BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) The White House has made a significant request to Colombia, urging the South American nation to reconsider its plans for new automotive safety regulations. These potential changes could pose a substantial threat to American car exports, which had a reported value of nearly $700 million last year. As both countries gear up to discuss tariffs recently imposed on Colombian products like coffee, avocados, flowers, and oil, the stakes have never been higher.

In a formal communication addressed to Colombias Ministry of Commerce, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer articulated his concerns in a letter dated April 11, which recently surfaced in Colombian media. He warned that the proposed modifications to the certification requirements for cars and auto parts entering Colombia could result in a total cessation of U.S. automotive exports. Greer emphasized that should Colombia proceed with its current plans, it may be engaging in unfair trading practices, which could trigger immediate enforcement actions from the United States.

Colombian Minister of Commerce, Cielo Rusinque, opted not to comment directly on the leaked letter during public appearances. However, she acknowledged in a radio interview that the safety regulations are set to be among several critical topics when representatives from both nations convene later this month to negotiate tariffs.

The origins of this dispute can be traced back to Colombia's efforts since 2021 to develop new technical requirements for vehicle components, including brakes, windows, tires, and seatbelts. These regulations are intended to align with international safety protocols established by the United Nations, showcasing Colombia's commitment to enhancing vehicle safety standards.

Under the proposed regulations, manufacturers wishing to sell cars and automotive parts in Colombia would be required to obtain certification from a third-party entity, which would verify that their products meet the prescribed international standards. The U.S. Trade Representative's office countered this initiative, arguing in their letter that vehicles manufactured in the United States already adhere to stringent U.S. federal motor safety standards. Moreover, they pointed out that Colombia has yet to provide evidence indicating that these American standards are inadequate.

In a report detailing global trade barriers released earlier this year, the U.S. trade representatives office highlighted complaints from manufacturers who stated that they are ill-equipped to secure third-party verification for their automotive products, which could lead to significant market disruptions.

This automotive export controversy comes just months after a diplomatic spat nearly escalated into a trade war between Colombia and the United States. In January, Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected deportation flights from the U.S., claiming that Colombian citizens on board were subjected to inhumane treatments. This led to a stern warning from former President Trump, who threatened to impose 25% tariffs on a range of Colombian exports, including coffee, flowers, avocados, and oil.

Fortunately, the situation was defused within a day, as President Petro agreed to accept deportation flights again, with most being operated by Colombias Air Force moving forward.

Recently, Colombia faced a 10% tariff on its exports to the United States, a measure introduced by Trump as part of his new economic emergency actions. In an effort to address these tariffs, the Colombian government has issued letters to U.S. officials, inviting them to initiate negotiations. A failure to reach an agreement could critically damage Colombias agricultural sector, which plays a vital role in its economy.

The United States remains Colombias largest trading partner, accounting for approximately 30% of the latter's annual exports. The two nations solidified their economic relationship through a free trade agreement signed in 2012, which has led to increased imports of American agricultural products such as corn and soy, as well as machinery and chemicals. As of 2024, the U.S. enjoyed a considerable trade surplus of $1.3 billion with Colombia, underscoring the interdependency of their economies.