ProEcuador, CIL open Central American market for Ecuadorian milk

EQUADOR – ProEcuador and the Cámara de la Industria Láctea (CIL) have achieved a milestone by facilitating the first export of whole and skimmed milk to El Salvador, solidifying the country’s presence in Central America.

The shipment, which includes UHT milk produced by Pasteurizadora Quito, represents more than just a commercial transaction—it’s a breakthrough for Ecuador’s dairy industry, which has long sought access to international markets.

By meeting the health and safety standards required by El Salvador’s authorities, Ecuadorian producers have demonstrated their ability to compete on a global scale.

ProEcuador, the country’s export and investment promotion agency, played a pivotal role in coordinating the technical and diplomatic efforts necessary to secure market entry.

Through its commercial office in El Salvador, the agency worked closely with local importers, regulatory bodies, and Ecuadorian exporters to ensure compliance and streamline logistics.

ProEcuador plans to replicate this success in other Central American countries, leveraging the momentum to expand Ecuador’s presence in the region.

“This achievement reflects the resilience and professionalism of Ecuador’s dairy sector,” said a spokesperson from ProEcuador. “It also underscores our commitment to supporting national producers in reaching new markets and elevating the country’s export profile.”

The primary milk-producing provinces in Ecuador are Pichincha, Santo Domingo, Cotopaxi, Manabí, and Carchi, which collectively account for over 60% of the national production.

According to CIL representatives, this export milestone is expected to encourage other dairy companies to pursue similar opportunities, potentially transforming Ecuador into a regional supplier of high-quality dairy products.

Export expansion occurs in a dual context for the sector. On one side, Ecuador’s dairy production actively seeks new markets for its products.

However, the formal sector faces a supply issue, with the industry capturing only 51.8% of total production, and capture rates within formal industries have fallen to 20%.

The export strategy is crucial for the future of the Ecuadorian dairy industry, which needs to strengthen its value chain and diversify its markets.

Both institutions stated that the advancement with El Salvador could serve as a starting point for exploring new opportunities in other countries.

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