Inflation to miss central bank target for sixth straight year

Colombia's inflation is projected at 4.9% for 2026, missing the Banco de la República's target range for the sixth consecutive year. A Corficolombiana report estimates it will close 2025 at 5.2%, roughly the same as last year, signaling a stall in disinflation. The goal of nearing 3% is now delayed until 2027.

Amid talks on minimum wage hikes, Colombia's inflation remains a key concern. Expert projections show the consumer price index (CPI) trending downward in 2025, but not as sharply as the Banco de la República hoped. Corficolombiana's economic research report states the year will end at 5.2% inflation, nearly matching 2024's figure and indicating gradual but inadequate disinflation to enter the target range below 4%.

The rise stems mainly from higher costs of goods, services, and food, offset somewhat by cuts in electricity and gas rates. For 2026, a slight drop to 4.9% is expected, though risks include a two-digit minimum wage increase and robust domestic demand fueled by public spending, potentially pushing prices up.

The central bank aimed to bring inflation near 3% by 2026, but current estimates point to 2027 instead. This extends the deviation from the target for a sixth straight year, underscoring ongoing challenges in monetary policy.

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Illustration showing Colombia's February 2026 inflation at 5.29%, with easing trend chart, food and education price symbols, and Central Bank target.
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Colombia's inflation eases to 5.29% in February 2026

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The National Administrative Department of Statistics (Dane) reported that Colombia's annual inflation for February 2026 was 5.29%, a slight slowdown from January's 5.35%. The monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) variation stood at 1.08%, driven by rises in education and food. This figure remains above the Central Bank's target range of 3%.

The Banco de la República released its Monthly Survey of Economists' Expectations, forecasting year-end inflation at 6.32% and interest rates at 12.25%. These projections mark an upward revision from March. Experts anticipate a gradual moderation in subsequent years.

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Dane reported the consumer price index recorded an annual variation of 5.68% in April, above March's 5.56%.

Following its January hike to 10.25%, Colombia's Banco de la República raised its intervention rate by another 100 basis points to 11.25% in a tight 4-3 vote during its second meeting of the year. Finance Minister Germán Ávila walked out of the board meeting and announced the government's withdrawal from the central bank over disagreements. President Gustavo Petro backed the move and criticized the monetary policy.

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On March 3, 2026, the US dollar in Colombia exceeded $3,800, marking a $28 rise in one day and the highest levels of the year so far. Analysts link this increase to geopolitical tensions and local elections, but do not anticipate it reaching $4,000. Experts suggest gradual purchases amid potential temporary volatility.

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