Export to Colombia

Export to Colombia: a 2026 guide for US manufacturers

5 min read · Updated 2026-09-26 · By the Fromerica team

The US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement has been in force since 2012. The bigger hurdle for a first shipment is usually on the buyer’s side: registrations, an advance declaration before arrival and sanitary permits. This guide covers both sides.

The US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement

According to USTR, the agreement entered into force on May 15, 2012. Over 80 percent of US exports of consumer and industrial products became duty free on entry into force, with remaining tariffs phased out over ten years; more than half of US agricultural exports became duty free immediately, with most remaining tariffs phased out over 15 years.

According to the International Trade Administration, no specific certificate is required under this agreement: the importer or Colombia’s customs authority (DIAN) may request information supporting the claim for preferential treatment.

What your Colombian buyer needs

A tax ID (NIT), registration in the RUT with DIAN, and registration with the VUCE (Single Window for Foreign Trade).
An advance import declaration filed at least 48 hours before the cargo arrives, to avoid fines or seizure.
Commercial invoice, packing list, transport document and, depending on the product and origin, a certificate of origin; an Andean Customs Value Declaration for shipments of $5,000 FOB or more.
INVIMA permits for health-related products, ICA approval for agricultural goods, and prior approval from the Ministry of Commerce for certain restricted goods.

US-side steps for every shipment

Classify the product with its 10-digit Schedule B number (Census Bureau search tool); the first 6 digits are the Harmonized System code your buyer uses for their own tariff.
File Electronic Export Information (EEI) in AES, through ACE AESDirect or a direct connection, when the value under an individual Schedule B number is over $2,500 or an export license is required. The USPPI or its authorized agent files it.
Check your export classification. According to BIS, items subject to the EAR that are not listed on the Commerce Control List are EAR99 and, in most situations, need no license, unless they go to a restricted end user, end use or destination.
Screen your buyer, consignee and end user against the Consolidated Screening List, which combines export screening lists of the Departments of Commerce, State and the Treasury.

Screen a buyer →Guide: how to export from the USA →Look up HTS codes →

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free trade agreement between the US and Colombia?

Yes. The US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement has been in force since May 15, 2012.

Do I need a certificate of origin for Colombia?

According to the International Trade Administration, no specific certificate is required; the importer or DIAN may request information supporting the preference claim.

What is the 48-hour advance declaration?

Colombian importers must file an advance import declaration at least 48 hours before the cargo arrives. Coordinate shipping dates and documents with your buyer early.

Official sources

This page is general information to help you get started. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and regulations change. Confirm current requirements with the official sources above or with a licensed customs broker, freight forwarder or trade compliance professional.