Impacto de la pandemia de COVID-19 en los procesos aduaneros y la logística internacional en Ecuador: Un análisis del periodo 2020-2022

Abstract

Abstract: The crisis caused by COVID-19 was a disruptive event for international trade and customs processes in Ecuador, significantly affecting logistics efficiency during the pandemic period in the country's main ports, which are Guayaquil and Manta, between 2020 and 2022. Analyzing the health measures implemented by SENAE during that period and their impact on costs, clearance times, and the volumen of exports. The research indicates a 20% increase in logistics costs, 50% delays in customs clearance processes, and a decrease in export volume, especially in vulnerable non-oil sectors such as bananas, shrimp, and flowers. A preliminary comparative analysis was conducted to identify the measures that had the greatest impact on logistics cost overruns, highlighting the need to establish a national protocol for managing customs crises. The conclusion is that logistics requires preventive planning, digitization, and solid coordination between sectors. This research provides a solid basis for the formulation of policies that strengthen the response capacity of Ecuadorian foreign trade in the face of future contingencies.