Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa announced a 27% tariff on imports from Mexico, aiming to protect local producers and echoing U.S. trade policies. In a statement made on social media platform X, Noboa emphasized that the tariff seeks to ensure "fair treatment" for Ecuadorian businesses and expressed openness to a free trade agreement with Mexico, "but not when there is abuse," highlighting the complexities of current trade relations. The tariff implementation follows a year marked by diplomatic rifts between the two nations, particularly after a controversial police raid on the Mexican embassy in Quito in 2024, which led to the arrest of former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, who was seeking asylum in Mexico. This incident strained relations to the point of breaking off diplomatic ties. Ecuador, which imported goods worth approximately $541 million from Mexico in 2023, with medications being the largest category, finds itself in a unique position where its trade relationship accounts for less than 0.1% of Mexico's overall export value. Source: CNN The tariffs announced by Noboa were noted as reminiscent of policies initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently extended a temporary pause on his own proposed tariffs against Mexican imports, citing ongoing negotiations. Noboa's decision could be influenced by these geopolitical dynamics, as he seeks to align his administration with U.S. interests while toiling to maintain local economic stability. Source: AP News Additionally, Noboa's government is amplifying military presence at Ecuadorian ports and closing borders temporarily in response to threats from armed groups, aiming to tackle the nation's security challenges effectively. His aggressive policies aim to project strength ahead of the upcoming elections, where he is seeking a full term against his main opponent, Luisa Gonzalez. Source: Al Jazeera The president’s approach highlights the intersection of trade policy and national security issues while reinforcing a tough stance against foreign relations, particularly with Mexico. Source: Reuters