Truckers Protest Trade Tariffs in Escalating Colombia-Ecuador Row

Colombian and Ecuadorian truckers staged a protest at the border against 30% tariffs on goods imposed by their governments. Both countries enacted these tariffs in an escalating trade war, with Ecuador citing Colombia's failure to curb cocaine flow. Critics argue the tariffs may mask internal issues.

Colombian and Ecuadorian truckers amassed at a border crossing on Tuesday to voice their discontent over a growing trade war between the two nations. The protesters implored their governments to revoke the 30% tariffs on a wide array of goods, citing potential economic harm to border provinces and energy sectors.

Carlos Bastidas, leading an Ecuadorian transportation workers association, stated, "Tariffs generate crises, they don't help the economy." He expressed hope that both presidents would rescind these measures and engage in dialogue. Last month, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa introduced these tariffs, labeling them a 'security tax' in response to Colombia's perceived inaction in halting cocaine trafficking.

Colombia retaliated with equivalent tariffs on Ecuadorian products like rice and car parts, even threatening to cut off electricity sales—critical for Ecuador due to past power shortages. Despite being lesser trading partners, border cities rely heavily on this trade. Critics claim Noboa's actions deflect from domestic challenges, highlighted by Ecuador's soaring homicide rate.

(With inputs from agencies.)