Ecuador not only reached its highest monthly volume ever, but also took the lead in the global shrimp industry. This figure translates into revenues of US$785 million, with a year-on-year growth of 30%, reflecting the dynamism and strength of one of the country’s most strategic sectors.

In the first half of this year, the country shipped more than 600,000 tons, representing more than US$3 billion in exports, an increase of 26% compared to the same period in 2024. Projections indicate that Ecuador could close 2025 with up to 1.5 million tons, consolidating its world leadership as the leading producer and exporter of shrimp.

Behind the record are years of coordinated work between the public and private sectors, improvements in operational efficiency, advances in sustainability and an increasingly robust logistics infrastructure. All of this has allowed Ecuador to surpass traditional competitors and position itself as a reliable, competitive supplier with a long-term vision.

The main destinations continue to be China and the United States, although there has also been notable growth in the European Union and Japan, demonstrating a healthy diversification of markets. This behavior reduces vulnerability to possible trade barriers or fluctuations in demand, and strengthens the sector’s resilience in the face of increasingly changing international scenarios.

Ecuador’s current leadership in the shrimp industry also implies a great responsibility. If the country wants to sustain this growth, it will be essential to invest in environmental sustainability, continue strengthening traceability and international certifications, and improve port infrastructure to respond to growing demand without sacrificing efficiency or quality. In addition, it will be essential to protect the sector from sanitary and phytosanitary threats and price volatility through preventive public policies and close collaboration between the State and the actors in the aquaculture ecosystem.