Ecuador's Esmeraldas refinery ran at 50% for 16 days before 86% claim

Ecuador's state regulator data shows the Esmeraldas refinery operated at only 50% capacity for 16 days, with Crudo 2 and Vacío 2 units shut down since October 13, contradicting the operator's announcement of 86% utilization. The discrepancy raises questions about operational transparency and could impact domestic fuel supply and refining margins.