On 17 September 2026, the Colombian National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) issued Press Release No. 120 announcing a significant intensification of enforcement actions targeting the recovery of over COP 1.28 trillion in uncollected withholding tax (retención en la fuente). This initiative forms part of the administration’s broader strategy to close the tax gap and strengthen fiscal sustainability. The DIAN identified systemic non-compliance among large withholding agents across multiple economic sectors, particularly in services, construction, and professional fees. The operation leverages advanced data analytics, cross-referencing third-party information (información exógena) with taxpayer declarations to detect omissions and discrepancies.
Key Takeaways
- Massive Revenue Target: The COP 1.28 trillion recovery goal represents one of the largest single enforcement drives in recent years, signaling zero tolerance for withholding tax evasion by intermediary agents.
- Data-Driven Audits and Sanctions: DIAN is deploying algorithmic risk models to audit high-value withholding agents, with penalties including fines up to 200% of the omitted amount and potential criminal referral for repeat offenders.
- Compliance Obligations for Withholding Agents: Companies acting as withholding agents must urgently review their retention processes, verify supplier tax status (RUT), and ensure timely filing of withholding tax returns (Form 350) to avoid exposure.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement