La cadena de suministros y la competitividad de las exportadoras de banano en la provincia de El Oro, Ecuador

Abstract

This paper analyzes the relationship between the supply chain and the competitiveness of banana exporting companies in the province of El Oro, Ecuador. This province accounts for nearly 27% of national production, making it a strategic hub for the local and national economy. The research identifies that the supply chain includes agricultural producers, packing centers, transportation, exporters, and regulations governing the activity. Although the province has logistical advantages such as the seaport of Puerto Bolívar, there are significant deficiencies in road infrastructure, port congestion, container shortages, and high transportation costs. These factors limit the efficiency of the system and affect the freshness and quality of the product in international markets. Likewise, dependence on third parties for land transportation reduces exporters' control and increases costs. In the regulatory sphere, the study highlights the impact of the minimum support price, mandatory contracts between producers and exporters, plantation registration, and strict phytosanitary and quality requirements. Although these regulations guarantee transparency and stability, they also represent an administrative burden for small and medium-sized producers. It concludes that, in order to strengthen the competitiveness of Orense bananas, it is essential to optimize logistics infrastructure, modernize the port and road network, promote strategic alliances, and facilitate regulatory compliance with institutional support. Only then will it be possible to consolidate Ecuador's position in the international market in the face of growing global competition.