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Colombia Economic Snapshot

> Panorama económico de Colombia

Going for Growth 2021 - Colombia

The pandemic is likely to lead to higher informality, inequality and poverty - reversing years of improvement. Low-quality basic and professional education often disconnected from labour market needs, large connectivity gaps and high regional inequalities need to be addressed in order to tackle informality and boost growth and employment in the medium-term.

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2021 Structural Reform Priorities

  • Labour market: Reduce barriers to formality
  • Competition and regulation: Reduce barriers to trade and strengthen competition
  • Education and skills: Improve outcomes and equity in education
  • Social protection: Expand social programmes to reduce poverty and inequality
  • Infrastructure: Boost digital infrastructure to promote connectivity and reduce prices

 

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Economic Forecast Summary (December 2020)

Growth has rebounded in many sectors of the economy, with the notable exception of tourism and entertainment. Unemployment is already starting to see a moderate decline. After a fall of 8¼ per cent in 2020, GDP is projected to rise by 3½ per cent in 2021 and 3¾ per cent in 2022, helped by low interest rates and fiscal stimulus. Inflation will be contained, owing to substantial spare capacity.

Macroeconomic policies have responded to the crisis in a bold and timely manner. Additional healthcare spending, income support to households, wage subsidies and extended credit lines have been facilitated by a temporary suspension of the fiscal rule. Public debt will rise substantially, but will remain manageable under the authorities’ plans, which include higher revenues and spending cuts from 2022. Monetary authorities have provided ample liquidity, with interest rates reduced to record lows. Fostering formal employment through lower payroll taxes will be key to raise productivity and make growth more inclusive.

Post-COVID integration of Colombia in the world economy

Policy note: VAT compensation for vulnerable households recently implemented in Colombia

Other releases

24 October 2019 - Economic Survey of Colombia

Colombia has made good economic and social progress over the last two decades. Sound macroeconomic policies boosted confidence, which together with favourable demographics and external conditions underpinned resilient economic growth. This has contributed to higher living standards, and, together with improving access to education and social transfers, brought significant social improvements. Poverty has fallen markedly in recent years, while progress in reducing inequality has been more muted. On 25 May 2018, Colombia was invited to become a member of the OECD.

Executive Summary

Presentation

Further Survey material