Colombia Imposes 100% Tariffs on Ecuador Imports Amid Rising Tensions

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Colombia has announced 100% tariffs on imports from Ecuador, increasing tensions between the two neighbours. Trade Minister Diana Morales said Colombia tried to resolve the issue through talks but decided to respond after Ecuador imposed similar duties earlier.

The dispute began when Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa introduced tariffs in January, accusing Colombia of not doing enough to control drug trafficking across their shared border. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro then responded with similar measures, leading to a back-and-forth trade conflict.

Colombia exported goods worth about $1.8 billion to Ecuador in 2025, showing how important the trade relationship is. Petro said his country is still committed to fighting drug trafficking and has recalled its ambassador from Ecuador. He also plans to hold a cabinet meeting near the border.

Tensions rose further last month after explosions killed 14 people in Colombia during a security operation by Ecuador nearby. Ecuador denied crossing the border and said it is investigating how explosives ended up in Colombian territory.

Colombia has already stopped supplying electricity to Ecuador, which is especially important during droughts. Ecuador also depends on Colombia for key imports like medicines and pesticides, making the situation more serious for both countries.