Colombia at a Glance

An overview of Colombia, a country of about 52 million people with a long record of steady growth, its commodity exports and the legacy of armed conflict.

Colombia has about 52 million people.

Economy

Oil and coal are the biggest exports.
Coffee, flowers and bananas.
Growing services and tourism.

Stability

Colombia avoided the hyperinflation and defaults seen in some neighbours.

Conflict

Decades of armed conflict with guerrillas like the FARC, paramilitaries and drug cartels.

Peace

A 2016 peace agreement ended the FARC conflict.

Challenges

Inequality, informality and continuing violence in some regions.

The two images

Colombia was once known for cartels; now travellers visit Medellín and Cartagena.

Thinking Colombia's economy is only drugs

Oil, coffee and services are major.

Key takeaways

Colombia has about 52 million people.
Oil and coal are top exports.
It avoided hyperinflation and default.
A 2016 peace deal ended the FARC conflict.