Ecuaexotics is a premium grower and exporter of exotic fruits based in Isidro Ayora, Guayas, Ecuador, with a strong specialization in high-quality dragon fruit (pitahaya). Operating under a vertically integrated model, Ecuaexotics manages the entire value chain from farm to global markets, delivering consistently fresh, traceable, and sustainably grown fruit to importers worldwide.
Company Background
Founded by Sebastián Bustamante, Ecuaexotics was established to harness Ecuador’s optimal growing conditions for exotic fruits and deliver them to premium global markets. The company is located at Km 8 via a las Mercedes, in the fertile Guayas province—an agricultural heartland ideal for cultivating tropical and subtropical crops.
Ecuaexotics has rapidly positioned itself as a trusted supplier of red and yellow dragon fruit, combining agricultural expertise with state-of-the-art post-harvest handling and export logistics. With a focus on quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction, the company is part of the new wave of Ecuadorian agribusinesses targeting the global health-conscious consumer segment.
Core Business Activities
- Dragon Fruit Cultivation: Specialized farming of red and yellow pitahaya varieties across Ecuadorian microclimates.
- Post-Harvest Processing: Washing, grading, sorting, and packaging at on-site facilities.
- Export Logistics: End-to-end coordination for air and sea shipments to North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Custom Packing & Branding: Branded boxes and private-label solutions for international buyers.
Product Offerings
Ecuaexotics focuses exclusively on premium dragon fruit, offering:
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Yellow Pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus):
- Sourced from highland regions of Ecuador
- Very sweet, Brix levels between 18–22
- Long shelf life and ideal for air freight
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Red Pitahaya (Hylocereus costaricensis):
- Grown in coastal zones
- Vivid red pulp, rich in antioxidants
- Popular among Asian and Middle Eastern consumers
Packaging options include clamshells, bulk cartons, and customized retail-ready packs. The fruit is pre-cooled and shipped under strict cold chain protocols.
Unique Selling Proposition
- Origin Advantage: Ecuador’s equatorial climate supports year-round production cycles.
- Single-Source Integrity: All fruit sourced from Ecuaexotics-managed farms ensures traceability.
- High Brix Standards: Focused on sugar content and visual appeal, catering to premium segment buyers.
- Agile Exports: Air freight-ready with rapid turnaround from harvest to shipment.
Financial and Market Insights
Although financial data is private, export records and trade profiles suggest:
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Annual Export Volume: Estimated 200–300 metric tons of dragon fruit
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Primary Destinations:
- United States (East and West Coasts)
- Spain, Netherlands, Germany
- UAE, Singapore
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Customer Base:
- Importers
- Organic/niche retailers
- Wholesale fruit distributors
- E-commerce fresh produce suppliers
Ecuaexotics has seen double-digit growth in exports due to increasing global demand for exotic fruits rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber.
Shipment Data
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Shipping Modes:
- Air freight for yellow pitahaya (to maintain premium quality)
- Ocean freight for red pitahaya in controlled atmosphere containers
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Frequency:
- Weekly shipments during harvest seasons (April–October)
- Year-round availability in staggered volumes
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Export Certifications:
- Phytosanitary certificates issued by Agrocalidad (Ecuador’s agri-health agency)
- FDA and EU compliance for fresh produce
Target Markets
Ecuaexotics primarily targets:
- North American Organic and Specialty Retailers
- European Fresh Fruit Importers
- Asian E-commerce Produce Platforms
- Middle Eastern Gourmet Retailers
These markets value the fruit’s aesthetic, health attributes, and consistent Brix standards.
Operational Capabilities
- Farm Infrastructure: Trellised dragon fruit plantations using drip irrigation
- Cold Chain Logistics: Pre-cooling and refrigerated storage on site
- Packing Facility: On-farm sorting and packing lines with export-grade cartons
- Traceability System: Batch-level tracking from harvest through distribution
Certifications and Compliance
- GlobalG.A.P. (pending for farm units in 2024)
- Agrocalidad Certification for export
- USDA and EU Market Entry Approvals
- Customs and Logistics Licenses for perishable air cargo
The company maintains transparent quality and safety protocols, adhering to destination-specific MRL and import regulations.
Customer Testimonials
“The sweetness of Ecuaexotics’ yellow dragon fruit is unmatched. Our retail partners are asking for weekly shipments now.” — Importer, California, USA
“Excellent post-harvest handling and shelf-life. We’re planning to expand orders next season.” — Fresh Produce Buyer, Hamburg, Germany
Achievements
- Expanded Production Area: Increased cultivated acreage by 40% between 2022 and 2024
- International Market Penetration: Entered five new markets in the last two years
- Digital Traceability Rollout: Introduced QR-coded packaging for premium lines
- Sustainability Initiatives: Implemented biodegradable packing materials and solar irrigation pilots
Ecuaexotics continues to elevate Ecuador’s reputation in the exotic fruit market by delivering consistent quality, transparency, and a flavor profile that meets the highest global standards.