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Beef without bone is one of the food items Ecuadorian households spend the most on, and sector figures point to a smaller cattle herd and supply pressure behind higher prices.
The United States and Ecuador have finalized a reciprocal trade agreement that eliminates a 15% surcharge on $2.8 billion in non-oil Ecuadorian exports and opens Ecuador's agricultural market to US soybeans, dairy, beef, and poultry. Most-favored-nation treatment takes effect by August 2026.
Amid confusion over Ecuador's IVA reclassification, the SRI has clarified that 94 out of 115 basic basket food items remain at 0% IVA. Fresh milk, raw meats, unprocessed produce, rice, lentils, and legumes are all tax-free. 21 items have moved to 15%. Here is what stays exempt -- and what this means for your grocery budget.
Ecuador's SRI issued a circular on March 26 reclassifying over 60 processed food products from 0% to 15% IVA. Lactose-free milk, all bread and pastries, instant noodles, and pre-cooked meats are now taxed. Fresh natural milk and raw unprocessed foods remain at 0%. The change directly impacts grocery costs for residents.
The U.S. Trade Representative and Ecuador formalized a reciprocal trade deal covering approximately $2.786 billion in goods. U.S. beef tariffs will phase to zero over three years, pork tariffs are mostly eliminated, and Ecuador secures preferential treatment for over 90% of the U.S. agricultural schedule.
A New York Times investigation reveals that a joint U.S.-Ecuadorian military operation showcased as destroying a drug trafficker's training camp actually destroyed a cattle and dairy farm in Sucumbíos province. Workers allege beatings, choking, and electrical shocks by soldiers.
