Columbia Security Screening Market Overview,2030

The security screening market in Colombia has evolved alongside the country’s transformation in national security and economic development, becoming a cornerstone of modernization in aviation, defense, and border control. Colombia’s focus on enhancing its internal and external security infrastructure intensified after the peace accords of 2016, prompting investments in surveillance, detection, and inspection systems by agencies such as the National Police, the Ministry of Defense, and Aerocivil. Security screening in Colombia encompasses the systematic use of imaging, biometric, and analytical technologies to detect threats, illicit goods, and contraband across airports, seaports, and land borders. The El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, one of Latin America’s busiest hubs, has implemented multi-level baggage and cargo scanning systems equipped with X-ray imaging and computed tomography to meet International Civil Aviation Organization standards. The National Directorate of Taxes and Customs (DIAN) utilizes non-intrusive inspection systems at key borders, including Rumichaca and Paraguachón, to detect narcotics, weapons, and undeclared goods, supported by data analytics and cloud-based coordination with other agencies. The Colombian Navy operates radiation detection and mobile inspection units along the Pacific coast to counter maritime trafficking. Integration of biometrics into national ID and border systems, led by Registraduría Nacional, has enhanced passenger verification and screening efficiency. Artificial intelligence applications are being used to predict risk patterns in trade routes, while IoT-based monitoring connects multiple checkpoints under the country’s Integrated Border Control Program. Technological innovation has also introduced mobile scanners and portable trace detectors for use in rural and event-based operations, especially in regions like Antioquia and Valle del Cauca. Colombia’s alignment with global safety and customs standards, combined with strict ethical and privacy oversight under the Habeas Data Law, positions its screening infrastructure as a central mechanism for strengthening national security, trade integrity, and citizen protection.

According to the research report, ""Colombia Security Screening Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Colombia Security Screening market is anticipated to add to more than USD 30 Million by 2025–30. Colombia’s security screening market is expanding through collaboration between domestic institutions and international manufacturers, emphasizing modernization, digital transformation, and cross-agency integration. Global firms such as Smiths Detection, Leidos, and Rapiscan Systems provide non-intrusive inspection technologies for airports and customs zones under contracts with Aerocivil and DIAN, enabling high-resolution cargo and passenger scanning capabilities at El Dorado, Medellín’s José María Córdova Airport, and Cartagena Port. The Colombian company Tecnoimagen supplies X-ray scanners and portable detection units for private logistics firms, while VMI Security supports mobile vehicle screening across critical border points. In collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Colombian Navy has integrated radiation detection portals and cargo scanning technology to monitor illicit trafficking along the Pacific coast. The Ministry of Defense partners with Indumil to develop advanced explosive trace detection equipment for defense operations and protection of critical energy infrastructure such as Ecopetrol’s refineries in Barrancabermeja. AI-driven surveillance and facial recognition technologies supplied by Hikvision and Dahua Technology have been installed in major transport hubs and public facilities in Bogotá and Medellín as part of the Safe Cities initiative. Private security companies like Prosegur Colombia and Atlas Security manage screening operations in financial centers, industrial parks, and large events, combining cloud-based monitoring with AI analytics for real-time alerts. Universities such as Pontificia Universidad Javeriana collaborate with defense research units to improve quantum sensing and behavioral screening applications, advancing precision in threat detection. The government’s collaboration with the World Customs Organization under the Authorized Economic Operator program promotes trusted trade partnerships using standardized scanning systems and digital documentation. Environmental considerations are driving adoption of low-radiation scanners and energy-efficient screening devices.

In Colombia the security screening framework is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, the National Police, and the Colombian Customs and Tax Authority covering baggage and cargo inspection, personnel screening, and vehicle inspection across airports, ports, and land borders. Baggage and cargo screening plays an essential role in the country’s aviation and customs operations with airports such as El Dorado in Bogotá, José María Córdova in Medellín, and Alfonso Bonilla Aragón in Cali using dual-view X-ray and computed tomography systems to detect explosives, weapons, and narcotics in passenger and cargo luggage. Cargo screening is also applied at seaports such as Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Buenaventura where containerized goods are examined using high-energy X-ray scanners and radiation detectors to identify smuggled goods, illegal mining exports, and contraband. Personnel screening is conducted at transportation hubs, government offices, and event venues through walk-through metal detectors, full-body scanners, and manual frisking performed by airport security and police forces. Major public events such as the Cartagena Film Festival and Barranquilla Carnival involve enhanced personnel screening protocols including handheld detectors and biometric verification systems to prevent prohibited items or unauthorized access. Vehicle screening forms an important layer of Colombia’s security enforcement particularly along trade corridors connecting Venezuela and Ecuador where customs authorities and the army employ under-vehicle scanners, portable X-ray systems, and canine units to detect hidden drugs or weapons. At ports and airports, service vehicles and delivery trucks are also subject to screening before entry into secure zones to prevent smuggling or infiltration. This integrated approach combining baggage, cargo, personnel, and vehicle screening supports Colombia’s national strategy against drug trafficking, terrorism, and illegal trade while strengthening transportation and border security through a network of modern technology and coordinated enforcement agencies.

The security screening infrastructure in Colombia integrates multiple detection technologies that strengthen national security, customs enforcement, and transportation safety. X-ray imaging technology is the foundation of baggage, cargo, and mail inspection across airports and ports, enabling detection of concealed items within luggage and containers. El Dorado International Airport and Cartagena Port employ multi-view X-ray machines that differentiate between organic and inorganic materials, allowing officers to identify explosives, weapons, or narcotics hidden in everyday items. Computed tomography technology has been introduced at select airports and cargo terminals to generate three-dimensional imaging of luggage and shipments, automatically identifying threats and reducing manual inspections. Neutron sensing and detection technologies are used primarily by defense and research institutions including the Colombian Geological Service and the National University laboratories for detecting explosives and chemical compounds within dense or metallic objects. Terahertz and millimeter-wave technologies are utilized in personnel screening systems at airports and government buildings providing non-invasive detection of concealed items under clothing without radiation exposure. These systems have improved passenger flow at high-traffic locations such as Medellín’s airport and Bogotá’s metro security checkpoints. Other detection technologies include explosives trace detection systems that identify chemical residues on luggage and vehicles, radiation detection devices deployed at major seaports like Buenaventura and Santa Marta to prevent unauthorized movement of radioactive materials, and handheld spectrometers used by customs officers to detect narcotics or hazardous chemicals in intercepted shipments. These detection systems are supported by digital monitoring centers operated by the National Police and customs authorities that allow real-time communication and image analysis between inspection points. Through this combination of imaging, trace detection, and analytical technologies Colombia has enhanced its ability to counter organized crime, smuggling, and terrorism across its transport and border security network.

Colombia’s security screening infrastructure employs a diverse range of equipment types designed for airports, ports, customs facilities, and event venues. Walk-through metal detectors are installed at airports including Bogotá, Cali, and Cartagena as well as in metro systems, stadiums, and government buildings to screen passengers and staff entering restricted areas. Hand-held metal detectors are used by security personnel for close inspection and targeted searches during secondary checks or security alerts. Full-body scanners using millimeter-wave technology are operational at El Dorado and Medellín airports where they detect non-metallic threats while ensuring compliance with health and privacy standards. Explosives trace detection systems are integrated into baggage and cargo inspection operations at airports, customs offices, and logistics terminals where swab samples are analyzed for explosive or chemical residues. Radiation detection equipment is a key element of Colombia’s customs operations, especially at seaports such as Cartagena and Buenaventura where stationary and portable detectors are used to monitor imports and exports for radioactive materials or illegal nuclear substances. Portable and mobile screening units are deployed to support temporary security operations during major events, military missions, and remote border inspections. These include van-mounted X-ray systems, handheld narcotics analyzers, and portable radiation detectors used by the National Police and Anti-Narcotics Directorate for field operations. During large-scale events like international football matches and cultural festivals, these mobile systems enhance crowd safety and rapid threat detection. This combination of stationary and mobile screening equipment provides Colombia with versatile capabilities to secure its transport networks, ports, and urban centers while maintaining operational efficiency and adapting to the dynamic security challenges faced across its regions.

Security screening applications in Colombia encompass mail and parcel inspection, baggage scanning, cargo and vehicle inspection, people screening, and explosives and narcotics detection coordinated across aviation, customs, and law enforcement agencies. Mail and parcel screening is conducted by postal operators and courier companies such as Servientrega, Deprisa, and 4-72 where X-ray imaging and chemical analysis systems identify explosives, weapons, and narcotics hidden within packages. Baggage scanning is a critical part of aviation security at airports such as El Dorado, Cali, and Barranquilla where every checked and carry-on bag undergoes X-ray and computed tomography inspection supervised by the Airport Security Police. Cargo and vehicle inspection plays a vital role in customs and border control at ports including Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta as well as land crossings like Cúcuta and Ipiales where high-energy X-ray scanners, radiation monitors, and canine units detect smuggled goods, narcotics, and explosives in freight containers and vehicles. People screening is conducted not only in transportation hubs but also in government facilities and event venues using walk-through metal detectors, hand-held scanners, and biometric verification to control access and detect concealed threats. Major public events such as the Cali Fair and Bogotá Book Festival employ layered people screening to ensure public safety. Explosives and narcotics detection represents a top priority for Colombia’s security agencies including the National Police Anti-Narcotics Directorate and the Ministry of Defense which use portable analyzers, trace detectors, and trained dogs to identify drugs, explosives, and chemical substances across transport routes and inspection sites. These applications are integrated through centralized command centers that coordinate data between customs, police, and security operators enabling Colombia to sustain efficient trade operations while maintaining strict control against trafficking and terrorism throughout its borders and transportation networks.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Securtiy Screening Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Baggage and Cargo Screening
• Personnel Screening
• Vehicle Screening

By Detection Technology
• X-ray
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Neutron Sensing and Detection
• Terahertz and Millimeter-wave
• Other Detection Technologies

By Equipment Type
• Walk-through Metal Detectors
• Hand-held Metal Detectors
• Full-body Scanners
• Explosives Trace Detection Systems
• Radiation Detection Equipment
• Portable / Mobile Screening Units

By Application
• Mail and Parcel
• Baggage Scanning
• Cargo and Vehicle Inspection
• People Screening
• Explosives and Narcotics Detection Show more