Ecuador Capital Gains Tax Guide 2026
Ecuador imposes capital gains tax at 10% on gains from listed shares traded on the stock market. Property gains are taxed at marginal IIT rates. Gains from the sale of a primary residence are exempt from capital gains tax.
Overview β Capital Gains Taxation
Capital gains in Ecuador are taxed differently depending on the asset type. Gains on listed shares traded on the Bolsa de Valores de Quito or Guayaquil are subject to a flat 10% rate. Gains on real estate are treated as ordinary income and taxed at the progressive IIT rates (0-35%). The sale of a primary residence is exempt from capital gains tax.
Stock Market Gains β 10% CGT
Capital gains realised from the sale of shares listed on the Ecuadorian stock exchanges are subject to a flat 10% capital gains tax. Key features:
- The 10% rate applies only to shares traded on regulated stock exchanges
- Gains on over-the-counter (OTC) transactions may be taxed at ordinary IIT rates
- Losses on listed shares can be offset against gains from the same category
- The tax is withheld at source by the broker or exchange
Property Gains β Marginal IIT Rates
Gains from the sale of real estate (other than the primary residence) are treated as ordinary income and taxed at the progressive IIT rates (0-35%). The gain is calculated as the difference between the sale price and the adjusted cost basis, including acquisition costs and improvements.
Primary Residence Exemption
Gains from the sale of a primary residence are exempt from capital gains tax. To qualify, the property must have been the taxpayer's principal residence for at least two years prior to the sale. This exemption applies to one property per taxpayer.
Other Assets
Capital gains on other assets are generally treated as ordinary income and taxed at IIT rates. This includes gains on:
- Unlisted company shares
- Business goodwill
- Intellectual property
- Cryptocurrencies (treated as income or capital gains depending on activity)
- Vehicles and personal property
FAQs
Can I offset capital losses against other income?
Capital losses from listed shares can only be offset against gains from the same category. Losses on other assets can offset ordinary income up to certain limits.
Do non-residents pay capital gains tax?
Yes, non-residents are subject to capital gains tax on Ecuadorian-source assets at the same rates as residents.
Does Ecuador have a participation exemption?
Ecuador does not have a full participation exemption, but certain corporate reorganisations may be tax-neutral.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Ecuador capital gains tax for 2026. Tax laws may change. Always consult with a qualified Ecuadorian tax advisor or SRI directly.