Expreso to end print edition in Ecuador after 53 years

The Ecuadorian newspaper Expreso will publish its final print edition on Friday, October 9, 2026, transitioning exclusively to digital platforms after more than five decades of print publication. The decision was made by its publisher, Gráficos Nacionales S.A. (Granasa).

Organizations including Fundamedios and the Inter American Press Association (SIP) have raised concerns regarding the closure. SIP President Pierre Manigault and Martha Ramos of the Commission for Freedom of the Press and Information suggested that the decision follows a period of state pressure on advertisers and journalists, which may have compromised the outlet's economic sustainability and editorial independence.

Galo Martínez Leisker, executive president of Granasa, has called for an extraordinary shareholders' meeting on October 13 to discuss the company's financial situation, the potential sale of real estate, and the sale of brands. While Expreso moves to digital, the company's other newspaper, Extra, will maintain both print and digital editions.

In Quito, the transition has drawn mixed reactions from newsstand vendors and readers. Many long-time readers, particularly older citizens who may struggle with digital technology, expressed concern over the loss of physical access to news and the disruption of long-standing reading habits.