The Ecuadorian Embassy and the Commercial Office of Ecuador held a gastronomic reception on Monday, showcasing the country’s signature foods.

Twelve Ecuadorian companies ― Amerifoods, Cafecom, Trinyfresh, Platayuc, Congelados Ecuatorianos, Uyamafarms, Samai Snacks, ElCafe, Cereal Andino, Pacari, Salinerito and Gusto Coffee ― participated in the Seoul Food 2015 exhibition at KINTEX in Ilsan, Gyeonggi Province, from May 12-15, showcasing shrimp, cocoa, coffee, avocados, bananas and other produce.

“Ecuador has issued and enacted numerous laws that offer security and confidence to foreign investors,” Ecuadorian Ambassador Oscar Herrera Gilbert said.

“These rules have created political, economic and labor stability, as well as offering tax incentives.”

Ecuador and Korea have decided to launch the negotiations on a Strategic Economic Cooperation Agreement to boost bilateral trade. The agreement aims for “trade with values” ― fair trade, inclusive business and corporate social responsibility.

Ecuador is one of six South American countries that Korea is currently pushing free trade agreements with. Domestic procedures have been completed, and negotiations are due to start his year.

Both governments have signed an agreement on double taxation, which allows companies and products to enter each country’s market competitively.

(joel@heraldcorp.com)