Ankara: Colombia announced that it will increase tariffs on imports from Ecuador to 100% in response to Ecuador’s decision to raise its own customs duties on Colombian goods from 50% to 100% starting May 1. Colombia’s Trade, Industry and Tourism Minister, Diana Marcela Morales, stated that Bogota would match Ecuador’s new tariff levels, elevating the current 30% duty on Ecuadorian imports to 100%.

According to Anadolu Agency, Morales emphasized that despite diplomatic efforts, Ecuador did not respond positively. Instead, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa’s administration decided to toughen its stance on trade matters. Morales also highlighted that Ecuador’s actions violate the 1969 Cartagena Agreement, a critical framework for regional integration, prompting Colombia to initiate legal steps.

Ecuador’s announcement to increase customs duties on imports from Colombia comes amid criticism from Ecuador’s Ministry of Production. The ministry accused Colombia of failing to adequately address drug trafficking and border security issues. Diplomatic relations have also been strained, with Ecuador recalling its ambassador in Bogota and Colombia responding by recalling its ambassador in Quito.

The ongoing trade dispute is part of a broader tension between Colombia and Ecuador, particularly concerning approaches to combat drug trafficking in border areas. Earlier this year, Ecuador had raised tariffs on Colombian goods from 30% to 50%, sparking initial tensions. In retaliation, Colombia suspended electricity exports to Ecuador, and Ecuador subsequently increased transit fees for oil belonging to Colombia’s state company, Ecopetrol, from $3 to $30 per barrel.