Ecuador Raises Tariffs on Colombia to 100% Amid Drug Trafficking Dispute

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has announced a surge in tariffs on Colombian imports to 100%, effective May 1, escalating a diplomatic feud with neighboring Colombia. The Ecuadorian Ministry of Production justified the measure as a sovereign response to Colombia's alleged failure to implement effective border security and combat drug trafficking. This follows a series of previous tariff hikes from 30% to 50% earlier in the year. In retaliation, Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the move as a 'monstrosity' that signals the end of the Andean Pact for Colombia. Petro subsequently called for shifting Colombia's trade focus toward Mercosur and other regional alliances. The conflict highlights growing tensions between Noboa's right-wing administration and Petro's left-wing government, despite both leaders facing pressure regarding illicit drug trade management.