The Andi's Joint Industrial Opinion Survey shows Colombian companies endured an average of 22.2 road blockades in 2025, causing major disruptions to their operations. Ninety-three percent of these incidents stemmed from demands aimed at the government, impacting logistics and raising costs in key sectors like industry and commerce.
The National Association of Colombian Entrepreneurs (Andi) report, drawn from the Joint Industrial Opinion Survey (EOIC), underscores that road blockades posed a severe hurdle for the productive sector in 2025. These disruptions, averaging 22.2 per company, halted the transport of raw materials and finished goods, leading to extra costs from rerouting, merchandise losses, and delays. Industries such as manufacturing, trade, and agribusiness were hit hardest, with diminished competitiveness, particularly for exporters bound by tight deadlines.
Moreover, 93% of the blockades arose from pressures or demands on the government or public bodies, mirroring social tensions spilling into the private sphere. Violent episodes linked to some closures endangered workers, drivers, and assets. In September 2025, business leaders cited additional issues, including weak demand, elevated costs, supply chain difficulties—including gas shortages—and infrastructure gaps, compounded by political uncertainty.
Bruce Mac Master, Andi's president, stressed that these findings signal the need to bolster public administration, infrastructure, and mechanisms for addressing social disputes. The report calls for policies featuring secure routes, crisis protocols, enhanced social dialogue, and road protections to lessen effects and avert escalations. Without intervention, Andi cautions, Colombia risks amplified challenges in investment, jobs, and economic expansion.
