About Chile

Political System / A Solid, Stable Democracy

Chile has become a regional leader due to a solid, stable democratic system that guarantees a safe business environment. Chile is a democratic presidential republic divided into Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches.The Executive branch is headed by a President elected by direct vote to a single four-year term by all registered voters. The legislative branch consists of a bicameral Congress with legisltaive and oversight powers. Based in the port city of Valparaiso, Congress consists of a 38-member Senate and a 120-member Chamber of deputies. An independent, self-governing Judiciary headed by a 21-member Supreme Court is charged with the administration of justice.

The Economy / Sustained Growth

The Chilean economy emphasizes trade and investment and is recognized around the world for openess and stability. Per capita income has increased more than twofold, from US$ 3,638 in 1994 to US$9,871 in 2007. Export diversification is one of the key reasons for Chilean success. Trade figures show thar export performance has been nothing short of spectacular. Total trade ballooned from U$32.5 billion in 1995 to U$ 108.6 billion in 2007. Chile is an outwardly-oriented economy actively committed to freer trade with all countries and trading blocs. Within the past decade Chile has entered into a growing network of free trade agreements, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, South and Central American Countries, the European Union, the EFTA, Mercosur, China, South Korea, Japan, India, Singapore, Australia* and New Zealand.

At present Chile is negotiating FTA with Malaysia, Vietnam, and Turkey.

These agreements plus regional accords provide Chile with a unique degree of access to markets encompasing more than 3.8 billion consumers worldwide. As a result, Chile stands as a natural gateway for trade with both Latin America and Asia-Pacific.

FACTS and FIGURES

Government Links

• The Government of Chile www.gobiernodechile.cl
• The Chilean Congress www.congreso.cl
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.minrel.gov.cl