¿Están sus finanzas preparadas? Así se moverá la capacidad de gasto de los colombianos para el 2026
Camilo Herrera, fundador de Raddar. Foto: Fernando Ariza/Portafolio
TL;DR
- Household spending in Colombia is influenced by minimum wage increases, inflation, credit costs, and import flows.
- In 2025, commerce grew significantly, driven by purchases of cars, electronics, and mobile phones, with household spending increasing by about 3.6%.
- Debt played a crucial role in 2025's consumption, with 24.3% of household spending financed by credit.
- Concerts and travel were significant spending areas in 2024-2025, indicating entertainment's importance.
- Household spending typically peaks in the second half of the year due to numerous celebrations.
- The anticipated spending growth for 2026 was initially projected at 2-2.5%, but minimum wage hikes may alter this.
- A 24% minimum wage increase could lead to a 6-10% rise in production costs and potentially 8-9% inflation.
- Higher inflation is expected to increase interest rates, making credit more costly and discouraging debt-fueled consumption.
- The housing market in 2026 anticipates increased cancellations due to rising costs, slowing construction and sales.
- Durable goods and technology purchases are expected to decelerate, with potential boosts from the World Cup.
- The real purchasing power increase from the minimum wage hike is estimated at around 1%, with inflation at 7%.
- Currency revaluation is seen as temporary, with a lower dollar encouraging imports and potentially affecting local production.
- Over 45% of clothing purchased in Colombia is imported, with competition from platforms like Temu and Shein.
- The Venezuelan migration has increased demand for goods and services, with no expected mass departures in 2026.
- Neighborhood stores remain vital, but face challenges with generational succession.
- Key recommendations for households include prioritizing savings and careful spending planning due to rising inflation and expenses.