Experts argue that the significant public spending on Carnival events, which increased from $5.6 million in 2025 to at least $7 million in 2026, could be better allocated elsewhere.
The article discusses the rising costs associated with public spending on Carnival events in Ecuador, noting a substantial increase from $5.6 million in 2025 to at least $7 million in 2026. This increase includes various contracts for concerts and parades. Experts express concerns about the effectiveness of these events in attracting tourism and suggest that the funds could be better utilized for more impactful initiatives.
Critics highlight the notion that simply hosting more concerts does not guarantee an increase in visitors to the region, emphasizing a need for strategic planning in how public funds are spent. They argue that rather than pouring money into large-scale entertainment, reallocating funds towards community development or improving infrastructure may yield better long-term benefits for local economies.
The discussion around the financial implications of public event spending raises questions about accountability and the evaluation of tourism strategies. With an increase in budget allocation for events deemed extravagant, stakeholders are urged to reconsider the overall benefits vs. costs, as well as the potential opportunity costs involved in favoring entertainment over holistic growth.
