Colombia + Competitiva

Colombia is an emerging market but characterized by high inequalities. Fostering competitiveness, diversifying the economy and address the uneven territorial development are priorities for the Colombian government. Several competitiveness areas are crucial for Colombia’s OECD accession.

Furthermore, Colombia aims at coordinating the international support for the post-conflict process in the area of sustainable livelihood and climate change management. Therefore, it sets up the Colombia Sostenible initiative managed by the Interamerican Development Bank (IDB) and asked Switzerland to support this initiative together with other countries.

The main objective of the Program is to support Colombia’s systemic efforts to improve the competitiveness of its economy with a specific focus at the subnational level, diversify its exports by strengthening its productive sector and creating a business-enabling environment for small and mid-size businesses.

On the one hand, this is done through the bilateral Colombia + Competitiva program, through which SECO will contribute to an improved business environment and value chain development in regions with economic potential and existing institutional structures.

On the other hand, through a contribution to the multi-donor Colombia Sostenible Facility, managed by the IDB, SECO will seek to strengthen rural economies in conflict-affected regions with a focus on climate friendly growth.

Policy dialogue on sector specific and transversal competitiveness issues between central and subnational government levels is improved.

Competitiveness has increased particularly at the subnational level (e.g. by improved skills) in economic sectors with high growth and employment potential, specifically in tourism, construction, cocoa and bio cosmetics.

Productivity structures in conflict-affected areas are more sustainable.

Natural resources in territories affected by conflict are managed more sustainably.

Expected results:  

Number of diagnostic studies supported.

Elaboration of action plans and policy recommendations.

Number of people (m/f) that received training.

Number of trained farmers (m/f) that are implementing sustainable farming methods.

Number of workshops conducted with local partners.

Phase 1 01.07.2016 - 31.12.2021   (Completed)