Ecuador announces 30 percent tariff on Colombia over drug trafficking

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Allison GrinerJanuary 21, 2026 at 09:41 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

In January 2026, Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa announced a 30 percent tariff on imports from Colombia, set to begin in February. Noboa cited Colombia's failure to adequately address drug trafficking and illegal mining along the border as the reason for the tariff. He stated the tax will remain until Colombia demonstrates a commitment to jointly combating these issues. Noboa, a right-wing leader with close ties to Donald Trump, has criticized Colombia's left-wing government for its approach to drug trafficking. The announcement follows Ecuador's attempts to cooperate with Colombia despite a significant trade deficit and ongoing border conflicts with criminal groups linked to drug trafficking.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Kristi Noem 40% United States ×260% Donald Trump ×470% Colombia ×680% Daniel Noboa ×790% Ecuador ×790%

Keywords

drug trafficking 100% colombia 90% ecuador 90% tariffs 80% daniel noboa 70% illegal mining 70% us military bases 50% trade deficit 50% donald trump 40%