GC Summit Colombia 2026 brought together senior in-house counsel, private practice lawyers and legal industry professionals for an afternoon of discussion focused on the regulatory, commercial and practical challenges shaping the legal landscape across Latin America. Beginning with registration and a light lunch, the programme set a collaborative tone, allowing attendees to connect ahead of a series of substantive panel sessions.

Following opening remarks, the first panel, sponsored by Holland & Knight, examined antitrust compliance in Colombia and its growing importance for companies operating in an increasingly scrutinised and fast-moving environment. The discussion highlighted how competition law has evolved into a strategic business concern rather than a purely legal one. Panellists shared in-house perspectives on designing and updating effective compliance programmes, managing competition risks in dynamic markets, and responding to investigations and information requests from authorities. Particular attention was given to aligning legal strategy with business objectives and to the expanding role of technology, including artificial intelligence, in supporting compliance, risk management and decision-making. Drawing on practical experience, the session offered grounded insights into emerging trends and best practices for navigating antitrust compliance today.

The second panel, sponsored by Posse Herrera Ruiz, shifted the focus to labour and employment law and how organisations can prepare for 2026 without burnout. Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, regulatory change and shifting workforce expectations, speakers explored how employers can balance legal risk with operational resilience. The discussion covered workforce restructuring, labour costs, flexibility, union relations and the increasing relevance of wellbeing and ESG considerations. Rather than abstract forecasts, the panel concentrated on realistic strategies to anticipate disruption, respond to change and make informed decisions, providing attendees with a pragmatic framework for facing the coming years with clarity and confidence.

After a short coffee break, attention turned to regional investment trends with a session sponsored by Pellerano & Herrera on the Dominican Republic. The discussion examined the regulatory developments, sector-specific opportunities, and legal considerations influencing both foreign and domestic investment. Speakers reflected on recent reforms and market dynamics, as well as the practical challenges faced by companies operating in or entering the jurisdiction. The panel offered a forward-looking view on why the Dominican Republic continues to attract international interest and what businesses should be mindful of as the legal landscape evolves.

This was followed by a fireside chat sponsored by ECIJA GPA focusing on Ecuador’s energy sector. The conversation addressed the ongoing crisis and its implications for investors and businesses, providing insight into the current legal and regulatory framework and the key risks involved. Alongside these challenges, the session also explored emerging opportunities within the sector, offering a balanced perspective on how stakeholders can protect investments while identifying areas for potential growth in a difficult environment.

The Congress continued with a panel sponsored by Gamboa, García, Roldán & Co. on artificial intelligence in Colombia. The discussion explored the developing regulatory oversight of AI, including draft legislation in Congress and public policies introduced by the national government. Speakers examined the legal and practical risks associated with implementing AI tools, such as questions of liability, algorithmic transparency and accountability, as well as the broader implications for the future of legal practice. The session underscored the need for legal teams to stay engaged with technological change while maintaining robust governance frameworks.

The day concluded with an interactive session sponsored by Legal 500 on the day-to-day practice of an in-house lawyer. This final panel offered an honest look at the realities of working within a business, addressing both legal and non-legal challenges. Topics included the importance of soft skills, managing and developing talent, working with Gen Z, and the role of rising stars within legal teams. With questions encouraged throughout, the discussion resonated strongly with attendees, closing the event on a practical and reflective note that captured the evolving nature of the in-house role.

The event provided a comprehensive and regionally informed overview of the issues currently shaping legal practice, combining strategic insight with practical guidance across competition, labour, investment, energy, technology and in-house management.