Unlocking the Doors to India: Chile’s Pursuit of a Landmark Free Trade Agreement

In a bold move to expand Chile’s global trade reach, the National Society of Agriculture (SNA) is calling on President Gabriel Boric to finalize a long-awaited free trade agreement with the world’s fifth-largest economy – India. This strategic partnership could unlock a vast and lucrative market for Chile’s thriving agricultural sector.

Tapping into the World’s Most Populous Market

Antonio Walker, the president of the SNA, has emphasized the immense potential of the Indian market, which boasts a population of over 1.3 billion people. This is the most populated country in the world, the fifth-largest economy (…) The mission was to open this huge market for Chilean agriculture, and it is very important that authorities go, because diplomatic negotiations are crucial.

Lowering Trade Barriers

One of the key objectives of the proposed free trade agreement is to reduce the high tariffs that currently hinder Chilean exports to India. As Walker explains, One of the purposes of this trip was to build trust. And the other is the diplomatic negotiation to lower tariffs, because India is a very protectionist country, it protects its farmers. For instance, Chilean wine faces a 150% tariff to enter the Indian market.

A Diplomatic Offensive

The Chilean government has already taken significant steps to advance the negotiations, with the Undersecretary of International Economic Relations (Claudia Sanhueza) and two ministers, including the Minister of Agriculture (Esteban Valenzuela), leading a delegation of 10 industry groups and ProChile to India. Walker is now urging President Boric to personally visit India in March to finalize this negotiation and the progress we made on this trip.

Conclusion

The potential of a free trade agreement between Chile and India is undeniable, offering a chance to significantly expand Chile’s agricultural exports and solidify its position as a global trade powerhouse. With the unwavering support of the SNA and the government’s diplomatic efforts, Chile is poised to unlock the doors to this vast and lucrative market, paving the way for a new era of economic prosperity.