Ecuador’s National Assembly approved the 2026 budget proposal, totaling $46.3bn or 33.27% of GDP, a 13% increase from 2025. The budget focuses on social programs, security, and infrastructure development, with projected real GDP growth of 1.8%. Oil production estimates for 2026 are 165.5m barrels at $53.5 per barrel, resulting in total revenue of $46.3bn.

The budget allocates $23.5bn for current spending, $1.8bn for public investment, and $10.5bn for capital expenditures. It projects an overall deficit of $5.4bn, with $10.5bn earmarked for debt amortization. Social support programs receive $6.3bn, including funding for social assistance, transport subsidies, and social security systems.

Public investment under the Annual Investment Plan will reach $2.2bn across 388 projects, with transfers to local governments totaling $4.1bn. Mandatory funding for education and health will increase by $695m each. The construction industry is expected to grow moderately in 2026, supported by government-backed projects.

The construction industry in Ecuador is forecasted to grow by 4.1% in 2026, with annual average growth of 4.7% from 2027 to 2030. Major infrastructure projects include housing programs, bridge construction, and renewable energy capacity expansion. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport allocated $407m for 2026 under the Annual Investment Plan.

Ecuador anticipates a 76% increase in electricity demand by 2034, driven by mining, shrimp farming, and oil sectors. Major energy projects include hydroelectric and wind plants, with a focus on renewable energy sources. The Inter-American Development Bank approved a $1bn credit line to upgrade Ecuador’s national electricity supply.

The Inter-American Development Bank approved a $1bn credit line to upgrade Ecuador’s national electricity supply, aiming to connect new households and upgrade transmission lines. The plan includes modernizing control centers and connection points for strategic power generation plants. The goal is to ensure reliable and efficient power delivery across the country.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Ecuador’s National Assembly approves proposed budget for 2026