In parallel, Colombia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy issued a resolution suspending International Electricity Transactions (TIE) with Ecuador, citing technical analyses that reveal increased strain on Colombia’s electrical system amid climatic variability. The suspension is justified on grounds of safeguarding Colombia’s energy sovereignty and supply security, given current system pressures.
The dispute originated when Ecuador imposed tariffs accusing Colombia of insufficient cooperation in addressing narcotics trafficking and border insecurity along their 600-kilometer shared frontier, which is prone to the presence of guerrilla groups and illicit activities. Ecuador highlighted a trade deficit of over $850 million with Colombia, citing this as part of the rationale for its unilateral tariff imposition. Colombia expressed surprise at Ecuador’s measures, emphasizing ongoing binational cooperation that includes military and anti-narcotics joint operations. President Gustavo Petro underscored Colombia’s efforts, pointing to over 200 tons of cocaine seizures at the border and announced intent to enhance security to prevent narcotics precursor inflows.
Colombian commercial authorities reaffirmed commitment to dialogue and diplomatic channels to resolve the tension, noting that the measures are reversible and aimed at reestablishing fair trade conditions. The Andean Community issued a statement urging both nations to de-escalate actions and maintain cooperative frameworks. This confrontation adds complexity to an otherwise historically cooperative bilateral relationship, with implications for regional trade flows and energy integration.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
