Colombia's International Trade Conventions (2015-2023): Evaluation Of Economic, Social, Regional And Institutional Impacts From An Academic And Business Perspective

Abstract

This article conducts a comprehensive analysis of the main international trade agreements signed by Colombia between 2015 and 2023, evaluating their complex economic, social, regional, and institutional impacts from both academic and business perspectives. The research employs a robust mixed-methods methodology, integrating systematic documentary analysis, rigorous quantitative evaluation of key indicators, and an updated theoretical contextualization of contemporary economic integration processes. Through this approach, recent treaties, free trade agreements, and investment protocols that have shaped Colombia's international insertion and internal development over the last decade are systematized and examined. The findings reveal that these agreements have been crucial for the diversification of the country's export markets, the promotion of foreign direct investment into strategic sectors, the creation of formal employment (especially in urban and agro-exporting regions), and a notable improvement in sectoral productivity in manufacturing and agro-industry. However, the study also highlights nuanced effects and significant challenges, such as the exacerbation of regional disparities in benefit distribution, the persistent trade deficit with key partners like the United States, an export profile that still relies on raw materials, and the considerable adaptation challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to access and compete in international markets. The research concludes by emphasizing the imperative need to implement complementary and focused public policies on infrastructure, human capital formation, and systemic competitiveness to maximize the benefits of international integration and effectively manage its distributive and structural challenges.