Efectos del impuesto a la salida de divisas en las empresas farmacéuticas (importadoras) en el sector norte de Quito periodo 2022- 2023

Abstract

This study examines the impact of the “Impuesto a la Salida de Divisas” (ISD) on pharmaceutical importing companies located in the northern sector of Quito during the period 2022-2023. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative analyses, data were collected through surveys conducted with various companies in the sector. The main objective was to assess how the ISD has influenced import costs, profitability, and strategic decisions of these companies. The results reveal that the ISD has significantly increased the costs of acquiring products, directly affecting profit margins. 71.43% of the surveyed companies indicated that the ISD raises the costs of acquiring products, while 28.57% noted an increase in customs duties. This rise in costs has led many companies to adjust their selling prices, with 75% of the companies indicating they have raised product prices to offset the ISD's impact. Despite the reduction of the ISD in February 2023, 87.5% of the companies reported no significant change in the volume of imported pharmaceutical products. However, 12.5% of the companies have increased their import volume, reflecting a strategic response to leverage cost benefits from the reduced tax. Additionally, the study shows that companies have implemented various strategies to mitigate the ISD's impact. Among these, renegotiating agreements with international suppliers and seeking local alternatives have been the most common. 57.14% of the companies have modified their agreements with international suppliers, while 28.57% have sought local alternatives. In conclusion, although the ISD has created significant challenges for pharmaceutical importing companies in Quito, they have demonstrated adaptability and resilience by implementing strategies to minimize its impact. The study suggests that a review of fiscal policies could help these companies better manage additional costs and optimize their operations to maintain market competitiveness.