ANDI faces tension with Colombian government and company withdrawals

The National Association of Businessmen of Colombia (ANDI) is facing internal and external pressure following reports of a rift between its president, Bruce Mac Master, and the government of Abelardo de la Espriella. Tensions have escalated amid allegations of an unofficial presidential veto preventing government ministers from meeting with Mac Master.

Several major companies have recently adjusted their involvement with the guild. Coca-Cola Bebidas de Colombia and Industria Nacional de Gaseosas (Indega) have withdrawn from the ANDI Beverage Industry Chamber, though they remain affiliated with the broader association. Additionally, companies under the Organización Ardila Lülle, including Incauca, Ingenio Providencia, and Sucroal, have reportedly communicated their definitive withdrawal from the guild.

The ANDI board of directors plans to address these developments in its next ordinary meeting. The objective is to explore ways to restore direct communication channels between Mac Master and the President to mend the relationship between the business sector and the executive branch.