Daniel Noboa Sworn In for Full Term as Ecuador President, Pledges to Fight Crime and Boost Economy

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa was officially sworn in for a full term on May 24, 2025, after securing a decisive victory in the April election. The 37-year-old business heir, who initially took office in 2023 to complete his predecessor’s term, reaffirmed his commitment to tackling drug gangs and revitalizing the struggling economy.

During the inauguration at the National Assembly, Noboa emphasized the government's continued crackdown on crime. “Reducing homicides is a non-negotiable goal,” he declared, pledging stronger port controls, the seizure of illegal arms, and sustained military deployment.

Noboa’s previous term saw aggressive anti-crime measures, including enhanced security operations and tougher penalties for drug-related offenses. He also signed a $4 billion agreement with the International Monetary Fund and began talks with Chinese lenders to address a $4.6 billion fiscal deficit. He projects 4% economic growth in 2025, although the central bank estimates 2.8%.

The president aims to attract foreign investment by creating a secure and competitive environment, with international cooperation from the U.S., Israel, and El Salvador. His administration controversially hired Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater, to advise security forces—a move that sparked criticism from rights groups.

Despite a claimed 15% drop in violent deaths in 2024, the first four months of 2025 recorded a 58% spike to 3,094 killings, raising concerns over public safety. Ecuador also faces significant economic challenges, including a 51.8% public debt-to-GDP ratio, high country risk, and declining oil output.

With his party controlling the legislature and key committees, Noboa is in a strong political position to implement reforms and seek much-needed financial support for Ecuador’s economic recovery and security agenda.