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9. Trade and customs: Chile

Trade and customs in Chile: the flat 6 percent general tariff and how trade agreements cut it, VAT on imports and its recovery as a credit, when a licensed customs agent is required, the US$500 regime for low value remote purchases, how exporters leave VAT behind, and the contraband and cash rules that carry criminal penalties, each tied to the official text.

Investor view. Chile pairs one of the lowest and simplest tariffs in the world with a dense network of trade agreements and VAT free exports, which makes it a natural platform for companies that buy and sell across the Pacific and the Americas.

• Importing and exporting in Chile: the 6 percent tariff, VAT on imports, customs agents, low value purchases, VAT free exports and contraband rulesChile charges a single general customs duty of 6 percent ad valorem on the CIF value of imports, in force since 1 January 2003, which trade agreements reduce or remove for goods that qualify by origin

Related: Chile country profile · live dashboard · central bank and release calendar · our posts on X · where Argentina is involved, see The Argentine Thread guide