Expat Community > Colombia

fecherklyn
Joined 2015
Posts: 1459

Minimum salary US$ 6 per month

1 year ago

Ok, the post title was chosen as a shock treatment to draw attention; it has nothing to do with Colombia….or does it?

I imagine most of us expats in Colombia came here because it suits our purposes in many areas and surely cost of living and source income currency will have pride of place? While this situation remains comfortably stable it is not surprising expats tend to stay put for long periods, even lifetime. But what if the economic and political landscapes change significantly; then presumably we all peer over the garden wall to see how green is the grass next door? So, who do we have next door and how green is their grass?

Venezuela.

Here are a couple of extracts from the following article:

“While the Venezuelan government says that the yearly inflation rate dropped from 686% in 2021 to 234% in 2022, it remains one of the highest in the world. Unsurprisingly, those who can, try to get hold of more stable foreign currency.”

“The minimum wage for workers in the public sector - Venezuela's largest employer - is 130 bolivars per month (about $6).”
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-64466400
Obviously, the economic and political landscapes of Colombia have changed with the new President and we have all been waiting to see if what he has in mind converts to reality. In this context, I am concerned by how he hopes to tailor new relationships with Venezuela and China. Only a few days ago during his visit to China he supported their “One China” vision as it related to Taiwan. It would appear from these examples Petro aims at a vastly changed future for Colombia?
So, how should expats in Colombia react? Will “improved” relations with Venezuela bring equitable advantages for both nations, or will one nation drag the other down? Colombia already has a poor reputation for its vast disparity in wealth between the poor and wealthy (Expats?)…..can this get even worse?

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Living in Colombia Guide

Expats in Colombia discuss the pros and cons of living in Colombia. From the Colombian people to driving to taxes and more. As challenging as it can be, expats in Colombia clearly find that there is a lot to love about a country that is a surprising expat hot spot.

Colombia Forum
Join our Colombia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Colombia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Best Places to Live in Colombia

If you're considering a move to Colombia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Colombia in 2023.

Healthcare in Colombia

Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.

Cost of Living in Colombia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Colombia.

Moving to Colombia Guide

With its bustling cities, beautiful beaches and friendly Colombians, Colombia is an increasingly popular destination for expats of all ages. Expats in Colombia offer insightful tips for those moving to Colombia.