Chile Seeks Multilateral Trade Allies After US Imposes 12.5% Tariff

The United States announced an additional 12.5% tariff on imports from 60 countries, targeting roughly 40% of Chile’s export basket, including agricultural products, salmon, fruits, poultry, wine, dairy and timber. Former CEPAL director Osvaldo Rosales, ex‑foreign minister Heraldo Muñoz, Chancellor Francisco Pérez Mackena and Defence Minister Fernando Barros denounced the measure, urging Chile to preserve the free‑trade treaty with Washington, deepen multilateral ties and look to partners in the European Union, Asia‑Pacific, Brazil and Mexico.

At the same time, Chile is expanding its trade network by negotiating comprehensive economic partnership agreements with the Philippines, Bangladesh, Morocco and India, and by modernising existing free‑trade accords such as the one with South Korea during the South Korean president’s visit. Officials say the diversification aims to reduce dependence on the U.S. market and enhance the country’s economic resilience.