The manufacturing industry started the year poorly: production was -0.5%
Industrial activity began 2026 in negative territory, according to Dane. Photo: iStock
TL;DR
- In January 2026, manufacturing production fell by 0.5% and real sales by 0.7% compared to January 2025.
- Over the last twelve months ending January 2026, production grew by 1.7% and sales by 1.7%.
- 22 out of 39 industrial activities registered negative production variations in January 2026.
- Key sectors with double-digit negative variations included basic precious and non-ferrous metals, and cocoa processing.
- Significant positive growth was seen in motor vehicle manufacturing and other transport equipment.
- Industrial production decreased in 9 out of 14 analyzed departments in January 2026, with Tolima and Córdoba showing the largest declines.
- Santander led regional growth with an 11.1% increase in industrial production.