“The U.S. dairy industry secured hard-won access to the Colombian market more than a decade ago, and as of this year tariffs have now fully phased out,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “Attempts to restrict U.S. access through bogus claims and misused trade tools set a dangerous precedent not only for dairy exports but for all U.S. trade. We commend the U.S. government and our members for working with us to coordinate a strong, credible defense and to send a clear message that efforts to evade trade agreement commitments will not be tolerated.”
“U.S. dairy producers and processors expect our trading partners to honor their market access commitments,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “USDEC thanks the U.S. government in Washington and Bogota, as well as our members, for their support in presenting overwhelming evidence to rebut Colombia’s politically driven investigation. We welcome Colombia’s decision to abandon the case and maintain zero-tariff access for U.S. dairy exports in this important market.”
The National Milk Producers Federation and the US Dairy Export Council worked closely with the US government, industry partners, and Colombian stakeholders to challenge the allegations. They presented strong evidence showing that the investigation used incorrect calculations and could not prove any damage to Colombia’s domestic dairy sector.
Temporary countervailing duties of 4.86 percent were briefly applied to US milk powder imports. These measures were not renewed after January 2025 due to the consistent efforts of US dairy organizations and government agencies to clarify the facts.
Leaders from both dairy organizations welcomed the decision. They stressed that fair trade rules must be respected and that unfounded claims should not be used to limit market access. The ruling confirms that Colombia will maintain zero-tariff access for US dairy products.
This outcome is important because tariffs on US dairy products were fully removed at the beginning of 2026 under the US-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. This agreement has helped strengthen trade relationships and create more opportunities for farmers and processors.
US dairy exports to Colombia crossed 128 million dollars in 2024. The continued free access to the Colombian market supports American dairy farmers by increasing sales, improving market stability, and encouraging long-term trade growth.
The dismissal of this investigation sends a strong message that fair trade practices matter. It also shows how cooperation between governments and industry groups can protect farmers and ensure that international trade remains transparent and balanced.
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