Export to Ecuador: a 2026 guide for US manufacturers
Ecuador uses the US dollar, and in March 2026 it signed an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States. In the framework behind it, Ecuador committed to accept several US standards and certifications. This guide covers what that means and what paperwork applies today.
The 2026 Agreement on Reciprocal Trade
The United States and Ecuador signed the agreement on March 13, 2026. In the November 2025 framework, according to USTR, Ecuador committed to preferential treatment for more than 90 percent of its agricultural schedule (including tariff elimination for soybeans, fresh and processed fruit, alcoholic beverages, and tree and ground nuts), to stop applying the Andean Price Band System to US agricultural goods, and to accept remanufactured goods, vehicles and parts built to US safety and emissions standards, US medical devices and pharmaceuticals marketed in the United States.
USTR’s announcement does not state when the agreement enters into force. Confirm its status before relying on these commitments.
Documents and procedures
- Commercial invoice, bill of lading or air waybill, insurance policy, the importer’s tax number (RUC), gross and net weights, Spanish-language labeling and, when applicable, a certificate of origin.
- The INEN certificate of recognition for products subject to Ecuadorian technical regulations, when applicable.
- Your buyer must register with customs (SENAE) and clear shipments through ECUAPASS with an electronic signature.
- Ecuador adopted the US dollar as its official currency on January 9, 2000, according to its Central Bank.
US-side steps for every shipment
- Classify the product with its 10-digit Schedule B number (Census Bureau search tool); the first 6 digits are the Harmonized System code your buyer uses for their own tariff.
- File Electronic Export Information (EEI) in AES, through ACE AESDirect or a direct connection, when the value under an individual Schedule B number is over $2,500 or an export license is required. The USPPI or its authorized agent files it.
- Check your export classification. According to BIS, items subject to the EAR that are not listed on the Commerce Control List are EAR99 and, in most situations, need no license, unless they go to a restricted end user, end use or destination.
- Screen your buyer, consignee and end user against the Consolidated Screening List, which combines export screening lists of the Departments of Commerce, State and the Treasury.
Frequently asked questions
Is the US-Ecuador agreement in force?
It was signed on March 13, 2026. USTR’s announcement does not state an entry-into-force date, so confirm its status first.
What is the INEN certificate?
A certificate of recognition verifying that an imported product meets the Ecuadorian technical regulations that apply to it. Your buyer requests it through Ecuador’s single window.
Official sources
- USTR: US-Ecuador agreement signed
- USTR: US-Ecuador framework fact sheet
- International Trade Administration: Ecuador Country Commercial Guide
- Central Bank of Ecuador: dollarization (Spanish)
- International Trade Administration: Electronic Export Information (EEI)
- International Trade Administration: Consolidated Screening List
- US Census Bureau: Schedule B search
- BIS: classify your item (EAR99 and ECCNs)
This page is general information to help you get started. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and regulations change. Confirm current requirements with the official sources above or with a licensed customs broker, freight forwarder or trade compliance professional.