Free Trade Agreements

U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement

Also known as: Colombia TPA · CTPA

A bilateral FTA between the U.S. and Colombia entered into force May 15, 2012 — duties fully phased to zero for most industrial goods.

The U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA) is a bilateral free trade agreement implemented by Pub. L. 112-42 and entered into force May 15, 2012. Tariffs on approximately 80% of U.S. industrial and consumer goods entering Colombia were eliminated immediately; the remainder phased out over 10 years, with agricultural categories on schedules up to 19 years.

Origin rules. CTPA uses product-specific rules in Annex 4.1 combining tariff shift and regional value content tests. RVC build-up is 35%; build-down is 45%. A 10% de minimis tolerance applies, lower for textiles.

Apparel: yarn-forward. Colombian-origin apparel must meet a yarn-forward rule. Single-transformation exceptions apply for certain knit-to-shape, brassiere, and luggage products. A "short supply" mechanism allows non-originating fibers, yarns, or fabrics to be sourced outside the region if the regional supply is insufficient.

Labor Action Plan. A separate Colombian Action Plan Related to Labor Rights was a precondition for entry-into-force, requiring measurable improvements in labor conditions for Colombian workers in key sectors.

Certification. No prescribed form. Importer's claim is supported by a certification from the importer, exporter, or producer with the required data elements. Records retained for five years.

Claims. Use the "CO" Special Program Indicator on CBP Form 7501.

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