U.S. evaluates reciprocal trade agreement with Colombia after earthquake

The United States is evaluating a reciprocal trade agreement with Colombia, with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer meeting Colombia's Minister of Trade Mauricio Gómez Amín to discuss the matter. The meeting also served to reaffirm Washington's support for Colombia in the aftermath of a recent earthquake.

Greer stated on social media his commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties, emphasizing the negotiation of a reciprocal trade agreement. He acknowledged the earthquake as a significant challenge for President Abelardo de la Espriella's administration but expressed confidence in achieving substantial progress with the Colombian team. "We have already made progress on several long-standing issues and expect to maintain continuous collaboration to steer our trade relationship onto an even better path," Greer added.

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We are committed to strengthening our economic and commercial ties, including through the expedited negotiation of a reciprocal trade agreement.

While Greer did not explicitly mention the potential elimination of U.S. tariffs on Colombian products, President De la Espriella had previously indicated that the U.S. administration was considering a temporary suspension of the 12.5% tariff. This proposal emerged during a call with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whom the president thanked for providing economic aid, humanitarian assistance, and rescue teams following the earthquake.

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We have already made progress on several long-standing issues and expect to maintain continuous collaboration to steer our trade relationship onto an even better path.