Chile has a population of 18,8 million people. In 2018, it imported €9,880,000 worth of vegetables, €159,568,000 in fruit and nuts to the value of €31,989,000. Brazil, the United States, and Argentina are Chile's main exporters.
Chile's economy has been booming for the last ten years. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 4% in 2019. This is the highest GDP in Latin America and determines the country's spending pattern. All in all, this makes for favorable export conditions.
In 2018, this country's modern, dynamic retail sector was good for a turnover of €15,4 billion. That is 5% higher than in 2017. The retail sector consists of large and medium-sized supermarkets, convenience stores, and many small neighborhood stores. The top five retailers in Chile are:
- Walmart (Líder, Express Líder, Ekono, Super Bodega, aCuenta, Central Mayorista)
- Cencosud (Jumbo and Santa Isabel)
- SMU (Unimarc, Mayorista 10, Alvi, OK Market, Telemercado)
- Falabella (Tottus)
- Montserrat
The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Exporter Guide contains information about the Chilean business sector's customs and habits. For example, people in Chile are quite formal when it comes to doing business. They like meeting people to talk about business. They prefer this to doing so over the phone or via email. Punctuality is highly appreciated. But, do not be surprised if someone arrives at an appointment half an hour late.
The USDA guide provides even more information on what it takes to enter the Chilean market.
Source: The USDA's Chile Exporter Guide.