In an economic context where growth is increasingly complex, there are departments of Colombia that are experiencing the opposite situation and that could show wide development for next year. Thanks to artificial intelligence tools, it is possible to anticipate which regions will have an outstanding performance and how they will behave in relation to the rest of the country.
These projections, based on data analysis, allow identifying development, investment and employment generation opportunities, highlighting the importance of planning regional strategies to take advantage of the potential of these areas.
1. Antioquia
He has shown outstanding performance in his economic growth. In the third quarter of 2024, it registered a variation of 2.8% in its economic activity, highlighting as one of the fastest growing departments in that period. Its dynamism is based on a diversified industry that includes textiles, technology, construction and manufacturing, as well as in a robust trade and the urban expansion of Medellín and other important cities.
In addition, Antioquia benefits from a solid infrastructure, road connectivity and a business culture that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, making it an attractive focus for national and international investment.
(Read more: Few knew that Colombia surpasses the United States and Canada in this)
Colombian money
Source: Canva
2. Valle del Cauca
It also presented a 2.8% variation in its economic activity in the same period, consolidating as a dynamic region. Its economy relies on a diversified agriculture that includes sugar, coffee and fruits, as well as the manufacturing and port industry, with Buenaventura as the main export port.
The region also stands out for its logistics infrastructure, free zones and growing investment in strategic sectors such as technology, renewable energy and tourism, which contributes to sustained and competitive development.
3. Cundinamarca
It has maintained sustained growth in previous years and this trend is expected to continue in 2026. His proximity to Bogotá allows him to integrate closely with the economy of the capital, facilitating investment in industry, commerce and services. In addition, it has a strong agricultural and livestock sector, natural wealth and opportunities in rural tourism and ecotourism.
Cundinamarca combines geographical advantages, infrastructure and a diversified labor market, which positions it as a department with great potential for economic development and expansion in the medium term.
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Colombia’s growth in 2026
A few days ago, ECLAC presented its economic study in Latin America and the Caribbean 2025, highlighting that the region faces a prolonged period of low growth, with an average projected GDP of 2.2% in 2025 and 2.3% in 2026, figures similar to those of 2023 and 2024. The projections show differentiated dynamics by subregions.
In South America, a 2.7% growth is expected in 2025, promoted by the recovery of Argentina and Ecuador, the solid performance of Paraguay and The economic rebound in Colombia. By 2026, the expansion in the subregion would be moderated to 2.4%.
Central America and Mexico will have weaker growth (1.0% in 2025), while the Caribbean will face challenges related to the lowest tourist demand and high energy costs, except Guyana, which would maintain raised rates by investments in hydrocarbons.
The report warns of a global and regional deceleration, with less dynamism of domestic demand, limited employment and vulnerability to external risks such as geopolitical conflicts, volatility of commodities prices and restrictive financial conditions. In this context, inflation would remain stable, although with possible upward pressures.
