Ecuadorian banana exports soar past 377 million boxes, posting 3.5 percent growth in 2025

Ecuadorian banana exports ended 2025 at over 377 million boxes, a 3.5 percent increase from the same period in 2024. 

The figures were featured in the latest report published by the Association of Marketing and Export of Bananas of Ecuador (ACORBANEC), corresponding to shipments between January and December 2025.

The result consolidates bananas as one of the main pillars of Ecuadorian foreign trade, in a year marked by logistical challenges, international demand variation, and adjustments in global trade flow.

Monthly performance and year-end close

In December 2025, year-over-year exports remained steady, reaching nearly 33 million boxes. However, during the last campaign, monthly performance was variable, with export peaks in Q2 and Q4, which helped offset less dynamic months.

The 2025 Ecuadorian banana export season showed a similar recovery to 2024, when the industry experienced a year-on-year contraction. The observed growth reflects greater stability in shipments and a better response from destination markets.

The European Union and Russia lead export destinations

According to ACORBANEC's report, the European Union and Russia remained the main destinations for Ecuadorian bananas in 2025, accounting for over 50 percent of exports (31 percent and 20 percent, respectively).

Both markets continued to show sustained demand, despite an international environment marked by geopolitical tensions and supply chain adjustments.

Other traditional markets also contributed to the results, diversifying shipments and reducing dependence on a single destination, which is key for the sector’s stability. The Middle East ranked third with a 15 percent share, followed by the United States with 12 percent. The top 5 was completed by South American destinations, with a seven percent share.

Between January and December, Ecuadorian banana exports to China also grew significantly, increasing by 16 percent. Likewise, Türkiye saw a 30 percent uptick compared to the same period in 2024. 

Shipments to Argentina also increased (17 percent), along with Saudi Arabia (10 percent), Russia (11 percent), Libya (14 percent), and Sweden (19 percent).

On the other hand, Ecuadorian banana exports to South Korea fell by 20 percent.

Context and perspectives for Ecuadorian bananas

The positive close of 2025 comes amid logistical pressures, higher operating costs, and changes in international commercial conditions. This scenario underscores the Ecuadorian banana sector’s performance.

ACORBANEC emphasized that the registered growth confirms the sector's capacity to adapt to complex scenarios. However, the organization warned that competitiveness, logistical security, and market access will continue to be determining factors to sustain growth in 2026.

These results reaffirm Ecuador’s position as a world leader in banana exports, facing the new year with the challenge of consolidating markets, improving efficiency, and responding to growing commercial and regulatory demands.

*All images are referential.

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