The 30% rate on Colombian imports announced by the president of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, set off alarms in regional trade and raised diplomatic tension between both countries.

The measure, which will come into force on February 1, was presented by the Ecuadorian president as a direct response to what he described as a lack of effective cooperation from Colombia in the fight against drug trafficking and illegal mining on the common border.

Through his official account on

However, he maintained that, while Ecuador reinforces the military and police presence on the border, criminal groups linked to drug trafficking continue to operate without forceful joint action.

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The Ecuadorian president explained that the 30% rate will be maintained indefinitely, at least until there is a “real and verifiable” commitment by the Colombian State to confront these illegal economies that affect both territories in a coordinated manner.

The decision could impact several key sectors of Colombian exports to Ecuador. Among the products with the greatest presence in bilateral trade are electricity, medicines, sugar, aeronautical fuels, vehicles and unroasted coffee.
Response from Colombia

Hours after the announcement, the Colombian Ministry of Defense reported on an operation in the border area that allowed the seizure of more than two tons of marijuana.

For now, the announcement of the 30% rate opens a new chapter of diplomatic tension and leaves the immediate future of trade and security relations between Bogotá and Quito in the air.

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