Peru-Ecuador La Balsa Border Closure Hits Jaén and San Ignacio Tourism

The closure of the La Balsa International Bridge in the San Ignacio province continues to curb tourism and economic activity in the neighboring Peruvian provinces of Jaén and San Ignacio. Enrique Montoya, president of the Jaén Chamber of Tourism, says the suspension stopped the international transport service that linked Jaén with several towns in southern Ecuador, ending the frequent flow of Ecuadorian shoppers, guests and restaurant patrons that once generated significant revenue for local businesses.

Montoya notes that plans for a binational tourism chamber with partners from Loja were halted, and that illegal mining in the border area was cited by Ecuadorian authorities as a justification for the shutdown. While the measures aim to improve security and protect the environment, they have also harmed tourism and other sectors. The lack of connectivity also affects other foreign visitors, including motorcyclist groups that traverse the region.

The tourism leader urges Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, the Foreign Ministry and both governments to devise mechanisms for reopening the crossing, pointing out that after more than nine months there is still no official statement from Peruvian authorities. He calls on the next administration to prioritize reopening the bridge to revive the local economy.