Chile faces retail stockout crisis and fiscal pressure

Chile is facing significant economic challenges regarding retail inventory management and fiscal sustainability. Research from the University of Chile indicates that stockout levels in the country have reached 15.7%, nearly double the global average of 8.3%. This structural weakness poses a risk to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) ahead of Cyber Monday 2026, as rising maritime freight costs and potential U.S. tariffs of up to 12.5% threaten profit margins.

Simultaneously, Chile's public debt is approaching 43% of GDP, nearing the government's 45% prudent limit. Experts and international institutions, including the IMF and Fitch Ratings, warn that an aging population will increase pressure on health and pension spending. Proposed solutions to manage this fiscal tightness include reforming disability subsidies, improving Fonasa's resource management through value-based payments, and strengthening the collection of legal health contributions to combat informality.