Overview - Chile
Overview - Chile
Overview - Chile
Overview
Chile is an outstanding example of how free trade policies and promotion of foreign
investment can generate economic growth in Latin America. This country has experienced ten
consecutive years of economic growth, and remains committed to an open domestic market and
continued trade expansion. Since 1985, annual gross domestic product growth has averaged 6.1
percent, the highest in the region, reaching a record 10.3 percent in 1992. Unemployment during
1993 was 4.5 percent, the lowest in 30 years. Steady but somewhat slower growth in 1994
resulted from high domestic interest rates and 1993 declines in world commodity prices for Chile's
major exports: copper, fishmeal and cellulose.
Continued success on the economic front has been bolstered by Chile's smooth return to
democratic rule in 1990. On March 11, 1994, Eduardo Frei Jr. took office as Chile's new
President in the country's first transition in 24 years from one democratically elected president to
another. President Frei is committed to expanding trade through diversification of exports,
encouraging foreign investment and further privatization, and developing strong domestic
programs to further raise living standards for all of Chile's 13.4 million people.
Because of its liberal import policies and expanding economy, Chile is an attractive market
for a wide range of U.S. products and services. In the last eight years, U.S. exports to Chile have
almost tripled, and this dynamism is now stronger than ever. Between 1991 and 1992, the value
of U.S. exports to Chile rose by 25 percent. The United States is Chile's most important supplier
of imported goods. Its share of Chile's total imports rose from 20.5 percent in 1992 to 23.5
percent in 1993. Main U.S. competitors are Brazil and Japan, with capturing about 10 percent of
the market in 1993. Corn, fertilizers, computer parts and accessories, communications
equipment, and construction vehicles topped the list of U.S. exports to Chile. Should a
U.S./Chile Free Trade Agreement come to pass, zero-tariff bilateral trade would enable the U.S.
to strengthen its competitive posture and expand its market share.
The Chilean Armed Services are funded from two sources: the annual Ministry of Defense
budget appropriated by the Congress; and the ten percent of the annual gross export revenues of
the National Copper Corporation (CODELCO) assigned by law to them. The former goes to
operating expenses, while the latter is devoted to systems procurement.
Prior to the transition to democracy in 1990, the Chilean Armed Services apparently made
procurement decisions committing their anticipated revenues from copper money for several years
into the future. Therefore, while the Services receive healthy funding from copper revenues each
year, it appears that they will have only limited funds available for new purchases until at least the
mid-1990's.
Given the ease of executive branch reprogramming in Chile, and the complexity of the
Ministry of Defense budget -- which includes spending on a number of areas not related to
national defense, such as police, civil aviation and public recreation -- figures for the Armed
Services budget are inexact.
It appears that the overall Armed Service budget has stayed roughly level in real terms in
recent years. Since the return to democracy, the Government of Chile (GOC) insists that it has
not increased spending on the Armed Services in real terms. At the same time, under a law
passed by the prior military government, the Armed Services budget cannot be cut in real terms
below its 1989 level.
For calendar year 1993, the Armed Services budget (excluding CODELCO revenues)
totaled almost US $722 million (8.4 percent of the total national budget and 1.7 percent of GDP).
Copper revenues in 1993 were US $201 million, bringing total revenues for the Armed Services
to nearly US $1 billion (roughly 2.1 percent of GDP). In 1995, the defense budget was reported
at approximately $1.1 billion or 2.4% of GDP. It has been indicated that defense budgets will
remain essentially level for the next several years.
Traditional suppliers of the Chilean Armed Forces include the U.S., France, the U.K. and
Israel. Every branch of the Chilean Armed Services has purchased U.S. excess equipment. The
Chilean Air Force, for example, has U.S. excessed C-130, A-37 and F-5 aircraft. The high priced
tag for new equipment and the limited Chilean budget often become a decisive factor in favor of
used equipment options. Cost effective, advanced technologies that can be built or assembled in
collaboration with the domestic industry will be the most attractive alternatives.
Chile's defense industry is quite limited and focused primarily on the needs of the national
Armed Services. Given its size, it is best described by identifying major defense firms and
reviewing the scope of their productive activities.
A state owned ship builder, ASMAR was founded in 1895 and originally named Arsenal
Naval de Talcahuano. In 1960, the firm was restructured into its present institutional form.
ASMAR'S main facilities are located in Talcahuano, near Concepcion. ASMAR'S Talcahuano
facilities include ship building capabilities and dry docks to repair and maintain the Chilean Navy
fleet and much of the nation's merchant marine. ASMAR, in association with local firms BAZAN
and SOCIBER, also operates maintenance and repair facilities for the Chilean Navy and Merchant
Marine in Valparaiso and Punta Arenas. ASMAR and its associates have produced mainly light
vessels like patrol boats, destroyers, and armed frigates. However, ASMAR has also built Chile's
submarine fleet. ASMAR is marketing its TAITAO class patrol boat worldwide.
A private enterprise founded in 1974, its facilities are located on the Valdivia River in
Southern Chile. ASENAV has built about 80 vessels, mainly light patrol boats for a crew of five.
ASENAV has developed several prototypes for the Chilean Navy, one of them in a joint venture
with VOSPER of Israel.
Founded in 1981 as a manufacturer of sports helmets, BHL moved in 1984 into the
defense sector by producing fiber-based helmets for the Army. Since the first contract with the
Army, BHL has diversified into producing flight helmets for the Chilean Air Force, has repaired a
shipment of U.S. M-1 helmets, and produced its own M-2 helmet similar to the U.S. FRITZ
helmet. BHL also manufactures helmets for the Chilean Commandos, paratroopers, and police
forces.
Manufacturers parachutes for personnel and for the deceleration of aircraft. CKEA
manufactures the MC1-lB CK-4292 parachute used by the Chilean paratroopers. CKEA also
manufactures the CK-HH parachute used for deceleration of the Hawker Hunter and Northrop F-
5 aircraft. In 1990, CKEA formalized a licensing agreement with AEROZUR of France to
produce a "Cross Form" parachute for the Mirage 50 aircraft.
Part of the Chilean Army's Corps of Engineers, this firm is located in Talagante, close to
the capital city of Santiago. CQIE was created to serve the needs of the Chilean Armed Services
in the areas of powders, propellants, explosives and chemicals. The quality of its products has
achieved international recognition.
Chile's only aircraft manufacturer, this state owned enterprise was founded in 1984.
ENAER is currently working on the upgrading and modernization of the Chilean Air Force's
Northrop F-5 and Mirage 50 aircraft. ENAER also builds the PILLAN trainer using piston and
turbo-prop engines. PILLAN models T-35 A, B, and C have been sold to the Chilean Air Force
and internationally to Panama, Spain and Paraguay. Under license from Spanish manufacturer,
CASA, ENAER is building the light cargo aircraft, C-101.
DTS Ltda.
A 50-50 joint venture between ENAER and ELTA/IAI, DTS manufactures defense
electronics and is a regional leader in this field. DTS sells 30 percent of its production to the
Chilean Armed Forces and exports the remaining 70 percent. DTS' electronic components are
purchased by buyers in the U.S., Europe, and Israel.
Fabricaciones Militares (FABMIL)
Founded in 1811, FAMAE is one of the oldest defense industries in South America. In
1954, FAMAE became an autonomous state-owned enterprise. While FAMAE is not a part of
the Chilean Army, top corporate management comes from the Army as retired and former
officers. FAMAE is the Chilean Armed Services supplier of light weapons, munitions, armored
vehicles, and some electronics. Most recently, FAMAE has been producing Swiss design rifles
like the SIG SG 540, the SG-542-l (standard issue for the Chilean Army) and the SG-543-1.
FAMAE'S Missile Division is working on a l60mm missile system known as the "Rayo". The
Rayo has a 36 km. range, a 12-tube launcher, and a l55mm warhead.
FAMIL, S.A.
A subsidiary of FAMAE, this firm focused on engineering projects for the defense systems
of the Chilean Armed Services. FAMIL's activities range from simple modernization projects all
the way to the development of computerized simulators. FAMIL modernized the anti-armor
missile system known as MAMBA and developed the computerized tactical training simulator
known as SETAC.
LINKTRONIC
METALNOR
With five plants in Iquique and one in Santiago, METALN0R is one of the largest defense
companies in Chile. Until very recently, METALN0R was known as CARDOEN. The latter was
associated with transactions with Iraq, which led to losses in the vicinity of U.S. $40.0 million and
some difficulties with the U.S. and Chilean governments. Owner, Carlos Cardoen, sold all his
interests in this and in other defense industries following these difficulties. METALNOR is a
supplier of hand grenades, land mines, torpedoes and demolition charges for the Chilean Armed
Forces. It also produces military vehicles such as the 6X6 M0WAG Pirana, the light armor 4x4
VTP-2 Escarabajo, and the Cardoen/Hagglunds BV-206. CARDOEN's most successful product
was a series of cloister bombs designed and manufactured in Chile, including the CB-500K, CB-
250-K, MK-82 and MK-83 GP. Approximately 40,000 of these bombs were sold to Iraq between
1984 and 1988.
RMS Ltda.
This Chilean firm was founded in 1983 and is owned by ASMAR (50%) and FERRANTI
(50%). SISDEF participated in the modernization of the Chilean Navy's obsolete electronic
equipment. SISDEF also designs and manufactures electronic equipment for the Navy. One of
their better known products is a simulator for the Sea Cat missile system still is use by the Chilean
Navy. SISDEF has developed command and control systems, local area networks and tactical
sensors for weapons systems.
A privately owned enterprise founded in 1941, SOGECO joined the defense sector in
1974 by developing an antiaircraft 20mm cannon known as the SOG-3 A/A. To date, SOGECO
remains a key supplier of antiaircraft artillery for the Chilean Army and Air Force.
Defense Opportunities
About four years ago, the arms sales embargo against Chile ended. This allowed the
Chilean Armed Services to reestablish contacts with U.S. suppliers. During this four-year period,
the Chilean Armed Services have been involved in a modernization process that has affected all
branches of the defense sector and has created significant opportunities for suppliers of defense
equipment and services. Specific opportunities are identified below. The Chileans are eager to
upgrade their systems. Chileans in the Armed Services and in the private sector are also excellent
entrepreneurs. Real opportunities to acquire better products and technologies within their
financial capabilities will receive serious attention. Technologies that allow Chilean buyers to
leap-frog into state-of-the-art options will become top procurement priorities.
Army
The Chilean Army wants to replace their M-101 and M-56, 105mm units. They have
considered replacing the 22mm cannons in the M-101 with 30mm cannons. The Army will also
be looking for a replacement for the MAMBA missile system that can be distributed to their anti-
armor units. The new system replacing the MAMBA may also be expected to replace the M-40
Al 106mm artillery units.
According to an assessment made by Tecnologia Militar Magazine in its January '94 issue,
the Army is evaluating the M-113 because it needs to select an armored personnel carrier. Army
evaluations rated its anti-aircraft capabilities as its weakest point. "Blowpipe" missiles and 20mm
anti-aircraft cannons are likely to be replaced by a "fire and forget" missile to be selected. Several
missile systems in this category are currently under review.
While FAMAE has already made some improvements to the SIG-542 rifle, the Army may
also be in the market for new rifles for its infantry units. In the area of radars, the Chilean Army
currently relies on the ELTA/M2l06 portable unit. The Army is likely to upgrade all of these units
to the 2106 H standard and may decide to supplement the ungraded units with new equipment
and capabilities.
Navy
The Zenteno and Baquedano frigates of the Chilean Navy currently lack a surface to
surface missile system. The Navy is likely to pursue the upgrading of these units to include
effective anti-submarine capabilities. The Navy is also considering structural modernization of the
command and control systems currently operational in most of its vessels. The Navy will soon be
in the market to replace its "Almirante class" destroyers. They are currently considering the
purchase of two "Leanders" from the U.K. The CWS-22/Sea Cat missile on board Navy ships
needs replacement and the Navy seems to favor a purchase of Sea Wolf missiles. The Navy is
also considering replacements and possibly additions to its submarine fleet - the Netherlands is
offering the WALRUS and the U.K. is offering the UPHOLDER. The Navy purchased eight P-
3A and they hope to maintain at least four of these units in flight ready condition. They may also
be in the market for radar and anti-submarine warfare equipment for this aircraft.
The Navy also acknowledges that its 155mm POTEAUX coastal artillery units show are
aging in addition to increasingly significant technical limitations. Thus, the Navy may be in the
market for a replacement for these artillery units.
Air Force
The Mirage 50 and Northrop F-5E/F squadrons of the Chilean Air Force have been
modernized with more advanced avionics and weapons systems. According to Air Force plans,
46 British Hawker Hunters have been replaced by 25 Mirage M-5M ordered from Belgium and
scheduled for delivery starting in March 1995. However, in fact, 10 Hawker Hunters are still in
service with the 8th Air Force Group. The age and maintenance costs of these units are of
concern. Thus, the Air Force is expected to be in the market for 16 to 18 aircraft, with 2 or 3 of
those ordered as two-seaters. Without a doubt, ENAER will be part of this Air Force purchasing
decision, and potential suppliers should keep this in mind.
The Air Force contracted with IAI of Israel to work on its Boeing 707 CONDOR early
warning system. IAI is also working on two other 707s for in-flight refueling. ENAER is
currently working on the Air Force's Cessna T-37 B/C, which have begun showing signs of stress.
The Air Force currently flies four C-130Bs and two C-130Hs. These units are not enough to
meet the needs of the Armed Forces, so the Air Force may be in the market for additional C-130s
or the alternative CN-235.
Defense Plan
For most effective management of U.S. Government interests, the U.S. Embassy's Defense
Attache's Office (DAO) and the U.S. Military Group maintain the most direct and frequent
contact with the Chilean defense establishment. For the latest information and developments in
this area, contact the DAO and Military Group Embassy officials listed at the end of this chapter.
Key Ministries
The following offices are regarded as the best points of contact for U.S. firms seeking
business opportunities with the Chilean Armed Forces. Bidding conditions are spelled out in
detail in the individual bid documents, which usually include a combination of standard conditions
and case-specific requirements. Some terms and conditions vary significantly with the nature of
the procurement action. Local agent/representatives and after sales service facilities are often
required and are always an important element of a successful offering.
Army
Ejercito de Chile
Direccion de Logistica
Zenteno 45, Piso 8
Santiago, Chile
Tel: 011-56-2-698-1169
Fax: 011-56-2-698-4649
Contact: General Rafael Villaroel, Logistics Director
Air Force
Armada de Chile
Direccion General de los Servicios
Prat 620
Valparaiso, Chile
Tel: 011-56-32-25-2094 Ext. 6687
Contact: Contraalmirante Francisco Sanz Soto,
Navy Procurement and Accounting Director
Police
Diversification/Commercial Opportunities
Business opportunities for U.S. exporters in 1994 include expanded sales of aircraft and
parts, avionics, and ground support equipment. The new airport in Santiago and the upgrading of
other airports and air traffic control systems will provide commercial opportunities for U.S.
suppliers.
The energy sector is one of the most benefitted by Chile's economic growth. Several
energy company executives and experts believe that feasibility studies underway will lead to future
projects and construction totaling $3 billion by the year 2000.
The Chilean Energy Commission reports over 24 energy projects which could be
operational within 8-10 years. Fifteen of these projects are for hydroelectric power generation.
U.S. producers will benefit from the current lower value of the U.S. dollar since the majority of
purchases are negotiated in dollars.
Private investment projects are estimated at $600 million in hydroelectric generating plants
and $600 million in thermoelectric plants. Demand is increasing for gas-fueled thermoelectric
plants, an area where the U.S. has the leading technology. A new pipeline to supply gas from
Argentina, for which a bid will awarded shortly, should also increase demand for gas-fired plants.
The new Environmental Law, passed in March 1994, established a general environmental
framework. The full implementation of the law requires specific rules and regulations which are
still in the process of study and evaluation. There will be tremendous demand for pollution control
equipment once the specific regulations are put into effect and the environmental authorities step
up enforcement. Growth of about 30 percent is forecast for the next three years.
As the Chilean economy continues to grow, new businesses will emerge that will require
construction of modern plants. These new plants will incorporate state-of- the-art environmental
technology in order to have clean production processes. The import demand for pollution
control equipment will be generated by the industrial sector, which will have to modify production
procedures to make them environmentally clean.
Chile, with a few exceptions, does not manufacture pollution control equipment. U.S.
products are highly regarded because of their high technology and quality. Japan and European
countries are strong competitors offering soft loans, grants, and training.
Although most investments in pollution control equipment will take place only after the
Chilean government implements the specific regulations, U.S. manufacturers should be prepared
to take advantage of this promising market and establish contact with potential partners and/or
major end-users.
Telecommunications Equipment
The telecommunications sector has grown at an annual rate of over 14 percent for the past
six years. Industry experts estimate an annual growth of 20-25 percent for the next five years,
with imports growing at the same rate. Local production is small. The main competitors to U.S.
suppliers are Japan and some European countries, such as France, Spain and Germany. In 1994,
U.S. suppliers exported $154 million, a market share of 38 percent compared to 25 percent in the
previous year.
The Chilean telecommunications sector is completely open. Any local or foreign company
that wants to operate in the market can request authorization from the Undersecretariat of
Telecommunications, the primary authority for supervising and regulating all telecommunications
services. The Telecommunications Law, promulgated in March 1994, was designed to promote
competition, encourage the incorporation of new technologies and value-added services, and
provide incentives for foreign and domestic investment.
The telecommunications sector in Chile will continue to expand because of the absence of
barriers, the demand for continuous upgrading of existing equipment and networks, and the
interest of foreign investors in establishing alliances with local partners to provide services in
other Latin American countries. Chileans wish to enjoy the advantages of state-of-the-art
technologies, and multinational companies which require advanced telecommunications systems,
are setting up their offices in Chile to manage the Latin American region.
Chile is a good and growing market for U.S. suppliers of computers and related
equipment. Chile, although a small market, is one of the most developed and open economies in
Latin America. With Chile's booming economy, it is expected that the use of computer equipment
will experience a steady growth, over 15 percent per annum, as productivity rises and industries
expand. Chile has the largest per capita ownership of PC's in Latin America with 3.4 PC's for
every 100 people. In the U.S., there are about 30 PC's per 100 people.
The explosive growth in the personal computer market and the emerging home market is
such that these markets now dominate 50 percent of computer sector sales. Chile presents
excellent sales opportunities for U.S. products and services, which Chilean consumers value for
their high quality and technology, and excellent support service. A Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
between Chile and the United States promises to give U.S. suppliers a key competitive advantage
- the gradual elimination of the 11 percent duty, currently added to the cost of imported goods.
Chile's major supplier of computers and peripherals is the U.S., which accounts for over
50 percent of the market. The main competitors are Japan, Taiwan and France.
It is difficult to derive total imports of mining equipment from local available statistics
since the same equipment is used in several industries and is lumped in harmonized codes for
equipment common to all industries. Nevertheless, reliable sources have placed imports at $550
million and think that a growth estimate of 15 percent for 1995 through 1997 is appropriate, if
conservative.
The statistics include the following equipment: heavy mining trucks, large truck tires,
levelers, loaders, compressors, hoists, drilling equipment, excavators and various smaller
machines. U.S. market share is 31 percent, with Brazil next at 18 percent, and Japan following
with less than 15 percent. This equipment, especially U.S. produced equipment, will be much in
demand as many large mining projects will begin construction through 1997. U.S.-made products
are appreciated by local end-users for their quality, the high technology incorporated, and
compliance with delivery dates, which in this particular sector is a critical factor.
Medical Equipment
The Chilean Government places a high priority on the improvement of the national public
health system. This system provides health care for approximately 70 percent of the Chilean
population, or nearly 10 million people.
Chile's total 1994 imports of medical equipment and supplies were approximately $120
million. It is expected in 1995 that this sector's imports will reach $130 million, with an estimated
growth of 12 percent for 1996 and increased growth thereafter.
A large number of private and some public sector hospitals are expanding their present
facilities or projecting the construction of new ones. Private hospitals and clinics have the most
state-of-the-art equipment in Chile and the financial resources to upgrade equipment and services.
The U.S. has been for years Chile's most important supplier of medical equipment. U.S.
main competitors are Japan, Germany and France.
Other Opportunities
Privatization Initiatives
As a pioneer of the privatization movement in the region, Chile has had many successes
and some mixed results. The Frei administration clearly believes in a continuation of the
privatization trend and minimizing state involvement in the business environment. However, the
privatization of some state owned enterprises remains a politically sensitive issue. Currently,
important privatization initiatives are formally and informally under way in the areas of energy
generation, railroad cargo services, port expansion and highway infrastructure. New legislation
now also allows private/public sector joint ventures for the exploitation of Chile's mineral
resources. Most of the opportunities for dual use defense products and services can be pursued
via unsolicited proposals to the appropriate authorities, formal bids, and through participation in
government concession programs. Well connected Chilean representation is highly desirable for
best results in privatization activities.
Information on doing business in Chile is given in the Country Commercial Guide (CCG).
This annual U.S. Government publication is readily available through the National Trade Data
Bank (NTDB) and covers all key aspects of Chile's business and regulatory environment.
Additional information is available in The Chile Inc. Sourcebook, published by the South Pacific
Mail. To obtain this publication, please contact South Pacific Mail directly at Tel. 011-56-2- 632-
4897 or 638-0142; Fax. 011-56-2-633-0776. The publication "Investing in Chile" is another
reliable source of good information. This publication can be obtained from its publisher, Langton
Clarke/Coopers and Lybrand, at Tel. 011-56-2-638-1320; Fax. 011-56-2-638-2850.
U.S.& FCS/Santiago has also developed market research in the areas of aircraft sales, air
traffic control equipment, medical and diagnostic equipment, and environmental equipment and
services. This market research is readily available in the United States through the National Trade
Data Bank (NTDB), which is accessible through all Federal Depository Libraries and the 70
domestic offices of the U.S. Department of Commerce's International trade Administration. Two
recent documents developed by this post in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Commerce
headquarters in Washington, are the 1995 Country Commercial Guide and the Strategic Action
Plan for the Environmental Markets of Chile and Argentina. Both of these documents supply
extensive information on business opportunities, best prospect sectors, market conditions and the
mechanics of doing business in the Chilean market.
Listed below are useful points of contact for U.S. firms interested in the Chilean market.
U.S. Embassy:
U.S. Commercial Service
Commercial Counselor: Carlos F. Poza
Tel: 011-56-2-330-3316
Fax: 011-56-2-330-3172
Military Group
Commander: Col. Steven Caddy
Tel: 011-56-2-633-9081
Fax: 011-56-2-632-4863