Ecuadorian banana exports got to a strong start in 2026, with shipments increasing 5.5 percent year-on-year to over 210 million boxes during the first half of 2026. Exports to Russia rose approximately 10 percent during the period, while shipments to South American markets increased nine percent. China gains under free trade agreementEcuador also expanded banana exports to China, with shipments increasing by about two percent from the same period in 2025. ACORBANEC attributed the growth to lower banana production in several Asian countries, including the Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China, because of adverse weather and phytosanitary challenges. Related storiesPeru debuts banana exports to China