Monday, August 17, 2026 - Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has asked President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian products as the country confronts the devastating aftermath of a 7.4-magnitude earthquake.
The disaster has killed at least 289 people and injured nearly 4,000, with western cities including Cali, Pereira and Quibdó among the hardest hit. De la Espriella made the request during a phone call with Trump, saying tariff relief could provide urgent support to businesses struggling with the economic impact of the disaster.
The appeal comes after U.S. tariffs on Colombian goods were raised to 12.5% in late July, although some products, including coffee and oil, are exempt.
De la Espriella thanked Trump for American emergency assistance, with the United States providing $26.5 million in aid for food, medical supplies and emergency shelters. However, Washington has not yet indicated whether it will agree to the temporary tariff suspension.
The request now puts economic policy at the centre of Colombia’s recovery effort. More than 14,700 homes have reportedly been destroyed and over 81,500 damaged, leaving authorities facing an enormous reconstruction challenge.
With lives lost, communities displaced and businesses under pressure, the decision by Washington could become an important test of the new Colombian government’s relationship with Trump—and of how quickly international support can translate into meaningful economic relief.
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