Ecuador's Constitutional Court has declared the economic cooperation agreement with South Korea constitutional, paving the way for its approval by the National Assembly.
The Constitutional Court of Ecuador has confirmed the constitutionality of an economic cooperation agreement with South Korea, known as SECA, which was signed on September 2, 2025. The court's decision was released on March 19, 2026, during the second phase of constitutional review. This agreement aims to foster strategic economic ties between the two nations, providing a framework for cooperation in various sectors.
Following the signing, President Daniel Noboa submitted the agreement to the Constitutional Court on December 15, 2025, to initiate a pre-ratification constitutional review. The court found that the agreement fell under specific constitutional provisions requiring approval from the National Assembly before ratification. This determination emphasizes the constitutional requirement for proper legislative procedure in international agreements, ensuring checks and balances are maintained.
The validation of the SECA agreement marks a significant step in Ecuador's foreign relations and economic strategy, highlighting the importance of cooperation with South Korea, a key player in the Asia-Pacific region. The court's ruling not only legitimizes the agreement but also sets a precedent for future international economic agreements, reiterating the role of the Constitutional Court in overseeing and affirming adherence to Ecuador's legal framework and constitutional mandates.
