Chile is one of the most liberal and stable economies in Latin America. For entrepreneurs seeking a reliable entry point into the region, the country offers a unique combination of advantages: low import duties, high purchasing power, and transparent business regulations.
Chile offers exceptionally favorable conditions for importing goods. The base import duty rate is only 6%, but in 80% of cases a zero rate applies thanks to numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) with more than 60 countries worldwide.
It is also important to note that Chile does not impose currency controls, which greatly simplifies international transfers and payments. Certification and import procedures are also simpler and faster than in other countries in the region.
Chile stands out for its high income levels compared to other countries in Latin America. This creates a favorable environment for selling mid-range and premium products. A well-developed consumer culture supports steady demand for high-quality imported goods.
Compared to countries such as Brazil ($10,260) and Argentina ($12,814), Chile demonstrates a significantly higher GDP per capita, making it an attractive market for entrepreneurs.
Chile ranks second in Latin America in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), after Uruguay. A score of 63 out of 100 indicates a significantly lower level of corruption compared to neighboring countries.
Transparent regulation, stable legislation, and guarantees for foreign investors create a favorable business environment. The absence of hidden fees and barriers significantly reduces risks and unexpected costs when importing goods.
Chile stands out among Latin American countries for its approach to import procedures. Unlike Brazil with its complex system of indirect taxes or Argentina with its unstable quotas, Chile offers a transparent and predictable import system.
When comparing Latin American countries by the overall set of factors affecting import businesses, Chile clearly leads. It offers the best combination of:
low tariffs,
high purchasing power,
a transparent legal and tax environment.
Panama and Costa Rica attempt to compete in certain aspects, but fall behind Chile in terms of stability, scalability, and business convenience.
Large economies — Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela — create significant barriers:
— high duties,
— strict currency controls,
— unpredictable regulations.
Mexico, Colombia, and Peru offer average conditions, but still do not reach Chile’s level of openness and reliability.
Therefore, Chile is the clear number one choice for launching and scaling a product-based business in Latin America.
Chile represents a strategically advantageous country for launching and scaling a product-based business in Latin America. It can serve not only as a target market but also as a gateway to the region with minimal risks and high potential profitability.
For entrepreneurs considering entering Latin American markets, Chile offers an optimal combination of favorable conditions that significantly increase the chances of successfully implementing an import business.
Want to start your own business in Chile and begin earning?
We offer a full range of services for setting up and launching your business in Chile.
Our specialists will guide you through every stage — from company registration to market entry.
Market and competitor analysis:
Company registration:
Connection to a payment system (acquiring) and a POS terminal.
Search and selection of a warehouse:
Obtaining permits:
Joint consultations from verified logistics companies.
Joint consultations from verified customs brokers.
Contacts of verified tax accountants.
Assistance with registration and connection of the product on the Mercado Libre marketplace.
Support of the first shipment of goods.
The package of services is considered completed with the first shipment of goods to the warehouse, but no more than 6 months of joint work.
Market and competitor analysis:
Company registration:
Opening a bank account for the company.
Connection to a payment system (acquiring) and a POS terminal.
Search and selection of a warehouse:
Obtaining permits:
Selection of a recruiter for hiring staff.
Joint consultations from verified logistics companies.
Joint consultations from verified customs brokers.
Contacts of verified tax accountants.
Assistance with registration and connection of the product on the Mercado Libre marketplace
Support of the first shipment of goods.
Consultations and selection of a production location.
Assistance in obtaining permits for economic activity.
Support for 6 months on issues of permits for production and patents for the location.
Market and competitor analysis:
Company registration:
Opening a bank account for the company.
Connection to a payment system (acquiring) and a POS terminal.
Search and selection of a warehouse:
Obtaining permits:
Selection of a recruiter for hiring staff.
Joint consultations from verified logistics companies.
Joint consultations from verified customs brokers.
Contacts of verified tax accountants.
Assistance with registration and connection of the product on the Mercado Libre marketplace.
Support of the first shipment of goods.
Consultations and selection of a production location.
Assistance in obtaining permits for economic activity.
Support for 6 months on issues of permits for production and patents for the location.
Individual solutions upon request:
Payment is possible in dollars or rubles at the Central Bank exchange rate on the day of payment.
After market analysis, you receive a complete picture of the profitability of importing your product into Chile and the potential annual sales volume of your product.
