Colombia Showcases Its Remarkable Meetings Industry Growth and Business Tourism Strength at IMEX America 2025

According to the latest report by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Colombia has strengthened its position as the third country with the most international meetings in Latin America, increasing from 103 events in 2023 to 114 in 2024 — a 10.6% growth. This performance reinforces Colombia’s ability to attract global events across multiple destinations, with Bogotá, Cartagena, Medellín, and Barranquilla leading the way.

“This year, we are proud to present at IMEX a robust delegation of more than 20 leading companies and organizations, each showcasing the country’s beauty and strengths in the meetings industry”, said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country.

One of the things that makes Colombia stand out as a destination for international events is the diversity of its tourist regions and the distinctive vocation of each.

“The Greater Colombian Caribbean provides exceptional infrastructure for large-scale congresses and conventions. The Pacific is renowned for its biodiversity, making it ideal for sustainability-focused events. The Western and Eastern Andes combine major business hubs, such as Bogotá and Medellín, with a rich cultural heritage. The eastern plains inspire incentive programs connected to nature and tradition. Through strategic cross-selling, ProColombia leverages the strengths of all these regions to position Colombia as a versatile and competitive destination that creates added value for international organizers,” Caballero added.

The Colombian Delegation at IMEX Las Vegas 2025

World-class hospitality brands such as Hilton Cartagena, Hyatt Regency Cartagena, EM Hotels, Faranda Hotels, Four Seasons, Hoteles Las Américas, and Hotel Poblado Plaza are showcasing their exceptional lodging, meeting spaces, and event services across Colombia’s main cities and tourist hubs. From Caribbean beachfront resorts to sophisticated urban hotels, Colombia offers a full range of venues for international events.

The Country of Beauty also brings together some of the most creative and experienced Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and tour operators, including Chic Tours, Colombia57, Colombian Journeys, Contactos, Macondo DMC, Muisca Travel & Events, VAOVA, and Incentivamos Colombia. These companies excel in designing tailor-made itineraries, incentive travel programs, and immersive experiences, combining innovation with authentic Colombian culture, gastronomy, nature, and art.

Plus, strategic allies such as the Greater Medellín Convention & Visitors Bureau, Pereira Convention Bureau, Invest in Bogotá, and ProBarranquilla are highlighting Colombia’s multi-destination strategy. 

These organizations work hand-in-hand with international planners to provide bidding support, destination promotion, and seamless execution, ensuring that every event leaves a lasting legacy in the communities where it takes place.

Why Colombia is the Destination of Choice for Your Next Event

Colombia has become a top destination for international meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, offering a winning combination of connectivity, world-class venues, professional expertise, and unique local experiences. Here’s why global event planners are increasingly choosing Colombia:

1. Unparalleled air connectivity in the region: Over 1,400 international nonstop flights per week connect Colombia’s 11 major cities to 28 countries across North America, South America, Europe, and the Caribbean.
2. World-Class Venues: 26 convention centers, 311 hotels with meeting spaces, and 150+ unique venues, from Caribbean fortresses to coffee haciendas and modern urban rooftops, provide professional and memorable settings.
3. Cost-Effective Excellence: Hosting events in Colombia offers significant value, with overall costs up to 75% lower than in the U.S. and 60% lower than in Mexico, while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
4. Skilled Professionals: Colombian hospitality combines warmth and expertise. Sixteen local entrepreneurs recently earned the Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) credential, ensuring globally competitive service standards.
5. Proven Experience: Colombia has hosted major events such as the ISAPS World Congress 2024 in Cartagena, the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee in Bogotá, and the Pan American Masters Swimming Championship 2023 in Medellín.
6. Immersive Experiences: More than 50 curated incentive travel experiences allow participants to mix business with culture and adventure, from Andean birdwatching and coffee harvesting to salsa in Cali and Caribbean sunsets.
7. Sustainable Impact: Colombia integrates regenerative tourism, community engagement, and sustainability into events, leaving lasting positive legacies for both participants and local communities.

For more information, visit Colombia at Booth D2516 – Bayside or explore: https://colombia.travel/en/meetings