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.

Border crossing begins to normalize while tariff dispute persists

The Rumichaca border crossing, the main land connection between Colombia and Ecuador, began to normalize its operations after unions and worker organizations decided to lift the blockades that had restricted traffic in the area for several days. The international bridge, which connects Ipiales in Colombia with Tulcán in Ecuador, is one of the most important corridors for trade between both countries. During the blockade, the movement of cargo vehicles, passengers, and local commerce was significantly affected, generating economic impacts for transport companies and merchants in the border region. Although the lifting of the protests allows mobility to gradually return to normal, the commercial conflict that triggered the crisis has not yet been resolved.

Economic impact of the border shutdown

During the days of the blockade, the flow of goods through the main land crossing between the two countries dropped significantly, directly affecting transport operators, merchants, and companies involved in international trade. According to reports from trade associations and authorities cited by local media, the paralysis generated significant economic losses for sectors that depend on cross-border activity. The disruption also affected local businesses, logistics services, and customs operations located around the international crossing. Blockades of this type have an immediate impact on supply chains, since Rumichaca is one of the most frequently used land transport routes between Colombia and Ecuador.

Decision to end the strike

The unions behind the protest announced the suspension of the blockades in order to allow economic activity in the region to recover, especially ahead of the expected increase in tourism and commercial movement during the Easter holiday period. The decision seeks to reduce the economic damage that a prolonged closure of the crossing could cause to local economies, particularly in cities such as Ipiales, where commerce with Ecuadorian visitors represents a significant portion of local economic activity.

Possible implications for regional logistics

The following section contains interpretations and possible scenarios based on the situation described above. These assessments are speculative in nature, do not constitute confirmed facts, and should not be interpreted as official or definitive information.

The temporary disruption of the Rumichaca crossing highlights how trade conflicts and local protests can affect key logistics corridors for regional commerce. When a strategic point in the land transportation chain is blocked, companies that depend on that corridor may face delivery delays, changes in logistics routes, and higher operating costs. For companies that manage foreign trade operations between Colombia and Ecuador, these scenarios reinforce the need for logistics planning, constant risk monitoring, and strategies that allow them to quickly adapt to disruptions in transportation flows.

The logistics operation at the Port of Buenaventura, Colombia’s main maritime terminal on the Pacific, is experiencing a critical congestion situation that affects not only the flow of goods but also the efficiency of the entire foreign trade supply chain.

Causes of the Port Congestion

The congestion in Buenaventura is the result of several factors that have accumulated over recent months:

Conclusion

The logistics crisis at the Port of Buenaventura represents a significant challenge for Colombian foreign trade. The combination of operational pressures, weather conditions, infrastructure limitations, and access disruptions has generated congestion both offshore and on land, affecting timelines, costs, and overall supply chain efficiency.

Although authorities have activated contingency measures, the situation demonstrates the need for coordinated planning and proactive logistics management to minimize the impact of structural congestion scenarios.

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.

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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%

Colombia’s National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) achieved a notable milestone in its commercial relationship with the People’s Republic of China by signing an Action Plan that marks the beginning of the process toward a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) between the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs of both countries. This event took place on December 9, 2025, and was led by senior representatives from both customs authorities. Dian

The Action Plan seeks to lay the foundation for mutual recognition of the AEO programs of Colombia and China, with the objective of strengthening supply chain security and improving the facilitation of international trade operations. Dian

Importance of the Agreement

The significance of this potential agreement is supported by the participation of AEO-certified companies in bilateral trade. According to data reported by DIAN, from January to September 2025, 54.03% of Colombian exports to China — equivalent to USD 637.27 million — were managed by AEO operators, highlighting their relevance in the commercial exchange between the two economies. Dian

The expected outcomes of a Mutual Recognition Agreement for certified operators include:

• Enhanced economic efficiency through reduced time and costs related to customs controls.
• Lowering delays by decreasing or applying priority inspections and preferential treatment.
• Reduced cargo theft through improvements in security for both parties. Dian

Action Plan and Next Steps

As part of the agreed Action Plan, DIAN’s AEO Subdirectorate will conduct joint validation visits with officials from China’s Customs Administration. These visits are intended to demonstrate Colombia’s procedures for verifying compliance with the minimum security requirements necessary to grant AEO authorizations, representing a key step toward achieving a Mutual Recognition Agreement. Dian

This cooperation initiative represents a structured effort to facilitate trade operations for companies that both customs authorities recognize as reliable.

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

The United States is preparing to announce the removal of import tariffs on coffee from several Latin American origins, according to reports by Portafolio. This move is part of a broader trade-framework initiative aimed at reducing costs for agricultural imports and addressing inflationary pressures on U.S. consumers.
CTA (soft): Subscribe to our trade-alerts to be notified when the measure is officially confirmed.

A move framed within U.S. economic policy

Since mid-2025, the White House has intensified its strategy to mitigate the rising cost of living. Imported food products including coffee, plantains, sugar, and other agricultural goods have recorded significant price increases, placing pressure on U.S. consumers. In this context, Washington identified that certain goods cannot be supplied domestically, meaning tariffs, instead of protecting producers, were driving up costs.
Coffee is precisely one of those products: the United States is the largest consumer in the world but not a relevant producer. This is why it is part of the goods considered “strategic” for a tariff reduction aimed at stabilizing prices.Additionally, this move aligns with agreements already announced with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala. These countries have reached frameworks that allow the elimination or reduction of tariffs on key agricultural products, including coffee in some cases. Although the measure has not been made official, multiple analysts suggest that the inclusion of Colombian coffee is a likely but not guaranteed scenario.

What is known so far (and what remains to be confirmed)

According to Portafolio and other international sources:

• The announcement could be made this week, depending on final technical discussions between the Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).
• It is not yet defined whether it will apply to green, roasted, or processed coffee. This point is crucial for countries like Colombia, which export mainly green coffee.
• The countries included could vary depending on the type of bilateral agreement or existing trade framework with the United States.
• The measure would be part of a broader package aimed at easing costs in imported food categories before the close of the fiscal year.
  

Different international analysts agree that this tariff removal would have an immediate impact on trade flows, especially in markets where current tariff rates exceed 5–10%. In a high-turnover product like coffee, a reduction of this size can influence purchasing decisions, preferred origins, and shipment volumes.

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.

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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/