Diego Andrés Almeida, managing partner at Almeida Guzmán & Asociados in Quito: “In the first half of 2023, shrimp surpassed petroleum as the country’s main export. Thanks to the CAF loan for $200 million, shrimp farmers will have access to sustainable energy in the provinces of Esmeraldas, Manabí, Guayas, El Oro and Santa Elena. This will not only benefit the environment but will also reduce production costs for exporters and improve living conditions within rural areas now short in electrification. CAF has also provided a loan for $117 million to strengthen the National Health System. The funds will be directed to implementing the national health policy to facilitate access for newborns, pregnant mothers and vulnerable populations in rural areas. There are two additional loans for a total of $170 million aimed at the modernization, promotion and quality improvement of the educational system. Part of those funds will be directed toward the improvement of infrastructure, which will be affected by El Niño, as well as…”