Ecuador Companies Open Up to International Markets with 3E Program

The Export Excellence Enterprise (E3) Program, launched in 2015 by the Ecuadorian Exporters’ Federation (Fedexpor), CAF Development Bank of Latin America and ProEcuador, helped 10 exporting companies in Ecuador build their export capabilities through innovation and business model alternative prototyping.

After two years of work between the private and public sectors, the results of the program were presented, with 6 macro and micro components: technical assistance for internationalization, market access, systematization, export coaching, adaptation of exportable supply and surveys of non-tariff measures.

During the event, Bernardo Requena, CAF Director-Representative in Ecuador, noted that the program’s competitiveness-boosting approach is in line with CAF’s strategic agenda and a key part of the “Productivity Pact” CAF is promoting in the region. He also commented that the program is essential to train companies to leverage all the tools needed to compete in international markets.

Daniel Legarda, president of Fedexpor, explained that the first edition of the program will help participating companies to convey learning along the value chain, which can maximize the impact of the initiative. He also referred to Fedexpor’s work with the public and private sectors in emphasizing issues that need to be improved through public policies and issues such as competitiveness, efficiency and productivity.

The companies participating in the E3 Program boast export potential and their products have added value and high differentiation in market niches, which is a sign of growth potential in international businesses. The sectors covered by the program included processed foods, agribusiness, non-traditional fruits, handicrafts and textiles, wood products, plywood and by-products, and leather and by-products.

In order to continue supporting the export sector, an agreement between CAF and ProEcuador was signed to strengthen the government agency in promoting the export of services and attracting investments. This intervention will boost the non-traditional export sector and will produce tools and processes for the promotion of new investments in the country.