Ecuador’s customs authority has decided to eliminate a 100% tariff on Colombian goods starting June 1, marking the end of a trade dispute between the two countries. The security surcharge on imports from Colombia will now be reduced to zero percent, fostering a new phase of cooperation in security, trade, and development. This resolution was announced by Sandro Castillo, the director general of Ecuador’s National Customs Service, aiming to enhance legal trade, regional integration, and joint efforts against illicit economies.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa revealed this decision after discussions with Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella. The initial surcharge on Colombian goods was imposed in January due to border security concerns and perceived lack of reciprocity in combating drug trafficking along the shared border. Despite the escalation from 30% to 100% by May 1, exceptions were made for sectors like oil and energy, along with special regimes and private tourist vehicles.
Business groups had expressed concerns about disruptions in supply chains, trade flows, and employment due to the tariffs. In response, Colombia imposed tariffs of up to 75% on certain Ecuadorian products and temporarily halted electricity exports to Ecuador. The trade conflict was referred to the General Secretariat of the Andean Community, which instructed both nations to lift the trade restrictions as per the regional bloc’s regulations.
