FedEx Express to operate direct services in Colombia

FedEx Express expanding its presence and services in Colombia, responding to a booming economy in the Latin American country. The company has started offering international direct services to and from Colombia, as it plans a long-term investment in its infrastructure in the “fast-growing” country.

It said its move to build out its delivery, operations and customer service facilities throughout Colombia over the next two years should create around 200 new jobs.

FedEx has been serving Colombia through a partner service provider since 1993, but said market demand now warrants serving the country directly.

Juan N. Cento, President of FedEx Express Latin America and Caribbean Division, said: “Colombia has shown steady economic growth over the past five years, and we are eager to meet the demands of the business community by expanding our international operations here.”

Offering a direct service will mean more access points for FedEx services established across Colombia, with the company managing every aspect of its operations in the country with a dedicated team.

Direct services for Colombian exporters will include FedEx International Economy and FedEx International Economy Freight, the company said.

FedEx said Colombia’s economic strength stemmed in part from its political stability, “vastly” improved security and booming coffee, textiles and flower industries.

Latin America’s fourth largest economy benefited from a crackdown on paramilitary groups under its former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez and last year as current President Juan Manuel Santos Calderón took office, its economy was growing at a rate of 4.3%.

The move by FedEx Express to build its presence and operate directly in Colombia follows on from the decision by rival UPS to build its services in Colombia in partnership with local firm Deprisa.

Cento said: “Colombians should be proud of the country’s ongoing development, which stimulated our additional investment in its economy.”