economy
May 2, 2026
Trade between Colombia and Ecuador affects 400,000 jobs, after tariff war between Petro and Noboa
Trade on the border between Ecuador and Colombia is going through one of its most critical moments in years. Businessmen on both sides warn of a drastic drop...
TL;DR
- New tariffs imposed by Ecuador and Colombia have caused a drastic fall in cross-border trade.
- Business leaders report a significant drop in merchandise flow, with potential for trade to reach zero.
- The conflict has led to unemployment, with fears of a rise in contraband.
- Ecuador claims a trade surplus with Colombia since implementing its measures, while Colombia disputes this.
- Up to 400,000 jobs are estimated to be affected across both countries, with key products like rice, bananas, and shrimp heavily impacted.
- Colombia has suspended energy sales to Ecuador amid the dispute.
- Both nations are deploying security forces to combat drug trafficking in border areas.