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About Colombia
Colombia: An emerging market and secure investment destination
Ranked among Latin America's top-three business-friendly countries by the World Bank's 2011 "Doing Business Report," Colombia's star is on the rise. Among other things, this emerging economy boasts the region's second most qualified labour market and the world's fifth fastest growing labour force.
Factors like these are propelling investor confidence in Colombia's business opportunities, and have generated an increase in foreign direct investment from US$ 1.7 billion in 2003 to an impressive US$7.2 billion in 2009.
With a GDP of US$234 billion Colombia is now Latin America's fifth largest economy.
Pro-business and mining friendly
Over the past decade, Colombia's ability to attract increasing foreign investment and grow its economy reflect achievements by the Government of Colombia to improve the nation's security and stability. Under the leadership of former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe (President from 2002 -- 2010), the nation saw decreased violence and an improved business climate.
Continuing along this positive path former defence minister and now President Juan Manuel Santos leads a government whose policies are business friendly, encourage foreign investment and remain focused on continuously improving security.
Rich in natural resources; largely under-explored
Rich in natural resources, Colombia has been known as a centre of artisanal gold mining for centuries. What is relatively new, however, is the introduction of sophisticated mineral exploration technologies and techniques, such as those employed by Batero, whose geologists are beginning to unearth Colombia's true potential.
Beyond gold Colombia's natural resource wealth includes copper, silver, platinum, coal, petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, nickel and emeralds.
Colombia is the world's foremost producer of emeralds and the fifth largest coal exporting country. It is also a significant producer of gold, silver and platinum, and the country has the fifth largest crude oil reserves in South America.
While many majors have been present in the region for years Colombia's resource industry is increasingly seen as an exceptional international destination for exploration and mining investment. Adding to this confidence, Colombia aims to develop its resource industry using today's best practices to generate opportunity and societal benefits.