FASHION
The Colombian fashion industry offers a diverse range of high-quality products, and its vital pillar is qualified and trained human talent. Therefore, the Government understands that guaranteeing their quality of life strengthens the process of eradicating inequality in communities and the pursuit of total peace.
This sector is one of the most dynamic in the national economy, concentrated in the main industrial centers of the country, providing easy access to inputs. Additionally, product development corresponds quickly and flexibly to international market trends.
Global textile and apparel import in Colombia
Source: Trademap
THE COLOMBIAN FASHION INDUSTRY STANDS OUT FOR ITS UNIQUE ORIGIN, SOCIAL COMMITMENT, HIGH QUALITY, AND DESIGN
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The country is recognized for offering contemporary designs using traditional artisanal techniques that blend Colombian roots with international trends. In addition, the industry demonstrates a strong social commitment by integrating its work with diverse populations and communities.
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The industry is internationally recognized for being:
- The leading exporter of shapewear and control garments in the Americas and the second worldwide.
- A leader in South America in products such as underwear and jeans.
- The leading exporter of flat-woven apparel in South America.
- The main exporter of swimwear in South America and the second in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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Colombia's supply has the potential to meet and respond to market demands, with access to innovative materials and the capacity to offer branded products or full-package solutions.
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Companies in the sector hold certifications that facilitate recognition in quality and sustainability standards at the social, environmental, and economic levels.
COMPETITIVE FACTORS OF THE FASHION INDUSTRY IN COLOMBIA
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The country has talent trained in fashion industry programs, enabling it to meet sector requirements. In 2024, more than 600,000 people were employed mainly in garment manufacturing.
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Between 2014 and 2024, Colombia accumulated more than 50,000 graduates from fashion-related programs, primarily at the university level.
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Colombia has a strong business ecosystem in the industry, with nearly 30,000 companies, mainly microenterprises and SMES. In 2023, 204 companies ranked among the 10,000 largest in Colombia.
THE COUNTRY HAS A LARGE DOMESTIC MARKET WITH ROOM FOR DEVELOPMENT
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Production inputs such as cotton, filaments, and synthetic or artificial fibers are imported by Colombia, following global trends.
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The main importing companies are located in the principal textile production centers: Bogotá, Antioquia, and Valle del Cauca.
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Companies in the textile and apparel sector have facilities to access raw materials not produced locally through imports with a 0% tariff. In particular, textiles benefit from 273 tariff lines exempt from duties.
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The capacity to produce a wide range of value-added products increasingly drives export activity. In 2024, apparel exports reached USD 515.6 million, while textile sector exports totaled USD 200.7 million.
STRATEGIC LOCATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF OPERATIONS WITH REGIONAL AND GLOBAL REACH
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Colombia is strategically located in the Americas, enabling privileged delivery times to serve international demand via air and sea.
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Companies in Colombia benefit from multiple trade agreements that promote trade and investment. These agreements favor the entry of Colombian products from the textile, apparel, and footwear industries.
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There is a free trade zone regime that supports the export of goods and services, offering benefits such as exemption from customs duties and VAT, among others.
THE INDUSTRY OFFERS ATTRACTIVE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE EARLIEST STAGES OF THE PRODUCTION CHAIN
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Attract investment for the establishment of manufacturing plants for inputs and intermediate goods currently imported by the industry, to supply national and regional demand.
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Attract investment for the establishment of production plants for yarns and fabrics made entirely of synthetic or artificial fibers, or those requiring blending with other natural fibers to provide specific characteristics to garments.
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Attract investment for the establishment of production plants for yarns and fabrics made entirely of discontinuous synthetic or artificial fibers, or those requiring blending with other natural fibers to provide specific characteristics to garments.
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Strategic alliances for the establishment and modernization of production plants for textile inputs and apparel products, aimed at meeting local demand and exporting to the region.
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