De la Espriella Asks Trump to Suspend Tariffs on Colombian Exports After Earthquake

In a 10-minute phone call he described as 'very friendly and cordial,' President de la Espriella asked Donald Trump to temporarily suspend the 12.5% tariff Washington has imposed on Colombian imports since July 24, arguing the relief would help businesses cope with earthquake losses. De la Espriella thanked Trump for $26.5 million in US humanitarian assistance already committed, including specialized rescue teams, and said he emphasized Colombia's reconstruction needs during the call. The Trump administration had not responded to the tariff request at the time of reporting. The earthquake's confirmed death toll stood at 289, with 143 officially listed as missing.