Colombia's Ministry of Mines and Energy published Resolution 40064 on January 22, 2026, suspending international electricity transactions with Ecuador in response to President Daniel Noboa's 30% tariffs. The measure takes effect from 6 PM that day and prioritizes national supply. Ecuador claims it has sufficient capacity to meet its energy demand without imports.
On January 22, 2026, the Colombian government responded to Ecuador's decision to impose 30% tariffs on Colombian imports starting February 1, citing a lack of cooperation on narcotrafficking. Minister Edwin Palma announced the indefinite suspension of International Electricity Transactions (TIEs) via Resolution 40064, effective from 6 p.m., to ensure the security of the National Interconnected System (SIN) amid climatic variability.
"All International Electricity Transactions-TIEs between the Republic of Colombia and Ecuador are suspended," the document states. However, it allows limited exports using thermal generation with liquid fuels or centrally dispatched plants, provided they do not affect domestic demand, per prior Creg resolutions. The Ministry may adjust these alternatives via circular to maintain SIN reliability.
Ecuador reported 5,454 MW availability in its National Interconnected System, with 790.7 GWh stored in reservoirs like Mazar (609.59 GWh). Its energy mix includes 64.5% renewable, 30.8% thermal, and only 4.8% from Colombian imports. "This allows meeting national demand with own generation, maintaining adequate operational margins," stated its Ministry of Environment and Energy.
The trade tension impacts bilateral exchanges of US$2,500-2,800 million annually, with Colombia's 2025 surplus at US$849 million. Colombia exports energy (up to 12% of Ecuador's consumption), medicines, and vehicles; imports fish and oils. Guilds like Andi, CIP, and Colfecar warn of job losses and competitiveness hits, with 72% of exports relying on land transport.
The Andean Community (CAN), via Secretary Gonzalo Gutiérrez Reinel, urged postponing the measures and offered to mediate dialogue to preserve integration under the Cartagena Agreement. Trade Minister Diana Marcela Morales described Colombia's 30% tariff on 20 Ecuadorian products as "transitory and revisable," not confrontational.
Companies like XM (US$133.5 million in energy exports in 2025), Colgate, and Hino face pressures, accounting for 25% of Colombian shipments to Ecuador.
