Introduction: A Turning Point for and the Country

2026 begins with a clear reality: faces profound structural challenges, yet at the same time a historic opportunity for economic reactivation is emerging—especially for Quito. We are at a turning point where technical decisions, public-private coordination, and execution capacity will define the course of the year.

Today, there is something we have not seen in a long time:
a more open, more mature public-private dialogue—one that is fully aware of the national urgency.

That dialogue is the foundation for envisioning a 2026 with improved conditions for those who work, build businesses, invest, and believe in the future of the city.

I am optimistic.
Not because the problems have disappeared, but because today we are seeing signals that have not been present in years.

Quito needs to move: economic activity, employment, and real execution.

If we aspire to a different 2026, we must begin with a fundamental premise:
a stagnant city does not generate well-being; an active city transforms lives.

Quito needs economic dynamism, executed projects, budgets translated into tangible works, revitalized urban spaces, and decisions that build confidence. Reactivation cannot remain at the level of announcements; it must be visible in the streets, in employment figures, and in productive activity.

From the business sector, my expectation and commitment this year are to see:

• A more active and safer city, with public spaces alive and occupied by its citizens.
• A strengthened productive ecosystem, with real opportunities for entrepreneurs, retailers, and companies.
• Greater budget execution, delivering measurable results.
• Sustainable job creation, driven by investments that materialize.
• A comprehensive vision for the city that benefits all residents of Quito—not just isolated sectors.

The question that should guide every public policy decision is clear:
Will Quito be better by the end of 2026?

That is the true measure of success.

The Role of the Productive Sector in Economic Reactivation

From the (CCQ), we have been emphatic:
the productive sector is not merely an economic actor, but also a social, technical, and strategic force for the country’s development.

Several facts support this:

• Companies generate 9 out of every 10 jobs.
• Non-oil exports sustain thousands of families.
• Private investment drives economic activity even in adverse contexts.

For 2026 to become a year of genuine reactivation, the country needs:

• A modern and flexible regulatory framework.
• Legal stability that encourages investment.
• Labor reforms that promote formal employment.
• Effective streamlining of administrative procedures.
• A clear strategy for internationalization and competitiveness.

Above all, however, what is required is coherence and shared responsibility between the public and private sectors.

Positive Signals: Why There Are Reasons for Optimism in 2026

I have expressed in different forums a clear conviction: I am optimistic.
Not because the problems have disappeared, but because today we are seeing signals that have not been present in years:

• Greater openness to technical dialogue.
• Discussion of a more realistic labor agenda.
• Recognition of the urgency of attracting investment and restoring competitiveness.
• A city that is beginning to take the economic reactivation of seriously.

If these conversations translate into sustained public policies, 2026 could mark a turning point.

The Commitment of the Quito Chamber of Commerce

From the (CCQ), one of our primary responsibilities is to analyze the city’s economic performance, anticipate scenarios, and contribute data to support decision-making.

Throughout this year, we will continue providing technical monitoring of:

• Commercial activity by zone.
• Employment levels and formality rates.
• Private investment and overall business performance.
• Municipal budget execution.
• The reactivation of strategic areas such as and .

Economic reactivation is not a narrative—it is technical, consistent, and structured work.

Final Message: An Opportunity That Cannot Be Missed

Quito can once again become a vibrant and competitive city.
Ecuador can regain investment, employment, and confidence.

To achieve this, three essential elements are required:
dialogue, execution, and shared responsibility.

2026 can be the year in which the city rises stronger.
It depends on all of us—government, businesses, academia, international cooperation, and citizens—to turn this moment into a true turning point.

From the Quito Chamber of Commerce, we will continue working with vision, determination, and the conviction that a better country is indeed possible.