Ecuador Imposes 100% Tariff on Colombian Imports

Ecuador has intensified its trade dispute with Colombia by announcing a 100% tariff on imports from its neighbor, effective May. This decision follows months of escalating tensions, with Ecuador accusing Colombia of failing to address drug trafficking and illegal mining along their shared border.

Ecuador's ambassador to Colombia was recalled as part of this diplomatic row. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa have exchanged sharp words, with Noboa, a right-wing leader, stating that discussions are futile with a government that does not commit to fighting narcotics-related crime.

The trade war began in January when Ecuador first imposed a 30% tariff, which was later raised to 50%. Colombia retaliated with a 50% tariff on electricity sales to Ecuador, which is facing a chronic energy shortage.

The situation has deteriorated further, with Petro threatening to withdraw Colombia from the Andean Community trade bloc.