Exhibiting at Seafood Expo North America 2025

Aquagold S.A., based in Samborondón, Ecuador, is a vertically integrated seafood producer and exporter specializing in high-quality Vannamei shrimp. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, traceability, and technological innovation, Aquagold has positioned itself as a premium shrimp supplier to global markets, particularly in the United States, Europe, and Asia. With state-of-the-art farming, harvesting, and processing operations, the company ensures top-tier quality and safety standards throughout its production cycle.

Core Business and Offerings

Aquagold S.A. focuses exclusively on the cultivation, processing, and export of Vannamei white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Their products are available in a wide range of presentations to cater to different market segments:

• Product Formats:

  • Head-on Shell-on (HOSO)
  • Headless Shell-on (HLSO)
  • Peeled and Deveined (P&D)
  • Tail-on/Off Variants
  • Cooked Shrimp
  • IQF (Individually Quick Frozen)

• Sizes:

  • U10 to 71/90, calibrated to market needs

These offerings serve retail, foodservice, and wholesale buyers with customization options in packaging and labeling.

Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition

Aquagold S.A. differentiates itself through:

• Fully Integrated Operations: Controls every stage — hatchery, nursery, grow-out, harvesting, processing, and logistics — ensuring total quality control and traceability.
• Eco-Friendly Farming: Operates low-density ponds to minimize environmental impact and enhance shrimp health.
• Innovation in Aquaculture: Uses real-time monitoring, automated feeders, and probiotics in grow-out ponds to reduce antibiotic use.

Its lean but high-efficiency model allows it to deliver superior quality shrimp that meets strict international standards.

Financial and Operational Insights

Aquagold has grown rapidly over the past decade, aligning its operations with global demand trends for responsibly farmed seafood.

• Annual Production Capacity: Estimated at 6,000–8,000 metric tons of shrimp
• Processing Plant Capacity: Up to 40 metric tons per day
• Employment: Over 500 workers, including aquaculture technicians, processors, and logistics staff

According to Ecuadorian export databases and trade insights:

• Estimated Export Value: $35M–$50M USD per year
• Key Export Markets: United States, Spain, Italy, China, Vietnam

Shipment and Export Records

Ecuador is the world’s largest exporter of Vannamei shrimp, and Aquagold plays a significant role within this ecosystem:

• Export Logistics:
  • Shipped primarily through Port of Guayaquil
  • Uses refrigerated containers (reefer) to maintain product integrity
• Certifications for Export:
  • U.S. FDA registered
  • EU-approved facility
  • Compliant with customs and sanitary protocols for Asia, including China and Vietnam

Aquagold maintains export partnerships with major seafood importers, restaurant chains, and private label brands.

Target Market

Aquagold supplies a broad base of global clients, including:

• Seafood Importers and Distributors
• Retail Chains
• HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, Catering)
• Private Label Seafood Brands
• Meal Kit and eCommerce Platforms

Its flexibility in production, consistent quality, and sustainability credentials appeal to buyers across multiple price and quality tiers.

Capabilities

The company’s operational strengths include:

• On-site Processing Facilities: Equipped with advanced freezing, grading, and packaging technology
• Quality Control Labs: Conduct rigorous testing for microbial, chemical, and sensory parameters
• Traceability System: End-to-end tracking from pond to pack
• Sustainable Feed & Resource Management: Uses responsibly sourced feed and water recycling technologies

These capabilities ensure food safety, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

Certifications and Compliance

Aquagold complies with international food safety and sustainability protocols, including:

• BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) Certification
• ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) Certification (select farms)
• HACCP-Compliant Processing Facilities
• FDA and EU Approved Exporter
• Member of Ecuadorian National Chamber of Aquaculture

The company undergoes regular audits and third-party verifications to maintain its certifications and reputation for excellence.

Customer Testimonials

• “Aquagold delivers quality shrimp with transparency and reliability. They’ve become a key supplier in our retail seafood line.” – Seafood Buyer, U.S. Retailer
• “Their traceability system and sustainability practices give us a competitive edge in our premium shrimp offerings.” – European Importer

Major Achievements

• Grew exports by over 150% between 2018–2023, according to national trade reports
• Expanded ASC-certified production zones, reflecting a commitment to sustainable aquaculture
• Invested in a high-capacity IQF line, improving operational throughput and product diversity
• Recognized by the Ecuadorian Aquaculture Chamber for environmental leadership and shrimp quality standards

Aquagold S.A. is a rising force in the global shrimp industry, combining Ecuador’s natural aquaculture strengths with cutting-edge technology, sustainability leadership, and market responsiveness. Its premium shrimp products continue to gain traction among top-tier seafood buyers worldwide.