Analysis

Non-conventional deposits boost production levels in Colombia's energy industry
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With no major onshore oil discoveries since 2009, Colombia’s oil and gas reserves have dwindled. The country has thus turned to non-conventional deposits as a means to boost production in the medium to long term. While this segment has historically been dominated by offshore activity, the government’s aim to boost proven reserves, diversify its sources and ensure long-term self-sufficiency…

Analysis

Colombia grows FDI in the mining sector with new reforms and guidelines
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As Colombia looks to improve investor sentiment and spur an infusion of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the mining sector, the administration of President Iván Duque has outlined detailed plans to reform existing community consultation guidelines, amid legal uncertainty regarding the awarding of project contracts. In May 2019 María Fernanda Suárez, minister of mines and energy, announced…

Analysis

New projects prompt increased investment in Colombia's mining sector
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With similar geological characteristics to its Andean neighbour Peru, Colombia’s gold potential has long attracted interest from local and international miners. The country’s gold deposits are concentrated in areas with metallogenic belts in the Departments of Antioquia, Santander, Tolima, Huila, Caldas, Nariño, Cauca and Bolívar. Gold was the main export product during the colonial era…

Analysis

Colombia fights pollution and congestion by increasing emission-free public transportation
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Colombian cities are currently home to close to 80% of the country’s population, with the number expected to reach 83.4% in 2035, according to the National Administrative Department of Statistics. Despite efforts to develop efficient public transport solutions, rising urbanisation rates and increasing demand have outstripped supply, contributing to congestion and air pollution. City authorities…

Analysis

Colombia's 4G road development programme back on track
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The Fourth Generation (4G) road infrastructure programme forms a central part of the government’s strategy to integrate the transport infrastructure and link industrial centres to major ports. However, the plan, which originally envisioned the construction and rehabilitation of 7000 km of new roads and over 40 highway projects, has experienced delays. These have largely occurred as the result…

Analysis

Private equity spending drives changes in Colombia's retail ownership
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The real estate industry in Colombia and wider South America has undergone substantial change in recent years, driven by an influx of private capital investments from local and international fund managers, sovereign wealth funds and Canadian pension funds. In light of the challenges of navigating Colombia’s property market, most of these investors have taken to partnering with local developers…

Analysis

Colombia's supermarkets make way for discount grocers and increased e-commerce
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After a stagnant performance in 2017, the retail sector gained momentum in 2018, growing by 6.2%. Inflation was near the central bank’s target at 3.2% during the year, and this combined with the government’s December 2018 decision to increase the minimum salary by 6% for 2019 and general improvements in the country’s economic performance have translated to increased disposable income…

Analysis

Colombia's new development plan acts on momentum of growing tourism sector
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Looking to leverage the momentum of an expanding tourism sector, in December 2018 the Colombian government introduced the Plan for the Tourism Sector 2018-22. With emphasis on sustainability, responsibility and quality, the plan aims to position the country as an innovative, diverse, high-value destination to promote long-term, inclusive and sustainable growth. Several areas of focus are highlighted…

Analysis

Colombia increases usage of data analytics to drive human capital development
OBG
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In a world where statistics, big data, artificial intelligence and the like are driving business outcomes, one corporate department across industries stands out for its relative lack of analytics use: human resources (HR). Indeed, a 2015 report by the Harvard Business Review indicated that managers across other business areas believe that a major obstacle facing HR offices stems from their…

Overview

Fintech solutions prime the global financial services sector for growth
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Once reserved for ambitious start-ups and industry-leading tech operators, financial technology (fintech) has more recently caught the attention of major private sector firms and government planners alike, becoming a regular feature in budget speeches and strategic development plans. As fintech progressively plays a larger part in the lives of consumers, investors have quickly come to recognise…