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Colombia is an ideal destination for businesspeople and international buyers looking for a place where they can boost their company's production and where they will find the necessary raw materials for the development of their goods. The country's privileged position in global supply chains is driven by its location, free trade agreements, infrastructure, and thriving industries.
Discover four key advantages the country has in international supply chains and how this can benefit an international buyer interested in boosting its business with the country's offerings.
Advantage 1: Colombia Has Established Itself as an Export Platform
The country is now seen as an export platform in the region, allowing it to be the hub of commercial operations. A privileged geographical location and healthy trade relations have been responsible for this achievement. This is why hundreds of companies have established themselves in the country, seeking to reach other countries in the region through Colombia.
How does this benefit you as an international buyer? Well, the fact that Colombia is an export platform allows companies from other countries to offer you goods and supplies you need for your business. With Colombia acting as a bridge between you and the goods you need, you will take advantage of competitive arrival times and cost facilities, depending on the country you are located.
You may be interested in: Invest in Colombia: an export platform in the region
Advantage 2: Colombia's Trade Agreements
Colombia has managed to position itself as a strategic trade partner, thanks to its extensive network of international agreements. The country has 18 trade agreements that allow it to reach more than 1.5 billion consumers worldwide and participates in the regional integration. These agreements reduce tariff costs for various industries and create logistical advantages, enhancing Colombia’s competitiveness in the global market.
Key agreements include the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States, to which Colombia exported USD 6,954.2 million in non-mining-energy goods during 2024; there is also the Trade Agreement with the European Union, to which Colombian exports of non-mining-energy goods reached USD 2,747.4 million in the same period. Like these, there are 16 more agreements with strategic international trade partners located in different corners of the world.
This offers an international buyer cost benefits, as many Colombian goods enter their countries without paying tariffs, which makes Colombia more valuable in its supply chain with market access.
Advantage 3: Colombia's Infrastructure for Export Growth
Colombia’s well-developed export infrastructure is designed to streamline trade with international buyers. Here are three key forms of this infrastructure:
- Maritime routes: Colombia has 3,500 maritime export routes, with the capacity to reach 840 ports in more than 150 countries. Shipping times are very competitive. For example, a trip to Callao can take only two days, to New York it is estimated to take five days, while to Vancouver the arrival time is 18 days.
- National ports such as Cartagena stand out in the region. This one was recognized as the best connected in maritime trade in Latin America and the Caribbean and the third most efficient container port in the world according to the World Bank.
- Road connectivity: Colombia has an infrastructure of land routes that allows it to reach other destinations in the continent. Such is the case of the Pan-American Highway, which connects most of the countries in South America and also runs through Colombia.
- Air routes: The country boasts over 450 export routes operated by 30 airlines, reaching 26 cities worldwide. In addition, El Dorado Airport in Bogota was ranked as the first Latin American airport in cargo volume and the third for passenger traffic.
Additionally, the country has a solid institutional infrastructure, where institutions such as ProColombia become a tool for international buyers interested in learning about the national offer and to be connected with exporters of the country of beauty.
All this gives the country the tools to consolidate its position in supply chains for companies, as they offer better connectivity conditions for international buyers and national exporters.
Advantage 4: Colombia is a recognized producer country
Colombia has a well-developed industrial sector, offering a diverse export portfolio that meets the demands of multiple industries with its production hubs. While the country is renowned for its agro-industrial goods, thanks to Colombian natural resources, it also excels in the building materials sector, in the fashion and Colombian textile industry, in handicrafts, and in packaging solutions. These industries uphold international sustainability standards, enhancing their appeal in global markets.
Driven by innovation and a highly skilled workforce, Colombia continues to strengthen its position as a key supplier of both raw materials and finished goods for international buyers looking for a robust supply of quality goods.
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Colombia, the country of beauty, offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses looking to optimize their international supply chain management. Explore the national market and take advantage of its strategic benefits by visiting our website today.
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