Investment: “We can not give away the country nor put obstacles”

– There is much talk about the benefits of the country, but what really attracts the international investor?

– Ecuador has several interesting and attractive sectors for the investor: agriculture, tourism, services and infrastructures. Tourism is relatively in its infancy; it has not been exploited as it could be.

– And what about the strategic sectors of the Government?

– In infrastructure, there is a lot of interest shown. I want to show bridges, roads, hydroelectric projects, etc., that can generate work in Ecuador and an interest to the investor, since many of these are in concession or with PPP treaties (Public-Private Partnerships) that were modified to attract more foreign investment. President Lenin Moreno is very interested in opening the doors to foreign investment. It is essential to receive it without giving away the country, obviously, nor to put so many obstacles. Let it flow and both sides benefit.

– Do capitals prefer to come from the hand of a public-private alliance rather than arriving alone?

– Yes, it is difficult for an investor to say ‘I am going to Ecuador or Zimbabwe or Panama,’ which are countries in which I have helped to bring money. These kinds of partnerships with the government definitely create more confidence.

– What makes Ecuador more attractive than Colombia or Peru?

– Thing one, the dollar. And thing two, we are ready to be exploited. Why not go to a country that has more needs.

– Is there more to do?

– Exactly, that’s the phrase (I).