Ecuadorean presidential candidate Luisa Gonzalez
Ecuadorean election prompts oil and gas push
Both candidates head into the run-off with a near identical voting share and big plans to raise investment in the country’s hydrocarbon sector
Ecuador’s incumbent government is going into the presidential run-off poll in April with a slender lead, having announced in January a big boost to hydrocarbon spending. The administration pledged to invest $44b through to 2029, partly to revive flagging crude production as well as to build a brand-new oil refinery. Many pollsters had predicted a wider margin for President Daniel Noboa in the first round, but the result showcased split public opinion. Less than 1% of the ballot separated the president from opposition candidate Luisa Gonzalez, while indigenous left-wing candidate Leonidas Iza also picked up just over 5% of the vote. “We would anticipate no immediate change in the curren
Also in this section
21 January 2026
Petroleum Economist takes a look at the critical developments that look set to govern the course of the market for this year
20 January 2026
The ripple effects of US refiners switching to Venezuela grades will be felt from Canada to China and everywhere in between
20 January 2026
As the global energy system undergoes its most profound transformation in a century, the need for credible leadership, practical solutions and inclusive dialogue has never been greater. In 2026, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will stand at the centre of this conversation as host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress in Riyadh.
20 January 2026
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the host of the 25th WPC Energy Congress on 26-30 April 2026. The Ministry of Energy spoke with Petroleum Economist about the key messages and opportunities for the global energy community.
