The diplomatic crisis between Colombia and Ecuador over the energy market and trade intensified this week, with Quito increasing the tariff for transporting Colombian oil through the SOTE (Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System) by 900%, raising the price from US$3 to US$30 per barrel of crude oil transported.
The decision comes amid a tariff dispute that has already led Bogotá to suspend electricity sales and impose tariffs on Ecuadorian products in retaliation for Ecuadorian trade measures.
The escalation began when the government of Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced a 30% tariff on Colombian products, citing a trade deficit exceeding US$1 billion and Bogotá's lack of effective cooperation in combating drug trafficking along their shared border.
In response, Colombia imposed a tax equivalent to 30% on about 20 items from Ecuador and announced the suspension of electricity exports, a significant input for Ecuador's supply.
Authorities from both countries maintain firm positions, with no immediate indication of an agreement to reverse them.
The Colombian government stated that the power outage measures are temporary and revocable, but defended them as necessary to protect its internal energy security.
In turn, Quito justifies the tariff increase as a direct response to Colombian actions and as a way to press for greater cooperation in security and the fight against transnational crime.
Trade representatives and energy sectors from both countries warn of potential economic repercussions, including increased costs for companies that depend on bilateral exports and impacts on regional energy markets should the measures remain in effect or expand.
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