From The Rio Times · Contributing Reporter · · 1m 40s
Trump May Lift 12.5% Colombia Tariff
Trump hints at removing 12.5% US tariff on Colombian goods due to friendship with president.
In brief
Trump hints at removing 12.5% US tariff on Colombian goods due to friendship with president. Trump said he may lift a 12.5% tariff on Colombian goods by removing the extra duty for flowers, apparel and processed foods. Originally reported by The Rio Times.
Trump's Tariff Comment
President Donald Trump said on Monday, 12 October, he may remove the extra 12.5% Colombia tariff on some goods.
“Puede que lo haga”
Tariff Background
The 12.5% duty was imposed on 23 July under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 for missing forced labor import bans.
Affected Goods
Flowers, apparel, processed foods, chocolates, confectionery and cosmetics pay the extra duty while coffee, oil and gold are exempt.
Trump's Reason
Trump tied the possible move to his friendship with Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who replaced Gustavo Petro.
Trade Impact
US importers pay the tariff at the border, and shoppers buying Colombian roses and clothing face higher prices.
Recent Diplomatic Shift
De la Espriella asked Trump to suspend tariffs after an earthquake in August, and relations have warmed since.
What's Next
Any change would come through a USTR modification or presidential order, with exporters watching the Federal Register.
No Formal Action
No executive order, date or trade notice has been cited to lift the tariff, and goods still pay 12.5%.
Tariff Details
Colombia landed in the 12.5% group after USTR investigated 60 economies for forced labor import bans.
Exempt Products
Coffee, oil, gold, bananas, avocados and certain sugars are exempt from the Colombia tariff.
The essence
Trump said he may lift a 12.5% tariff on Colombian goods by removing the extra duty for flowers, apparel and processed foods.
