Interview with Cynthia Mayer, Ambassador of Ecuador in Hungary on economic relations, Ecuadorian products in Hungary, politics, and more
We at Daily News Hungary had the pleasure of conducting an interview with Her Excellency Ambassador Cynthia Mayer, Ambassador of Ecuador in Hungary (concurrent with Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria and Serbia. Read our fascinating conversation below!
Daily News Hungary (DNH): You arrived in Hungary a few months ago. I would like to start by asking you how you feel about Budapest and the diplomatic community here.
Her Excellency (H. E.) Ambassador Cynthia Mayer: I’ve fallen in love with Hungary! The beauty of Budapest and the warmth of its people have made my time here truly special. I’m honoured to represent Ecuador in such a vibrant and welcoming country. The diplomatic community in Budapest is incredibly diverse, offering a rich network that greatly enhances my work as an ambassador. The collaboration and exchange of ideas among diplomats here are invaluable, making it a dynamic environment to represent my country.
DNH: Before becoming Ambassador to Budapest, what were the most important stages in your career?
H. E.: With extensive experience in international trade, I’ve led successful export strategies, managed international supply chains, and represented Ecuador in key global markets. As the first female President of the National Federation of Exporters FEDEXPOR, I also founded OWIT Ecuador to empower women in international trade, fostering growth and international partnerships so that Ecuadorian women can be recognized as a key element in international trade.
DNH: Increasing Ecuador’s economic relations with Hungary was one of the main tasks of your mission. How are we doing in the region?
H. E.: Ecuador and Hungary benefit from a trade agreement between Ecuador and the European Union, which has strengthened our commercial ties and led to growing trade in recent years. However, we still face challenges such as promoting direct bilateral trade and mutual private investments to build stronger industries, create jobs, and achieve long-term benefits.
DNH: What Ecuadorian products can be found in Hungary, and what other products do you think might be in demand?
H. E.: The Hungarian market offers a diverse range of Ecuadorian products, from chocolate and fresh fruits like bananas and plantains to various processed foods such as sauces and snacks. Ecuador not only leads the banana market but is also making its mark on premium chocolates and healthy snacks in Hungary. Ecuadorian cacao is renowned for its aroma and quality, and many Hungarian brands use it to craft their chocolates. When it comes to snacks, Ecuador offers superfoods like gluten-free plantain chips, which are both delicious and nutritious. Ecuadorian roses and carnations are particularly renowned for their exceptional quality, lasting up to 30 days in vases, with larger blooms and a wide variety of colours.
DNH: You have given me an interesting economic statement. One of the highlights is that the statistics do not show the real presence of Ecuadorian products in Hungary because local distributors bring the goods from partners within the EU. What does this mean exactly?
H. E.: Bilateral trade statistics don’t fully capture the reality of Ecuadorian products in the Hungarian market. Many Ecuadorian goods enter Hungary through intra-European trade, often via importers in Germany, the Netherlands, or Spain. For example, the Hungarian banana imports from Ecuador don’t appear in direct statistics but actually, Hungary imported €66MM in 2023 from various European countries and in the market, you can find Ecuadorian bananas almost in all supermarkets and shops.
In the case of snacks or cocoa products, there is a growing market trend. Therefore, by establishing direct connections between Hungarian importers and Ecuadorian exporters, we could introduce a wider variety of products at more competitive prices, benefiting the final consumer.
DNH: Trade can also be interesting in the other direction. What Hungarian products are most likely to have a market in Ecuador?
H. E.: In the case of Hungarian products in Ecuador, this phenomenon doesn’t occur, allowing us to see a positive trade balance in favour of Hungary, with notable products such as Suzuki cars, pharmaceutical products and machinery. Our economies are complementary, not competitors, and we need each other to develop our industries. Starting in January 2024, thanks to the trade agreement between Ecuador and the European Union, Hungarian cars are now exempt from import duties in Ecuador. This greatly benefits Ecuadorian consumers and offers a competitive advantage for Hungarian products in the Ecuadorian market.
DNH: Moving from trade to politics, what is the current internal political situation in Ecuador? There were also reports of gang violence earlier this year. How do you see the current situation?
H. E.: The Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has taken decisive steps to combat international criminal mafias, which have increasingly destabilized the country. His administration declared an “internal armed conflict” against these groups, marking a significant escalation in Ecuador’s fight against organized crime. This declaration has been followed by concrete actions, including the delivery of advanced weapons to the national police and the labelling of over 20 criminal organizations as terrorist groups.
The Ecuadorian government has also implemented a series of reforms aimed at enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement, including plans to build new high-security prisons and increase surveillance measures through drones and cameras. Additionally, President Noboa has worked closely with international partners, particularly the United States and the European Union, to secure crucial support in the form of equipment, training, and intelligence sharing. One of the administration’s most notable achievements has been the successful capture of key leaders from prominent criminal gangs, which has disrupted their operations and demonstrated the government’s commitment to restoring security in Ecuador. Despite the challenges, these efforts have been well-received domestically and internationally, with most Ecuadorians expressing support for Noboa’s strong stance against crime.
DNH: What have been the most significant events between the Hungarian and Ecuadorian governments in recent years? What does the future hold? Are there any visits or plans for cooperation?
H. E.: The relationship between Hungary and Ecuador is flourishing, marked by a range of cooperative initiatives. Educational collaboration stands out, with Ecuador being a beneficiary of the Stipendium Hungaricum program. Recently, we signed several key agreements, including the Work and Holiday visa program, which offers young Hungarians and Ecuadorians the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and immerse themselves in each other’s cultures. Our countries are also committed to deepening cooperation in security, investment, and trade, further strengthening our bilateral ties.
DNH: Tourism is important for both countries. Most importantly, we have Budapest, and you have the Galápagos Islands. How can tourism between the two countries be boosted?
H. E.: Tourism can be enhanced in both Ecuador and Hungary through the promotion of our vibrant cultures and arts. This month, our embassy is hosting a photographic exhibition at the Ervin Szabo Library in Budapest that captures the biodiversity and natural wealth of Ecuador, highlighting its stunning landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. This type of event fosters cultural exchange and strengthens the ties between our two nations; plus it encourages tourism in a sustainable and responsible way.
DNH: If you were to highlight three tourist attractions in Hungary for your Ecuadorian friends, what would they be?
H. E.: The stunning Basilica of St. Stephen in Budapest, the picturesque Lake Balaton, and the historic Buda Castle district.
DNH: Latin American cuisine is a favourite among Hungarians, and I’m sure you already have some favourite Hungarian dishes. What are they?
H. E.: I have had the pleasure of discovering and enjoying some truly delightful Hungarian dishes. My favourites include palacsinta and Pörkölt. Additionally, I have a special appreciation for the exquisite Tokaj Aszú wine.
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