Andean Community sets deadline to end Ecuador‑Colombia tariff war
The trade dispute between Ecuador and Colombia has sharply cut bilateral commerce, with Colombian exports to Ecuador falling 46% in the first two months of 2026, according to the National Association of Financial Institutions (ANIF). The decline was most acute in mineral fuels, electrical equipment, machinery and plastic goods, while cosmetics and pharmaceuticals were less affected.
In response to the escalating tariffs, the Andean Community (CAN) issued resolutions 2581‑2583 on 7 May ordering both nations to withdraw the restrictive measures within ten business days, a deadline that expires on 21 May (excluding holidays). Failure to comply could lead the case to the CAN’s Court of Justice and possible suspension of trade advantages. The dispute, which began early in 2026, has already reduced overall bilateral trade by roughly 44‑46% and prompted calls for a joint technical negotiation table covering customs, security, transport and the private sector.
Analysts warn that the episode highlights the fragility of regional coordination mechanisms and underscores the need for faster dispute‑resolution tools to prevent prolonged economic impacts on integrated industries in the Andean bloc.