ANALYSIS OF CHILE’S TRADE: DATA, PRODUCTS & PROCEDURES, FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION OR A SPECIFIC MARKET INTELLIGENCE MATTER OR ANY OTHER MATTER PLEASE CONTACT US

1. MACROECONOMIC TRADE CONTEXT

Annual Trade Volume 2024:

Total Exports: US$101.0 billion (↑ 2.96% from 2023)
Total Imports: US$84.3 billion
Trade Balance Surplus: US$16.7 billion (merchandise)
Exports Per Capita: US$5,120 (60th globally)
Imports Per Capita: US$4,160 (90th globally)
Global Export Rank: 41st out of 226
Global Import Rank: 46th out of 226
GDP: US$330 billion (45th globally)
GDP Per Capita: US$16,800 (71st globally)
Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP), floating exchange rate
Economic Complexity Index (Trade): 72nd out of 130 (ECI: -0.15, 2024)
Economic Complexity Index (Technology): 26th out of 96 (ECI: 0.86, 2021)
Economic Complexity Index (Research): 22nd out of 137 (ECI: 1.26, 2023)

Key Trade Trends (2024-2025):

Indicator	2024 Value	Change
Total Exports	US$101.0 billion	↑ 2.96% from 2023
Exports (annual)	US$99.09 billion	UN Comtrade data
Imports (annual)	US$84.29 billion	UN Comtrade data
Trade Surplus	US$14.80 billion	UN Comtrade data
Export Destinations	180+ markets	Diversified portfolio

Latest Trade Data (November 2025):

Indicator	November 2025	Change (YoY)
Exports	US$8.39 billion	↓ 3.22% from Nov 2024
Imports	US$7.15 billion	↑ 15.6% from Nov 2024
Trade Balance	US$+1.24 billion surplus	Positive

Geographic Distribution 2024:

EXPORT MARKETS (US$101.0B):

Rank	Country	Export Value	Share
1	China	~US$34 billion (est.)	33.7%
2	United States	~US$14.5 billion (est.)	14.4%
3	Japan	~US$8.5 billion (est.)	8.4%
4	South Korea	~US$6.5 billion (est.)	6.4%
5	Brazil	~US$4.0 billion (est.)	4.0%

*Source: OEC , Trading Economics *

IMPORT ORIGINS (US$84.3B):

Rank	Country	Import Value	Share
1	China	~US$24.0 billion (est.)	28.5%
2	United States	~US$16.0 billion (est.)	19.0%
3	Brazil	~US$7.5 billion (est.)	8.9%
4	Argentina	~US$5.8 billion (est.)	6.9%
5	Germany	~US$3.5 billion (est.)	4.2%

Trade Balance by Major Partner (2024):

Partner	Trade Balance (US$)
China	+17.7 billion surplus
Japan	+6.32 billion surplus
South Korea	+3.09 billion surplus
Netherlands	+1.35 billion surplus
India	+1.28 billion surplus
Argentina	-5.75 billion deficit
Germany	-2.06 billion deficit
Brazil	-1.9 billion deficit
Vietnam	-898 million deficit
Peru	-709 million deficit

2. DETAILED EXPORT PRODUCT ANALYSIS

A. GLOBAL EXPORT LEADERSHIP (2024)

Chile is the world’s largest exporter of 24 products

Rank	Product Category	Global Position
1	Copper	World’s largest exporter
2	Carbonate of Lithium	World’s largest exporter
3	Fresh Cherries	World’s largest exporter
4	Frozen Salmon Fillets	World’s largest exporter
5	Frozen Mackerel	World’s largest exporter
6	Canned Mussels (Seafood)	World’s largest exporter
7	Dried Plums	World’s largest exporter
8	Roasted Molybdenum Concentrate	World’s largest exporter
9	Iodine	World’s largest exporter
10	Potassium Nitrate	World’s largest exporter

Additional Global #1 Products:

Molybdenum oxides and hydroxides
Sodium nitrate
Fresh plums
Frozen trout fillets
Frozen cod fillets
Industrial algae
Fresh salmon fillets
Fish meal
Lithium hydroxide
Coniferous plywood
Shelled hazelnuts
Boron oxides
Frozen trout
Baby food

B. MINING PRODUCTS (Dominant Share)

1. Copper: US$20.0+ billion (>20% of total exports)

Product	Export Value	Notes
Copper Ore	US$2.79B (Nov 2025)	Primary export
Refined Copper	US$1.11B (Nov 2025)	Processed metal
Raw Copper	Significant	Growing processing

World’s largest copper producer and exporter
Major mines: Escondida (world’s largest), Collahuasi, El Teniente, Los Pelambres
State-owned Codelco: World’s largest copper producer
Primary Destinations: China (60%+), Japan, South Korea, United States

2. Lithium Compounds: US$5.0+ billion (est.)

Product	Global Market Share	Notes
Carbonate of Lithium	~80% of world market	World’s largest exporter
Lithium Hydroxide	World leader	For EV batteries
Boron Compounds	World leader	Boron oxides

World’s largest lithium producer (Salar de Atacama)
Strategic resource: Critical for EV batteries, energy storage
Codelco expansion: 2.5 million metric tons LME/year quota approved (2031-2060)
Primary Destinations: China, South Korea, Japan, United States, Europe

3. Molybdenum: US$1.5+ billion (est.)

Product	Global Position
Roasted Molybdenum Concentrate	World’s largest exporter
Molybdenum Oxides and Hydroxides	World’s largest exporter

Byproduct of copper mining
Primary Destinations: China, Japan, Netherlands, United States

4. Industrial Minerals

Product	Global Position	Notes
Iodine	World’s largest exporter	Medical, industrial uses
Potassium Nitrate	World’s largest exporter	Fertilizers
Sodium Nitrate	World’s largest exporter	Industrial uses

C. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

1. Fresh Fruits: US$6.0+ billion (est.)

Product	Global Position	Season
Fresh Cherries	World’s largest exporter	November-January
Fresh Plums	World’s largest exporter	Summer
Dried Plums	World’s largest exporter	Year-round
Fresh Grapes	Major exporter	December-April
Fresh Apples	Major exporter	February-October
Fresh Blueberries	Major exporter	October-March
Fresh Avocados	Growing exporter	Year-round

Counter-seasonal supply: Northern Hemisphere winter
Primary Destinations: China, United States, Europe, Latin America
Cherry exports: US$2.0+ billion (rapidly growing)

2. Nuts and Processed Foods

Product	Global Position	Notes
Shelled Hazelnuts	World’s largest exporter	Growing sector
Baby Food	World’s largest exporter	Processed exports
Dried Fruits	Major exporter	Plums, apricots

D. FISHERY AND AQUACULTURE PRODUCTS

1. Salmon and Trout: US$6.0+ billion (est.)

Product	Global Position	Notes
Fresh Salmon Fillets	World’s largest exporter	Premium product
Frozen Salmon Fillets	World’s largest exporter	Major volume
Frozen Trout Fillets	World’s largest exporter	Growing segment
Frozen Trout	World’s largest exporter	Whole fish

World’s 2nd largest salmon producer (after Norway)
Major farming regions: Los Lagos, Aysén, Magallanes
Primary Destinations: United States, Japan, Brazil, China, Russia

2. Other Seafood

Product	Global Position	Notes
Frozen Mackerel	World’s largest exporter	Industrial fishing
Frozen Cod Fillets	World’s largest exporter	Deep-water cod
Canned Mussels	World’s largest exporter	Aquaculture
Fish Meal	World’s largest exporter	Animal feed
Industrial Algae	World’s largest exporter	Food additives

E. FOREST PRODUCTS

1. Wood and Derivatives: US$2.5+ billion (est.)

Product	Global Position	Notes
Coniferous Plywood	World’s largest exporter	Construction material
Sulfate Chemical Woodpulp	Major exporter	US$233M (Nov 2025)
Sawn Wood	Major exporter	Radiata pine

Primary Destinations: China, United States, Mexico, Saudi Arabia

F. OTHER MAJOR EXPORT CATEGORIES

HS Code	Product Category	Export Value (Nov 2025)
	Gold	US$461 million
	Commodities not elsewhere specified	US$406 million
	Fish Fillets	US$337 million
03	Fish and crustaceans	US$287 million (Sept 2024)
47	Wood pulp	US$233 million (Sept 2024)

G. TOP EXPORTS (November 2025)

Rank	Product	Export Value
1	Copper Ore	US$2.79 billion
2	Refined Copper	US$1.11 billion
3	Gold	US$461 million
4	Commodities not elsewhere specified	US$406 million
5	Fish Fillets	US$337 million

3. DETAILED IMPORT PRODUCT ANALYSIS

A. MINERAL FUELS AND ENERGY PRODUCTS (Largest Import Category)

Total Value: US$15.96 billion (2024)
Share of total imports: 18.9%
Products: Crude oil, refined petroleum, natural gas, coal
Primary Sources: United States, Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Colombia

B. MACHINERY AND ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

1. Machinery, nuclear reactors, boilers (HS 84): US$10.46 billion (2024)

Share of total imports: 12.4%
Products: Industrial machinery, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, power generation equipment
Primary Sources: United States, China, Germany, Brazil, Italy

2. Electrical, electronic equipment (HS 85): US$8.21 billion (2024)

Share of total imports: 9.7%
Products: Telecommunications equipment (US$375M Nov 2025), computers (US$251M Nov 2025), consumer electronics, components
Primary Sources: China, United States, Brazil, Mexico, South Korea

C. TRANSPORTATION EQUIPMENT

1. Vehicles other than railway, tramway (HS 87): US$7.95 billion (2024)

Share of total imports: 9.4%
Cars: Passenger vehicles, SUVs
Commercial vehicles: Trucks, buses
Parts and accessories
Primary Sources: Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, South Korea, Japan, China

D. CHEMICAL AND ALLIED PRODUCTS

Category	Import Value (2024)
Plastics (HS 39)	US$2.72 billion
Pharmaceutical products (HS 30)	US$2.36 billion
Inorganic chemicals, precious metal compound, isotope (HS 28)	US$1.46 billion
Essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics, toiletries (HS 33)	US$1.20 billion
Miscellaneous chemical products (HS 38)	US$1.13 billion
Organic chemicals (HS 29)	US$1.08 billion

E. FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

Category	Import Value (2024)	Notes
Meat and edible meat offal (HS 02)	US$2.16 billion	Bovine meat US$721M (Nov 2025)
Residues, wastes of food industry, animal fodder (HS 23)	US$1.26 billion	Animal feed
Animal, vegetable fats and oils, cleavage products (HS 15)	US$1.14 billion	Vegetable oils
Cereals (HS 10)	US$1.08 billion	Wheat, corn, rice

F. MEDICAL AND SCIENTIFIC EQUIPMENT

Category	Import Value (2024)	Notes
Optical, photo, technical, medical apparatus (HS 90)	US$1.75 billion	Medical instruments US$535M (Nov 2025)
Orthopedic Appliances	US$345M (Nov 2025)	Rapidly growing category

G. METALS AND METAL PRODUCTS

Category	Import Value (2024)
Articles of iron or steel (HS 73)	US$1.76 billion
Iron and steel (HS 72)	US$1.49 billion

H. TEXTILES AND APPAREL

Category	Import Value (2024)
Articles of apparel, knit or crocheted (HS 61)	US$1.47 billion
Articles of apparel, not knit or crocheted (HS 62)	US$1.37 billion
Footwear (HS 64)	US$1.12 billion

I. OTHER MAJOR IMPORT CATEGORIES

Category	Import Value (2024)
Rubbers (HS 40)	US$1.28 billion
Paper and paperboard, articles of pulp (HS 48)	US$939 million
Ores, slag and ash (HS 26)	US$1.02 billion
Furniture, lighting signs, prefabricated buildings (HS 94)	US$861 million

J. TOP IMPORTS (November 2025)

Rank	Product	Import Value
1	Bovine Meat	US$721 million
2	Medical Instruments	US$535 million
3	Telephones	US$375 million
4	Orthopedic Appliances	US$345 million
5	Computers	US$251 million

4. TRADE PROCEDURES & REGULATIONS – DEEP DIVE

A. CUSTOMS LEGAL FRAMEWORK

1. Primary Authority:

Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (Chilean Customs Service)
Website: aduana.cl

2. Legal Basis:

Ordenanza de Aduanas (Customs Ordinance) – Primary customs legislation
Decreto con Fuerza de Ley N° 30 (Customs Law)
Ley N° 21.713 (Tax Compliance Law, October 2024)
Ley N° 21.716 (Corrective amendments, November 2024)

3. International Memberships:

WTO Member: Since 1995
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP): Member
Pacific Alliance: Founding member (with Colombia, Mexico, Peru)
MERCOSUR Associate Member: Through Economic Complementation Agreement (ACE 35)
Andean Community: Associate member
Bilateral FTAs: 30+ agreements covering 65+ markets

4. Key Trade Agreements:

Agreement	Status	Coverage
Chile-China FTA	Signed 2005 (upgraded 2017)	Comprehensive
Chile-USA FTA	Effective 2004	Comprehensive, duty-free since 2015
Chile-EU FTA	Signed 2002	Comprehensive
Chile-Japan EPA	Effective 2007	Comprehensive
Chile-South Korea FTA	Effective 2004	Comprehensive
Chile-India PTA	Effective 2007	Limited preferences
CPTPP	Member	11 Asia-Pacific countries
Pacific Alliance	Member	Integrated with Colombia, Mexico, Peru

B. 2024-2025 MAJOR REGULATORY REFORMS

1. Tax Compliance Law (Ley N° 21.713) – October 2024

Key Customs-Related Provisions:

Provision	Description	Effective Date
$500 Duty-Free Threshold	Import duty exemption for goods ≤ US$500 FOB	25 October 2025
$41 VAT-Free Threshold	VAT exemption for goods ≤ US$41 FOB	25 October 2025
E-commerce VAT	VAT on remote purchases through digital platforms	25 October 2025
Temporary Price Declaration	Allows provisional pricing for conditional sales	1 November 2024
Email Notifications	All customs communications via email	1 January 2025

Important Clarification (Ley N° 21.716, November 2024):

The $500 duty-free exemption and $41 VAT-free threshold will take effect simultaneously on 25 October 2025
Until that date: Current regime applies (41 USD exemption from all taxes)

De Minimis Regime (Effective 25 October 2025):

Shipment Value	Duty (6%)	VAT (19%)
≤ US$41	Exempt	Exempt
US$41.01 – US$500	Exempt	19% of FOB
> US$500	6% of FOB	19% of (FOB + Duty)

E-commerce Platform Requirements:

Digital platforms must register with Chilean IRS (Servicio de Impuestos Internos)
Must collect VAT on sales to Chilean consumers
Exemption if platform proves VAT was collected at sale

2. Resolution No. 3,944 (October 2024) – Temporary Price Declaration

Purpose: Regulates declaration of provisional prices for goods with final price dependent on future conditions

Applicable Goods:

Copper ores and concentrates
Distillate fuel oils
Natural gas
Other commodities with pricing formulas

Requirements:

Pro-forma or provisional invoice must be attached
Final price must be declared within 30 days of confirmation
Maximum 180 days from import declaration

3. Resolution No. 4,359 (January 2025) – Leased Goods

Effective Date: 7 January 2025

Documentation Requirements:

Copy of lease agreement
Pro-forma invoice (not commercial invoice)
Sworn affidavit for leased goods

Valuation:

Standard valuation methods apply
If not applicable, “reasonable criteria” (list prices, expert appraisal)
Importer may request customs valuation assessment

4. Resolution No. 3944 (October 2024) – Customs Procedures

New Provisions:

Updated forms for import declarations
Clarified procedures for specific goods
Enhanced electronic processing requirements

5. Resolution No. 105/2024 and 107/2024 – Tax Procedures

105/2024: Simplified taxation system registration
107/2024: VAT declaration and payment procedures

C. IMPORT PROCEDURES

1. Documentation Requirements

Mandatory Documents:

Document Type	Requirements	Applicable Goods
Commercial Invoice	HS code, FOB value, country of origin, company logo, phone, address	All commercial shipments
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill	Original negotiable document	All shipments
Packing List	Detailed weight, package contents	All shipments
Certificate of Origin	For FTA preferential claims	FTA-eligible goods
SAG Health Certificate	Phytosanitary/veterinary	Agricultural, food products
MSDS (Safety Data Sheet)	Chemical safety information	Chemicals, hazardous materials
Import License	Prior authorization	Restricted goods
Lease Documentation	Lease agreement, pro-forma invoice, affidavit	Leased goods (Resolution 4,359)

2. Special Documentation Requirements

Personal Effects Shipments:

Excel spreadsheet listing (box number, description, value)
Detailed inventory for household moves

Used Goods:

Special permits required
Age restrictions apply
Must not be considered commercial import

3. Import Licensing Categories

Restricted Goods (Require Prior Approval):

Product Category	Regulating Authority
Agricultural products	Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG)
Food products	Ministerio de Salud (MINSAL)
Pharmaceuticals	Instituto de Salud Pública (ISP)
Medical devices	ISP
Cosmetics	ISP
Chemicals	Ministerio de Medio Ambiente
Firearms/explosives	Dirección General de Movilización Nacional
Telecommunications equipment	Subtel

4. Prohibited Goods

Absolutely Prohibited:

Narcotic drugs
Hazardous waste
Used tires (restricted)
Weapons of mass destruction materials
Items threatening public health or morality

Conditionally Prohibited:

Used vehicles (age restrictions)
Used clothing (humanitarian exceptions)
Animal products (health certification required)
Plants and plant products (phytosanitary certification required)

5. Customs Clearance Process

Step 1: Pre-arrival Processing

Electronic submission through SICEX/SIDAP system
Risk assessment by customs

Step 2: Channel Selection

Channel	Inspection Level	Timeframe
Green	No physical inspection	1-2 days
Yellow	Document verification only	3-5 days
Red	Document verification + physical inspection	5-10+ days

Step 3: Inspection (2025 Updates):

US exports undergo 100% container scanning before departure
Arrival in Chile may trigger secondary inspection
Inspection costs can reach thousands of dollars
Potential delays of weeks

Step 4: Duty and Tax Payment

Duties and VAT calculated
Electronic payment through authorized banks
Proof of payment required for release

Step 5: Release

Customs release order issued
Goods delivered to importer

6. Import Valuation

WTO Valuation Method: Transaction value basis
Currency conversion: Based on official exchange rate (Banco Central de Chile)
Transfer pricing: Related party transactions require market value demonstration
Advance Pricing Agreements: Available for related parties (jointly approved by IRS and Customs)

7. Luxury Goods

Luxury tax: 15% or higher on certain goods
Categories: Alcohol, tobacco, precious metals, high-end vehicles
2025 updates: Tax rates and classifications may apply

D. TAXATION & DUTIES

1. Customs Duties

General Import Duty:

Standard Rate: 6% (maintained since 2003)
MFN Average: 6% (most products)
FTA Partners: 0% for qualifying goods
Duty-free threshold: US$500 FOB (effective 25 October 2025)

Preferential Rates:

US FTA: 0% for qualifying US origin goods (since 2015)
China FTA: 0% for most products
EU FTA: 0% for most products
CPTPP: Preferential rates for member countries

2. Value Added Tax (IVA)

Standard Rate: 19%
Zero Rated: Exports, international transport
Exempt: Certain financial services, education, healthcare
VAT on Imports: 19% of (CIF + duty)
De Minimis: US$41 VAT-free threshold (effective 25 October 2025)

3. Additional Taxes

Tax Type	Rate	Applicable To
Luxury Tax	15%+	Alcohol, tobacco, precious metals, high-end vehicles
Specific Taxes	Varies	Fuels, certain products

4. Customs Duty Exemptions

Qualifying Goods/Situations:

Goods under US$500 FOB (effective October 2025)
Personal effects (within limits)
Diplomatic imports
Temporary imports (with guarantee)
Re-exported goods

E. SPECIAL TRADE REGIMES

1. Temporary Admission

Goods imported for specific purpose and re-export
Time limit: Usually 6-12 months
Security: Bank guarantee or cash deposit
Applicable to: Exhibitions, professional equipment, samples

2. Bonded Warehousing

Depósito Aduanero: Storage without duty payment
Purpose: For re-export or subsequent local release
Time limit: Up to 5 years
Requirements: Bonded warehouse license

3. Drawback Regime

Refund of import duties on goods subsequently re-exported
Eligibility: Goods incorporated into exported products
Application: Within 6 months of export

4. Free Zones

Major Free Zones:

Free Zone	Location	Specialization
Zona Franca de Iquique (ZOFRI)	Iquique	Largest, general trading
Zona Franca de Punta Arenas	Punta Arenas	Southern region
Zona Franca de Arica	Arica	Northern region

Free Zone Benefits:

Duty-free imports
VAT exemption
Tax incentives
Simplified procedures
Strategic locations for regional trade

F. SECTOR-SPECIFIC REGULATIONS

1. Food and Agricultural Products (SAG)

Requirements:

Phytosanitary certificates for plant products
Veterinary certificates for animal products
SAG registration for importers
Health and safety standards compliance
Labeling in Spanish required

2. Pharmaceutical Products (ISP)

Product registration: Required for all pharmaceuticals
GMP certification: From country of origin
Import license: Per shipment authorization
Cold chain requirements: For temperature-sensitive products

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care (ISP)

Product notification: Through ISP system
Safety assessment reports
GMP certification recommended
Labeling: Spanish mandatory

4. Medical Devices (ISP)

Registration required based on risk class
Technical documentation
Import authorization before shipment

5. Telecommunications Equipment (Subtel)

Type approval: Mandatory for all telecom equipment
Homologation: Certification that equipment meets standards
Testing: By accredited labs

G. COMPLIANCE & ENFORCEMENT

1. Penalties for Violations

Violation	Penalty
Under-declaration	100-300% of evaded duty
Misclassification	Duty adjustment + fines
False documentation	Fine + potential criminal prosecution
Smuggling	Imprisonment + substantial fines
Customs violations	Up to 25% of customs value (new penalty)

Resolution Mechanism (2024 Update):

Acceptance of penalty: Maximum 20% of statutory fine
Contested penalty (if rejected): Minimum 20% of statutory fine

2. Appeals Process

Recurso de Resguardo: New protection mechanism for taxpayer rights
Administrative appeal: To customs regional or national directorate
Judicial review: To tax and customs courts

3. Post-Clearance Audit

Risk-based selection
Valuation accuracy verification
Classification review
Origin verification
Record keeping: Minimum 5 years

5. TRADE AGREEMENTS NETWORK

A. MULTILATERAL AGREEMENTS:

Agreement	Status	Coverage
WTO	Member since 1995	Multilateral trade rules
CPTPP	Member	11 Asia-Pacific countries
Pacific Alliance	Founding member	Colombia, Mexico, Peru

B. BILATERAL FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS (30+):

Partner	Effective	Coverage
United States	2004	Comprehensive, 100% duty-free
China	2005 (upgraded 2017)	Comprehensive
European Union	2002	Comprehensive
Japan	2007	Economic Partnership Agreement
South Korea	2004	Comprehensive
India	2007	Preferential Trade Agreement
Canada	1997	Comprehensive (now CPTPP)
Mexico	1999 (under Pacific Alliance)	Comprehensive
Peru	2009 (under Pacific Alliance)	Comprehensive
Colombia	2009 (under Pacific Alliance)	Comprehensive
Australia	2009	Comprehensive
Vietnam	2014	Comprehensive
Malaysia	2012	Comprehensive
Thailand	2015	Comprehensive
Turkey	2011	Comprehensive
Egypt	2014	Comprehensive
Hong Kong	2014	Comprehensive

C. REGIONAL AGREEMENTS:

Agreement	Status	Coverage
MERCOSUR	Associate member (ACE 35)	Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay
Andean Community	Associate member	Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
EFTA	FTA signed	Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein
Central America	FTAs with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua

D. RULES OF ORIGIN:

General Criteria:

Change in Tariff Classification (CTC) at HS 2, 4, or 6 digit level
Regional Value Content (RVC) 30-50% depending on agreement
Specific processes for certain products

Documentation:

Certificate of Origin issued by authorized entities
Self-certification available for approved exporters

6. MAJOR TRADE INFRASTRUCTURE

A. PORTS

Major Ports (North to South):

Port	Location	Specialization	Annual Throughput
Puerto de Arica	Arica	General cargo, containers	Regional hub
Puerto de Iquique	Iquique	Free zone (ZOFRI), general cargo	Major FTZ port
Puerto de Antofagasta	Antofagasta	Mining exports (copper)	3.0+ million tons
Puerto de Mejillones	Mejillones	Mining exports, bulk	Growing port
Puerto de Coquimbo	Coquimbo	General cargo, agriculture	Regional
Puerto de Valparaíso	Valparaíso	Container, general cargo	1.0+ million TEU
Puerto de San Antonio	San Antonio	Largest container port	1.5+ million TEU
Puerto de Talcahuano	Talcahuano	Industrial, forestry	Regional
Puerto de San Vicente	San Vicente	Bulk, containers	Adjacent to Talcahuano
Puerto de Coronel	Coronel	Forestry products (wood pulp)	Major forestry port
Puerto de Lirquén	Lirquén	Forestry, general cargo	Forestry exports
Puerto de Puerto Montt	Puerto Montt	Salmon exports, general	Salmon hub
Puerto de Chacabuco	Chacabuco	Salmon, general	Aysén region
Puerto de Punta Arenas	Punta Arenas	Southern logistics	Magallanes region

B. AIRPORTS:

Airport	Location	Cargo Volume	Notes
Arturo Merino Benítez (SCL)	Santiago	300,000+ tons	Main cargo gateway
Diego Aracena (IQQ)	Iquique	50,000+ tons	Free zone cargo
Cerro Moreno (ANF)	Antofagasta	30,000+ tons	Mining cargo
El Tepual (PMC)	Puerto Montt	20,000+ tons	Salmon exports

C. LAND BORDER CROSSINGS

With Argentina (Major Crossings):

Crossing	Route	Importance
Paso Los Libertadores (Cristo Redentor)	RN 7 (Ch) – RN 7 (Arg)	Main trade route to Argentina
Paso Pehuenche	RN 115 (Ch) – RN 145 (Arg)	Southern crossing
Paso Pino Hachado	RN 242 (Ch) – RN 242 (Arg)	Neuquén connection
Paso Cardenal Samoré	RN 231 (Ch) – RN 231 (Arg)	Lake crossing
Paso Integración Austral	RN 40 (Ch) – RN 40 (Arg)	Southernmost crossing

With Bolivia:

Crossing	Route	Importance
Paso Chungará – Tambo Quemado	RN 11 (Ch)	Main trade route to Bolivia

With Peru:

Crossing	Route	Importance
Paso Santa Rosa – Tacna	RN 5 (Ch)	Northern trade route

D. TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE

Highways:

Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway): North-south spine (3,300+ km)
Ruta 68: Santiago-Valparaíso (port connection)
Ruta 7 (Carretera Austral): Southern highway

Railways:

Ferrocarril de Antofagasta a Bolivia (FCAB): Mining exports to Bolivia
Ferrocarril Arica-La Paz: International connection
Metrotren: Santiago-Chillán passenger (limited freight)
Mining railroads: Private lines serving mines

Pipelines:

Gasoducto Norandino: Argentina to northern Chile
Gasoducto GasAtacama: Argentina to Mejillones
Transandino pipeline: Oil products

E. LOGISTICS PLATFORMS

ZOFRI (Iquique): Major free zone and logistics hub
Puerto Seco Los Andes: Dry port near Argentine border
Logistic centers: Santiago, Valparaíso, San Antonio, Antofagasta

7. EMERGING TRENDS & FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

A. Trade Surplus Performance (2024-2025)

Period	Trade Balance
2024 (full year)	US$14.80 billion surplus
June 2025	US$1.33 billion surplus
November 2025	US$1.24 billion surplus

Decade Average: US$8.9 billion surplus (2015-2024)

B. Global Export Leadership Expansion

2024 Milestone: 24 products ranked #1 globally
2023-2024 growth: 5.9% export increase
Export value milestone: First time exceeding US$100 billion

Diversification Progress:

Mining: Copper, lithium, molybdenum, iodine
Aquaculture: Salmon, trout, mussels
Agriculture: Cherries, plums, nuts
Forestry: Plywood, wood pulp
Processed foods: Baby food, fish meal

C. Lithium Strategic Development

Codelco Expansion (2025):

2.5 million metric tons LME/year quota approved (2031-2060)
Partnership with SQM for Salar de Atacama
New projects in development

Global Position:

~80% of global lithium carbonate market
Critical supplier for EV battery supply chain
Downstream processing opportunities

D. 2024-2025 Regulatory Modernization

Tax Compliance Law (Ley 21.713/21.716):

De minimis threshold increased to US$500 (effective 2025)
E-commerce VAT framework
Temporary price declaration for commodities
Enhanced customs controls

Procedural Reforms:

Email notifications (January 2025)
Leased goods regulation (Resolution 4,359)
Advance pricing agreements (joint Customs-IRS)
New penalty framework

Digital Transformation:

SICEX/SIDAP electronic systems
Risk management enhancement
Single window development

E. Trade Agreement Utilization

US FTA (since 2004):

100% duty-free access for US goods
Strong utilization by US exporters

China FTA (since 2005):

Rapid growth in agricultural exports (cherries)
Copper and lithium dominate

Pacific Alliance Integration:

Enhanced regional value chains
Platform for Asian trade

CPTPP Benefits:

Access to 11 Asia-Pacific markets
Modern trade rules (digital trade, services)

F. SME Export Growth

2024 Export Participation:

53% of exporters are SMEs
8,500+ total exporting companies

Support Programs:

ProChile export promotion
Technical assistance for first-time exporters
E-commerce platforms for SMEs

G. Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

Commodity price volatility
Processing value added limited (mostly raw exports)
Infrastructure gaps in southern regions
Water scarcity affecting mining and agriculture
Competition from other lithium producers

Opportunities:

Downstream lithium processing (battery materials)
Green hydrogen production potential
Expanding agricultural exports to Asia
Services exports (mining engineering, software)
Digital trade growth

8. KEY CONTACTS & RESOURCES

A. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES:

Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (Chilean Customs)
- Website: aduana.cl
- Customs procedures, declarations, tariffs
Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Website: minrel.gob.cl
- Dirección General de Relaciones Económicas Internacionales (DIRECON) – Trade negotiations
Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG)
- Website: sag.gob.cl
- Agricultural and livestock imports/exports
Instituto de Salud Pública (ISP)
- Website: ispch.gob.cl
- Pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical devices
Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (Subtel)
- Website: subtel.gob.cl
- Telecommunications equipment approvals
ProChile
- Website: prochile.gob.cl
- Export promotion, trade intelligence
Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas (INE)
- Website: ine.cl
- Trade statistics, economic data
Banco Central de Chile
- Website: bcentral.cl
- Exchange rates, balance of payments
Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII)
- Website: sii.cl
- VAT, tax compliance, advance pricing agreements

B. BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS:

Sociedad de Fomento Fabril (SOFOFA)
- Website: sofofa.cl
- Manufacturing industry association
Cámara Nacional de Comercio (CNC)
- Website: cnc.cl
- Chamber of commerce
Asociación de Exportadores de Manufacturas (ASEXMA)
- Website: asexma.cl
- Manufacturing exporters
Consejo Minero
- Website: consejominero.cl
- Mining industry association
SalmonChile
- Website: salmonchile.cl
- Salmon industry association
Asociación de Exportadores de Frutas de Chile (ASOEX)
- Website: asoex.cl
- Fruit exporters association

C. TRADE PORTALS AND DIGITAL PLATFORMS:

Platform	Purpose	Website
SICEX	Import/export declarations	sicex.cl
SIDAP	Customs processing	aduana.cl
ChileAtiende	Government services portal	chileatiende.cl
ProChile Market Intelligence	Export data, market research	prochile.gob.cl/mercados

D. PRACTICAL GUIDANCE FOR TRADERS:

For Exporters to Chile:

De Minimis Planning (Effective October 2025):
- Shipments ≤ US$500 FOB: 0% duty, 19% VAT (if >$41)
- Shipments ≤ US$41: Fully exempt
- Shipments > US$500: 6% duty + 19% VAT
Documentation Essentials:
- Complete commercial invoice with HS code, FOB value, origin
- Certificate of origin for FTA preferences (US, China, EU, etc.)
- SAG/ISP permits for regulated products
FTA Utilization:
- US goods: 0% duty (since 2015)
- Chinese goods: 0% under FTA
- European goods: 0% under FTA
HS Code Accuracy:
- 2025 updates for electronics (HS 8517 subdivisions)
- Battery category changes (HS 8507 lithium batteries may face 15% luxury tax)
Regulated Products:
- Agricultural products: SAG certification required
- Pharmaceuticals/medical devices: ISP registration
- Telecom equipment: Subtel type approval
Payment Terms:
- Letters of credit common for new relationships
- Open account possible after trust

For Importers from Chile:

Certificate of Origin: Obtain from authorized chambers (SOFOFA, CNC, etc.)
FTA Preferences: Claim under Chile’s 30+ FTAs
Product Certifications:
- Quality certificates available from manufacturers
- SAG certificates for agricultural products
- ISP certificates for pharmaceuticals
Lithium and Copper Contracts: Direct with producers (SQM, Albemarle, Codelco, Antofagasta Minerals)
Salmon and Seafood: Direct with exporters (AquaChile, Multiexport, Camanchaca)

9. ECONOMIC IMPACT & STRATEGIC POSITION

A. Trade Balance Dynamics:

Year	Trade Balance (US$ billion)
2022	~15.0 (est.)
2023	~14.5 (est.)
2024	14.80
2025 (Nov)	1.24 (monthly)

2024 Performance:

Trade surplus: US$14.80 billion
Export value: US$101.0 billion
Import value: US$84.3 billion
Export-Import Coverage Ratio: 120%

B. Global Strategic Position:

Copper Superpower: World’s largest copper producer (Codelco, Escondida)
Lithium Dominance: World’s largest lithium producer (~80% market share)
Salmon Leader: World’s 2nd largest salmon producer
Fruit Powerhouse: Counter-seasonal supplier to Northern Hemisphere
Mining Technology Leader: World-class mining engineering and services
Trade Agreement Champion: 30+ FTAs covering 65+ markets
Pacific Alliance Member: Strategic platform for Asia trade
Stable Economy: One of Latin America’s most stable and prosperous

C. Competitiveness Indicators:

Indicator	Value	Global Rank
Economic Complexity (Trade)	-0.15	72nd of 130
Economic Complexity (Technology)	0.86	26th of 96
Economic Complexity (Research)	1.26	22nd of 137
Exports Per Capita	US$5,120	60th globally
Imports Per Capita	US$4,160	90th globally
Ease of Doing Business	59.2	59th (2019)

D. Challenges:

Commodity Dependence: Copper, lithium, salmon subject to price volatility
Limited Processing: Most exports are raw materials; value-added limited
Water Scarcity: Mining and agriculture compete for water in northern regions
Infrastructure Gaps: Southern connectivity, port modernization needs
Climate Vulnerability: Agriculture dependent on water availability
Geopolitical Risks: China dependence (33% of exports)

E. Opportunities:

Lithium Downstream: Battery materials, cathode production
Green Hydrogen: Massive potential from wind and solar (Magallanes)
Renewable Energy: Solar (Atacama), wind (Patagonia)
Mining Technology: Global leader in mining engineering exports
Salmon Value-Added: Smoked, prepared products
Agricultural Innovation: Premium fruit, organic products, counter-seasonal supply
Services Exports: Fintech, software, engineering, consulting
Digital Trade: Growing e-commerce and digital services
Pacific Alliance Integration: Regional value chains
CPTPP Expansion: New members joining

SUMMARY OF CHILE’S TRADE CHARACTERISTICS:

Global Export Champion: 24 products ranked #1 worldwide, including copper, lithium, fresh cherries, frozen salmon fillets, iodine, and potassium nitrate
Mineral Superpower: World’s largest copper and lithium producer; copper exports >US$20B, lithium carbonate accounts for ~80% of global market
Salmon Leader: World’s 2nd largest salmon producer; leader in fresh and frozen fillets, trout, mussels
Fruit Powerhouse: Counter-seasonal supplier to Northern Hemisphere; world’s largest cherry exporter
Trade Agreement Champion: 30+ FTAs covering 65+ markets including US, China, EU, Japan, Korea, and CPTPP
2024-2025 Regulatory Reform: Ley 21.713/21.716 introduces US$500 duty-free threshold (effective October 2025), e-commerce VAT framework, temporary price declaration, and enhanced customs controls
Trade Surplus Sustained: US$14.8 billion surplus in 2024; exports exceed US$100 billion for first time
SME Export Growth: 53% of exporters are SMEs; 8,500+ exporting companies
Top Trade Partners: China (33.7% of exports), US (14.4%), Japan (8.4%); imports from China (28.5%), US (19.0%), Brazil (8.9%)
Trade Balance Leaders: China (+$17.7B surplus), Japan (+$6.32B), South Korea (+$3.09B); deficits with Argentina (-$5.75B), Germany (-$2.06B)

Chile represents one of the world’s most open and trade-oriented economies, combining resource superpower status in copper and lithium with global leadership in salmon, fruit, and niche industrial products. With 24 products ranking #1 globally in 2024, Chile has diversified beyond traditional mining into aquaculture, agriculture, and processed goods while maintaining dominance in critical minerals for the energy transition.

The 2024-2025 regulatory landscape saw major modernization: Ley 21.713/21.716 raises the de minimis threshold to US$500 (effective October 2025), establishes e-commerce VAT collection, enables temporary price declarations for commodities, and introduces joint customs-IRS advance pricing agreements. These reforms align Chile with global best practices while supporting e-commerce growth.

Chile’s extensive FTA network (30+ agreements covering 65 markets) provides unparalleled market access, with the US FTA (100% duty-free since 2015), China FTA (rapidly growing agricultural trade), and CPTPP membership positioning Chile as a platform for Asia-Pacific trade.

Chile’s trade future depends on capturing downstream value in lithium (battery materials), developing green hydrogen potential, expanding agricultural exports, and leveraging its stable economy and trade agreements to attract investment in renewable energy, technology, and services. The country’s strategic position as a Pacific Alliance leader and CPTPP member provides unique advantages in navigating global trade dynamics while maintaining its role as a reliable supplier of critical resources for the global economy.