Tue Jan 28 03:02:12 UTC 2025: ## Trump Threat of Tariffs on Colombia Averted After Deportation Flight Deal

**Washington, D.C. -** A looming trade dispute between the United States and Colombia has been averted after a last-minute agreement on the deportation of immigrants. President Trump had threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, a move that sparked concern just weeks before Valentine’s Day, given Colombia’s status as the top supplier of cut flowers to the U.S.

The conflict stemmed from Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s rejection of two U.S. military aircraft carrying deportees. Petro criticized the U.S. treatment of immigrants and threatened retaliatory tariffs. In response, Trump threatened both tariffs and visa restrictions.

However, after a tense standoff, Colombia agreed to accept the deportation flights. The White House announced that the threatened tariffs are on hold, though visa restrictions and enhanced customs inspections will remain until the first successful deportation flight.

While the U.S. is Colombia’s largest export market, Colombia accounts for a relatively small portion (0.5%) of U.S. imports. In 2024, the U.S. enjoyed a billion-dollar trade surplus with Colombia, with exports exceeding imports significantly. However, the U.S. relies heavily on Colombian cut flowers (over $1 billion imported through November 2024) and coffee (around $1.4 billion imported through November 2024), as well as Colombian crude oil (almost $5.4 billion imported through November 2024).

The resolution avoids a potential disruption to the U.S. flower market and maintains the ongoing trade relationship between the two countries. The Colombian Foreign Minister confirmed the end of the impasse, stating that Colombia will continue to receive deportees while ensuring humane treatment.

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