El impacto de los aranceles internacionales sobre la liquidez de las empresas exportadoras de camarón en la provincia del Guayas

Abstract

This research aimed to analyze the relationship between international tariffs and the liquidity of large shrimp-exporting companies in Ecuador (Guayas province) during the 2019–2023 period. This topic is relevant due to the significant economic impact of shrimp exports in Ecuador. The methodology used was a quantitative, non-experimental, and correlational study. Liquidity (current ratio and acid-test ratio) was calculated from financial statements obtained from the Superintendence of Companies. The sample consisted of 254 large companies from the Guayas shrimp sector. The specific tariff (USD/pound) was reconstructed for China, South Korea, and Vietnam using legal press and official sources. Spearman's correlation was applied per country. The coefficients were: Russia (ρ≈−0.30), South Korea (ρ≈0.10), China (ρ≈-0.50), and Vietnam (ρ≈−0.60). In parallel, sectoral liquidity showed deterioration during the period. The main results highlighted that as tariffs increase, the acid-test ratio tends to be at lower levels—mild, or mildly moderate—depending on the destination and regulatory shocks.