In a strategic move that redefines the landscape of Ecuadorian foreign trade, Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have intensified their commercial ties, opening new opportunities for Ecuadorian products in one of the most dynamic and high purchasing power markets in the world.

During an official visit in May 2025, President Daniel Noboa and the Minister of Production, Luis Alberto Jaramillo, held key meetings with Emirati authorities. The objective: to move towards a free trade agreement that would facilitate access of Ecuadorian products such as flowers, bananas, cocoa, shrimp, fish and coffee to a market that values quality and sustainability.

The agenda included the promotion of investments in strategic sectors such as housing, infrastructure, energy and tourism. These initiatives are framed in public-private partnership schemes and government-to-government agreements, in order to attract capital, technology and knowledge to accelerate their implementation.

Relations have had a good track record. Non-oil trade between Ecuador and the UAE recorded a favorable balance of US$236 million at the end of 2024. In addition, the opening of the Ecuadorian embassy in the UAE and the appointment of a specialized ambassador have strengthened Ecuador’s presence in the region, facilitating negotiations and promoting bilateral cooperation.

The consolidation of trade relations between Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates represents a historic opportunity to diversify markets, attract investment and position Ecuadorian products in a competitive global scenario. This rapprochement not only boosts the national economy, but also establishes a strategic bridge to new horizons of development and international cooperation.