Ecuador and the United States concluded nine months of negotiations to establish the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART), which was signed on March 13, 2026, in Washington. The negotiations began in May 2025 and reached a successful conclusion in February 2026. While the agreement has been signed, both countries must still complete internal processes and formalities for it to take effect.

Business sectors in Ecuador are optimistic about the agreement, viewing it as a significant step towards enhancing trade relations and economic ties with one of their largest trading partners. Upon implementation of the ART, it is estimated that 53% of Ecuador's non-oil exports will enter the U.S. market with zero reciprocal tariffs, representing approximately $2.786 billion in trade, according to official data from 2025.

The Ecuadorian Business Committee (CCE), which encompasses various productive and commercial guilds, praised the agreement as a "strategic decision" that could provide a favorable environment for investment and job creation. This move is poised to fortify Ecuador's economic standing and facilitate greater integration with the American market, which could have long-term benefits for the country's economic development and stability.