Ecopetrol Engages in Legal Conflict with Colombian Tax Authority Over VAT Adjustments

Ecopetrol Faces Major VAT Adjustment from Colombian Authorities



Ecopetrol S.A., a leading energy company in Colombia, is currently confronting a significant VAT adjustment put forth by the Colombian Tax and Customs Authority (DIAN). This complication began on June 3, 2025, when DIAN delivered Special Customs Requirement No. 525, which signaled its intent to impose a hefty tax adjustment concerning the Value Added Tax (VAT) applicable to imported diesel fuel (ACPM). A penalty accompanies this adjustment, bringing the total to COP 1.2 trillion, along with an estimated COP 0.5 trillion in interest accumulated since the notification.

The adjustment covers diesel fuel imports from 2022 to 2024, raising serious concerns for Ecopetrol as it navigates the complex landscape of tax obligations. In a formal response submitted on July 1, 2025, Ecopetrol vehemently opposed the proposed adjustment and the penalty, highlighting discrepancies in legal interpretations between the company and DIAN.

Ecopetrol has consistently maintained its commitment to fulfill all tax and customs obligations, asserting that the payments made under DIAN's regulatory interpretation do not impede its right to challenge these assessments through proper channels. Since January 2025, the company has been making VAT payments at the mandated 19% rate on diesel and gasoline imports, even as it prepares to contest the adjustments legally.

The situation underscores broader questions about regulatory interpretations and compliance within Colombia's taxation framework. As the largest company in the country, Ecopetrol plays a pivotal role in the national economy, accounting for over 60% of hydrocarbon production and operating in various essential sectors, including transportation and energy refining. Furthermore, the company's reach extends beyond domestic borders into strategic operations in the United States, Brazil, and Mexico, enriching its profile as one of the continent's primary energy players.

Ecopetrol's recent acquisition of 51.4% of ISA's shares further cements its position in energy transmission and utilities management across multiple countries in South America. The implications of this VAT adjustment and its associated penalty not only stand to affect Ecopetrol's financial health but also have potential ramifications for Colombia's economy overall.

In light of this ongoing dispute, Ecopetrol’s leadership reiterates their commitment to adhere to the law while contesting what they find to be an unfair tax ruling. They vow to respect decisions from relevant authorities as they continue to engage in discussions to rectify this matter and ensure fair legal treatment.

The stakes are high, as this incident may set a precedent for future tax interpretations and corporate compliance. Investors, analysts, and industry watchers alike are keenly observing how this dispute will unfold and how it may impact Ecopetrol's operational strategies and profitability going forward. The broader implications for market conditions, trade and supply regulations, and the overarching economy cannot be understated.

Ecopetrol fully expresses its anticipation of clarification from the competent authorities and remains hopeful that an equitable resolution will be achieved, aligning fiscal policies with fair business practices in the energy sector. As the company navigates this legal labyrinth, their commitment to transparency and compliance will be paramount in maintaining stakeholder confidence amidst challenges posed by regulatory frameworks.

Topics Business Technology)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.