Mercado Libre Announces Record Investment of US$600 M in Colombia

MercadoLibre continues to expand its footprint across Latin America, announcing a US$600 million investment in Colombia aimed at enhancing its operational capabilities and long-term growth in the country.

The e-commerce giant MercadoLibre confirmed that this marks its largest investment in Colombia to date.

According to Doménico Barbato, General Manager for Colombia and Venezuela, “these US$600 million reflect our long-term vision for Colombia.”

Focus on logistics, technology, and ecosystem growth

The company detailed that the investment will primarily target improvements in logistics processes and technological infrastructure. These upgrades are designed to enhance the experience of the approximately 8 million users within its ecosystem in Colombia, which includes more than 1,000 official stores and over 30,000 SMEs.

MercadoLibre currently records around 80 million monthly unique visitors in the country, reinforcing its position as a key player in Colombia’s digital commerce landscape.

Part of the investment will also support the launch of the first MercadoLibre Experience in Colombia, an event focused on e-commerce training and engagement for brands and entrepreneurs. The format has already been implemented in other markets across the region.

Parallel expansion strategy in Argentina

The announcement in Colombia coincides with a broader regional strategy. MercadoLibre also revealed a US$3.4 billion investment plan for Argentina in 2026, aimed at expanding its logistics network, strengthening its e-commerce platform, and deepening its fintech ecosystem.

As part of this initiative, the company plans to create 1,900 new jobs across strategic areas, further consolidating its presence in the country. The investment includes both capital expenditures and operational costs to sustain long-term growth.

Company data shows that more than 2.7 million SMEs and entrepreneurs in Argentina sell through MercadoLibre. Additionally, the company exported services worth US$878 million last year.

Financially, MercadoLibre reported a net profit of US$1.997 billion last year, representing a 4.5% increase, while net revenues reached US$28.893 billion in 2025, growing 39%.

New logistics infrastructure to boost delivery efficiency

As part of its Argentine expansion, MercadoLibre also announced a US$115 million investment to build a new logistics center in Escobar. The facility, developed by Plaza Logística, will span over 100,000 square meters.

The center is expected to process up to 130,000 products per day and store more than two million large-volume items. This infrastructure will complement the company’s existing logistics network, which includes facilities in Mercado Central, Tres de Febrero, and multiple last-mile delivery nodes across the country.

The goal is to improve delivery efficiency and move toward 24-hour shipping timelines.

JPMorgan revises outlook amid rising competition and investment pressure

Meanwhile, JPMorgan adjusted its outlook on MercadoLibre, downgrading its rating from “overweight” to “neutral.”

The revision reflects two main concerns. First, the bank highlighted increasing competition in the e-commerce sector, particularly in Brazil. Second, it noted that higher investment levels could put pressure on short-term operating profits.

As a result, JPMorgan lowered its price target for MercadoLibre shares to US$2,100 by December 2026, down from a previous estimate of US$2,650. The adjustment is primarily driven by reduced profitability projections, especially in the Brazilian market.