How to Import from Colombia — Complete B2B Guide 2026

Colombia is one of Latin America’s most dynamic economies and a strategic trade partner for the United States under the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA). With duty-free access for approximately 97% of Colombian products, competitive labor costs, and a growing manufacturing sector, Colombia offers excellent opportunities for importers worldwide.

Step 1: Determine if Your Product Qualifies for Duty-Free Entry

The U.S.-Colombia TPA eliminates tariffs on most products originating in Colombia. To qualify, products must meet the rules of origin, which generally require:

• Wholly obtained or produced entirely in Colombia (agricultural products, minerals)
• Substantial transformation — the product must undergo a tariff classification change
• Regional value content of at least 35-45% (depending on the product)

Check your product’s Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code against the TPA schedule using the FTA Tariff Tool from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Step 2: Find and Vet Colombian Suppliers

Key sectors for importing from Colombia include:

• Agricultural products: coffee, bananas, avocados, tropical fruits, flowers
• Textiles and apparel: denim, cotton fabrics, swimwear, industrial textiles
• Food products: processed foods, snacks, sauces, confectionery
• Manufactured goods: auto parts, chemicals, plastic products
• Emeralds and jewelry: Colombia is the world’s leading emerald producer

You can find suppliers through PROCOLOMBIA (the government trade promotion agency), trade shows like Colombiatex and Alimentec, or B2B platforms. Always request samples and verify certifications.

Step 3: Documentation and Shipping

Standard documents for importing from Colombia include:

• Commercial Invoice — must include detailed product description, HTS code, and FOB value
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin — under the TPA for duty-free entry
• Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air)
• Phytosanitary Certificate (for agricultural products from ICA)
• FDA Prior Notice (for food products entering the U.S.)

Step 4: Customs Clearance in the U.S.

Since August 2025, the De Minimis exemption ($800) has been suspended for commercial shipments from Colombia. All commercial entries now require formal entry through a licensed U.S. Customs Broker. Your broker will file CBP Form 7501 and declare the TPA preference (code “CO”) for duty-free treatment.

Costs and Logistics

Ocean freight from Cartagena or Barranquilla to Miami takes 3-5 days. Air freight from Bogotá to Miami takes approximately 4-6 hours. Typical shipping costs range from $1,500-$3,000 for a 20ft container (FCL) and $3-$6/kg for air cargo, depending on volume and urgency.

For a smooth importing experience, work with a customs broker experienced in U.S.-Colombia trade, verify all documentation before shipment, and maintain open communication with your Colombian supplier throughout the process.

Jorge Majjul Experto en Marketing Digital (SEO - SEM - AIO )

Jorge Majjul es especialista en marketing digital, SEO y desarrollo web, con experiencia creando estrategias de contenido, optimización para buscadores y soluciones digitales para distintos proyectos en línea. Jorge Majjul es empresario digital y fundador de proyectos de e-commerce y marketing en línea enfocados en el mercado hispanohablante. Con años de experiencia en el desarrollo, gestión y escalamiento de plataformas comerciales a través de WordPress, WooCommerce y estrategias de marketing digital, ayuda a negocios y emprendedores a establecer su presencia en internet de manera efectiva. Su trabajo combina conocimiento técnico en infraestructura web, análisis de posicionamiento en buscadores (SEO) y estrategias de monetización de dominios, lo que le permite ofrecer una perspectiva práctica y orientada a resultados sobre el comercio electrónico moderno.

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