What does the US import from Colombia?

Discover the top US imports from Colombia in 2024, including crude oil, coffee, flowers, and gold. Learn about US-Colombia trade relations, market trends, and key commodities driving bilateral trade.

US Trade Relations Mar 25, 2025 0 6040 Add to Reading List

In recent years, the trade relationship between the United States and Colombia has strengthened significantly, leading to a rise in imports from Colombia. The United States has become one of Colombia's largest trading partners, and as a result, there has been a steady increase in the import of goods from Colombia. According to the US import data and Import data on US imports from Colombia, the US imported goods worth $18.43 billion from Colombia in 2024, an increase of 8.74% from the previous year. Colombia is the 24th largest trade partner of the US. Colombian exports to US have grown steadily in recent years, reflecting how Colombia exports to US a diverse mix of goods under the framework of the US Colombia trade agreement.

Thanks to this pact, what products come from Colombia to USA most commonly include coffee, fresh flowers, bananas, textiles, and an expanding range of manufactured items, all of which help strengthen bilateral economic ties. In this article, we will explore the major US imports from Colombia, along with the US-Colombia trade relations and recent developments in the import sector.

What does the US Import from Colombia? Top US Imports from Colombia

The relationship between the United States and Colombia is robust, with significant imports flowing between the two countries. Among the top imports that the USA receives from Colombia are refined petroleum, coal, coffee, cut flowers, and bananas. These imports contribute not only to the US economy but also to the trade partnership that continues to strengthen between the two nations. Now the question arises, what does the US import from Colombia. The top 10 commodities that the US imports from Colombia, as per the US shipment data and Colombia customs export data for 2024, include:

1. Mineral fuels and oils (HS code 27): $7.67 billion

Mineral fuels and oils were the top imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $7.67 billion. This category includes products such as petroleum oils, coal, and natural gas. These products are essential for the US economy, as they are used in various industries, including manufacturing and transportation.

2. Precious stones and metals (HS code 71): $2.17 billion

The second most significant import from Colombia to the US in 2024 was precious stones and metals, with a total value of $2.17 billion. This category includes products such as diamonds, gold, and emeralds. These precious stones and metals are used in jewelry making and other luxury goods.

3. Live trees and other plants (HS code 07): $1.64 billion

Live trees and other plants were the third most significant imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $1.64 billion. This category includes products such as flowers, fruits, and vegetables. These products are in demand in the US market due to their quality and variety.

4. Coffee, tea, and spices (HS code 09): $1.52 billion

Colombian coffee is famous worldwide for its rich flavor and aroma, making it one of the top imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, as per the US coffee import data from Colombia by HS code. With a total value of $1.52 billion, coffee, tea, and spices are essential for many Americans who enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea.

5. Aluminum and articles thereof (HS code 76): $668.72 million

Aluminum and articles made of aluminum were also among the top imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $668.72 million, as per the US aluminum import data from Colombia by HS code. This category includes products such as aluminum foil, cans, and household items. Aluminum is a versatile metal used in various industries, including construction and packaging.

6. Edible fruit and nuts (HS code 08): $561.78 million

Edible fruits and nuts were another popular import from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $561.78 million, as per the data on US fruits import from Colombia by HS code. This category includes products such as bananas, mangoes, and cashews. These products are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them a favorite among American consumers.

7. Electrical machinery and equipment (HS code 85): $459.16 million

Electrical machinery and equipment were also among the top imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $459.16 million. This category includes products such as televisions, computers, and smartphones. These electronic devices are in high demand in the US market due to their advanced technology and features.

8. Plastics and articles thereof (HS code 39): $265.18 million

Plastics and articles made of plastic were significant imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $265.18 million. This category includes products such as plastic bags, containers, and packaging materials. Plastic is a versatile material used in various industries, including food and beverage, automotive, and healthcare.

9. Miscellaneous edible preparations (HS code 21): $196.99 million

Miscellaneous edible preparations were also among the top imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $196.99 million. This category includes products such as sauces, condiments, and food preparations. These products add flavor and variety to American cuisine, making them popular among US consumers.

10. Sugars and sugar confectionery (HS code 17): $196.75 million

Lastly, sugars and sugar confectionery were significant imports from Colombia to the US in 2024, with a total value of $196.75 million. This category includes products such as sugar, chocolate, and candies. These sweet treats are enjoyed by many Americans, making them a staple in the US market.

Key US Imports from Colombia by Commodity

Product Category	Value (2024)	% of Total Imports	Description
Crude Oil	$5.4 billion	29.3%	One of the largest suppliers of crude oil to the U.S.
Coffee	$1.4 billion	7.6%	Colombia is one of the top coffee exporters to the U.S.
Flowers	$1.14 billion	6.2%	Key supplier of fresh flowers, especially around holidays
Gold and Precious Metals	$1.0 billion	5.4%	High-value commodities contributing to trade surplus
Textiles & Apparel	$1.2 billion	6.5%	Major exporter of textiles and apparel under preferential tariff agreements
Other Goods	$8.3 billion	45%	Includes chemicals, electronics, machinery, and more

US Imports from Colombia in the Last 10 Years: Yearly US Import Data

US Imports from Colombia

Year of Trade	US Imports from Colombia ($)
2014	$18.58 billion
2015	$14.69 billion
2016	$14.43 billion
2017	$14.12 billion
2018	$14.27 billion
2019	$14.71 billion
2020	$11.33 billion
2021	$13.75 billion
2022	$19.40 billion
2023	$16.95 billion
2024	$18.43 billion

How do these imports from Colombia benefit the US economy?

The imports from Colombia play a crucial role in the US economy in various ways. For instance:

Diversification of Products: By importing goods from Colombia, the US can diversify its product offerings and provide consumers with a wider range of options.
Supporting Colombian Economy: Importing products from Colombia helps support the Colombian economy by providing a market for its goods and creating jobs in the country.
Promoting Trade Relations: By importing goods from Colombia, the US can strengthen its trade relations with the country and foster a positive diplomatic relationship.

Overview of USA-Colombia Import Trade

Indicator	Details
Total U.S. Imports from Colombia (2024)	$18.43 billion
Top U.S. Imports from Colombia	Crude Oil, Coffee, Flowers, Gold, Textiles, and Apparel
Major U.S. Trading Partner	Colombia is the U.S.'s 24th-largest trading partner
Trade Agreement	U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA) 2012

US-Colombia Trade Relations and Agreements

The United States and Colombia have a long history of trade relations dating back to the mid-19th century. Over the years, both countries have signed several trade agreements to facilitate the exchange of goods and services.

The most prominent of these agreements is the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA), which was signed in 2012 and went into effect in 2013. Under the CTPA, tariffs on most Colombian exports to the United States were eliminated, making Colombian goods more competitive in the American market. This has led to a surge in exports from Colombia to the United States, with key sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and machinery benefiting the most. As a result, the United States has become one of the largest importers of Colombian goods in the world.

Trade Agreement: U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA)

Feature	Details
Implemented	2012
Key Benefits: 1	- Reduces tariffs on U.S. exports to Colombia
2	- Increases market access for agricultural goods
3	- Promotes economic growth by eliminating trade barriers
Impact on Imports	- Enhanced market access for Colombian products to the U.S.
Current Status	Both countries benefit from duty-free trade for many products under the TPA

Recent Trade Developments for US-Colombia Import Trade

Development	Details
Tariff Threats (2025)	- U.S. President threatened 25% tariffs on Colombian imports due to migrant repatriation disputes
Impact of Threats	- Potential increase in prices of coffee, flowers, and other imports
Resolution	- Dispute resolved after Colombia agreed to repatriate citizens, avoiding the tariffs

US Import Pricing Trends and Shipments From Colombia

Product Category	Pricing Trend (2024)	Notes
Crude Oil	- Oil prices fluctuate based on global market conditions	- Prices generally follow global oil price trends
Coffee	- Prices increased due to tariff threats in early 2025	- Arabica coffee futures reached a 47-year high in early 2025
Flowers	- Prices spike during peak demand seasons (e.g., Valentine’s Day)	- Threat of tariffs in early 2025 impacted shipments
Gold	- Stable, driven by the global commodity market	- Price fluctuations based on global economic conditions
Textiles & Apparel	- Prices have remained relatively stable	- Competitive pricing due to the TPA agreement

Future Outlook for US-Colombia Trade

U.S.-Colombia Trade Relations: The U.S. is Colombia's largest trading partner, with an established trade agreement (TPA) that boosts economic cooperation.
Diversified Imports: The U.S. imports a variety of goods from Colombia, with crude oil, coffee, and flowers as the top categories.
Pricing Trends: Price volatility is seen in coffee and flowers, with geopolitical events (e.g., tariffs) playing a role in shaping import costs.
Future Challenges: Ongoing geopolitical tensions (e.g., tariff threats) and global commodity fluctuations could impact future pricing and trade volumes.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the United States imports a variety of goods from Colombia, ranging from coffee and flowers to fresh fruits and vegetables. The strong trade relations between the two countries have led to an increase in the import of Colombian products to the US, benefiting both economies. With the continued growth of the Colombian economy and the expansion of trade agreements, it is expected that the import of Colombian goods to the United States will continue to rise in the coming years.

We hope that you gained insightful knowledge from our blog on US imports from Colombia and what does the US import from Colombia. To know more about the latest US import trends, visit USImportdata. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in and get a list of top US import companies at your fingertips!