Ecuador and Royal Caribbean Group announce agreement to create job opportunities for local professionals

The agreement represents a strategic milestone for Ecuador, as it will allow the company to identify and recruit qualified local talent in areas such as tourism, hospitality, and gastronomy. This recruitment and selection process seeks to integrate Ecuadorian professionals into the Royal Caribbean Group fleet, offering a genuine path to professional growth in the ever-expanding cruise industry.

The cruise industry has become increasingly important for Ecuador, welcoming a total of 56 cruise ships in 2023, with an additional 22 vessels expected by the end of 2025. These figures demonstrate the sector's potential to boost local economies and generate new employment opportunities in the country's coastal areas. The ports of Manta, Guayaquil, and Puerto Bolívar have been key to this dynamic, handling approximately 35,489 cruise passengers in 2023, and this number is expected to continue to rise.

The arrival of cruise ships not only creates direct jobs in the tourism sector but also boosts a variety of economic activities in coastal communities, such as commerce, gastronomy, and local crafts. This influx of visitors generates income that can be reinvested in local infrastructure and public services, creating a multiplier effect that benefits the entire community.

In a country where more than 50% of young people between the ages of 15 and 24 are unemployed, this agreement—the first of its kind—represents a concrete solution to improve working conditions in the country. President Noboa has prioritized youth employment and the creation of sustainable jobs as fundamental pillars of his government's agenda.

“This collaboration not only strengthens international cooperation ties, but also highlights the potential of Ecuadorian talent,” said a government spokesperson. “These new job opportunities with Royal Caribbean Group reaffirm our commitment to transforming the Ecuadorian labor market, incorporating qualified individuals into dynamic, high-value industries.”

“Ecuador has always held a special place in our company's heart, and as part of our commitment to the communities we visit, we are grateful for the partnership with the government to enhance career opportunities for Ecuadorians,” said Russell Benford, vice president of Government Relations for Royal Caribbean Group.

Source: Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador.