Colombia is Diversity: People, Products and Opportunities

U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration

Why Colombia?An Economic Miracle

• Logistics platform• Well managed foreign

debt• Frequent travel to U.S. • U.S. products preferred • Growing population

Photo: New El Dorado Airport

U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration

Market Trends: Major Projects

• TransMilenio – Bogotá

• Two Refinery Modernization projects

• Ports – Cartagena, Salgar, Buenaventura

• Infrastructure – Roads, El Dorado Airport

• Colombia will invest $197 million in its clogged air infrastructure

Market Trends:U.S.-Colombia FTA

• Liberalization of products in key sectors such as:– Construction Equipment/Building

Products– Aircrafts and parts– Fertilizers– Agrochemicals– Wood– IT– Medical and scientific equipment

• Improved access to financial servicesU.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration

Market Trends:

U.S.-Colombia FTA

• 90% of Colombian products enter the U.S. market duty-free, while U.S. merchandise entering Colombia face tariffs averaging nearly 9%.

• FTA will eliminate tariffs for over 80% of U.S. exports of consumer and industrial products (excluding petroleum) immediately upon implementation and 87% within 5 yrs.

• The impact of eliminating tariffs and related barriers in Colombia is estimated to increase U.S. GDP by nearly $2.5 billion.

• Largely complementary economy (grains vs. tropical fruits; textiles vs. apparel)U.S. Department of Commerce

International Trade Administration

U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration

Market PracticesTips for Success in Colombia

• Language & translate materials• Don’t push for big orders … ease into it• Stay well informed – things change very

quickly in Colombia – Info is critical• Be aware that Colombia has its own

cultural nuances

U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration

Market PracticesTips for Success

• Be informed – Read CCG• Use situational awareness for security• Colombia: Check the “Clinton List• Identify partners/background check • Include arbitration clause in contracts• Be familiar with the laws and

regulations• Always get legal advice• Learn about the people- Visit

How to Contact US

Tanya ColeCommercial Officer

Tel: 516-876-7564 / Cell: 631-935-2388Email: Tanya.Cole@trade.gov

www.buyUSA.gov/longisland www.export.gov