Following Colombia’s strong results as a full beneficiary of the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP)  from 2019 to 2023, the country agreed to pursue a Targeted Country Project (TCP) under the second phase of the Programme (GTFP-II). This new phase focuses on innovative elements and emerging trends in international trade, aiming to ensure the long-term sustainability of measures implemented during the first phase. Furthermore, it will support the implementation of efficient procedures for express shipments and e-commerce as a tool to facilitate the cross-border movement of goods and reduce trade costs.

The official launch of GTFP-II took place on 9 June 2025 in Bogotá, Colombia. The ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including the Director of SECO Colombia and senior officials from Colombia’s National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN - Dirección de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales). Representatives from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism, the Ministry of Information and Technology, the National Institute of Drug and Food Surveillance, the Colombian Agricultural Institute, the National Postal Service Operator, and the National Police of Colombia also participated in the event. In addition, several prominent private sector stakeholders were in attendance, including Cladec, ASOCOINTRA,  and the Colombian Chamber of Electronic Commerce.

Immediately following the launch, the first activity under GTFP-II was held: a workshop on Expedited Shipments with an Emphasis on E-Commerce Procedures (9 -13 June 2025). The workshop aimed to review existing Customs procedures and practices related to expedited shipments and e-commerce and to support the formulation of a targeted Enhancement Plan for these processes.

The workshop was attended by 22 Customs officials from DIAN Headquarters and the country’s most important ports of entry. The key outputs include strengthened institutional capacity for expedited shipments and e-commerce, identification of key areas of opportunity, and development of a strategic roadmap for optimised procedures in this regard. This initial activity lays the foundation for improved efficiency and effectiveness in cargo inspection and trade facilitation of expedited shipments in Colombia.

The WCO will continue to support Colombia in strengthening the modernisation of its customs procedures for express shipments through optimised and digitalised controls, updated regulations, and enhanced coordination with relevant stakeholders.

For more information on the SECO-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP), please contact [email protected].