Colombia's President Asks Trump to Suspend Tariffs After Deadly Earthquake

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian goods. The plea comes as the South American nation grapples with the aftermath of a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck on August 11, 2026.

“

I asked him to consider to temporarily suspend the high tariffs that are affecting Colombian products, in order to give some relief to our business owners, who are facing very difficult times due to the effects of the earthquake.

De la Espriella stated on the social media platform X that he asked Trump to consider suspending the "high tariffs" to offer relief to Colombian business owners. U.S. tariffs on most Colombian products increased from 10% to 12.5% in late July, with exceptions for coffee and oil. These tariffs went into effect on July 24, replacing earlier duties.

The recent earthquake has severely impacted western Colombian cities, including Cali and Pereira. Official reports indicate nearly 300 fatalities and the destruction of approximately 13,000 homes. The Colombian president described the economic situation as "extremely difficult and apocalyptic" as the country faces a massive rebuilding effort.

“

The conversation was very friendly and cordial.

De la Espriella, who succeeded the leftist Gustavo Petro, noted that his conversation with Trump was "very friendly and cordial." Trump reportedly expressed condolences for the earthquake victims. De la Espriella's administration has aligned with Trump's initiatives, joining the "Shield of the Americas," an anti-cartel alliance of pro-U.S. governments in Latin America.

“

I told him that we have a huge challenge ahead: rebuilding Colombia amid the extremely difficult and apocalyptic economic situation that I inherited.