Ecuador spent $1.254bn subsidising imported fuel between January and August, 66% more than in the same period last year, The Rio Times reports, citing central bank figures published by Primicias.
The rise follows the US-Iran war that began on 28 February and pushed up oil prices. Ecuador imports almost 80% of the fuel it uses. Diesel accounted for $740.4m, up 44% despite a price rise in September 2025, while naphtha for petrol cost $160m and household cooking gas $354m.
A gallon of diesel costs the state $4.96, of which drivers pay $3.11. President Daniel Noboa's government sets fuel price bands by decree, and current pump prices apply only until 11 November, when the next monthly decision is due.
Source: The Rio Times
