With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, a trade standoff between the United States and Colombia briefly threatened the flow of cut flowers into the U.S. However, a last-minute resolution appears to have averted a potential shortage of roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums; some of the most popular blooms during the holiday.
The dispute stemmed from Colombia’s initial refusal to accept flights carrying deported migrants, prompting former President Donald Trump to threaten a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, including flowers. Just hours after Trump also warned of visa restrictions on Colombian officials, the South American country reversed its stance, agreeing to accept the deportees. As a result, the U.S. put the tariff threat on hold, although additional customs inspections and visa limitations will remain in place until the first deportation flight successfully lands.
Earlier, Colombian President Gustavo Petro had taken a strong stance against the deportation process, citing concerns over the dignity and treatment of migrants. In response, Petro threatened to impose a 25% tariff on U.S. goods, escalating tensions further. However, by late Sunday, Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo confirmed that an agreement had been reached. “We have overcome the impasse with the United States government,” he stated. “We will continue to receive Colombians who return as deportees, guaranteeing them decent conditions as citizens subject to rights.”
Colombia’s Flower Industry and U.S. Trade
Colombia is the leading supplier of cut flowers to the U.S., exporting $1.14 billion worth of blooms from January to November last year, surpassing its total exports for 2023. Thanks to its year-round growing conditions; like mild temperatures, long sunlight hours, and fertile soil, Colombia produces an abundance of flowers, with much of the industry concentrated around Bogotá. Beyond flowers, Colombia is also a major exporter of coffee and crude oil to the United States.