Colombia’s trade deficit widened to USD 1.279 bln in January, up from USD 1.084 bln in the same month the previous year, mainly driven by an 8.5% YoY rise in imports. Meanwhile, In January, Colombia’s economy grew by 2.6%, marking the seventh consecutive month of expansion. Despite positive growth indicators, Colombia faces fiscal challenges, including a high budget deficit and low revenues. The recent resignation of Finance Minister Diego Guevara, amid conflicts over budget deficit control, marks the 13th cabinet minister departure in three months.