Alpha News

Ecuador Imposes 30% Tariffs on Colombian Goods Amid Drug War Dispute

Published January 22, 2026, 06:31

The President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, has announced the imposition of additional 30% tariffs on goods imported from Colombia, in response to what he perceives as a lack of support from Colombia in Ecuador's fight against drug-related violence. The move will take effect from February 1st. Noboa accused Colombia of failing to take strict measures and offer reciprocity in tackling drug trafficking along the two countries' border. He argued that Colombia, as the world's largest producer of cocaine, is not providing sufficient cooperation. Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez responded that Colombia maintains close and historical cooperation with Ecuador in combating drug trafficking. However, Noboa disagreed, stating that the two countries are not on the same page. The Ecuadorian president stated that the tariffs will remain in place until Colombia demonstrates a genuine commitment to the joint fight against drugs and illegal mining. Ecuador's trade deficit with Colombia exceeds $1 billion annually.