Columbia excites Canadian exporters
21 / 03 / 2015
THE NATION of Columbia is turning into a growing trade ally with Canada, with companies such as McCain Foods, Red Eagle Mining and Mansour Mining embracing the Latin American country as an exports partner.
The Canada/Colombia Free Trade Agreement that came into force in August 2011 has lowered trade barriers and fuelled a business increase that is expected to continue into the next few years across all sectors, reveals Canadian forwarder Sea Cargo Air Cargo Logistics (SCACLI).
The company’s Maria Misurka notes that there are now plenty of export opportunities for Canadian firms in Columbia, especially in the agriculture and infrastructure sectors, as well as in building products and related services, mining, oil and gas, food and beverages.
“Colombia is a market for Canadian companies to keep their eyes on,” she advises.
Canada’s expertise in the power sector, clean technologies and cost-effective supply for the oil and gas sector are also creating greater trade opportunities between the two nations.
Columbia is still a little slow in giving out permits, with some challenges in shipping and security concerns. “But the country is turning around and can become a great place for a Canadian business to expand,” continues Misurka .
“SCACLI clients have experienced smooth shipping primarily because SCACLI has been shipping to Columbia and Latin America for years and our team has already developed a good relationship and understanding of the processes there.
“Colombia is a country of the future,” enthuses Misurka, “and with the Free Trade Agreement in place, it is realising its long-term growth potential.”
The Canada/Colombia Free Trade Agreement that came into force in August 2011 has lowered trade barriers and fuelled a business increase that is expected to continue into the next few years across all sectors, reveals Canadian forwarder Sea Cargo Air Cargo Logistics (SCACLI).
The company’s Maria Misurka notes that there are now plenty of export opportunities for Canadian firms in Columbia, especially in the agriculture and infrastructure sectors, as well as in building products and related services, mining, oil and gas, food and beverages.
“Colombia is a market for Canadian companies to keep their eyes on,” she advises.
Canada’s expertise in the power sector, clean technologies and cost-effective supply for the oil and gas sector are also creating greater trade opportunities between the two nations.
Columbia is still a little slow in giving out permits, with some challenges in shipping and security concerns. “But the country is turning around and can become a great place for a Canadian business to expand,” continues Misurka .
“SCACLI clients have experienced smooth shipping primarily because SCACLI has been shipping to Columbia and Latin America for years and our team has already developed a good relationship and understanding of the processes there.
“Colombia is a country of the future,” enthuses Misurka, “and with the Free Trade Agreement in place, it is realising its long-term growth potential.”