Ecuador raises tariffs on Colombia to 100 percent over border security

Ecuador announced Thursday that it will raise tariffs on Colombian imports to 100 percent, effective May 1, in an escalation of a months-long dispute between the two neighboring countries.

The Ecuadorian Ministry of Production said the increase—from the current 50 percent rate—stems from Colombia's failure to implement concrete and effective border security measures. "After noting the lack of implementation of concrete and effective measures regarding border security on the part of Colombia, Ecuador is obliged to take sovereign actions," the ministry stated.

President Daniel Noboa framed the decision as necessary to address drug trafficking and what he characterized as insufficient cooperation from Colombia. "Unfortunately, one cannot reach agreements with someone who does not have the same commitment to fight narco-terrorism," Noboa said on social media. He cited a 33 percent reduction in violent deaths on Ecuador's northern border since the initial 50 percent tariff was imposed, attributing the decline to the measure.

The tariff increase represents the latest move in an ongoing dispute between Noboa, a right-wing leader, and Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a left-wing counterpart. The two have been feuding for months over border security and drug trafficking issues.

On Wednesday, Ecuador's Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld confirmed the country had recalled its ambassador to Colombia, Arturo Félix Wong, for consultations. The government justified the tariff escalation as part of efforts to reinforce shared responsibility in combating drug trafficking, which it described as a challenge that must be addressed jointly by both nations.