Rumichaca Border Commerce Looks for a Restart After Colombia Tariff Ends

The Rumichaca border crossing is trying to get back to normal.

El Universo reports that merchants, transport workers and tourism workers around the Rumichaca international bridge expect activity to recover after Ecuador removed the 100% security charge on imports from Colombia.

The charge ended on June 1, 2026.

What Changed at the Border

El Universo reported lines of five or six trailers in periods of 20 to 30 minutes at Rumichaca on Monday, June 1.

The outlet also reported that few cars entered Ecuador in the morning and fewer left, while security and customs personnel said the vehicle-control process was normal.

Workers at the border said they expect more import and export movement in about one month.

Who Was Affected

Andres Cuaspaz, a Carchi transport worker quoted by El Universo, said the situation had affected his work by 80%.

Diego Hernandez, a Colombian transport worker from Cumbal, also told the outlet losses in the transport sector were at least 80%.

Nelson Cano, president of the Tulcan Chamber of Commerce, said movement had reduced production in several sectors by up to 98% and added that contraband had increased substantially.

What This Means for Expats

If you cross the northern border, receive goods through Colombia, or depend on transport routes in Carchi, the tariff removal is good news but not an instant reset.

Expect the first weeks to be uneven while freight, customs routines and local commerce rebuild their rhythm. Travelers should still verify border conditions before making a same-day plan.

Source: El Universo