The Association of Banana Exporters of Ecuador (AEBE), the world's leading banana exporter, has achieved BASC (Business Alliance for Safe Trade) certification, becoming the first banana organisation globally to earn this international safety standard. The accreditation was announced during AEBE's annual assembly and highlighted in a statement from the association.

"This recognition is the result of collective effort and sends a clear message to international markets: the Ecuadorian banana sector operates with high standards of safety, trust, and responsibility," stated AEBE President Jorge Encalada.

The association noted that it has improved its internal standards. Starting in April 2025, all companies seeking to join AEBE will undergo a rigorous process to ensure the guild comprises transparent, reliable companies aligned with international practices.

"This approach allows us to accept only low-risk companies into the guild, representing those that adhere to high-level safety standards," explained AEBE Executive Director José Antonio Hidalgo.

As of the third quarter of 2025, Ecuador's banana exports reached $3.359 billion, reflecting a 12.1% increase compared to the same period the previous year, with the European Union (EU), Russia, and the United States as the main destination markets.