Ecuador's shrimp exports to China slowed in January from the remarkable pace of increases set last year, but a question mark hangs over whether the deceleration is related to the coronavirus outbreak or a natural tapering off from a year of huge growth.

Consignments were up 94 percent by volume to 65.9 million pounds (29,892 metric tons) and 92 percent by value to $189.4 million (€175.4 million) which, while substantial, shows a marked slowing from the previous 12 months' growth.