The American Colombian Chamber of Commerce warned of possible impacts on Colombian exports following a decision by the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
After the USTR determined that Colombia lacks a comprehensive legal ban on imports of goods produced with forced labor, AmCham Colombia highlighted risks to bilateral trade. The report placed the country in a group without effective control mechanisms. As a result, the USTR proposed an additional 12.5% tariff for these economies, though the measure remains in public consultation and is not yet in effect. AmCham noted that competitors such as Mexico, Canada and Ecuador would face a proposed 10% tariff, creating a disadvantage. The most exposed sectors include flowers, processed coffee, cocoa, palm oil, textiles, nickel and fresh fruits. “The problem is not only the 12.5% tariff increase, but the 2.5 percentage point gap versus direct competitors such as Mexico, Canada and Ecuador,” AmCham stated.
