A fuel tank fire broke out at Ecuador’s largest oil refinery on Monday, forcing the evacuation of nearby residents and halting production.
The refinery, which could process 110,000 barrels per day, suspended operations to “safeguard the security of the facilities and personnel,” according to state oil company Petroecuador.
Petroecuador reported that no one was injured in the blaze, but five people received medical attention for minor effects of smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Residents in the area were evacuated, with police cordoning off the site. Community representative Edgar Romero expressed concern, saying, “What is happening now is quite worrying.
‘: We hope that the authorities will take action.” Ramiro Medina, a plant worker, described the scene: “A loud noise was heard, and we all started running.”
Despite the fire, the government assured that “the supply of fuel was completely guaranteed throughout the country.”
Ecuador, a major oil producer, relies heavily on petroleum exports for revenue.
The country’s oil production was disrupted last year due to power cuts and drought.
In March, a massive fuel pipeline leak spilled over 25,000 barrels of crude into three rivers, forcing a suspension of oil exports.
Ecuador operates two other refineries with capacities of 45,000 and 20,000 barrels per day.
The fire’s impact on Ecuador’s economy remained to be seen.
The country earned $8.6 billion in oil exports in 2024, with production averaging 475,000 barrels per day. Energy Minister Ines Manzano said the situation is “under control,” but residents’ concerns persist
