Border Integration and Land Transport of Merchandise between Colombia and Ecuador

Author: Angel Casas-Gragea, et al.

Publication: Integration & Trade

Publication Date: January 2014

Abstract:
Road infrastructure in the case of the Andean region is particularly relevant, with transport of merchandise by road being the most significant among the member countries. Most trade is conducted by this means, and therefore sound infrastructure, competitive transport costs and times, and a fully- functioning regulatory framework are of great importance to subregional trade. Border integration should also make a difference to border populations’ living conditions and standard of living. These are characterized by high poverty levels and a strong sense of identity that is closely tied to the border territory and does not always coincide with the interests of the country to which the population belongs. This study analyzes international road freight across the Ipiales-Tulcán (Rumichaca) International Bridge between Colombia and Ecuador, in the context of Andean regional integration.