The Colombian government’s focus on creating a stable and thriving economy is paying off.  Colombia has been growing steadily, and faster than the average in Latin America.  And, despite the global economic slowdown, the Colombian economy is poised for a return to growth.

Key Economic and Investment Facts:

• GDP growth in 2007 was over 7.5%, the highest since 1978. In 2008-2009, the international economic crisis had its impact, with growth slowing to 2.5% in 2008, and shrinking 0.4% in 2009.  However, all indicators have pointed to a return to economic growth in 2010.

• Colombia’s inflation rate continues to trend downward, and is near its lowest level in over 50 years. Colombia is one of the few Latin American countries that has never experienced hyperinflation, or ever defaulted on its debt.

• In 2008, Colombia received $10.6 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) – the highest amount ever. FDI for 2009 is estimated to be near $9 billion.

• In 2009, the United States Export Import Bank put Colombia in the top tier of its list of countries with potential for economic growth and for offering U.S. companies an opportunity to grow their businesses and create more jobs in both countries.  

• Colombia’s economy was ranked 37th among 183 economies by the World Bank's Doing Business 2010 report (an improvement of 42 positions since 2007). For the third year in a row, the report included Colombia in the list of the top 10 reformer countries. In addition, Colombia ranked first among Latin American countries for “ease of doing business.”