Minería aurífera y crecimiento económico en Ecuador: estudio descriptivo de las exportaciones de oro y su incidencia en el PIB

Abstract

In recent years, gold mining has played a prominent role in the Ecuadorian economy, both due to the increase in exports and its influence on national revenues. Gold has gained strategic importance, particularly as a result of sustained global demand and favorable prices. This article aims to descriptively examine the evolution of gold exports and their influence on economic growth, measured through the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). To this end, statistical data from official sources such as the Central Bank of Ecuador, the Agency for Regulation and Control of Non-Renewable Natural Resources (ARCOM), and the Ministry of Energy and Mines are used. The methodology applied is quantitative, with a descriptive and non-experimental approach. It is based on time series analysis and uses Pearson's correlation coefficient to identify the relationship between the selected variables. The results show a practically null correlation (r = 0.0020) between gold exports and GDP, indicating that there is no direct relationship between the two variables. Additionally, it can be observed that gold mining has positioned Ecuador as a relevant gold exporter in the international market. Therefore, there is a need to develop public policies that strengthen the mining sector in a way that its economic impact translates into long-term benefits for national development.