The draft law is the result of coordinated work between the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the Presidency of the Republic and DIAN. It also incorporates contributions from the private sector and academia following a process of public consultation and technical dialogue.
The Colombian Government has formally submitted a bill to create a new customs sanctions regime, fulfilling requirements set by the Constitutional Court under ruling C-072 of 2025. The initiative, filed as No. 312, must be enacted no later than 20 June 2026.
This announcement was made on 30 October 2025.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the bill was presented to Congress to define the customs sanctions framework, rules on the seizure of goods, and the applicable administrative procedure. The proposal aims to modernise the existing structure and align national rules with international standards.
Acting DIAN Director-General Carlos Emilio Betancourt Galeano said the measure provides “a modern, technical and rights-based legal instrument” consistent with global best practices and the constitutional principles that guide government authorities. He added that the reform seeks to strengthen the fight against smuggling and other illegal activities by establishing a clearer and more up-to-date regulatory framework that improves legal certainty and keeps pace with the evolution of foreign trade.
The draft law is the result of coordinated work between the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the Presidency of the Republic and DIAN. It also incorporates contributions from the private sector and academia following a process of public consultation and technical dialogue.
The Government reiterated its commitment to delivering a transparent, efficient and equitable customs sanctions regime, and expressed confidence that Congress will complete its review and approval before the June 2026 deadline set by the Court.
