Foreword from the HM Ambassador to Colombia
This is an exciting time for UK-Colombia relations. The United Kingdom's relationship with Colombia is already close and has been for many years.
President Santos' Guest of Government visit to London in November 2011 set out our determination to deepen our relationship - in particular in trade and investment.
The UK is the second largest overseas investor in Colombia and we are seeing a growing number of UK companies operating in this market, in sectors ranging from retail to technology. Increasingly, UK companies are seeing Colombia as a hub for their operations in Latin America. During President Santos' visit, our countries agreed to double two-way trade to £1.75 billion by 2015, yet I think our ambition should be even higher.
Colombia has the potential to be one of Latin America's great success stories. It is already a serious emerging power with a diversified economy, a very well educated work force, a growing middle class and a strong, democratic government. It is one of the most like-minded countries in the world. President Santos is serious about completing the challenging journey to OECD membership. Unlike many emerging powers, Colombia is deeply Anglophile and has a strong demand for British goods and services.
This "Doing Business in Colombia" guide highlights the exciting opportunities for UK plc. There is no better time than now to invest in Colombia and the British Embassy Bogota with UK Trade & Investment, can help firms to take those first steps.
Lindsay Croisdale-Appleby
British Ambassador to Colombia
www.gov.uk/world/colombia