EU-Chile Interim Trade Agreement Enters into Force Amid Robust Chilean Port and Maritime Sector Developments

The EU-Chile Interim Trade Agreement (ATI), active since February 1, 2025, eliminates tariffs on 99.9% of EU exports to Chile and introduces streamlined rules of origin, expected to boost EU exports by approximately €4.5 billion over time. This ATI covers trade and investment areas exclusive to the EU, awaiting ratification of the broader Advanced Framework Agreement (AFA) by all EU member states for full enforcement. The agreement underlines Chile as the EU’s third-largest Latin American trade partner and the EU as Chile’s second-largest export market, with bilateral trade in goods expanding over 160% since 2002. Services exports from the EU to Chile reached €6 billion in 2023, with transport, IT, and business services as key sectors. Chile’s dominant lithium supply role—accounting for 62.9% of the EU’s imports—is central to facilitating raw materials vital for the green transition under the agreement.

Simultaneously, Chile’s port infrastructure is experiencing transformative investment and technological innovation. Puerto San Antonio’s terminals recorded a 12% rise in container throughput in 2025, engaging in a $1.95 billion project for new breakwater works. San Antonio Terminal Internacional (STI) launched AI-based digital twin platforms to optimize operations and expanded ‘Cherry Express’ maritime services to Asia. Puerto Valparaíso increased cargo handling by nearly 13%, investing $4 million in new cranes and equipment. Puerto Ventanas projected $16 million to build grain storage silos, with sustainability awards recognizing its logistic efficiency. Notably, rail logistics between San Antonio and Santiago improved by 50%, reducing road freight traffic and related emissions.

In maritime transport, the Compañía Marítima Chilena (CMC) marked a significant milestone by shipping 47,720 tons of bulk limestone from Spain to the United States, signaling expanded international reach. The Chilean port sector continues regulatory enhancements, digital integration with the Maritime Single Window (VUMAR), and preparatory licitations for future concessions expiring in key ports by 2030. These coordinated advancements complement the EU-Chile trade framework, reinforcing Chile’s strategic position within regional and global supply chains.