Ecopetrol's new president seeks energy solutions amid gas deficit

Joaquín Gutiérrez Caballero has assumed the presidency of Ecopetrol, the Colombian state-owned oil company. The Unión Sindical Obrera (USO), the company’s primary labor union, has expressed support for his appointment and stated its willingness to maintain a dialogue with the new administration. The union emphasized the need for a management team composed of technical experts with extensive experience in the oil and gas sectors to focus on strengthening the traditional business, ensuring energy sovereignty, and protecting jobs.

Simultaneously, Ecopetrol is exploring regional energy opportunities as Colombia faces a growing natural gas deficit. President Gutiérrez Caballero is participating in the International Oil and Gas Congress in Caracas, Venezuela, to identify alternatives for the hydrocarbon business. While no specific contracts or agreements with Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA) have been announced, the move comes as Colombian commercial gas production fell 17.1% in 2025. Industry estimates suggest that by 2026, approximately 26% of the gas consumed in Colombia may need to be imported.