Gustavo Lenis, president of Fabricato, stated at Colombiatex that the company will continue its operations in Ecuador and the United States, despite adjustments to its production structure, including the closure of its traditional spinning mill.
Fabricato, one of Colombia's leading textile companies, faces international market challenges but plans to sustain its presence in Ecuador and the United States. Gustavo Lenis, the company's president, explained at Colombiatex that the closure of the traditional spinning mill stems from lost competitiveness against imports, particularly from Asia, without abandoning the textile sector or external markets.
In Ecuador, a 30% tariff on Colombian fabrics complicates exports. Lenis stated: “With Ecuador's measure, it will be very difficult for us to sell a meter of fabric,” though the company will assess conditions to maintain operations there. For the United States, the 10% tariff and the USMCA rule of origin require Colombian or US yarn, making imported yarn more expensive. Despite a low dollar and high internal costs, Lenis stressed that this market remains strategic due to its size and proximity.
Additionally, Fabricato closed its denim plant, which accounted for 40% of production and sales, due to unfair competition from imports and smuggling. However, the company ended 2025 with positive results by refocusing on other lines. Its exports also target Central America, Mexico, Brazil, and the Caribbean through partnerships with garment makers. Lenis summarized: “Businesses are long-term and one must adapt” to an increasingly demanding environment.
