Chile's northern desert contains great mineral wealth, principally copper. The relatively small central area dominates in terms of population and agricultural resources, and is the cultural and political center from which Chile expanded in the late 19th century when it incorporated its northern and southern regions. Southern Chile is rich in forests and grazing lands, and features a string of volcanoes and lakes. Chile is one of South America's most stable and prosperous nations. It leads Latin American nations in human development, competitiveness, income per capita, globalization, state of peace, economic freedom, and low perception of corruption. It also ranks high regionally in sustainability of the state, and democratic development. In May 2010, Chile became the first South American nation to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Chile is a founding member of the United Nations, the Union of South American Nations and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States.

Why Business in Chile?

Chile is the best evaluated economy in Latin America and, indeed, one of the best evaluated among emerging economies worldwide. Its sustained economic growth and social progress have been highlighted by different international organizations. Its sustained economic growth and social progress have been highlighted by different international organizations and in 2010 it became the first South American country to join the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Chile is also an attractive country in which to do business because of its highly open economy. It has signed 23 free trade agreements with 60 countries, which collectively represent more than 86% of the world's GDP, and holds double taxation agreements with 24 countries, including the United Kingdom. Chile is known for its transparency and this is reflected in international rankings that highlight the low level of corruption in the country and, particularly, its finances, due to government efforts to raise standards in administration of the state. In Transparency International's 2011 Corruption Perceptions Index, Chile obtained a score of 7.2 points, ranking among the 25 best-placed economies.