Ecuador’s President Noboa Implements Tariff Amid Political Turmoil

Ecuador’s President Noboa has implemented a 27% tariff on Mexican imports, which coincides with a diplomatic strain between the two countries. He is campaigning for re-election on February 9 amidst a significant security and economic crisis. Despite his short time in office, Noboa aims to strengthen his political standing before the elections.

On February 3, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa announced a 27% tariff on imports from Mexico amid a diplomatic crisis. This decision surprised many, as it mainly affects medical imports. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum downplayed the impact, stating that Ecuador constitutes just 0.4% of Mexico’s imports, suggesting minimal economic fallout from the tariff.

Noboa, seeking re-election on February 9, has faced ongoing challenges during his brief tenure of 15 months, following the abrupt resignation of former president Guillermo Lasso and the subsequent dissolution of the National Assembly. His campaign has been overshadowed by violence, including the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. Noboa has acknowledged a severe security and economic crisis in Ecuador, declaring, “Nothing can be solved in a year,” while still aiming for a decisive electoral victory despite his mixed record.

Ecuador has been grappling with a pervasive security crisis worsened by economic turmoil. President Noboa, who assumed office after significant political upheaval, is now heavily focused on re-election efforts. His proposed tariffs on imports from Mexico appear to resonate with a strongman narrative akin to that of former US President Donald Trump, aiming to enhance his political image in a time of turmoil.

In summary, President Noboa’s unilateral tariff imposition on Mexico aims to bolster his political image prior to re-election amidst a backdrop of increasing violence and economic hardship in Ecuador. The broader implications of this decision reflect ongoing tensions in bilateral relations as well as Noboa’s efforts to navigate the complex political landscape he faces in the upcoming elections.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr