Ecuador the Second Largest Exporter of Tuna

The tuna constitutes a significant portion of global marine catches, accounting for approximately 20% of the total value and over 8% of the internationally traded marine food production. In commemoration of World Tuna Day, established by the UN on May 2nd, efforts are made to promote sustainable fishing practices to preserve the populations of this species.

Numerous countries, including Ecuador, rely on tuna not only as a source of food but also as a driver of their economic development and job creation. According to data from the Ecuadorian Chamber of Industrialists and Tuna Processors (CEIPA), Ecuador stands out as the second-largest exporter of precooked tuna loins and canned tuna globally, after Thailand.

In the year 2023, Ecuadorian exports of these products reached 221,924 tons, generating revenues totaling $1.119 billion. The primary destinations for these exports are the European Union (56.45%), Latin America (22.4%), the United States (10.59%), and the United Kingdom (9.74%).

The tuna industry not only significantly contributes to the national economy but also supports numerous fishing communities around the country, providing over 20,000 direct jobs in activities related to tuna fishing, processing, and marketing.