The Republic of Chile is now intensifying preparations for its participation at Expo 2020, under the theme of sustainability, diversity, tradition, and progress which embrace the four pillars of Chile and the principles it values.
On its 700 square metre country pavilion Chile will be showcasing sustainable and reliable food production; renewable energy; productive and sustainable mining; sustainable tourism; entrepreneurship and innovation; sustainable infrastructure; astronomy and solid institutions.
“The priority for Chile at Expo 2020 will be to highlight the four pillars which embody our nation. We are a land of geographic extremes, with desert, mountains, glaciers and coastline. A country where contemporary co-exists with tradition, through the heart and soul of the Chilean people.
“Chile is a country dedicated to progress and sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life for our citizens. A country with a solid reputation, a country that is considered a true and trusted partner,” said Alvaro Saieh, Commissioner General of Chile.
Chilean exports to the MENA region in 2018, jumped 19% to over $425 million, compared with the same period in 2017. This growth is partly attributed to robust Chilean walnut exports, according to the latest research from the Trade Commission of Chile.
As an agricultural-friendly country, Chile has around 20 products that are among the most exported globally, these include fresh grapes and blueberries, salmon fillets, dried plums and dried apples.
“Chilean shipments of walnuts to the Middle East topped US$50 million alone, with the UAE accounting for US$26 million, followed by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, a 73% increase over 2018,” according to Jorge Daccarett, Deputy Commissioner General of Chile.
“Thanks to the yield and more importantly the quality of our produce, Chilean exporters meet the highest standards, and we are also developing the halal food and beverage sector. Naturally, with 25 million visitors expected, we are confident that Expo 2020 will deliver the steppingstone we need, to develop further trade opportunities throughout the region and further afield to South Asia.”
Chile will also be showcasing its renewable energy capabilities, with 4,000 hours of sunshine in certain regions per year, Chile has the best conditions in the world for solar energy production.
Chile’s coastline stretches 4,000km, offering significant potential for marine energy, while the Andes mountain range contains important geothermal energy reserves.
“It is also these natural wonders that are making Chile an emerging adventure tourism destination,” added Daccarett.
Chile is a world leader in mining and is attracting increasing amounts of foreign investment, especially considering its mineral wealth. Chile holds 29% of the world’s copper reserves, 16% of the molybdenum reserves, 15% of silver reserves, 7% gold, and 54% of the world’s lithium reserves.
Ranked top in LATAM (Latin America) and 19th internationally on the Global Entrepreneurship Index, Chile has one of the world’s most successful and progressive business accelerator programmes with 1,300 start ups creating $1.4 billion in net assets.
“We are a safe and stable democratic country with an innovative and open business attitude, which is illustrated by our 26 free trade agreements, covering 64 international markets. There are also good opportunities for overseas investors in out transport infrastructure, as well as other public works, such as reservoirs, hospitals and schools,” said Alvaro Saieh, Commissioner General of Chile.
