Ecuador’s shrimp industry is facing a severe threat due to unexpected power outages. The National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA) has raised alarms about the potential for massive daily losses, warning that production and exports could be crippled if the issue is not addressed.

Daily Losses in the Millions

According to the CNA, unplanned power outages have the potential to cause daily losses exceeding USD 5 million. The outages are disrupting vital processes in the shrimp production chain, particularly the manufacturing of shrimp feed and the processing and freezing of the product. Maintaining the quality and safety of shrimp for export is highly dependent on consistent power supply. Without it, the entire industry risks falling short of international standards.

Calls for Government Action

In response to this growing crisis, the CNA has called on the Ecuadorian government to take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of the outages. Specifically, the CNA is urging the implementation of differentiated power rationing in industrial zones, where shrimp production is concentrated. Additionally, the industry group has requested advance notice of any power cuts to allow shrimp farms and processors to prepare and minimize disruptions.