How Colombia’s Cities Rank for Economic Freedom (Spanish)

IO Podcast|Episode 26

Listen on Apple Podcasts | Watch on BitChute

Jair Viana—economist and research director at the Colombian Libertank policy institute—explains the importance of a free-market economy for development. He contends that the freest cities in Colombia, such as Montería, have been economically growing at a rapid clip relative to larger cities. Viana also explains how Bogotá, despite having the highest taxes and the least economic freedom in the country, has the largest number of private businesses. That number of companies, he says, would grow exponentially if authorities were to cut through the red tape.

For Viana, the upcoming local elections on October 29 will have crucial effects on economic freedom in every city. He contends that only a few candidates offer to lower taxes and encourage the private sector. Instead, most candidates, in line with President Gustavo Petro’s socialist ideals, promote the redistribution of wealth and undermine the role of private businesses in the economy.

Recommended Links

• Follow Viana and Libertank on X.
• Follow Viana and Libertank on Instagram.
• Visit Libertank’s website.
• Read the Colombian Cities’ Economic Freedom Index here.
• “Gustavo Petro’s Narco Backing Is Out of the Closet,” Impunity Observer.
• “Gustavo Petro’s Labor Reform Hurts Vulnerable Workers,” Impunity Observer.

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