleet is reviewed. The compensation is conditional on meeting these requirements and does not constitute a fare increase for passengers.