Progress in trade negotiations with China, India and Japan

Chile is aggressively pursuing closer and deeper economic ties with Asia’s major trade players, namely China, India, and Japan.

With respect to China, the fourth round of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was held on Santiago on September 12-16. There has been important progress in areas such as dispute settlement; technical barriers to trade; cooperation; and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Both parties agreed that negotiations could conclude next November.

Chilean exports to China accounted for more than 3 billion dollars in 2004 and they are expected to boost as a consequence of the FTA.

Similarly, Chile and India continue to strengthen their economic ties. The third round of negotiations for a trade agreement was held on September 5-7. This agreement would increase bilateral trade and encourage cooperation and investment.

India is Chile’s 18th largest trade partner. Chilean exports to India totaled 180 million dollars in 2004.

Finally, on September 22nd, Chile and Japan held the fourth joint feasibility study meeting for a free trade agreement. The meeting was held in Miami and talks were also very positive. A final report is expected to be agreed in the next months and it will be the basis for the beginning of the FTA negotiations.

Japan is Chile’s third largest trade partner. Bilateral trade accounted for more than 4 billion dollars in 2004.