E-commerce trends show rising informality in Chile and provincial growth in Argentina

In Chile, e-commerce informality reached 8.1% of total digital purchases during the first quarter of 2026, according to a report by the National Chamber of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (CNC). The report highlights that 60% of these informal transactions occur via social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook Marketplace, rather than traditional e-commerce websites. This trend raises concerns regarding tax evasion of Value Added Tax (VAT), customs regulation bypass for imported goods, and a lack of consumer protections such as legal guarantees or returns.

In Argentina, the Cámara Argentina de Comercio Electrónico (CACE) reports a significant shift toward provincial digital consumption. Data from the Mid Term 2026 report indicates that 61% of new online shoppers reside in the country's interior provinces, with the Central region leading at 26%. This contrasts with the 39% of new buyers located in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires and the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires (AMBA). This expansion allows local brands to reach broader audiences and marks a steady increase in the percentage of the population debuting in online shopping.