Forjando Vínculos Sólidos entre Colombia y Brasil

In this edition, we have the privilege of speaking with the Colombian Ambassador to Brazil, who shares firsthand insights into the progress and strategies driving tourism and trade between the two nations. His leadership and vision are especially significant this year, as Brazil takes center stage as the guest country at ANATO.

Tierra Querida: Ambassador, what key initiatives has the Embassy undertaken to strengthen ties between Colombia and Brazil?

Ambassador: Bilateral relations are currently at their strongest, yielding significant achievements in political, energy, economic, and cultural cooperation. In terms of tourism, we’ve made great strides in increasing flights and simplifying travel requirements. These improvements have contributed to a 50% rise in Brazilian visitors to Colombia over the past three years, rising from 100,000 to 150,000 tourists last year.

TQ: How has air connectivity influenced cultural and commercial exchange?

Ambassador: We’ve successfully expanded flight routes between major Brazilian cities—São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Manaus—and Bogotá, along with the recent launch of a direct route between Brasília and Bogotá. This increase in air connectivity is creating more opportunities for business, investment, and cultural exchange.

On March 31, top commercial authorities from both nations will meet to assess trade relations and explore new business opportunities. Strengthening air connectivity is key to making these opportunities a reality.

In the cultural aspect, last year, Brazil was the guest of honor at FILBo (book fair), and Colombia held a prominent role at the São Paulo Book Biennial. We also saw musical and artistic exchanges between Colombian regions and the Secretary of Culture of Rio de Janeiro. With new flight routes, we can further expand these cultural exchanges, deepening our mutual appreciation and recognizing our shared heritage.

TQ: What other measures have been implemented to facilitate tourism between Colombia and Brazil?

Ambassador: A major breakthrough has been the elimination of the yellow fever vaccine requirement for travelers from Brazil.

TQ: How would you describe the present situation in the trade exchangebetween our two countries?

Ambassador: Trade relations are in a period of strong expansion. In 2024, Colombian exports to Brazil exceeded USD$1.8 billion, reinforcing Brazil’s role as a key trading partner. Moreover, Brazilian foreign direct investment (FDI) in Colombia has reached USD$3.78 billion over the past two decades, reflecting the growing confidence and economic synergy between our countries.

TQ: What are the future prospects, particularly in the agri-food sector?

Ambassador: One of our priorities is to increase exports of premium agri-food products, including Hass avocado, high-quality coffee, exotic fruits, and medical cannabis. These products have strong market potential in Brazil, and we are working to further promote their presence in the country.

TQ: Finally, what message would you like to share as Brazil takes the spotlight as ANATO’s guest country?

Ambassador: This year is a remarkable opportunity to deepen the friendship and cooperation between Colombia and Brazil. We remain committed to expanding tourism and trade, knowing that by working together, we will continue to generate mutual benefits and strengthen the bonds that unite our nations.