The Colombian Chamber of Commerce (Amcham Colombia) expressed concern about the proposal of the Assignments Committee of the United States Representatives Chamber to reduce economic aid by 50 % Non -military to Colombia for fiscal year 2026.
(Read: US Chamber Committee. UU approved a budget of US $ 209 million for Colombia).
For Amcham Colombia, this decrease does not respond solely to budget adjustments.
“This is a clear political message of the US Congress against the deterioration of internal conditions that affect the bilateral relationship.”
For the Colombian Chamber of Commerce, what is at stake is not only a reduction of resources, but the strength of the bipartisan support that has been the basis of the strategic alliance between the two countries for more than two decades.
“This support has transcended governments and parties, and has been essential for stability, hemispheric security and institutional strengthening of Colombia”.
(See: Analysts lower the growth forecast for this year: these are the reasons).
Amcham Colombia urged the United States Congress to consider that these funds, beyond a government on duty, have had a positive and direct impact on strategic sectors of the Colombian economy such as rural development, local legal certainty and regional stability. Preserving this investment is key to long -term shared interests.
“We make a respectful and urgent call to the National Government to act with institutional responsibility. Reaffirm the commitment to the rule of law, strengthen the fight against drug trafficking, and moderate ideological discourses towards its main strategic ally are necessary steps to recover confidence”They say from Amcham.
US Congress.
AFP
General Background of the Bill
The US House of Appropriation Committee presented in July 2025 the Project of Assignments for National Security, State Department and Related Programs, fiscal year 2026. This initiative, headed by Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart as president of the Subcommittee, proposes a global cut of 22 % in international assistance funds regarding the level approved by 2025.
(Here: Colombia could be ‘challenging’ the United States with coal veto towards Israel).
According to Díaz-Balart, the objective is to redirect foreign policy under the principle of “America First” (United States first), concentrating resources in strategic allies and eliminating expenses considered. The project seeks to strengthen US national security “Not through unlimited spending, but through a focused strategy” – In the words of the President of the Committee, Tom Cole.
In line with this vision, The proposal maintains robust support for key allies (for example, ensures at least $ 3.3 billion in military financing for Israel, substantial assistance to Egypt and Jordan, and $ 500 million in FMF for Taiwan). At the same time, it hardens the position against adversaries such as the regime of Cuba, Venezuela and other actors that threaten US interests, through specific conditions and prohibitions in the use of funds.
Javier Acosta
Portfolio
