15 Surprising Products the U.S. Imports from Colombia

Colombia has become a key trading partner for the United States, supplying a variety of unique and valuable goods. From its world-renowned coffee to precious emeralds, the imports from Colombia play an essential role in the U.S. market. In this video, we’ll explore the 15 most prominent products flowing from Colombia to the United States and their impact on both economies.

1. Crude Petroleum

Colombia exported $6.05 billion worth of crude petroleum to the U.S. in 2022, making it one of its largest exports to the U.S. In 2024, this figure saw a slight increase, with exports reaching $6.2 billion, reflecting the continued demand for Colombian crude in the U.S. market.

2. Leather Goods

Leather exports, including handbags, belts, and shoes, from Colombia to the U.S. totaled $20 million in 2023. In 2024, this figure rose to $22 million, as American consumers showed a greater interest in high-quality leather goods.

3. Cut Flowers

Colombia is a major supplier of flowers to the U.S., exporting $1.68 billion in 2023, including roses, carnations, and other blooms. In 2024, the export value increased to $1.75 billion, driven by the growing demand for fresh flowers during holidays and special occasions.

4. Gold

Gold exports from Colombia to the U.S. were valued at $1.45 billion in 2022, contributing significantly to trade revenues. In 2024, the export value rose to $1.55 billion, as the U.S. continued to rely on Colombian gold for various industrial applications.

5. Coal

Colombia is a key coal supplier to the U.S., exporting over $2 billion worth of coal in 2022, primarily metallurgical coal for industrial use. In 2024, coal exports increased to $2.1 billion, with the U.S. seeking more sustainable and efficient energy sources.

6. Fruits and Nuts

The U.S. imported $302 million worth of fruits and nuts from Colombia in 2023, including bananas, avocados, pineapples, and other tropical fruits. In 2024, this figure grew to $320 million, as American consumers showed a greater interest in healthy and exotic fruits.

7. Plastics

Colombia exported $220 million worth of plastics to the U.S. in 2023, largely in the form of raw materials and packaging products. In 2024, the export value increased to $230 million, driven by the demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

8. Aluminum

The U.S. imported $706 million worth of aluminum from Colombia in 2023, used in industries such as construction and manufacturing. In 2024, this figure rose to $720 million, as the U.S. continued to invest in infrastructure projects.

9. Textiles and Apparel

Colombia exported $400 million worth of textiles and garments to the U.S. in 2023, including fabrics, athletic wear, and fashion items. In 2024, the export value increased to $420 million, with a growing trend towards sustainable and ethically produced clothing.

10. Seafood

Seafood exports, such as shrimp and fish, from Colombia to the U.S. are valued at approximately $100 million annually. In 2024, this figure remained steady, with a focus on high-quality and sustainably sourced seafood.

11. Chemicals

Chemical exports, including fertilizers and organic compounds, from Colombia to the U.S. reached $150 million in 2023. In 2024, the export value increased to $160 million, driven by the demand for agricultural inputs and industrial chemicals.

12. Sugar

Colombia exported approximately $75 million worth of sugar to the U.S. in 2023, primarily raw cane sugar. In 2024, this figure rose to $78 million, as the U.S. sought more natural sweeteners.

13. Cement

The U.S. imported about $50 million worth of cement from Colombia in 2023, used in infrastructure and construction projects. In 2024, the export value increased to $52 million, reflecting the ongoing construction boom in the U.S.

14. Pharmaceutical Products

Colombian pharmaceutical products, including generic medicines and health supplements, accounted for around $30 million in exports to the U.S. in 2023. In 2024, this figure grew to $32 million, as the U.S. continued to seek affordable healthcare solutions.

15. Tropical Wood Products

The U.S. imported about $25 million worth of tropical wood products from Colombia in 2023, used in furniture and flooring industries. In 2024, this figure increased to $27 million, driven by the demand for sustainable wood products.

Final Thoughts

The trade relationship between the United States and Colombia remains a vibrant and essential component of both countries’ economies. As evidenced by the diverse range of products imported from Colombia, including crude petroleum, coffee, cut flowers, gold, coal, fruits, and more, the partnership highlights Colombia’s role as a reliable supplier of both raw materials and finished goods.