98% of Colombian Foreign Trade Depends on the Sea: Experts Analyze Sector Risks

Portafolio Journalist 03.30.2026 18:16 Updated: 03.30.2026 18:38

98% of Colombian Foreign Trade Depends on the Sea: Experts Analyze Sector Risks

TL;DR

  • Approximately 98% of Colombia's exported and imported cargo tonnage is moved by sea, with about 80% of exports leaving through national ports.
  • In the first half of 2025, Colombia moved over 85 million tons of cargo, indicating dynamic international trade but also highlighting logistical infrastructure challenges.
  • 84% of maritime traffic is concentrated in the Caribbean region (Cartagena, Santa Marta, Coveñas, Barranquilla), with Buenaventura leading on the Pacific coast, increasing vulnerability to disruptions.
  • Key risks for the sector include access road congestion, operational errors, cyberattacks, terrorism, piracy, and geopolitical conflicts.
  • Colombian maritime insurance is underdeveloped, with significant reliance on international reinsurance, impacting the country's ability to manage large-scale risks autonomously.
  • The insurance sector needs to become more sophisticated to protect the country's logistics infrastructure and ensure the stability of foreign trade.