Machala is an important city in southwestern Ecuador and the capital of the province of El Oro. The city is located on the banks of the Juvones River, just 3 kilometers from the Gulf of Guayaquil, at an altitude of about 5 meters above sea level. Machala is known for its role as a major producer and exporter of bananas and prawns, accounting for a quarter of the country's banana exports and being an important pillar of Ecuador's agricultural economy. In addition, Machala is a base for fishing and is rich in mineral resources such as gold and silver. As a trade center, Machala exports agricultural products and handicrafts through the port of Bolivar in its west. Machala is also a transportation hub, with highway connections to Loja and Cuenca, as well as an airport for easy access.