Chinese customs authorities have lifted the suspensions on nine Ecuadorian shrimp-exporting companies that had been in place since February. This is significant for Ecuador, the world’s leading shrimp exporter, with China as its primary market.

Ministry’s Announcement

The Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investment, and Fisheries announced this development on Thursday, predicting that the relaxation of sanitary measures in China will boost shrimp export flows. The Ministry emphasized that this action strengthens the commercial link with China, Ecuador’s top shrimp export destination.

A trade agreement between China and Ecuador came into effect on May 1, making Ecuador the fourth Latin American country with a free trade agreement with China. This agreement is expected to further facilitate and increase trade volumes.

Economic Impact

In 2023, Ecuadorian exports to China totaled USD 5.669 billion, with shrimp exports alone generating USD 3.868 billion. The lifting of suspensions is expected to enhance these figures, reinforcing Ecuador’s position as China’s leading shrimp supplier.