A shift in international trade dynamics

Nearshoring has become one of the main trends in foreign trade in recent years. Companies, especially those with operations linked to the United States, are rethinking their supply chains in order to bring production and distribution closer to their end markets. In this context, Colombia has begun to position itself as a strategic destination. Various analyses agree that its geographic location, access to multiple trade agreements, and logistics connectivity make it a relevant player in this transformation.

Logistics impacts of nearshoring growth

Reduced transit times and greater predictability

One of the most relevant effects of nearshoring is the reduction in delivery times. By bringing production centers closer to the end market, dependence on long and complex routes is reduced, allowing for greater stability in transit times. This is especially relevant in scenarios where global supply chains have faced disruptions, as it enables companies to operate with greater control and predictability.

Increased demand for logistics services

The rise of nearshoring in Colombia is generating greater pressure on logistics services. From international transport to local distribution, companies require more agile, integrated, and scalable solutions. International lockers and other logistics intermediation solutions are playing an important role by facilitating access to markets and optimizing import and export processes.

Foreign trade trends toward 2026

The consulted analyses agree that nearshoring will continue gaining relevance in the coming years. Colombia is shaping up as a regional logistics hub, provided it strengthens its infrastructure and maintains competitive conditions for investment. Companies are also prioritizing more resilient supply chains, favoring relocation toward nearby and reliable countries.

Implications for exporters and importers

For Colombian companies, nearshoring represents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it opens the door to new business and markets. On the other, it demands greater operational efficiency and logistics adaptability. Companies that manage to optimize their processes, reduce transit times, and offer comprehensive solutions will have a clear competitive advantage in this new environment. The following section presents a speculative analysis based on observed trends. This content does not constitute confirmed facts and should not be interpreted as a definitive projection.

The growth of nearshoring could intensify competition for logistics capacity in Colombia, especially in ports and land transport. If demand exceeds installed capacity, bottlenecks may arise, affecting operational times and costs. Likewise, increased cargo flow could put pressure on logistics rates, particularly in storage and distribution services. This would force companies to seek strategic partners to maintain efficiency without increasing costs. In this scenario, anticipation, planning, and logistics execution capacity will be decisive factors to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities.

How to capitalize on nearshoring with a logistics partner

The current environment requires comprehensive logistics solutions. It is not only about moving cargo, but about efficiently managing the entire supply chain. Fenix Global Cargo positions itself as a strategic partner for companies looking to take advantage of nearshoring in Colombia, offering services adapted to new international trade dynamics, focused on efficiency, traceability, and cost optimization.

On January 28, 2026, an important strategic agreement was finalized between the National Police, through its Anti-Narcotics Directorate, and the port company Puerto Bahía Colombia – Puerto Antioquia, to reinforce security and exercise strict anti-narcotics controls at the maritime terminal located in Turbo, Antioquia.

This agreement constitutes a key step to ensure the integrity of the export logistics chain, prevent contamination of lawful cargo, and strengthen the confidence of Colombian exporters in international markets.

What does the agreement establish?

The document signed by Brigadier General Ricardo Sánchez Silvestre, Anti-Narcotics Director, and Alejandro Costa Posada, President of Puerto Antioquia, stipulates that both parties will join efforts in anti-narcotics control work within port facilities. The main security components include:

• Controls in primary customs areas to prevent the shipment of illicit substances.
• Strengthening of security procedures to protect cargo and reduce contamination risks.
• Institutional coordination to ensure efficiency in logistics processes.

Logistics solutions that drive your business

Having secure and reliable logistics processes is a differential element for any company participating in international trade. At Fenix Global Cargo we offer comprehensive support for your logistics needs, with solutions designed to ensure traceability, customs compliance and efficient cargo management.

If you are looking to optimize your exports and minimize risks in the logistics chain, explore our services and discover how we can help you achieve your commercial objectives. Learn about our specialized logistics solutions here.

The trade relationship between Ecuador and Colombia has entered a new phase of tension following the announcement of tariff and energy measures adopted by both governments in January 2026. The introduction of 30% tariffs and the suspension of electricity exports represent a significant shift in the bilateral trade framework, with direct implications for regional logistics. These decisions have been officially confirmed and are already generating tangible effects on costs, trade flows, and operational planning for companies operating between both countries.

Logistics implications: possible scenarios

Beyond confirmed effects, the current regulatory environment gives rise to possible logistics scenarios, which do not represent confirmed facts but are commonly observed in similar trade tension contexts. There may be increased pressure on customs processes, including additional document checks, inspections, or longer clearance times at key border crossings. Such conditions often translate into operational delays and higher coordination requirements.

Some companies may also consider adjustments to their logistics planning, including route changes, shipment frequency modifications, or inventory level reviews as precautionary measures in response to higher costs or regulatory uncertainty. From an energy perspective, if the electricity suspension persists, it could indirectly affect logistics operations that rely on continuous power supply, such as cold storage facilities, distribution centers, or port operations. The real impact will depend on the duration and scope of the measure.

At the beginning of 2026, the global beef market has undergone an important shift that opens a strategic window for Colombia. China, the world’s largest importer of beef, has implemented a system of quotas and tariffs on imports from countries with a high market share, such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, limiting tariff-free access beyond those thresholds.
This scenario creates a competitive position for Colombia, which does not face additional tariffs because its historical participation in the Chinese market represents less than 3% of total imports.

Growth Opportunity

Fedegán estimates that in 2026 Colombia could export up to 50,000 tons of beef to China, provided that domestic price stability is maintained and the country can respond to demand with adequate logistical infrastructure. This growth would represent a significant increase compared to recent years and would position Colombia as a more consistent supplier in a market historically dominated by major regional exporters.

(FAQ/Information)

Why does Colombia not pay tariffs?

China established quota limits for countries with high participation in its beef imports. Colombia remains below those thresholds, which allows it to export without triggering the 55% tariff.

What has been the historical export trend?

Beef exports to China have increased in recent years, with China becoming Colombia’s main destination in certain periods.

What does logistics mean for the sector?

Maintaining cold-chain integrity, efficient transit times, and accurate customs documentation is essential to remain competitive.

Export with specialized logistics support

China’s new trade framework creates a clear opportunity for Colombian beef exports, but capitalizing on it requires strong international logistics, regulatory compliance, and precise operational planning.

Do you need reliable logistics for your imports or exports? At Fenix Global Cargo we offer maritime, air, and land transportation, plus cargo insurance and customs operations.

Contactar por WhatsApp

The beginning of 2026 brought a new adjustment to fuel prices in Colombia, a measure with direct effects on logistics operations and road freight transport. According to official information and economic reports, the increase in gasoline and diesel prices adds to other operating costs such as tolls, significantly raising the cost structure of the sector.

New gasoline and diesel prices as of January 2026

As of January 1, 2026, new regulated prices for regular gasoline and diesel came into effect, as defined by the Energy and Gas Regulation Commission (CREG). At the national level, the adjustment translated into average increases of approximately 90 pesos per gallon for gasoline and around 99 pesos per gallon for diesel. As a result, the average price of regular gasoline stands at approximately 16,057 pesos per gallon, while diesel reaches around 10,984 pesos per gallon. These values are not uniform across the country, as they vary by city due to transportation, distribution, and regional logistics costs.

Implications for freight transport

Higher fuel prices have a direct impact on fixed and variable costs in road freight transport. Key implications include pressure on carrier margins, the need to adjust freight rates, and reduced operational flexibility—particularly on logistics corridors with a high concentration of tolls. In addition, regional differences in fuel prices create uneven conditions for companies depending on their location and the routes they operate. Cities with higher distribution costs tend to register higher fuel prices, which affects the competitiveness of certain routes compared to others.

An adjustment scenario for logistics in 2026

The 2026 context presents an operational challenge for Colombia’s logistics sector. Rising fuel prices, combined with the effect of tolls, force companies to place greater emphasis on route efficiency, cost control, and operational planning.

In this environment, logistics management becomes a key factor in mitigating the impact of these increases and maintaining operational continuity amid a landscape of rising costs.

Sources
La República: Nuevos precios de la gasolina y el ACPM desde enero de 2026
El Colombiano: Suben los precios de gasolina y ACPM en Colombia
DataiFX: Alza de combustibles y peajes elevó costos del transporte de carga en casi 10%

In October 2025, Colombia reached a new historical record in road freight transport, consolidating a trend of logistical strengthening that positively impacts the national economy.

What does this record mean for Colombia

The new record is not just a numerical milestone. It shows an improvement in national logistical efficiency, greater dynamism for productive sectors, and a stronger connection between regions.
Such a high cargo volume also suggests increased employment in transportation, greater mobilization of inputs and products, and a strengthening of supply chains, something that is key in times of economic rebuilding and reactivation.

Additional considerations and context

Although the October record stands out, it is not an isolated case. Previous months had already shown outstanding figures. For example, in September 2025, cargo mobilization grew by 7.6 percent compared to the same month of the previous year. And in August 2025, another historical maximum had been reported by road with 13,266,633 tons transported.

It is also necessary to consider that when liquid cargo is recorded in gallons, especially after methodological changes, the figures may vary significantly, which calls for careful analysis of volumes over time.

Sources

• Ministerio de Transporte — Colombia rompe récord histórico en movimiento de carga (octubre 2025).
• Presidencia de la República / medios asociados — Informe sobre transporte de carga en 2025.

What Happened

On November 28, 2025, DIAN declared a contingency after reporting “partial unavailability” in its customs IT systems.The systems affected were Muisca Carga, Salida de Mercancías, and SYGA Importaciones — key platforms for import, export, and the logistical movement of goods.

According to official communications, the measure went into effect starting Friday, November 28, 2025.

What This Contingency Means for Customs Operations

• Electronic procedures were not operating normally: cargo registration, goods departure, and import processes became temporarily unavailable.
• To prevent the paralysis of operations, DIAN authorized — within the contingency framework — that certain procedures be carried out manually, as long as users demonstrated that they were unable to access the electronic system.
• This authorization is temporary and seeks to maintain the flow of foreign trade while systems are restored.

What Customs Users Should Do

If you are involved in imports, exports, or customs logistics — whether as an importer, exporter, freight forwarder, or customs user — keep the following in mind during the contingency:

• Verify whether the system is accessible.
  If you cannot complete the procedure electronically, you are allowed to perform it manually, as authorized by DIAN.
• Stay updated on DIAN’s official communications, as the entity indicated that services would be restored “as soon as possible.”
• Prepare the physical documents that normally accompany electronic procedures (forms, certificates, transport documents, etc.), so you can present them if you must operate manually.

What Happens Next

According to a new DIAN communication dated November 29, 2025, the contingency was lifted and electronic customs services were restored. This means that users can return to the normal use of systems such as Muisca Carga, Salida de Mercancías, SYGA Importaciones, and related platforms. However, DIAN recommends staying alert to future communications in case new contingencies arise.

Conclusion

The contingency declared by DIAN on November 28, 2025 caused a temporary interruption of its electronic customs platforms, requiring the use of manual procedures to avoid disruptions in foreign trade.
Although services have been restored, this episode highlights the importance of having internal contingency plans, maintaining physical documentation, and staying attentive to official communications.

Sources

• DIAN declara indisponibilidad de servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros — Comunicado de Prensa No. 111 (29/11/2025) DIAN
• “Contingencia en la Dian paraliza plataformas clave para el comercio exterior. Incertidumbre entre los empresarios” — Semana, 29/11/2025 Semana
• “DIAN suspende algunos servicios electrónicos aduaneros, ¿cuáles son?” — Caracol, 29/11/2025 Caracol Radio
• “Dian declara indisponibilidad de servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros” — La República, 29/11/2025 Diario La República
• “Dian declara contingencia y activa trámites manuales por fallas en servicios informáticos aduaneros” — Infobae, 29/11/2025 infobae
• “Se normaliza el funcionamiento de los servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros” — Comunicado de Prensa DIAN (Comunicado 112) 29/11/2025 DIAN

Logistics can be defined as the part of supply chain management that “plans, implements, and controls the efficient and effective flow of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption, in order to meet customer requirements.”
In other words: it’s about getting the right product to the right place at the right time, in the right condition, at the optimal cost.
Logistics includes operations such as transportation, warehousing, packaging, inventory management, returns handling (reverse logistics), among others.

Why is logistics key in the supply chain?

Best practices for effective logistics

Here are some practical tips you can apply:

1. Traceability: Implement visibility of the flow from origin to end customer.
2. Route and transport mode optimization: combine modes (maritime, land, air) when it makes sense.
3. Smart warehouse management: strategic location, efficient layout, organized picking.
4. Lean but secure inventory: avoid excess that drives up costs and stockouts that lead to lost sales.
5. Technology: use transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and data analytics tools.
6. Resilience and flexibility: plan alternative scenarios for disruptions.

And in the Colombian / Latin American context?

Although many of the best practices mentioned above are global, it is essential to adapt them to the local reality. In Colombia and Latin America, logistics faces challenges such as infrastructure limitations, transit times in rural areas, and connectivity between ports and hinterland. Therefore:

• Consider regional transportation partnerships.
• Evaluate the role of urban “last mile” delivery in large cities.
• Leverage reverse logistics as a competitive advantage in regional e-commerce.

In this context, a partner with coverage in Colombia—offices in Medellín, Bogotá, Cartagena, Buenaventura, and Fenix—can offer a strategic advantage for companies operating in the region.

Conclusion

Logistics is much more than “moving things from A to B.” It’s a strategic discipline that connects every piece of the supply chain, enhancing efficiency, customer satisfaction, and competitiveness. For any company aiming to stand out, investing in solid logistics is no longer optional.

Ready to transform your international logistics? Contact Fenix Global Cargo today and discover how we can optimize your supply chain from end to end.

Contact via WhatsApp

Sources

IBM (2024). What is supply chain logistics? IBM Think Blog.
https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/supply-chain-logistics

Michigan State University Online (2024). Is logistics the same as supply chain management?
https://www.michiganstateuniversityonline.com/resources/supply-chain/is-logistics-the-same-as-supply-chain-management/

Michigan State University Online (2024). Why logistics is fundamental to supply chain success.
https://www.michiganstateuniversityonline.com/resources/supply-chain/logistics-fundamental-to-supply-chain-success/

NetSuite (Oracle) (2024). Supply Chain Management vs. Logistics: Differences, Similarities and Importance.
https://www.netsuite.com/portal/resource/articles/erp/supply-chain-management-vs-logistics.shtml

University of North Texas (UNT College of Business) (2023). What is logistics?
https://cob.unt.edu/scm/what-is-logistics.html

Logistics Bureau (2024). What is logistics? Understanding the basics.
https://www.logisticsbureau.com/what-is-logistics/

International maritime trade enters a new phase of tension following the reciprocal imposition of port tariffs between the United States and China. The measures, activated on October 14, mark a turning point in the logistical rivalry between both powers, with operational, financial, and geopolitical implications that could extend to countries like Colombia, which is highly dependent on ocean transport.

United States activates tariffs on vessels linked to China

The United States has activated a new port tariff regime targeting vessels owned, operated, or built by Chinese companies, as part of an offensive to limit Beijing’s influence in the global maritime industry. The regulation requires shipowners to certify advance payment of the tariffs through the official Pay.gov portal before receiving authorization to enter or unload at U.S. ports.

The measure was justified by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), citing China’s “structural dominance” in shipbuilding, which accounts for nearly 25% of the global fleet. In contrast, the U.S. built fewer than ten merchant vessels in 2024.

According to BIMCO, up to 35% of bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships could be affected, representing 44% of the combined capacity of those fleets. However, a limited impact on freight rates is expected, as major shipping companies are reorganizing their fleets and charter contracts to avoid the costs. Cosco Shipping and OOCL are among the most exposed, with estimated cumulative tariffs of up to US$3.24 billion by 2026, although several companies have stated they will not pass these costs on to customers.

Colombia: strategic routes and diplomatic pressure

Although not directly involved in the conflict, Colombia may face logistical, commercial, and diplomatic impacts from this escalation. Its geographic position and reliance on maritime trade make it vulnerable to secondary effects:

• Buenaventura, Colombia’s main Pacific port, is linked to the new maritime route with China via Shanghai and Chancay (Peru). If U.S. restrictions intensify, port calls in Colombia could be affected, especially if sanctioned vessels or Cosco-chartered ships are involved.
• The Colombian-American Chamber of Commerce warned that diplomatic confrontation with the U.S. could have direct economic consequences. While new routes with China are seen as commercial progress, they may also strain relations with Washington.
• Colombian exporters are already under pressure: the 10% tariff imposed by the U.S. led to a 13.7% drop in exports in August. If maritime restrictions are added, logistics costs could rise further.

Shipping lines like Seaboard Marine and King Ocean, which operate in Colombia and rely on Chinese-built vessels, may face operational restrictions or increased costs if U.S. port controls intensify.

Beyond tariffs: logistical control and strategic rivalry:

This exchange of measures represents a dispute over control of global supply chains, access to strategic ports, and technological sovereignty in the maritime sector. In a context where over 80% of global trade depends on ocean transport, the repercussions could be felt across the global economy.

Sources

• EE.UU. escala ofensiva y esta semana impondrá gravámenes a buques vinculados con China – MundoMarítimo
• China impone gravámenes portuarios a buques con capital estadounidense y sanciona al astillero surcoreano Hanwha Ocean – MundoMarítimo
• Colombia abrió ruta marítima comercial con China – El Nacional
• Exportaciones de Colombia a Estados Unidos cayeron 13,7 % en agosto – El Tiempo
• Impacto de gravámenes de EE.UU. en navieras – HT Line
• Colombia abre ruta marítima comercial con China – DW
• Colombia abre ruta marítima comercial con China en medio de tensiones – CRHoy
• Impacto del gravamen de EE.UU. en buques ligados a China – Logística360