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Chile and United States continue trade talks over export tariffs
Chile and the United States are continuing bilateral negotiations to address a 12.5 percent tariff surcharge on various Chilean exports. Recent in-person meetings in Santiago between Chilean Undersecretary of International Economic Relations Paula Estévez and U.S. Deputy Assistant Trade Representative Jeffrey Goettman concluded without new exemptions for key sectors such as salmon, fruit, wine, and forestry products.
While approximately 53.6 percent of Chilean exports to the U.S. remain duty-free, the current tariffs impact roughly 40.3 percent of the export basket, causing significant cost increases for domestic industries. The salmon industry, for instance, is seeking relief to maintain competitiveness, even as it explores growth in other markets like India.
The next round of discussions is expected to take place virtually within two weeks, during which the United States is anticipated to present a new proposal regarding which products may qualify for exemptions.
Separately, in domestic logistics news, Mercado Libre is expanding its presence in Chile with a US$ 240 million investment to triple its logistics capacity through two new distribution centers. Additionally, the pharmacy chain Cruz Verde has received authorization from the Chilean Institute of Health (ISP) to sell over-the-counter medications via the Mercado Libre platform.
Entities
Chile · Jeffrey Goettman · Office of the United States Trade Representative · Paula Estévez · United States · United States Trade Representative
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Chilean authorities are working to secure zero-tariff status for strategic products currently subject to a surcharge. www.freshfruitportal.com · www.sancarlosonline.cl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The impact of the tariffs on fresh fruit exports is estimated to exceed $400 million. www.sancarlosonline.cl
- [● 2 SOURCES] Jeffrey Goettman, Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative, met with Chilean Undersecretary Paula Estévez in Santiago. www.freshfruitportal.com · www.sancarlosonline.cl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The United States Office of the Trade Representative (USTR) is expected to present a proposal within two weeks to expand tariff exemptions for Chilean products.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Approximately 40.3% of Chilean exports to the United States are subject to a 12.5% tariff. www.sancarlosonline.cl
- [● 2 SOURCES] Currently, 53.6% of the value of Chilean exports to the United States is exempt from the 12.5% tariff. www.sancarlosonline.cl