Ecuador reopens border with Peru in Loja after security closure

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa has ordered the reopening of the border with Peru in Loja, a move that had been closed since December 2025 for security reasons. The announcement was made by the Minister of Government, Nataly Morillo.

Minister Morillo stated that the difficult decision to temporarily close the southern border in Loja was made to "protect Ecuadorians" and to "contain arms trafficking and reinforce state control." She added that the Security Bloc will remain deployed in the area to ensure continued border control and safeguard Ecuadorian families.

The closure, implemented in December 2025, was justified by security concerns. The president's decision to reopen the border is seen as a significant step towards restoring commercial and social relations between Ecuador and Peru, which were impacted by the previous restrictions. Authorities expect the reopening to boost regional trade and tourism, benefiting citizens of both countries and reaffirming Ecuador's commitment to border security.