Exporting to Chile

Chile is a prosperous developing nation. It has a number of free trade agreements, including those with Europe, China, India, and North America, which allow for a variety of trade opportunities.

One suggested market entry strategy for doing business in Chile is to find a local partner within the country. This person can assist with establishing business connections as well as helping with potential cultural and language issues. Another start-up consideration is to set up a local branch office. Market research and due diligence are strongly advised in determining business options as they are keys to a company’s success. Relationships are essential to establish.

Knowing proper business etiquette within the country is crucial. Learn what the acceptable dress code is because appearances matter. Have bilingual business cards (with Spanish as one of the languages) to give to those in attendance at meetings.

Among the resources available for further assistance, see the United States Commercial Service and the United Kingdom Trade and Investment. Other potential resources for information include the Foreign Investment Committee of the Government of Chile which offers a Foreign Investor Guide, the Foreign Investment Statute DL 600, the Cámara Nacional de Comercio, Servicios y Turismo de Chile (National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism of Chile) and the Dirección General de Relaciones Económicas Internacionales (Directorate General of International Economic Relations).

It is important to know the customs regulations, including what is needed per import requirements and documentation. Customs management is through the Aduanas Chile.  

Chile is a member of the World Trade Organization and the World Customs Organization. It is also associated with MERCOSUR, the Southern Common Market.

The language of Chile is Spanish. While many may speak English, Spanish is the accepted language to use. Hire a quality interpreter. All product marketing materials should be in Spanish.

In Chile, the voltage used is 220V at 50Hz. The most frequently specified plug pattern is the Italian plug.

Sources:
www.export.gov/chile
www.gov.uk
www.ciechile.gob.cl
www.cnc.cl
www.direcon.cl
www.aduana.cl
www.wto.org
www.wcoomd.org
www.mercosur.int   

*Source: www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html

Country comparison—Population: Population compares estimates from the US Bureau of Census based on statistics from population censuses, vital statistics, registration systems, or sample surveys pertaining to the recent past and on assumptions about future trends. (July 2014 est.)

Country comparison—GDP (Purchasing Power Parity): GDP (purchasing power parity [PPP]) compares the gross domestic product (GDP) or value of all final goods and services produced within a nation in a given year. A nation’s GDP at PPP exchange rates is the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the UnitedStates. (2013 est.)

Country comparison—GDP – per capita (PPP): GDP – per capita (PPP) compares GDP on a purchasing parity basis divided by population as of 1 July for the same year. (2013 est.)

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