### Sinaloa Shrimp Outshine Ecuador’s, Says Mexico’s President in Response to Tariffs
On February 4, 2025, President Claudia Sheinbaum downplayed Ecuador’s decision to impose a 27% tariff on Mexican imports, responding with a declaration of culinary pride: “Sinaloa shrimp are truly richer than those from Ecuador.” Sheinbaum addressed the issue during her morning press conference at the National Palace. She noted that Mexico’s exports to Ecuador account for a mere 0.4% of the country’s total imports, arguing that the impact of the tariffs would thus be minimal.
According to the latest figures, Mexico exported goods worth $446 million to Ecuador in 2024, constituting only 0.079% of Mexico’s total export value. Even though Mexico enjoys a trade surplus with Ecuador valued at $108 million, tensions remain due to stalled free trade negotiations. Ecuador and Mexico had nearly signed a trade agreement in 2022, but talks faltered over Mexico’s reluctance to eliminate tariffs on Ecuadorian shrimp and bananas—key exports for Ecuador.
The recent tariff decision by Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa aims to rectify what he described as unfair trade imbalances. While expressing interest in resuming discussions for a free trade agreement with Mexico, Noboa also highlighted a new trade deal with Canada, which he announced as a significant victory for Ecuador, promising further investments and job opportunities.
Additionally, diplomatic tensions between Mexico and Ecuador have been strained ever since Ecuadorian police arrested former Vice President Jorge Glas at the Mexican Embassy in Quito last year, an event that led to Mexico cutting diplomatic ties with Ecuador.
### Ecuador Announces Major Trade Deal with Canada Amidst Tensions with Mexico
In a simultaneous development, Ecuador has successfully concluded a trade agreement with Canada, marking a new era in Ecuadorian trade relations. This move comes amidst the backdrop of unresolved negotiations with Mexico. President Daniel Noboa framed the agreement as a triumph that would open doors to increased investment and employment for the citizens of Ecuador. Celebrated as an unprecedented breakthrough, the deal reinforces Ecuador’s commitment to expanding its international trade partnerships.
As Ecuador turns its focus to strengthening economic ties with Canada, the relationship with Mexico remains in flux, with hopes for a satisfactory resolution on both sides still on the horizon.
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