Ecuador has announced an increase in the security tax for imports from Colombia, rising from 30% to 50%, effective from March 1. This decision is framed as a measure for national security and is part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking along the Ecuador-Colombia border. As a consequence, trade and transportation activities between the two countries have sharply decreased, particularly affecting the regions of Carchi in Ecuador and Nariño in Colombia.

Reports indicate that international commerce has plummeted by 90%, with a noticeable decline in the number of vehicles crossing the Rumichaca international bridge. According to local authorities, this reduction contrasts sharply with traffic volumes observed prior to the end of January, when the bridge was bustling with trucks and trailers. The implementation of the higher tax appears to be a major deterrent for trade, leading to serious implications for businesses relying on cross-border transportation.

Additionally, local commerce groups in Colombia, such as the Chamber of Commerce in Ipiales, have highlighted that the most recent flows of goods have been largely one-sided, with shipments leaving Colombia for Ecuador. This situation adds to the existing economic challenges in the border areas, starkly illustrating the potential impacts of increased regulatory measures on regional trade dynamics and community livelihoods.