Acorbanec said the banana sector has invested more than $130 million in security measures and expressed solidarity with the companies affected by the comments.

There is a backlash from parts of the Ecuadorian banana sector over statements by "political figures" that have affected banana exporting companies due to alleged links to drug trafficking. The Ecuadorian Banana Marketing and Export Association (Acorbanec) has described them as "malicious and biased." This follows the presidential debate between candidates Daniel Noboa and Luisa González, which took place last Sunday.

In a statement, the union expressed its solidarity and support for the exporting companies affiliated with the association, whose image and reputation have been affected. Acorbanec, which represents 43% of Ecuador's total banana exports, stated that it is aware of the difficult security situation the country is experiencing due to the scourge of organized crime, and that the banana sector is the most affected by the constant drug contamination of banana containers, which not only affects the country's reputation but also generates losses for the sector.

It was specified that the banana sector generates more than 250,000 jobs and represents 66% of all port and shipping traffic in Ecuador, moving more than 5,100 containers weekly to more than 70 countries around the world, making it the sector most affected by drug contamination.

Acorbanec also indicated that, in a private effort, the banana export sector has invested more than US$130 million in implementing security measures to prevent cargo from being contaminated with illicit substances.

He added that this, combined with efforts by the national government, the Armed Forces, and the National Police, such as the installation of scanners at ports and the inspection of 100% of export cargo and other controls, has reduced the shipment of narcotics from Ecuador, as recognized by Belgian authorities, reducing the number of drugs seized from 121 metric tons (t) in 2023 to 44 t in 2024.

"At Acorbanec, we reiterate our commitment to continue collaborating with the authorities to implement measures that guarantee the protection and integrity of our exports," the union concluded.