Ecuador announced an increase in the import tax on Colombian goods from 30% to 50%, citing security concerns along the border as the main reason for this decision.
Ecuador's government has announced that starting March 1, 2026, the import tax on goods from Colombia will increase from 30% to 50%. This decision was made following an assessment by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, and Investment, which stated that Colombia has not implemented adequate measures to improve border security. As a result, Ecuador feels compelled to take sovereign actions that address its security needs.
The Ministry stressed that this increase in the security tax is aimed at enhancing national security and is part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking that has plagued the border region. The Ecuadorian government argues that the joint responsibility to tackle these issues lies with both nations. As the situation evolves, this higher tax is expected to have economic implications for Colombian exporters and may strain relations between the two countries.
The decision to raise the import tax reflects growing tensions over border security and the need for Colombia to address narcotics-related violence. As Ecuador heightens its security measures, it could signal a shift in trade relations and cooperation on regional security issues, ultimately affecting trade flows and bilateral relations in the Andean region.
