Colombia and its bioingredients: a strategic opportunity for cosmetic innovation
Colombia, recognized as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, represents a major opportunity for the development of sustainable bioingredients for the cosmetics industry.
Through its exceptional biodiversity, the country offers a unique source of natural ingredients with functional properties, particularly relevant for cosmetic and personal care applications. Its position as a megadiverse country is complemented by favorable conditions for international cooperation, including trade agreements and a regulatory framework aligned with global standards on access to genetic resources and benefit-sharing.
Committed to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, Colombia has been a signatory of the Convention on Biological Diversity since 1994, actively promoting responsible use of natural resources and fair sharing of benefits with local communities.
Biointropic: connecting Colombia’s bioeconomy ecosystem
In this context, Biointropic acts as a key bridge between Colombia’s bioeconomy ecosystem and international industries. Since 2014, the organisation has supported the development of bio-based innovation, working closely with companies, academia, and international partners.
Recognised as a Center for Innovation and Productivity by the Colombian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Biointropic plays a strategic role in facilitating access to Colombian bioingredients for global markets.
BIOin: a collaborative platform for bioingredients
Through the BIOin initiative, developed in collaboration with six Colombian Chambers of Commerce (Aburrá Sur, Bogotá, Cali, Medellín, Putumayo, and San José del Guaviare), a structured portfolio of bio-based solutions has been created.
This initiative brings together:
Around 50 companies
More than 100 bioingredients
A wide range of species derived from Colombia’s biodiversity
The portfolio includes ingredients such as açaí, cacay, annatto, cacao, buriti, chontaduro, copaiba, cannabis, aloe, coffee, and avocado, among others.
These companies are at different stages of development, ranging from advanced R&D projects with international positioning to emerging actors focused on sustainable sourcing, community engagement, and production development. This diversity opens opportunities for multiple types of collaboration, from ingredient sourcing to co-development and innovation partnerships.
A growing ecosystem for sustainable innovation
The Colombian bioingredients ecosystem continues to evolve, offering increasing opportunities for sustainable product development and value chain strengthening. This dynamic environment supports innovation while promoting biodiversity conservation and local socio-economic development.
EcosistemaBIO 2026: connecting the ecosystem on the ground
To further explore these opportunities, Biointropic and its partners will host EcosistemaBIO 2026, an in-person event dedicated to bioeconomy and innovation:
📅 10–12 September 2026
📍 Aburrá Sur Convention Center, Itagüí (near Medellín, Colombia)
The event will bring together key stakeholders to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and showcase bio-based solutions.
For more information or participation inquiries:
📩 cgutierrez@biointropic.com
🌐 www.biointropic.com (event microsite coming soon)
🌍 Colombia’s bioeconomy represents a growing opportunity for international collaboration in sustainable cosmetics innovation, and Biointropic continues to play a key role in connecting this ecosystem with global partners.