Analysis of customs alternatives and benefits of using drones in agriculture in El Oro, 2025

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Jordy David Espinoza-Merchán
Henry Jahir Marin-Saldarriaga
Michael Andrés Zamora-Campoverde
Luis Pastor Carmenate-Fuentes

Abstract

This research evaluated the advantages of Ecuador's customs system for drone imports, focusing on its impact on the agricultural sector in the province of El Oro through 2025. The objective was to identify opportunities for regulatory and operational improvements that would simplify the implementation of this technology for the benefit of local farmers. The study was conducted using a mixed-method approach, predominantly a qualitative descriptive-analytical approach, and employed quantitative methods for structured surveys. These surveys were conducted with a non-randomized group of 20 medium-scale farmers, 5 customs technicians, and 3 members of agro-exporting entities. Data collection was based on tools verified by specialists and pilot trials, while the results were analyzed through descriptive statistics using tools such as Excel and SPSS. The results demonstrated the benefits of the customs regime. Farmers with large land holdings were more willing to invest in this technology, demonstrating a direct relationship between productivity and modernization. It was also determined that Ecuador's customs system still has regulatory and operational restrictions that hinder access to innovative technologies in the agricultural sector. This circumstance was due to the inconsistency between fiscal policies, the lack of appropriate technical training, and the institutional weakness in establishing effective support mechanisms.

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How to Cite
Espinoza-Merchán, J., Marin-Saldarriaga, H., Zamora-Campoverde, M., & Carmenate-Fuentes, L. (2025). Analysis of customs alternatives and benefits of using drones in agriculture in El Oro, 2025. 593 Digital Publisher CEIT, 10(4), 626-635. https://doi.org/10.33386/593dp.2025.4.3342
Section
Investigaciones /estudios empíricos
Author Biographies

Jordy David Espinoza-Merchán, Universidad Técnica de Machala - Ecuador

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https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6626-3543

Jordy David Espinoza Merchán, an Ecuadorian national, whose last academic year was at the "Kleber Franco Cruz" High School in the city of Machala, is currently a student of Foreign Trade at the Technical University of Machala. He has had the opportunity to participate in expo-fairs related to exports and trade agreements, applying for a third-level degree in Foreign Trade.

 

Henry Jahir Marin-Saldarriaga, Universidad Técnica de Machala - Ecuador

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https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6626-3543

Henry Jahir Marin Saldarriaga, of Ecuadorian nationality, my last academic degree corresponds to the Colegio de Bachillerato Nuestro Mundo in the City of Salinas, currently a student of the Foreign Trade career at the Technical University of Machala, I have been involved in issues related to foreign trade and participated in multiple exports throughout my professional career.

Michael Andrés Zamora-Campoverde, Universidad Técnica de Machala - Ecuador

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http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1145-4476

Luis Pastor Carmenate-Fuentes, Universidad Técnica de Machala - Ecuador

carmenate.jpg

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6057-2746

 

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