Ecuadorian Shrimp Market Guide

1. Hatcheries ⇒ 2. Shrimp farming ⇒ 3. Harvest ⇒ 4. (Processing) Reception and analysis of raw material ⇒ 5. Selection process (Start filtering) ⇒ 6. Classification ⇒ 7. Aggregated value ⇒ 8. Packaging ⇒ 9. Freezing ⇒ 10.Storage ⇒ 11. Export

According to Trade Map, Ecuador’s shrimp exports amounted to 1.196 million metric tons (mmt), valued at USD 7.092 billion in 2023. This represents a 6.19% year-on-year (YoY) rise in volume but an 8.75% YoY drop in value. Ecuador’s shrimp shipments were predominantly destined for China, the United States (US), and Spain.

The Ecuadorian Aquaculture Association (CNA) reported that Ecuador’s shrimp exports increased to 246 million pounds (lbs) in Apr-24, indicating a rebound after a three-month consecutive drop. This represents a 21.48% increase compared to Mar-24 and a 19% rise over the same period in 2023. This rebound is expected to be short-lived since producers usually increase harvest in April to avoid shrimp mortality, while May is a transitional period from hot to cold season.

Figure 1: Ecuador’s Shrimp Exports (HS Code 030617) from 2019 to 2023

Source: Trade Map, Tridge

Considering the US, which is Ecuador's second largest frozen shrimp export destination and one of the major importers of frozen shrimp globally, it is clear that Ecuador's main competitors for this product are: India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Mexico, and Argentina. Ecuador is the only one in this group of countries that has gained a relevant share in US imports.

Figure 2: US Shrimp Import Share in 2023

Source: Trade Map, Tridge

Ecuador is the largest shrimp exporter in the world, accounting for approximately 38.22% of total shipments in 2022. Its competitive price advantage has enabled Ecuador to dominate and gain market shares over the years.

Figure 3: US Shrimp Import Price Per Ton Value Trend from 2014 to 2023

Source: Trade Map, Tridge

Shrimp is produced year-round due to the favorable climate and consistent water temperatures, but production depends on the tide calendar (tide-high volume).

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Ecuadorian shrimp industry is primarily dominated by two varieties:

• Whiteleg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei): Also known as Pacific White Shrimp. This variety is preferred for its fast growth rate, disease resistance, and ability to thrive in high-density farming conditions.

Figure 4: Whiteleg Shrimp

Source: Pixabay

• Blue Shrimp (Penaeus stylirostris): Though farmed in smaller proportions compared to Whiteleg Shrimp, Blue Shrimp are popular for their large size and robust flavor.

Figure 5: Blue Shrimp

Source: Pixabay

Key ports for shrimp exports

Port of Guayaquil

This is Ecuador’s largest port, situated on the Pacific coastline near the Gulf of Guayaquil. According to Marine Insight, it handles 93% of Ecuador's container traffic and 60% of its total cargo.

Port of Manta

This port is located in the province of Manabi, which is renowned for its abundant fisheries. According to Marine Insight, its greatest strengths are its deep water, easily accessible berths, and strategic central position, making it a major distribution center.

Port of Puerto Bolívar

This port is situated in the province of El Oro near the Estero Santa Rosa. It is a well-sheltered natural harbor, featuring an expansive anchorage area capable of accommodating 10 vessels simultaneously.

Key ports for shrimp exports

Port of Guayaquil

This is Ecuador’s largest port, situated on the Pacific coastline near the Gulf of Guayaquil. According to Marine Insight, it handles 93% of Ecuador's container traffic and 60% of its total cargo.

Port of Manta

This port is located in the province of Manabi, which is renowned for its abundant fisheries. According to Marine Insight, its greatest strengths are its deep water, easily accessible berths, and strategic central position, making it a major distribution center.

Port of Puerto Bolívar

This port is situated in the province of El Oro near the Estero Santa Rosa. It is a well-sheltered natural harbor, featuring an expansive anchorage area capable of accommodating 10 vessels simultaneously.

Export Requirements

Exporting shrimp from Ecuador requires primary registration and certification documents. These include producer registration from the National Fisheries Institute (INP), an export license from the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments, and Fisheries (MPCEIP), a sanitary certificate from the INP confirming that the shrimp meet health and safety standards, and a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) compliance certificate. Additionally, exporters must provide a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and export declaration. The shrimp shipment must also undergo customs inspection and approval by the National Customs Service of Ecuador (SENAE).

Import Requirements

The requirements for importing shrimp into Ecuador include importer registration, a license from SENAE, and a sanitary certificate from the exporting country, which must be recognized and inspected by INP. Other documentations include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and import declaration. Additional considerations are compliance with trade agreements between Ecuador and other countries that may affect tariffs and import/export procedures, adherence to environmental regulations related to shrimp farming and fishing to avoid penalties, and ensuring proper traceability of shrimp from production to export.

Exporting shrimp from Ecuador requires stringent quality control measures. Key requirements include adherence to Good Aquaculture Practices (GAP), which mandate proper pond management, water quality control, and biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks. Additionally, exporters and farmers must ensure regular testing for microbiological contaminants such as Salmonella, Vibrio, and Escherichia coli, as well as chemical residues like pesticides, antibiotics, and heavy metals. Physical inspections are also essential to identify defects such as shell fragments, off-odor, and discoloration.