The Economic Expectations Index stood at 53.2 points in June 2026, remaining in the higher-confidence zone for the fifth consecutive month. Although the indicator recorded a monthly decrease of 0.8 points, it remained above the 50-point threshold, reflecting favorable expectations regarding the performance of economic activity.

The construction sector recorded 57.5 points, consolidating its position as the industry with the highest level of business confidence. This result is associated with the continuation of private and public investment projects, as well as the management of financing and billing for projects currently underway.

Meanwhile, the services sector reached 55.5 points, maintaining virtually the same level as the previous month (-0.1 points). Its performance was driven by higher revenues from advertising campaigns linked to sporting events and from the commercialization of sports broadcasting rights, which offset lower revenues in the education subsector during the Sierra region’s school vacation period.

The manufacturing sector reached 50.3 points, returning to the higher-confidence zone. This result reflects the performance of various industries, particularly the beginning of the sugarcane harvest season in the sugar industry, the export of inventories in the palm agroindustry, and the expansion of installed capacity in the manufacture of construction materials. These factors offset the operational contraction in the fishing sector associated with fishing ban periods.

In contrast, after recording a 7.6-point decrease compared to the previous month, the commerce sector stood at 49.5 points. This was due to higher logistics costs for agricultural inputs and lower sales of gasoline-powered vehicles. Nevertheless, these effects were partially offset by increased demand for sporting goods and higher sales of hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Economic Expectations Index measures the current and forward-looking perceptions of companies in the commerce, construction, manufacturing, and services sectors. As it is based on business-sector perceptions and expectations, it provides an early indication of the economic outlook. Subsequently, all information will be cross-checked against statistical results based on administrative records and published by the BCE in accordance with its statistical calendar.

Strategic Communications Sub-Directorate – Economic Studies and Statistics Division

More information is available at the following link:

https://contenido.bce.fin.ec/documentos/informacioneconomica/SectorReal/ix_CoyunturaDef.html