On March 18, Colombian President Iván Duque decreed a State of Emergency and announced a series of social and economic measures aimed at addressing the crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the measures announced are the allocation of greater resources to the health sector, relief in the payment of loans for individuals and companies, and an increase in social aid. The measures announced will come into effect in the next few days.

“The effectiveness of our decisions depends on our ability to do so calmly. We are facing difficult decisions which cannot be taken irresponsibly. In view of these exceptional circumstances, we have decided to declare a state of emergency, in accordance with Article 215 of the Constitution. Together as a nation we will be able to move forward,” announced the president on national television.  

The measures mentioned refer to the provision of greater resources for the health system to acquire medical equipment, and to provide hospital networks with liquidity. Also, to the elimination of VAT on imported health products, articles and technologies. The Government will guarantee supply channels for basic goods, protecting the proper functioning of logistic chains. 

The Colombian Congress, scheduled to resume sessions as of March 16, has also agreed to postpone its activities, while Senate President Lidio García Turbay (Partido Liberal – independent) announced that their sessions will resume on April 13. In the same vein, the House of Representatives also agreed to resume its activities on April 3.