The allure of Colombian coffee, vibrant cut flowers, and the global reliance on crude oil showcase the country’s integral role in international trade. If you’re enjoying your morning brew or buying flowers for a loved one, chances are Colombia has played a part in making those moments possible. Yet, sweeping tariffs imposed during Donald Trump’s presidency may have more than just political implications—they’ve brought economic shifts that might be affecting your everyday spending.
This blog explores three key Colombian exports—coffee, cut flowers, and crude oil—and unpacks how these goods are impacted by tariffs. By the end, you’ll understand why prices may be climbing and the broader consequences for Colombian trade, the U.S. economy, and your wallet.
Why Colombian Imports Are on the Tariff Radar
Trade policies implemented under the Trump administration aimed to renegotiate trade deficits, safeguard American industries, and measure global power dynamics. Colombia, as the U.S.’s ally and trade partner under agreements like the U.S.–Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA), was not immune to the ripple effects of the administration’s tariff strategies.
The tariffs, although directed at larger geopolitical players like China or the European Union, indirectly affected Colombia in three ways:
- Collateral Damage – U.S. manufacturers sourcing materials from Colombia faced higher costs due to overlapping supply chains impacted by global tariffs.
- Retaliatory Tariffs – While Colombia wasn’t a direct target, reduced trade flow restrictions with other partners meant price hikes indirectly affected Colombian goods.
- Economic Downturns – Colombia’s economic dependence on exports like coffee and oil left it vulnerable to a drop in external demand caused by higher tariffs.
Now, let’s break down how Trump’s trade legacy impacts specific Colombian goods.
Colombian Coffee Beans: A More Expensive Brew
Your cup of café con leche might be costing a little more, and Colombian coffee producers are feeling the pressure.
Coffee by the Numbers
- Colombia is the third-largest coffee exporter in the world, after Brazil and Vietnam, and produces some of the highest-quality Arabica beans.
- The U.S. imports $1.2 billion worth of Colombian coffee annually, making it one of Colombia’s primary buyers.
Why Prices Are Rising
- Supply Strains
While tariffs on aluminum and steel weren’t directly targeted at agricultural goods, these materials are essential for coffee packaging and transportation. Increased logistical costs in exporting regions have trickled down to the price of coffee itself.
- Devalued Peso
Colombian exporters are battling fluctuating trade deficits due to weakened demand from U.S. buyers. Coupled with a devalued peso, coffee farmers experience reduced income, incentivizing price hikes to remain profitable.
- Market Diversion
Colombian coffee exporters are turning to other international partners, creating a tighter global supply pool, which has led to higher prices of premium beans.
The Bottom Line for Coffee Lovers
Consider supporting direct-to-consumer Colombian coffee programs. Many new startups now bypass international carriers and tariffs by working directly with small coffee farms, ensuring you still enjoy quality without inflated costs.
Cut Flowers: The (Pricey) Romance of Roses
They brighten up your home and make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, but the next time you buy cut flowers, you may notice a heftier price tag.
Flower Power in Colombia
- Colombia provides an astonishing 78% of the cut flowers imported into the U.S.
- Flowers are the second-largest agricultural export after coffee, a $1.5 billion industry annually.
Tariff Impact
- Transportation Costs
Trump’s tariffs on jet fuel indirectly hurt air cargo services, responsible for delivering fresh Colombian flowers daily. With fuel costs rising, American importers paid additional fees passed onto consumers.
- Labor Challenges
Flower farms rely heavily on affordable labor, but mounting export uncertainties meant farms couldn’t afford to hire at necessary levels, lowering production output despite overseas demand.
The Costs Add Up
Flower bouquets—wildly popular during holidays—can see a 15%–20% hike in price depending on seasonality. If fresh flowers are part of your routine, switching to dried arrangements may be an affordable alternative.
Crude Oil Disruptions Hitting Gas Stations
Unlike hobbies like flower arranging or sipping specialty coffee, crude oil hits everyone where it hurts—your gas bill.
Colombia’s Role in Oil
- Crude oil is Colombia’s top export, accounting for around 55% of export revenue.
- The U.S. receives 30% of Colombian crude imports, relying on its consistent supply.
Here’s What Happened
- Tariffs on Steel Pipelines
Steel tariffs under Trump affected U.S. infrastructure, particularly in refining imported oil. Consequently, delays and higher costs caused sharp price increases for petroleum products.
- China’s Retaliation
Ironically, Trump’s trade war with China diverted Colombian crude shipments to new destinations like Beijing. Combined with fluctuating crude oil prices globally, U.S. gas stations experienced volatility, impacting everyone from commuters to freight companies.
How Gas Buyers Can Adapt
Use fuel rewards programs or carpool when possible to absorb some of the impact from international tariff trickle-down effects.
Broader Implications for U.S.-Colombia Relations
The effects of tariffs extend beyond prices—trade imbalances can lead to geopolitical instability. Key concerns include:
- Economic Unease in Colombia – Dependence on American consumers puts Colombia at risk whenever tariffs shift unpredictably.
- Reduced Investment Incentives – U.S. companies may withdraw investments in Colombia’s industries due to the increased costs of trade compliance.
- Supply Chain Shifts – American businesses heavily reliant on Colombian imports may consider reshoring or outsourcing to other low-tariff countries.
These consequences strain the otherwise strong partnership Colombia and the U.S. enjoy, underscoring the need for trade negotiations that are mutually beneficial.
Supporting Fair Trade for Colombian Goods
Colombia’s iconic exports—coffee, cut flowers, and crude oil—not only fuel global industries but also fuel livelihoods across its regions. While tariff complications cannot be undone overnight, there are ways for consumers to help:
- Support Direct Trade – Purchase from brands that source directly from Colombian farmers or artisans, ensuring fair pay and economic growth.
- Raise Awareness – Use your voice to advocate for policies that enhance fair trade agreements with Colombia.
- Diversify Suppliers – Businesses reliant on imports can split their sourcing between Colombian goods and other regions to lower risks while still supporting the economy.
Why Trade Matters—For Everyone
Trade policies aren’t just numbers on government spreadsheets. They affect the goods we buy, the farmers who grow them, and the businesses working hard to provide them. By understanding these dynamics, consumers and policymakers alike can push for smarter, fairer systems that respect global commerce.
Got thoughts on how tariffs impact your favorite Colombian imports? Share them below—I’d love to hear your perspective!
