This paper presents the calculation of added value for exports from Colombia and Valle del Cauca in 2016 through the use of input output matrixes. It finds that the added value of Colombian exports, measured as a percentage of total value of exports was 86.5%. For Valle del Cauca, this indicator was 60.9% reflecting a greater industrial and agro-industrial vocation that demands more inputs, both domestic and imported. The productive sector whose exports contributed the most added value to the economy of Valle del Cauca was food products. Among the main challenges, in terms of public policy and business development that stem from this study, are the consolidation of more integrated regional economies and the attracting of foreign direct investment in sectors that stimulate the production of intermediate goods.