Colombia hits Ecuador with 100% tariffs as trade tensions escalate

Colombia’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism has announced it will raise tariffs on neighbouring Ecuador to 100 per cent from 30 per cent.

The decision, confirmed on Friday, matches the rate Ecuador imposed a day earlier, signalling a sharp escalation in trade and diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Ecuador has in recent months increased tariffs on Colombia, citing a trade deficit and accusing its neighbour of failing to do enough to combat drug trafficking.

Disagreement over security concerns

Colombia has rejected Ecuador’s accusations, pointing instead to its military operations aimed at intercepting illicit drugs. Authorities noted that the country seized its largest shipment in a decade last November.

More from World

The dispute has unfolded alongside political tensions between Ecuador’s right-wing President Daniel Noboa and Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro.

Political tensions add to dispute

Earlier this week, Noboa criticised Petro’s comments regarding the imprisonment of former Ecuadorian vice president Jorge Glas, describing them as an “assault on our sovereignty”.

Petro has repeatedly referred to Glas, who was convicted of corruption, as a “political prisoner” and has called for him to be transferred to Colombian custody.

Last month, Petro also accused Noboa of carrying out bombing operations near the Colombian border without coordination. Charred bodies were reportedly recovered from the scene.

Colombia cites lack of diplomatic progress

Colombian Trade Minister Diana Morales said on Friday that the tariff increase was a direct response to Ecuador’s earlier move to raise duties to 100 per cent.

“We have exhausted all diplomatic efforts and kept channels of dialogue open with the government of Ecuador, seeking a solution that benefits both countries, businesses, and above all, the communities on both sides of the border,” she said.

“However, we have not received a positive response.”

Morales confirmed that Colombia’s countermeasures would take effect immediately.