Opportunities for Indian Business
Juan Carlos Rojas Arango, Minister Counsellor at the Embassy of Colombia in New Delhi, articulated a compelling vision for Colombia as a strategic gateway for trade and investment at the Indo–South America Trade and Investment Conclave organised by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Rojas Arango highlighted that, “From the Colombian perspective, over the last five years, we have witnessed a growing interest in Latin America, particularly from India.” He noted that successful engagement in Latin America requires a nuanced, country-specific approach because “each country offers a unique set of opportunities,” in terms of regulatory environment, sector strengths, and market dynamics.
Colombia, he said, has positioned itself strongly as an “Investment and Export Platform to the World.” Although Colombia and India do not currently have a Free Trade Agreement and are not negotiating one at this stage, the country’s trade and investment architecture remains robust. Colombia has established 19 Free Trade Agreements, granting preferential access to markets across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, and 19 Bilateral Investment Treaties, including one with India, providing legal protections and confidence for investors.
Attracting Foreign Investment
“Since opening our economy in the 1990s, Colombia has consistently positioned itself as one of the top destinations for foreign direct investment in Latin America,” Rojas Arango said. According to investment data, Colombia has become the fourth-largest recipient of FDI in South America, reflecting strong investor confidence.
He cited several Indian companies that have successfully established operations in Colombia:
Zoho Corporation has set up its Latin American headquarters in Colombia, expanding its presence and leveraging local talent to serve markets across Latin America and into Europe.
UPL operates major manufacturing facilities in Barranquilla, underscoring Colombia’s appeal as a production hub.
Tata Consultancy Services has significant office operations in the country.
“These investments generate employment, take advantage of the quality of our talent, and embody a spirit of growing together,” he observed.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Rojas Arango emphasised Colombia’s strategic advantage with its coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, which facilitate logistics and global connectivity. The country’s population of over 52 million and large geographic footprint make it an attractive market and production base.
He also highlighted the presence of Hero MotoCorp’s first manufacturing facility outside Asia in Colombia, acting as a hub for regional markets.
Connectivity infrastructure further strengthens Colombia’s position. El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá—frequently ranked the best airport in Latin America by industry surveys—serves as a major air cargo and passenger hub. Colombia’s key seaports, including Cartagena on the Caribbean coast and Buenaventura on the Pacific, support efficient maritime trade.
Sustainability and Tourism Potential
Colombia’s environmental credentials also featured in the address. “Colombia is a country of extraordinary environmental responsibility,” Rojas Arango noted, pointing to the eight departments within the Amazon region and the country’s commitment to energy transition and sustainability. He referenced Colombia’s role as host of the UN Biodiversity Conference, showcasing its engagement in global environmental stewardship.
Colombia’s tourism sector has also seen significant growth. Recent data show record levels of international visitors, reflecting the opening of many tourist destinations following the 2016 peace agreement, which transformed the country’s tourism landscape.
Economic Resilience and Global Recognition
“Despite approaching elections and operating under a progressive government, Colombia’s economy has remained resilient,” Rojas Arango affirmed. According to an analysis published in December 2025, Colombia was ranked among the top-performing OECD economies, reflecting strong economic fundamentals despite global challenges.
Colombia–India Trade Relations
Colombia and India share more than 66 years of diplomatic relations, and bilateral trade has expanded steadily. Latest figures show that bilateral trade reached approximately USD 4.72 billion in 2024–25, with Indian exports including vehicles and engineering goods, and imports from Colombia dominated by mineral fuels such as oil and coal.
Rojas Arango underscored the growing political and business engagement between the two countries. “In 2023, we witnessed a historic milestone with the first-ever visit of India’s External Affairs Minister to Colombia,” he said, noting that subsequent rounds of political consultations and business interest reflect deepening ties.
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