Ecuador has begun hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in the Amazon rainforest for the first time, according to state oil firm Petroecuador.
The company said operations have started at an oilfield in the northeastern province of Sucumbios, marking what it described as “a new horizon” for the country’s oil production. The project is being carried out in partnership with Chinese firm CCDC.
Fracking involves extracting oil and gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure fluids. The method has been widely criticised due to its heavy water use, potential chemical contamination, and links to minor seismic activity.
Petroecuador said the initiative supports Ecuador’s efforts to strengthen its energy sector and economic development.
“The strengthening of oil activities…reaffirms the commitment to consolidate an energy matrix that is sustainable, competitive and geared toward national economic development,” the company said. Ecuador, which relies on hydroelectric power for around 70 percent of its electricity, has faced ongoing energy shortages, including outages during drought periods in 2024 and 2025. The country currently consumes more energy than it produces.
Oil production has also declined in recent years, with output dropping to about 441,000 barrels per day in 2025, most of which is exported. Petroecuador estimates the new fracking project will initially produce over 930 barrels per day.
The move comes as global debate intensifies over fossil fuel use and environmental protection, particularly in sensitive regions like the Amazon rainforest.
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