Ecuador Shrimp Exports to Asia Surge 31% as Chinese Demand Rebounds

Ecuador's shrimp exports to Asian markets grew 31% year-on-year in 2025 to reach $4.6 billion, according to data published by the Camara Nacional de Acuacultura (CNA). The surge cemented Ecuador's dominance as the world's largest shrimp exporter by volume, with total aquaculture shipments reaching a record $7.8 billion.

China emerged as Ecuador's top single-country shrimp market for the first time, importing approximately $2.1 billion worth of Ecuadorian shrimp -- a 44% increase year-on-year. The rebound follows the resolution of pandemic-era port inspection protocols that had disrupted bilateral trade in 2021-22.

Market breakdown (2025)

| Destination | Value | YoY Change | |---|---|---| | China | $2.1bn | +44% | | United States | $1.9bn | +8% | | European Union | $1.7bn | +12% | | Vietnam | $0.9bn | +28% | | South Korea | $0.6bn | +19% | | Other | $0.6bn | +15% |

"The Chinese market is back with extraordinary force," said Jose Antonio Camposano, president of the CNA. "Ecuadorian white shrimp has become the benchmark for quality in Chinese retail and food service channels."

Competitive positioning

Ecuador shipped approximately 1.3 million metric tonnes of shrimp in 2025, widening its lead over India (780,000 MT) and Vietnam (420,000 MT). Average export prices held firm at $5.95/kg, supported by Ecuadorian producers' reputation for antibiotic-free, low-density pond farming practices that align with tightening import standards in the EU and Japan.

The CNA has flagged rising energy and feed costs as a headwind for 2026 margins, with fishmeal prices up 22% since mid-2025. The sector employs approximately 250,000 workers directly across El Oro, Guayas, and Manabi provinces.

Ecuador's government is currently negotiating a free trade agreement with South Korea that could reduce tariffs on shrimp imports from 20% to 5%, potentially adding $200 million in annual export value.