Colombia · ENERGY
A 17% jump in spending comes as domestic output slides and imports climb toward a third of supply.
Colombia gas investment is set to rise 17% to US$1.03 billion in 2026, according to the country’s natural gas trade association. The figure comes from Naturgas, the Asociación Colombiana de Gas Natural, which presented its annual report on 19 August 2026.
Colombia Gas Investment Reaches New High
Colombia gas investment will total US$1.031 billion in 2026, a 17% increase on the US$883 million spent in 2025. Naturgas is the trade association for the industry.
It released the figures in its Informe de Inversiones y Aportes de la Industria del Gas Natural en Colombia 2025. Luz Stella Murgas, president of Naturgas, presented the numbers to journalists on 19 August 2026.
The investment data comes directly from the companies themselves, as Naturgas represents the industry.
Where the Money Goes
Most of the 2026 budget, US$839 million, goes to exploration and production. Which means finding gas and getting it out of the ground.
Transport infrastructure, the pipeline network, receives US$129 million. Distribution and commercialisation, the last stretch into homes and businesses, gets US$62 million.
In short, the bulk of spending targets new supply rather than moving existing gas.
Domestic Output Falls Sharply
Meanwhile, Colombian domestic gas production fell 17.1% in 2025, to about 794 million cubic feet a day. By February 2026, output averaged around 695 million cubic feet a day, one of the lowest readings since 2009.
The data comes from Colombia’s hydrocarbons agency, the ANH. Therefore, the investment push comes at a time when local supply is shrinking.
Imports Climb as Share of Supply
Imports have grown quickly. They rose from under 3% of total supply between 2015 and 2023 to more than 23% of supply in the first quarter of 2026.
A separate mid-2026 market report describes import volumes of roughly 300 million cubic feet a day, around 30% of national supply. Even so, the new investment aims to boost domestic production.
Future Import Projections
Projections cited in the same analyses say imports could reach around 39% of demand by the end of 2026. They could potentially hit 58% by 2027.
Because of this trend, the industry’s investment in exploration and production becomes more urgent. Still, the figures reflect company plans, not guaranteed outcomes.
What the Investment Means
For expats and investors, Colombia gas investment signals confidence in the sector despite falling output. The increase of 17% shows companies are putting more money into finding and producing gas.
In addition, the focus on exploration and production suggests a bet on reversing the decline. By contrast, transport and distribution get smaller shares, indicating existing infrastructure may be adequate for now.
Context From the Trade Association
Naturgas is the trade association for Colombia’s natural gas industry, so its investment figures come from the companies themselves. This means the numbers reflect what firms plan to spend, not government targets.
The report, titled Informe de Inversiones y Aportes de la Industria del Gas Natural en Colombia 2025, provides a detailed breakdown. However, it does not name specific companies or projects.
Practical Impact for Consumers
For households and businesses, the investment could help maintain supply as demand grows. Distribution spending, though small, keeps the last stretch of pipes functioning.
Even so, with imports rising, the mix of gas in the system is changing. This could affect long-term pricing and security, though no specific price data is available.
Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
Overall, Colombia gas investment in 2026 is a clear response to the supply crunch. The industry is spending more, but imports are still climbing.
As a result, the coming years will test whether new exploration can turn the tide. Despite the challenges, the 17% increase shows a commitment to the sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Colombia gas investment in 2026?
Colombia gas investment is projected to reach US$1.031 billion in 2026, a 17% increase from US$883 million in 2025. The figure comes from Naturgas, the trade association for the natural gas industry.
Why is Colombia gas investment rising?
The rise comes as domestic production fell 17.1% in 2025, to about 794 million cubic feet a day. Companies are spending more on exploration and production to counter the decline.
How much of the investment goes to exploration?
US$839 million of the 2026 total is earmarked for exploration and production. This is the largest share, compared to US$129 million for transport and US$62 million for distribution.
Are imports increasing in Colombia?
Yes, imports rose from under 3% of supply between 2015 and 2023 to more than 23% in the first quarter of 2026. They could reach around 39% of demand by the end of 2026.
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