Doing Business with Chile

Exporting to Chile involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct Market Research

   • Analyze demand for your product in Chile and identify potential competitors.

2. Verify Product Compliance

   • Ensure your product meets Chilean standards and obtain required certifications.

3. Customs Clearance

   • Work with a customs broker to manage documentation and pay import duties via Aduanas de Chile.

Key Contacts

• ProChile (Export Promotion): ProChile Website

Importing into Chile requires registration and adherence to rigorous sanitary and phytosanitary standards.

1. Register Your Business

   • Ensure your business is registered in Chile and obtain necessary tax IDs.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Use correct Harmonized System (HS) codes for accurate duty assessment.

Incorporating a company in Chile involves several legal steps managed by the Commercial Registry and **SII**:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on a structure (e.g., S.A. – Corporation or SpA – Simplified Shares Company).

2. Notarize and Register

   • Have the Articles of Incorporation notarized and register with the Chilean Commercial Registry.

3. Obtain Tax RUT

   • Register for tax purposes with the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII).

Key Contacts

• SII (Internal Revenue Service): SII Website

Setting up manufacturing in Chile offers strategic access to the Pacific Rim through various Free Trade Agreements:

1. Choose a Suitable Location

   • Identify industrial zones or proximity to major ports and mining hubs.

2. Obtain Necessary Permits

   • Apply for construction, environmental (SEA), and local zoning permits.

Protecting intellectual property is managed by **INAPI**:

1. Trademark Search

   • Check availability through the Instituto Nacional de Propiedad Industrial (INAPI).

2. Filing Application

   • Submit application online. If approved, it is published for opposition. Registration is valid for **10 years**.

Key Contacts

• INAPI: INAPI Website

Disputes can be settled through Negotiation, Mediation, or the Court system:

1. Mediation & Arbitration

   • Consider using the Center for Arbitration and Mediation (CAM) for faster resolution.

2. Litigation

   • File a lawsuit in the appropriate local court if ADR methods are not suitable.

Key Contacts

• CAM Santiago: CAM Website

1. Language and Culture

• The official language is **Spanish**. Professional trust and personal networking are essential for business success.

2. Economic Factors

• The official currency is the **Chilean Peso (CLP)**. Chile has one of the highest numbers of Free Trade Agreements in the world.