Ecuador is to set up a national banana exporter as it looks to tackle alleged underhand tactics and “abuses” in the sector.
President Rafael Correa announced at a press conference that the government would be setting up an exportation company as the state looks to combat what Correa described as the “many abuses” being committed by banana exporters.
It is understood the state-owned company is in the process of being set up.
He accused some companies of signing “contracts during the low season, which they failed to meet, instead selling the fruit for more money during the high season”.
He also alleged some “un-registered companies” are avoiding paying export duties and promised “clear regulations” would allow the new export company to operate in a transparent fashion.
The export company will also be used to enforce Ecuador’s official price of $5.40 (£3.30) per box.