President Donald Trump announces on January 26th 2024, the imposition of a 25% tariff on all Colombian imports to the United States, effective immediately. This decision comes in direct response to the Colombian president Gustavo Petro’s refusal to allow two U.S military aircrafts to land in Colombia, each carrying around 80 deported Colombian nationals. Along with the 25% tariff, President Trump has warned that if in a week, Colombia does not reverse its stance on this issue, he will double the tariff to 50%.
Along with this tariff, the U.S administration has implemented a series of other measures, including travel bans and visa revocations, enhanced custom inspections for Colombian nationals and cargo have been ordered.
In return, President Petro has announced that Colombia will also be imposing a 25% tariff on U.S imports, with a potential increase to 50%. Petro also emphasizes the need for deportations to be conducted using civilian aircrafts under conditions of respect for the dignity of the deportees.
This dispute is a surprise to many, marking a notable shift in the US- Colombia relationship, which has previously been cooperative and peaceful, especially regarding the counter narcotics and trade. The United States is Colombia’s largest trading partner. 40% of coffee Colombia produces is exported to the US, which accounts for a total of only 17% of total coffee imports.
Some key Colombian exports to the US include crude oil, gold, and cut flowers, while some major U.S exports to Colombia include gasoline, commercial aircraft, corn, and even soybeans. With this tariff in immediate effect, changes to most of these items are likely going to inflate, leading to increased prices for these goods in both countries. Petro highlighted that Colombia did previously accept deportation flights from the U.S, but are now expecting humane treatment for its returning citizens, stating, “The U.S cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals.”
The broader conflict in this story involves the Trump administration’s intensified efforts to curb illegal immigration. Since returning to office, Trump has declared immigration a national emergency. He is now directing the U.S military to assist with border security and is also implementing stricter asylum policies.
The international community is closely monitoring this situation, as the outcome of this situation will likely impact the U.S’s relationship with countless other Latin American countries. With this whole dispute, the importance in balancing national security concerns with the principles of human dignity and international cooperation are underscored.