President Gustavo Petro announced the end of private road concessions as his government's primary budget-saving measure, shifting management to the state to potentially reduce tolls. This follows the recent confirmation of a 5.30% toll increase starting January 2026 tied to inflation.
Colombia's President Gustavo Petro has declared he will not renew private road concessions, marking the administration's main budget cut amid financial pressures. The state has invested 5.2 trillion pesos in concessions with 6.4 trillion pesos in obligations. 'Either the richest pay through taxes or stop receiving state spending,' Petro stated, assuring no cuts to education, health, or minimum wage.
Expired or reverting concessions will now be directly managed by the National Government, aiming for efficiency and lower tolls nationwide.
This comes after the December 26 announcement of a toll tariff adjustment effective January 16, 2026, based on the 5.30% Consumer Price Index (CPI) through November 2025 (per Dane). Transport Minister María Fernanda Rojas noted it ensures road system sustainability.
These steps balance fiscal needs with essential services, fueling debates on private vs. state roles in transport infrastructure.
