A 1. How to Ensure the Quality and Purity of Refrigerant Gas?

a. We have our own labs, we make "analysis of components" for each batch of refrigerant gas shipment to ensure the purity and other components meet the industry standard.
b. We also welcome customer's own visit or third-party inspection.
c. From FAQ "Guid to Import Refrigerant Gas", you can clearly see that we always report to you about the production process.

2. How do I get the after-service

If there really occurs some problem, which is inevitable for all countries, we are always available at every minute of our working time.
You can reach us by our company website www.frioflor.com, or by Facebook by search frioflor, or by whatsapp/wechat/ telehone call etc..
Our sales team is professional and they speak English, Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese... So you can freely communicate with us.

We are here to do business with you to enlarge refrigerant gas industry together.

A Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the import permit application process and check the latest quota lists for refrigerant gases in Ecuador.

Step 1: Verify the Refrigerant’s Legal Status (2024-2025)

Ecuador follows the Montreal Protocol’s phase-out schedule, so you must confirm whether your refrigerant is allowed, restricted, or banned.
Current Status of Common Refrigerants in Ecuador

Refrigerant Type	Examples	Legal Status (2024)	Notes
CFCs	R11, R12, R502	Banned	Prohibited under Montreal Protocol
HCFCs	R22, R123	Phasedown (quota-limited)	Only pre-approved importers can bring in limited quantities
HFCs	R134a, R404A, R410A	Allowed (but regulated)	Subject to future Kigali Amendment reductions
Natural Refrigerants	R290 (propane), R600a (isobutane), R744 (CO₂)	Allowed (with safety rules)	May require additional permits for flammable gases

Where to Check Updates:

• Ministry of Environment (MAATE) Website: https://www.ambiente.gob.ec
• UNEP Ozone Secretariat (for global phase-out schedules)

Step 2: Apply for an Import Permit (MAATE)

Required Documents

1. Company Registration (RUC)
2. Technical Data Sheet of the refrigerant (with GWP & ODP values)
3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in Spanish
4. Proof of Legal Compliance (e.g., Montreal Protocol adherence)
5. Import Justification (why the refrigerant is needed)

Process

1. Submit the application via MAATE’s online portal: https://sga.ambiente.gob.ec
2. Pay the processing fee (~50–50–200, depending on volume).
3. Wait for approval (typically 15–30 days).

Note: If importing HCFCs (like R22), you must secure a quota allocation first.

Step 3: Check Quota Availability (HCFCs & HFCs)

Ecuador assigns annual quotas for controlled refrigerants.
How to Access the Quota List

1. Visit MAATE’s Ozone Unit (ozono@ambiente.gob.ec)
2. Request the "Cuotas de Importación de Sustancias Controladas" document.
3. Verify if there are remaining quotas for your refrigerant.

Tip: Quotas are often exhausted early in the year, so apply as soon as they’re released (usually January).

Step 4: Customs Clearance (SENAE)

Once you have the MAATE permit, proceed with customs:

1. Hire a certified customs agent (mandatory in Ecuador).
2. Submit:
   • Commercial invoice
   • Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
   • MAATE import permit
   • SDS & product certifications
3. Pay import duties (5–20%) + VAT (12%).

Note: SENAE may inspect shipments for illegal refrigerants.

Step 5: Compliance After Import

• Record-Keeping: Maintain logs of refrigerant sales (required by MAATE).
• Handling Certificates: Technicians handling refrigerants must be certified.

Need Further Help?

• Contact MAATE’s Ozone Unit:
  • Email: ozono@ambiente.gob.ec
  • Phone: +593 2 398 7600
• Customs Broker Assistance:
• SENAE’s official list: https://www.aduana.gob.ec