economy
May 6, 2026
Colombia's Industrial Production Fell in April for the First Time in Over a Year Due to High Costs and Lower Demand
Industrial production could be affected by uncertainty over gas deficit. Photo: Courtesy: Istock
TL;DR
- Colombian industrial production fell in April for the first time in over a year.
- High input costs, particularly for chemicals, hydrocarbons, plastics, rubber, and textiles, accelerated inflation to a three-year high.
- Increased production costs led companies to raise sales prices, which in turn impacted demand and limited new order growth.
- New orders continued to grow but at a marginal and weakening pace, attributed to lower sales dynamism and customer price sensitivity.
- Companies reduced input purchases and saw significant inventory declines, reflecting a more cautious business strategy.
- Supplier delivery times lengthened due to factors like blockades and customs issues.
- Despite challenges, employment in the industry saw moderate growth, though business expectations dropped to a nearly two-year low.
- The overall trend indicates a slowdown in the industrial sector, with continued adjustments expected due to the challenging economic environment.