Colombia Establishes 0% Tariff for Key Textile and Footwear Inputs

Days after an initial round of tariff reductions, Colombia’s government has enacted Decree 1197 of November 14, 2025, which establishes a zero-percent tariff for the importation of ten specific subheadings of synthetic and cotton yarns as essential raw materials and inputs for the domestic textile, apparel, and footwear sectors.

The measure, signed by President Gustavo Petro and Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Diana Marcela Morales Rojas, is intended to strengthen the national fashion system, stimulate job creation, and promote formalization within the sector. The measure will be in effect for a period of one year from its entry into force.

The tariff reduction applies exclusively to imports originating from countries with which Colombia does not have a current free trade agreement. The decision follows a recommendation made unanimously by the Committee on Customs, Tariff, and Foreign Trade Affairs during its 381st session on October 15, 2025.

The government says that implementation of the zero-percent tariff is a response to reported market conditions, and that although the inputs included in the ten subheadings have existing domestic production capacity, the industry is reportedly experiencing a supply deficit. This condition is attributed to global demand pressures and increased international competition, specifically citing the mass importation of final goods at reduced prices.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism (MinCIT), following technical verification visits by its National Goods Producers Registry Group, determined that Colombia’s apparent consumption of yarns is approximately 163,000 tons, of which 88% is covered by imports, with domestic production accounting for only 12%. The market for cotton yarns specifically relies on imports for two-thirds of its demand.

Minister Morales Rojas indicated that the policy is a temporary mechanism to mitigate the risk of cost transference to the domestic industry, which could potentially reduce production and impact employment. She emphasized that the textile, apparel, and footwear sectors are significant generators of formal employment, particularly for women and youth.