The Central Bank of Colombia’s Board held the benchmark rate at 12% by a 4-3 majority, maintaining a restrictive stance as inflation rose but was expected to resume a downward trajectory in 2027, while three directors favored a 50-basis-point increase. Over the past year, the central bank held the rate at 9.25% through December 2025 before raising it by a cumulative 275 basis points from January to June 2026. Headline inflation increased to 6.1% in June, core inflation remained at 6.0%, and expectations rose across surveyed and market-based measures. The economy gained momentum in the second quarter, and staff projected 2026 growth of 2.5%, while unemployment continued to decline. Persistent Colombian peso appreciation has helped ease inflationary pressures. The Middle East conflict and a heightened likelihood of El Niño could intensify inflation and hinder growth. Future decisions will depend on incoming information.
Central Bank of Colombia2026-07-31
Central Bank of Colombia Holds Benchmark Rate at 12%
The Central Bank of Colombia held its benchmark rate at 12% by a 4-3 majority, with three directors supporting a 50-basis-point increase, as inflation rose and expectations increased. Headline inflation reached 6.1% in June, while staff projected 2026 growth of 2.5% and flagged Middle East conflict and El Niño risks.