
Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 2.32 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 3.86 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 10.70 % |
Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Analysis
The Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is estimated at USD 2.32 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 3.86 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 10.7% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
Colombia's cold chain logistics sector has emerged as a crucial component of the country's economic infrastructure, currently ranking fifth among Latin American and Caribbean nations in overall logistics capabilities. The sector is experiencing significant modernization through strategic infrastructure investments, particularly in storage facilities and refrigerated transport networks. This transformation is largely driven by the country's growing role as a regional trade hub, with its food processing sector now constituting 28% of the national manufacturing industry as of 2024. The government's commitment to improving decentralized logistical infrastructure has catalyzed private sector investments, leading to enhanced cold chain infrastructure reliability and operational efficiency.
The industry is witnessing substantial consolidation through strategic acquisitions and facility expansions. In February 2024, Emergent Cold Latin America's acquisition of Red Polar and subsequent announcement of a 25,000-pallet capacity expansion in Bogota exemplifies this trend. This consolidation is reshaping the competitive landscape, with major players investing in state-of-the-art facilities to meet growing demand. The integration of advanced technologies, including real-time temperature monitoring systems and warehouse management solutions, is becoming increasingly prevalent across the sector, enabling more efficient inventory management and ensuring product integrity throughout the supply chain.
The agricultural and food processing sectors are driving significant demand for cold chain logistics services, with meat and dairy exports playing a particularly crucial role. Colombia's meat exports reached USD 95.1 million from January to October 2023, while US dairy exports to the country totaled USD 126 million in 2023, highlighting the growing importance of temperature-controlled logistics in international trade. The industry is responding to these demands by expanding specialized cold storage facilities and implementing advanced cold chain solutions that maintain product quality throughout the distribution network.
The market is experiencing a transformation in consumer behavior and retail distribution patterns, particularly evident in the food sector where per capita consumption of temperature-sensitive products like chicken, beef, pork, and fish remained stable at 76.5 kg/inhabitant in 2023. This steady consumption pattern has prompted cold chain logistics operators to enhance their last-mile delivery capabilities and invest in urban distribution centers. The integration of sustainable practices and energy-efficient technologies in cold storage facilities is becoming increasingly important, as companies seek to balance operational efficiency with environmental responsibility while meeting stringent regulatory requirements for cold chain management of temperature-sensitive product handling.
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Trends
Growing Agricultural Exports and Trade
Colombia's position as a major agricultural exporter has become a significant driver for cold chain logistics development. As of November 2023, the country emerged as the primary destination for U.S. agricultural exports in South America, demonstrating robust trade relationships and increasing demand for cold chain transportation solutions. The floriculture industry alone contributes over USD 1 billion to Colombia's economy, with the United States receiving approximately 80% of the country's flower exports, necessitating reliable cold chain monitoring infrastructure to maintain product quality during transportation and storage.
The country's agricultural export success is further exemplified by its remarkable performance in specific sectors. In 2023, Colombian avocado exports witnessed a substantial 26.4% increase, reaching a record 5,125.5 40-foot containers, driven by expanded cultivation and strategic timing of harvests. This growth in high-value perishable exports has catalyzed investments in perishable logistics infrastructure, with major logistics providers expanding their capabilities to handle temperature-sensitive cargo. The trend is particularly evident in the development of specialized facilities near ports and airports, ensuring seamless cold chain continuity for export-oriented agricultural products.
Expansion of Cold Storage Infrastructure
The rapid expansion of cold storage infrastructure across Colombia is driving market growth, exemplified by significant investments from major industry players. In June 2024, A.P. Moller-Maersk demonstrated its commitment to the market by inaugurating a 44,000 m2 container logistics center in Tocancipá, featuring a sophisticated 651 m2 refrigerated container section with connectivity for 50 containers. This strategic investment, positioned just 47 kilometers north of Bogotá, showcases the industry's response to growing demand for advanced cold chain solutions and the need for strategic positioning near major consumption centers.
Further strengthening this trend, Emergent Cold Latin America's acquisition of Red Polar in February 2024 and its subsequent expansion plans highlight the market's dynamic growth. The company's initiative to transform its Bogotá facility into a cutting-edge hub capable of accommodating up to 25,000 pallets demonstrates the industry's commitment to modernizing cold chain infrastructure. These developments are particularly crucial given Colombia's diverse agricultural production and the increasing need for refrigerated warehouse solutions in rural areas, where traditional cold storage infrastructure has historically lagged behind production capabilities.
Rising Food Processing Industry
Colombia's food and beverage industry, representing 28% of the country's total manufacturing production by value, is driving significant demand for cold chain logistics services. The sector's growth is characterized by increasing sophistication in processed food production and rising demand for temperature-sensitive products. This industrial expansion has led to a greater need for specialized storage and transportation solutions, particularly as manufacturers seek to maintain product quality and extend shelf life through reliable food cold chain networks.
The transformation of the food processing sector is further evidenced by the growing demand for higher-quality and healthier confectionery products, requiring sophisticated temperature-controlled storage and distribution systems. Major logistics providers are responding by developing specialized facilities with multiple temperature zones to accommodate various product requirements. This trend is particularly significant in Bogotá, which has emerged as a major hub for food processing, concentrating 44% of sales according to the National Association of Businessmen of Colombia (ANDI), and hosting approximately 2,500 companies out of 9,800 operating nationwide in the sector.
E-commerce Growth and Modern Retail Development
The rapid evolution of Colombia's retail landscape, where formal retailers now control 60% of food distribution, is significantly driving cold chain logistics development. This shift towards organized retail has created increased demand for reliable cold chain solutions, as modern retailers require sophisticated temperature-controlled storage and distribution networks to maintain product quality and meet consumer expectations. The trend is particularly evident in the growth of hard discounters, who have successfully captured market share by offering quality products at competitive prices while maintaining robust cold chain monitoring operations.
The acceleration of e-commerce adoption among Colombian consumers has further intensified the need for efficient cold chain logistics solutions. Digital technology adoption has transformed how consumers purchase perishable goods, creating new challenges and opportunities for cold chain logistics providers. This transformation is evident in the emergence of specialized last-mile delivery services for temperature-sensitive products and the development of refrigerated warehouse facilities specifically designed to handle e-commerce fulfillment. Major logistics providers are investing in technology-enabled cold chain solutions, including real-time temperature monitoring and advanced warehouse management systems, to meet the growing demands of online retail operations.
Segment Analysis: By Services
Storage Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The storage segment has established itself as the cornerstone of Colombia's cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 62% of the market share in 2024. This dominance is primarily driven by the country's expanding food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical sector, and growing exports of perishable goods. The segment's strength is further reinforced by significant investments in modern cold storage facilities, particularly in key logistics hubs like Bogota, Medellin, and Cali. Major players like Emergent Cold LatAm have been expanding their storage capabilities, with recent acquisitions and facility upgrades boosting the segment's capacity. The strategic location of these storage facilities near ports and urban centers, combined with the implementation of advanced temperature monitoring systems and warehouse management solutions, has been crucial in maintaining the segment's market leadership.

Transportation Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The transportation segment is projected to experience the highest growth rate of approximately 12% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is being fueled by increasing demand for refrigerated transportation services across Colombia's diverse geographical regions. The expansion of retail chains, growing e-commerce penetration in the food sector, and rising exports of perishable goods are driving investments in reefer logistics and refrigerated transportation fleets. Companies are increasingly adopting advanced technologies for real-time temperature monitoring and route optimization, enhancing the efficiency of cold chain transportation. The segment is also benefiting from improvements in Colombia's transportation infrastructure and the integration of sustainable practices in cold chain logistics operations.
Remaining Segments in Services Segmentation
The value-added services segment, encompassing specialized services like blast freezing, labeling, and inventory management, plays a crucial supporting role in Colombia's cold chain logistics market. These services are becoming increasingly important as customers demand more comprehensive and integrated cold chain solutions. The segment is characterized by continuous innovation in service offerings, with providers introducing new technologies for better inventory tracking and management. The integration of these value-added services with core storage and transportation operations is helping companies differentiate their offerings and provide end-to-end cold chain solutions to their clients.
Segment Analysis: By Temperature Type
Chilled Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The chilled segment dominates Colombia's cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 64% of the market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the country's robust dairy industry, fresh produce sector, and growing pharmaceutical distribution requirements. The segment's prominence is further reinforced by Colombia's position as the third most populous country in Latin America, with over 52 million inhabitants, creating substantial demand for temperature-sensitive products. The expansion of modern retail formats and the increasing consumer preference for fresh, chilled logistics products have also contributed to this segment's dominance. Additionally, the segment benefits from Colombia's growing role as a regional hub for pharmaceutical distribution, where maintaining precise chilled temperatures is crucial for product integrity.
Frozen Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The frozen segment is projected to experience the highest growth rate of approximately 11% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily attributed to the expanding frozen food logistics market in Colombia, particularly in urban areas where busy lifestyles are driving demand for convenient frozen products. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing investments in cold storage infrastructure and the modernization of frozen food transportation systems. Colombia's strategic efforts to boost its meat exports, particularly to markets like China and Russia, are also contributing to the segment's expansion. The development of new frozen food processing facilities and the entry of international frozen food brands into the Colombian market are creating additional momentum for this segment's growth.
Remaining Segments in Temperature Type Segmentation
The ambient temperature segment plays a crucial role in Colombia's cold chain logistics market, particularly for products requiring controlled room temperature storage between 15°C and 25°C. This segment serves various industries including certain pharmaceutical products, specific food items, and chemical products that need protection from temperature extremes without requiring refrigeration or freezing. The segment's importance is highlighted by its role in storing and transporting temperature-sensitive products that don't require extreme cooling but need protection from Colombia's varying tropical climate conditions. The ambient segment complements the overall cold chain infrastructure by providing a crucial middle-ground solution for products requiring moderate temperature control.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Meats, Fish, and Poultry Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The meats, fish, and poultry segment dominates Colombia's cold chain logistics market, holding approximately 27% market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is driven by Colombia's robust livestock sector, which boasts an extensive cattle inventory distributed across over 623,000 farms nationwide. The country's strategic geographical advantages, including diverse thermal floors from sea level to high-altitude regions, enable the exploitation of various livestock breeds for both meat and dairy production. The segment's growth is further supported by Colombia's increasing meat exports, particularly to key destinations like Russia, Chile, Egypt, Lebanon, and Hong Kong. Additionally, the rising domestic consumption of chicken, beef, and pork, coupled with stringent temperature control requirements for these products, continues to drive demand for cold chain logistics services in this segment.
Horticulture Segment in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The horticulture segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in Colombia's cold chain logistics market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 13% during 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is primarily driven by Colombia's expanding fruit and vegetable exports, particularly to markets in the United States, Netherlands, and United Kingdom. The country's diverse climate and agricultural conditions support year-round production of various horticultural products, making it a significant player in the global market. Colombia's position as the world's second-largest flower exporter, after the Netherlands, further strengthens this segment's growth trajectory. The increasing adoption of greenhouse cultivation, implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) practices are driving the need for sophisticated cold chain equipment solutions to maintain product quality during storage and transportation.
Remaining Segments in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market by Application
The Colombian cold chain logistics market encompasses several other vital segments including dairy products, processed food products, and pharmaceuticals & life sciences. The dairy products segment plays a crucial role in supporting Colombia's growing milk and dairy processing industry, requiring specialized temperature-controlled storage and transportation solutions. The processed food products segment is driven by Colombia's expanding food processing sector, which serves both domestic and international markets. The pharmaceuticals and life sciences segment is particularly significant due to Colombia's position as the third-largest pharmaceutical market in Latin America, requiring stringent temperature-controlled logistics solutions for medical products and vaccines. Each of these segments contributes uniquely to the market's dynamics, driven by specific regulatory requirements, consumer demands, and industry standards.
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Industry Overview
Top Companies in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market
The Colombian cold chain logistics market features prominent players like Frimac, Solistica, Sefarcol, Transportes Iceberg, and Apix leading the industry. These companies are increasingly focusing on technological advancement through the implementation of radio frequency identification in warehouses, cloud storage, and the Internet of Things for real-time inventory management. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions have become commonplace as companies seek to expand their geographical footprint and service capabilities. Companies are investing heavily in modernizing their cold chain infrastructure, particularly in developing cutting-edge facilities with enhanced storage capacities and advanced temperature control systems. The industry is witnessing a significant push towards sustainability, with companies like CI IBLU pioneering the use of carbon dioxide-based cooling systems to reduce environmental impact. Operational excellence is being pursued through the integration of electronic data interchange systems, enabling seamless information exchange with clients during transportation and enhancing overall service delivery.
Market Structure Shows Dynamic Growth Potential
The Colombian cold chain logistics market exhibits a relatively fragmented structure, with no single player commanding a dominant market share position. The landscape is characterized by a mix of established local players with deep market knowledge and international logistics giants bringing global best practices and technological expertise. The market is witnessing a gradual trend toward consolidation, exemplified by strategic moves like Emergent Cold Latin America's acquisition of Red Polar and expansion plans in Bogotá. The competitive dynamics are further intensified by the presence of specialized regional players who leverage their intimate understanding of local market nuances and customer relationships to maintain their market positions.
The market is experiencing significant transformation through merger and acquisition activities, particularly as larger players seek to expand their market presence and service capabilities. Companies are increasingly focusing on vertical integration strategies to offer end-to-end solutions, from storage to transportation and value-added services. The competitive landscape is further shaped by the entry of new players, particularly in the e-commerce logistics segment, who are bringing innovative solutions and digital capabilities to meet evolving customer needs. The industry is seeing increased investment in specialized facilities and cold chain equipment, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food logistics sectors, as players aim to capture growing market opportunities.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the Colombian cold chain logistics market increasingly depends on companies' ability to embrace technological innovation while maintaining operational efficiency. Market leaders are focusing on developing comprehensive service portfolios that include value-added services such as inventory management, labeling, and specialized handling capabilities. The ability to provide real-time tracking and temperature monitoring has become crucial for maintaining competitive advantage, particularly in high-value segments like pharmaceuticals and premium food products. Companies are also investing in sustainable practices and green technologies, recognizing their growing importance in customer decision-making and regulatory compliance.
For new entrants and growing players, success hinges on identifying and serving niche market segments while building robust infrastructure and technology capabilities. The market presents significant opportunities for companies that can effectively address the specific needs of different industry verticals while maintaining cost competitiveness. Strategic partnerships with international players and investment in advanced technologies are becoming increasingly important for market expansion. Companies must also focus on developing strong relationships with key industry stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and industry associations, to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and maintain compliance with evolving standards. Emphasizing cold chain management and cold supply chain strategies is essential for companies aiming to enhance their service delivery and operational excellence.
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Leaders
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Megafin Logistica Para Alimentos
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Frigometro
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Transportes Iceberg De Colombia
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Apix Logistica Especializada SAS
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Sefarcol SA
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market News
- February 2024: Emergent Cold, a leading provider of temperature-controlled storage and logistics solutions, has revealed plans for an immediate expansion of the facilities of Red Polar, a Colombian company based in Bogota. This move will swiftly equip Emergent Cold with a cutting-edge facility, set to house up to 25,000 pallets, thereby amplifying its footprint in Colombia's capital. Such a strategic enhancement promises mutual benefits for the clientele of both entities, aligning with their supply chain goals.
- December 2023: Emergent Cold Latin America, the leading provider of refrigerated storage and logistics solutions in the region, revealed today that it has successfully garnered a substantial USD 500 million in equity commitments from both its existing and new investors. The primary backers in this funding round include Stonepeak Partners LP, Lineage, and Losa Group. Bolstered by this fresh injection of capital, Emergent Cold LatAm is poised to further bolster its regional cold storage network. This expansion strategy encompasses a mix of business acquisitions, greenfield initiatives, and enhancing its current facilities.
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Deliverables
- 1.2 Study Assumptions
- 1.3 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
- 2.1 Analysis Methodology
- 2.2 Research Phases
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS AND INSIGHTS
- 4.1 Current Market Scenario
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4.2 Market Dynamics
- 4.2.1 Market Drivers
- 4.2.1.1 Export of Fresh Produce
- 4.2.1.2 Pharmaceutical Industry Growth
- 4.2.2 Market Restraints
- 4.2.2.1 Infrastructure Challenges
- 4.2.2.2 Costs and Investment
- 4.2.3 Market Opportunities
- 4.2.3.1 Collaboration and Partnerships
- 4.3 Technological Trends and Automation
- 4.4 Government Regulations and Initiatives
- 4.5 Industry Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6 Spotlight on Ambient/Temperature-controlled Storage
- 4.7 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.8 Impact of Emission Standards and Regulations on Cold Chain Industry
- 4.9 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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5.1 By Services
- 5.1.1 Storage
- 5.1.2 Transportation
- 5.1.3 Value-added Services (Blast Freezing, Labeling, Inventory Management, etc.)
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5.2 By Temperature Type
- 5.2.1 Ambient
- 5.2.2 Chilled
- 5.2.3 Frozen
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5.3 By Application
- 5.3.1 Horticulture (Fresh Fruits and Vegetables)
- 5.3.2 Dairy Products (Milk, Ice-cream, Butter, etc.)
- 5.3.3 Meats and Fish
- 5.3.4 Processed Food Products
- 5.3.5 Pharma, Life Sciences, and Chemicals
- 5.3.6 Others
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Market Concentration Overview
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6.2 Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Megafin Logistica Para Alimentos
- 6.2.2 Frigometro
- 6.2.3 Apix Logistica Especializada SAS
- 6.2.4 Transportes Iceberg De Colombia
- 6.2.5 Sefarcol SA
- 6.2.6 Rentafrio
- 6.2.7 Ransa Colombia Colfrigos
- 6.2.8 Frimac
- 6.2.9 Sabanagro Ltda
- 6.2.10 Transportes Camfri SA*
- *List Not Exhaustive
- 6.3 Other Companies
7. FUTURE OF COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS MARKET
8. APPENDIX
- 8.1 Macroeconomic Indicators (GDP Distribution, by Activity, Contribution of the Transport and Storage Sector to Economy)
- 8.2 External Trade Statistics - Exports and Imports, by Product
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Industry Segmentation
A cold chain is a temperature-controlled supply chain. Cold chain logistics is the technology and process that allows the safe transport of temperature-sensitive goods and products along the supply chain. A complete background analysis of the Colombian cold chain logistics market, including the assessment of the economy and contribution of sectors in the economy, market overview, market size estimation for key segments, and emerging trends in the market segments, market dynamics, and geographical trends, and COVID-19 impact, is covered in the report.
The Colombian cold chain logistics market is segmented by services (storage, transportation, and value-added services (blast freezing, labeling, inventory management, etc.), temperature type (ambient, chilled, and frozen), and application (horticulture [fresh fruits and vegetables], dairy products [milk, ice-cream, butter, etc.], meat and fish, processed food products, and pharma, life sciences, and chemicals). The report offers market size and forecasts for all the above segments in value (USD).
By Services | Storage |
Transportation | |
Value-added Services (Blast Freezing, Labeling, Inventory Management, etc.) | |
By Temperature Type | Ambient |
Chilled | |
Frozen | |
By Application | Horticulture (Fresh Fruits and Vegetables) |
Dairy Products (Milk, Ice-cream, Butter, etc.) | |
Meats and Fish | |
Processed Food Products | |
Pharma, Life Sciences, and Chemicals | |
Others |
Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Research FAQs
How big is the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market?
The Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 2.32 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 10.70% to reach USD 3.86 billion by 2030.
What is the current Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size?
In 2025, the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size is expected to reach USD 2.32 billion.
Who are the key players in Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market?
Megafin Logistica Para Alimentos, Frigometro, Transportes Iceberg De Colombia, Apix Logistica Especializada SAS and Sefarcol SA are the major companies operating in the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market.
What years does this Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size was estimated at USD 2.07 billion. The report covers the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Colombia Cold Chain Logistics Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the cold chain logistics sector in Colombia. We leverage extensive expertise in temperature controlled logistics and cold chain management. Our research covers the full range of cold storage solutions, from refrigerated warehouse facilities to the deployment of cold chain equipment. The report offers detailed insights into developments in the pharmaceutical cold chain, requirements for the vaccine cold chain, and dynamics within the food cold chain. This information is available in an easy-to-read report PDF format for download. Our analysis also covers cold chain infrastructure, cold chain monitoring systems, and cold chain transportation networks throughout Colombia.
The report benefits stakeholders by offering actionable insights into optimizing the cold supply chain and implementing cold chain solutions. We examine specialized segments, including cryogenic logistics, reefer logistics, and perishable logistics. Additionally, we address challenges in fresh food logistics and frozen food logistics. Our comprehensive coverage extends to chilled logistics operations and frozen supply chain management. We provide valuable data on the efficiency of refrigerated transportation and best practices in refrigerated logistics. The analysis particularly focuses on development opportunities in cold chain infrastructure and emerging trends in Colombia's rapidly evolving cold chain sector.