Ecuador’s Oil-Export Income Is Near Its Entire 2025 Total

Ecuador is experiencing an early onset of its dry season, or "estiaje," leading to a significant drop in hydroelectric power generation. The government is increasing thermoelectric output and urging households to reduce electricity consumption by at least 10% to prevent power cuts, as the El Niño phenomenon threatens to exacerbate droughts in key energy-producing regions.

Ecuador's Central Bank projects remittances will reach a record $8.020 million in 2026, representing approximately 5.90% of GDP. This surge, primarily from the United States, is expected to boost household consumption and is complemented by government programs facilitating real estate acquisition for Ecuadorians abroad.

The Ministry of Transport and Technology (MIT) missed its September 17, 2026, deadline to award the construction contract for the new Gapal traffic interchange in Cuenca. The delay follows claims from multiple bidders regarding the qualification process. Separately, the MIT is moving forward with studies for the Paute – Guarumales – Méndez road.