In brief
The Colombian Government issued Decree 1444 of 2026, prohibiting the importation of goods produced, in whole or in part, through forced or compulsory labor at any stage of the supply chain. The decree establishes customs enforcement mechanisms and authorizes the Colombian Tax and Customs Authority (DIAN) to conduct investigations, seize and confiscate goods, and impose the applicable penalties. This new framework requires importing companies to strengthen supply chain traceability and their due diligence processes regarding suppliers and contractors.
In more detail
The Colombian Government issued Decree 1444 of 2026, prohibiting the importation into Colombia of goods that have been wholly or partially extracted, produced, manufactured, or transformed through forced or compulsory labor at any stage of the supply chain. The measure classifies such goods as prohibited imports and represents a significant shift in Colombia’s international trade policy.
Unlike earlier proposals, which focused primarily on supply chain due diligence and preventive risk management, the decree establishes an express import prohibition supported by customs enforcement mechanisms. Under this new framework, the Colombian Customs Authority (DIAN) will be empowered to conduct investigations, request information, gather evidence and, where goods fall within the scope of the prohibition, order their seizure and forfeiture and impose the sanctions provided under Colombian customs legislation.
The regulation is particularly relevant for companies participating in global supply chains, importing raw materials or finished products from higher-risk markets, or supplying customers subject to international human rights and compliance standards. The decree also allows authorities to rely on information from foreign governments, international organizations, third-party reports, audits, and supply chain traceability documentation to identify potential forced labor risks.
Against this backdrop, companies should assess whether they have adequate mechanisms in place to identify the origin of their raw materials, map and document their supply chains, and demonstrate the due diligence measures implemented with suppliers and contractors. The entry into force of this decree significantly increases the importance of trade compliance and supply chain traceability programs, particularly in light of DIAN’s authority to conduct investigations, seize goods, order forfeitures, and impose penalties in cases involving alleged forced labor within the supply chain.