In February 2026, Ecuador reported an inflation rate of 0.21%, as highlighted in a recent report from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC). The primary contributor to this inflation was the water supply, which had a significant impact with an incidence of 0.1721% and a monthly inflation rate of 19.33%. Other significant contributors to inflation included housing, electricity, gas, and various fuels, with rental costs showing inflation rates ranging from 0.08% to 0.22%.

In addition to the water supply, the report noted the impacts of other sectors like health and recreation, where goods and services contributed less to the overall inflation rate. Key expenses within these categories included hospitalization costs, mineral supplements, vitamins, analgesics, and tickets for sports events. The presence of technology purchases such as laptops and desktop computers also indicated burgeoning consumer spending in these areas, though their overall contribution to inflation was less significant compared to the essentials.

Economist Fernando Jurado analyzed that while the monthly inflation rate of 0.21% marks an increase compared to 0.09% observed in February 2025, the inflation trend in Ecuador between 2021 and 2025 has shown considerable variability, fluctuating between +1.5% and -1%. This context presents challenges for policymakers and consumers alike in navigating the economic landscape as essential costs rise, particularly in terms of utilities and housing.