
After a break-even of its export volume in 2024, Ecuador’s January exports start the year for the first time with a volume of over 100,000 MT. Although it’s too early to say whether this is a sign for the rest of the year, it is clear that Ecuador’s shrimp farmers and exporters are working hard to maintain and grow their volumes. Some more details are below:
Markets:
- China: 58,191 MT = +15% from 2024 and -1% from 2023
- US: 18,968 MT = +14% from 2024 and +18% from 2023
- EU: 15,059 MT = +16% from 2024 and +20% from 2023
- Russia: 1,110 MT = -30% from 2024 and -19% from 2023
- Vietnam: 1,682 MT = +136% from 2024 and +71% from 2023

As the graph above shows, the increase in volume of Ecuador’s exports came at a cost; the average value of exports to China dropped, and those to the US stabilized. Only the EU saw average values slightly increase. This is a usual drop in prices, which often happens after the Christmas and Chinese new year purchase season is over.