Breaking news, politics, economy, visas, safety, and lifestyle updates for expats living in Ecuador.
Ecuador consumed 3% less gasoline overall in the first half of 2026, while Extra demand fell 8%. The report links the decline to higher prices, household pressure, and temporary supply shortages.
Central Guayaquil road closures are in effect for July civic events, including a full closure of 9 de Octubre and a Malecón closure through Saturday morning. Travelers are being advised to plan ahead and use alternate routes.
Cumbayá’s regulated parking system has 674 spaces while an estimated 30,000 vehicles use parking throughout a typical day. Local officials have proposed a parking structure with more than 480 spaces, but say they have not yet received a response from Quito’s municipality.
Ecuador moved from yellow to orange alert for El Niño conditions after national emergency officials reviewed current meteorological conditions. The measure covers 17 provinces, 143 cantons and 491 parishes.
A new report warns that only 30% of buildings in Ecuador comply with anti-seismic construction standards. The risk is tied to weak enforcement, informal construction and geological faults, especially in large cities such as Quito and Guayaquil.
Workers in Ecuador may have reserve funds equal to 8.33% of salary accumulated in an individual IESS account. The right begins in the second year with the same employer, and balances can be checked online with a cédula and personal password.
Quito has at least 72,020 residents with disabilities, but damaged sidewalks, missing signage, broken tactile guides and informal commerce still make daily mobility difficult. The issue affects people with disabilities, older adults, parents with strollers and everyday pedestrians.
Ecuador’s Prosecutor’s Office says internet-scam victims should gather payment receipts, screenshots, bank-account details and related transaction information before filing a complaint. The agency says a cédula is the only required document and the process is free.
Ecuador selected the SANAA + A0-CPA-JHS proposal “Estratos Vivos” as the winning design for the new National Museum. The result combined an 85% technical-jury evaluation with 15% citizen voting.
Ecuador’s National Transit Agency says fraudulent emails are using its name, logo and institutional image to claim unpaid fines or vehicle taxes. The agency says official checks for fines, licenses and vehicle procedures should be made through its official portal.
A truck overturned in the Las Bromelias sector on the road to Nayón, leaving one person injured and closing traffic in both directions near UDLA’s Ekopark campus. Authorities were working to remove the truck and restore circulation.
The Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil has developed accessibility tools for students with visual disabilities, including a specialized workstation and keyboard. The project has helped five students complete their degrees.
