2024-10-01 10:54:21
In a report titled “Resilient growth for a better future”, The World Bank identified agriculture, mining and tourism as key areas for Ecuador’s economic growth.
The entity’s economist, Cristian González, explained that these are the sectors with the greatest potential to contribute to the economic development of the country if the appropriate reforms are implemented.
He noted that Ecuador has experienced cycles of economic growth and contraction, mainly influenced by oil prices. To achieve sustained growth, the report recommends a series of structural reforms in areas such as the labor market and competitiveness. These reforms, according to González, are essential to overcome the transversal problems that currently limit the country’s economic potential.
The report highlights that agriculture in Ecuador, although it is one of the main exporters of primary products, needs to move towards greater added value to enhance its growth. In the mining sector, significant growth has been seen over the past four years, and an increase in employment is expected by 2025. However, the focus must be on formal and sustainable mining, avoiding illegal mining. In terms of tourism, Ecuador has great potential beyond Quito and Guayaquil, with many other areas that could attract more visitors and generate significant income.
To ensure that mining has a positive impact on local communities, the World Bank report suggests training local governments in the design and implementation of development programs, establishing clear regulations for the protection of natural resources, and improving communication with communities. communities to achieve consensus.
González mentioned successful examples from other countries, such as Colombia, where mining royalties have directly benefited local communities. These success stories are used in the report to illustrate how Ecuador could implement similar policies.
The report has already been presented to the Executive, legislators, mayors and prefects, with the aim of informing citizens and promoting a debate on the economic policies necessary for the development of the country. González emphasized the importance of reaching consensus on fundamental issues such as the role of the state in the economy and the type of development that Ecuador wants to achieve.
During the launch of the report, which took place at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, working groups were held with the participation of representatives from the government, academia and the private sector. According to González, there was great interest in the topics discussed, which indicates a growing commitment to the search for an adequate development model for Ecuador.