EPM Joins Analdex Trade Association To Boost International Trade Clout

EPM (Empresas Públicas de Medellín) has been accepted as a member of the National Association of Foreign Trade (Analdex), following its accreditation as an Authorized Economic Operator by Colombia’s Directorate of National Taxes and Customs (DIAN).

Analdex, recognized as the leading trade and logistics industry association in Colombia, represents over 400 affiliates across the country. The organization focuses on promoting Colombia’s international trade by developing and implementing policies related to exports, imports, and logistics.

In a communication to EPM’s General Manager, John Maya Salazar, Analdex Executive President Javier Díaz Molina expressed optimism about the new partnership, stating, “We hope to work together for our sector and meet the requirements and expectations that have motivated EPM to be part of Analdex.”

EPM Vice President of Supplies and Shared Services, Humberto Iglesias Gómez, noted that the company plans to leverage Analdex’s experience and network to enhance its foreign trade operations. “We will carry out initiatives that allow us to take advantage of Analdex’s experience, generate relationships with its affiliates, and use best practices in our foreign trade activities,” said Iglesias.

Strategic Benefits

Joining Analdex provides EPM with access to strategic advice on international customs, exchange, and tax logistics. It also facilitates interactions with key industry bodies, including the National Joint Commission for Tax and Customs Management, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the Confederation of Authorized Economic Operators of Latin America (COEALAC).

Rodrigo Patiño Correa, Analdex’s regional manager for Antioquia, welcomed EPM’s membership, describing it as a significant vote of confidence. “We are motivated and pleased with EPM’s entry into our guild. We look forward to adding value to their activities and anticipate success in their future projects,” Patiño said.

EPM’s Foreign Trade Milestones

EPM has achieved several milestones in foreign trade, including the import of 280 containers of solar panels for its Tepuy photovoltaic project in La Dorada, Caldas, and the import of 90% of the electromechanical equipment for the Hidroituango plant from countries like China, Brazil, Germany, and Spain.

For its aqueduct modernization projects in the Aburrá Valley, EPM has imported over 500 containers of pipelines from Chile and Mexico. Additionally, in 2016, the company utilized Antonov cargo planes to transport 800 tons of supplies for the Guatapé hydroelectric plant repair (above photo) and, in 2023, for the Ituango project.

Future Engagement

EPM also plans to participate in Analdex’s business training and education programs, which have been in place since 2017. These programs aim to develop the skills needed to navigate the global market and maintain a secure and efficient international supply chain, ensuring the timely provision of services.

EPM’s commitment to an effective supply chain supports the growth and expansion of domestic public services, contributing to broader coverage and development in the regions where it operates.