economy

Is Colombia on the path to industrialization?: Petro's theory questioned by industrial figures in GDP

Portafolio Journalist 05.18.2026 15:47 Updated: 05.18.2026 15:47

Is Colombia on the path to industrialization?: Petro's theory questioned by industrial figures in GDP

TL;DR

  • Colombia's economy grew 2.9% in the first quarter of 2026.
  • President Gustavo Petro claims this signifies a new phase of industrialization, moving away from reliance on oil.
  • Experts and industry leaders question Petro's interpretation, citing lower growth figures from other surveys and rising operational costs.
  • The energy sector has seen dramatic cost increases, and taxes like the wealth tax are cited as detrimental to businesses.
  • The oil and gas sector has experienced its lowest February level since 2009, and coal extraction contracted by 13%.
  • Gold extraction is the only expanding sector, but approximately 80% is informal or illegal.
  • The overall Colombian economy grew 2.2% in Q1 2026, slightly above analyst expectations.