• This figure is the third highest for this period for the years 2003-2022 and almost equal to the 2021 total of US$15.3 billion.

Chile’s Central Bank reported this morning that Chile received US$15.2 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) between January and August this year. This figure is the third highest for this period for the years 2003-2022 and almost equal to the 2021 total of US$15.3 billion.

Despite the difficulties arising from the international economic crisis, the cumulative flow as of August this year was only 8% below that for the same period of 2021, when FDI reached US$16.6 billion. This decrease is due to the high base of comparison due to specific acquisition operations.

Specifically in August, flows reached US$1.5 billion, a figure that is in line with the 12-month average of US$1.2 billion.

The most important component of FDI flow during the period was profit reinvestment, recorded at US$6 billion. Shares in equity capital totaled US$5.3 billion and debt instruments were recorded at US$3.6 billion.

Dynamic foreign investment

Economy, Development and Tourism Minister Nicolás Grau says that the figures show that companies have confidence in Chile for developing their long-term projects. “In a very challenging global economic context, these figures are good news. Foreign investment results in greater tax income, the development of ancillary industries and job creation, which help bring dynamism to our economy, as well as enhancing the wellbeing of Chilean men and women,” said Minister Grau.

InvestChile director Karla Flores added that the Agency’s efforts are focused on attracting investment that, in addition to having an economic effect, will generate a positive impact on the population and the production chain. Renewable energy, tech and human capital training projects are particularly being favored. “This month we’ve had a very fruitful investment promotion tour in Europe and in December we will hold the 6th International InvestChile Forum, where we will continue encouraging the arrival of quality foreign investment to our country,” she said.