Expreso ends print edition in Ecuador after 53 years

The Ecuadorian newspaper Expreso has ceased its print edition after 53 years of circulation, transitioning exclusively to digital platforms. The decision follows significant financial difficulties and alleged government pressure.

Galo Martínez Leisker, executive president of the publishing house Granasa, attributed the closure to a loss of approximately 70% of advertising revenue. He claimed that the administration of President Daniel Noboa has exerted tax, administrative, and economic pressure on companies, allegedly threatening them with investigations from the tax service or the anti-money laundering unit if they advertise in the newspaper.

The media outlet has faced recent institutional challenges, including an intervention by the Superintendencia de Compañías in February and investigations by the Prosecutor's Office. Expreso maintains that these actions are linked to its editorial stance, particularly following investigative reports regarding economic interests in Ecuador's health and social security sectors.