Colombia’s newly elected President Abelardo de la Espriella has asked US President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian goods as the country deals with the devastating impact of a powerful earthquake. The request comes as businesses and communities face major losses and a difficult rebuilding process.
De la Espriella revealed the appeal on X, saying he had asked Trump to consider providing temporary tariff relief for Colombian products. He argued that easing the trade burden could give businesses some much-needed support while the country focuses on recovery.
The appeal follows a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10, causing widespread destruction and a significant loss of life. By August 15, the death toll had risen to around 290, with about 140 people still missing and nearly 4,000 injured, according to Reuters.
Colombia Seeks Tariff Relief From Trump
De la Espriella said the temporary suspension of US tariffs would provide relief to Colombian businesses struggling with the economic consequences of the disaster.
The request comes shortly after the US increased tariffs on Colombian imports from 10% to 12.5% in late July. The higher rate took effect on July 24, replacing an earlier global tariff imposed by the Trump administration.
Some Colombian exports, including coffee and oil, were among the exceptions to the new tariff rate.
With the earthquake damaging infrastructure, homes and businesses across several parts of the country, the Colombian government is now facing a major reconstruction challenge. The tariff request is therefore aimed at reducing pressure on businesses during the recovery period.
Columbia President De la Espriella Speaks With Trump
The Colombian president also said he held a roughly 10-minute phone conversation with Trump following the earthquake.
According to De la Espriella, Trump expressed his condolences for the people who died in the disaster. He described the conversation between the two leaders as friendly and cordial.
The call comes as relations between Bogotá and Washington have strengthened following De la Espriella’s election and inauguration. He took office on August 7, 2026, after winning a closely contested presidential runoff against left-wing candidate Iván Cepeda. Colombia’s electoral authorities officially confirmed his victory in June.
Devastating Earthquake Leaves Colombia With Huge Recovery Task
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region. The powerful tremor caused extensive damage in areas including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and other parts of the coffee-growing region.
Rescue teams have continued searching collapsed buildings for survivors, while thousands of people have been displaced from their homes. More than 269 aftershocks have also complicated rescue and recovery operations.
The disaster has become one of the first major tests for De la Espriella’s new administration, which has been coordinating emergency assistance and international support.
US Expands Support for Colombia
Washington has also stepped up its assistance following the earthquake. The United States has provided emergency support and sent disaster-management experts to Colombia, while the two governments have been working more closely on security and other bilateral issues.
Against this backdrop, De la Espriella’s request for temporary tariff relief is part of Colombia’s broader effort to secure economic support while rebuilding communities affected by the earthquake.
The Colombian government hopes that suspending or reducing US tariffs could help exporters and businesses maintain operations, protect jobs and contribute to the country’s recovery during the difficult period ahead.
