The registration process for unauthorized banana plantations in Ecuador, which began in late 2025 and is set to run until December of this year, is currently on hold due to a lawsuit filed by several banana producer associations. The lawsuit, presented on February 11 against Executive Decree 231, challenges the legality of the formalization process intended to register these hectares. The situation has created a division within the banana sector, highlighting differing perspectives on the need for formalization.

Pro-exporter associations support the move to formalize the crops, arguing that it is essential for the sustainability and legality of the industry. As per monitoring conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, approximately 15,000 hectares have been requested for registration so far, which accounts for 75% of the total area that needs to be formalized according to the executive director of the Ecuadorian Banana Marketing and Export Association, Richard Salazar. This highlights the significant scope of the issue and the potential economic impact on banana producers and exporters.

The lawsuit not only underscores the legal complexities surrounding agricultural regulations in Ecuador but also raises questions about the future of the banana industry in the country. The outcome of this legal battle may set critical precedents that affect how agricultural lands are managed and regulated, especially in a sector that is vital for Ecuador's economy. As stakeholders await a decision from the Constitutional Court, the banana sector remains in a state of uncertainty regarding its operational framework and future financial viability.