Brazil and Chile Strengthen Trade Relationship at Business Forum

President Lula participated in the Brazil-Chile Business Forum alongside President Boric, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade. They discussed enhancing cooperation in various sectors, the signing of 13 agreements, and social policies to boost the economy. Trade figures showcased significant growth, with Brazil being a key trading partner for Chile, and plans for infrastructure projects were also highlighted.

On April 22, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva participated in the Brazil-Chile Business Forum in Brasília, which concluded with a joint emphasis on strengthening the trade relationship between Brazil and Chile. The forum took place at the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) and featured discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation among businessmen from both nations. President Lula was accompanied by Chilean President Gabriel Boric, who echoed similar sentiments regarding bilateral trade improvement.

President Lula underscored the partnership’s importance, stating, “A good deal is one where both countries profit.” He expressed a desire to avoid conflict, affirming a commitment toward the welfare of both nations. He emphasized that both Chile and Brazil aim to cultivate business relationships that respect each country’s sovereignty. The Brazilian President highlighted that these partnerships should lead to the prosperity of their peoples, insisting on access to science and innovation.

Lula further elaborated on the impact of improved social policies, reflecting that they contribute greatly to the economy and encourage tourism. He remarked, “Over the past two years the poorest have had an income growth of 10.7%.” He connects this increase in income directly to a rise in travel from Brazil to Chile, benefiting both nations through increased economic activity.

Chilean President Boric added that both countries are committed to maintaining security for investors, which would further stimulate economic expansion. He noted, “Brazil is our third-largest trading partner, after China and the United States,” illustrating the importance of the relationship. Furthermore, Boric highlighted the Capricorn Bioceanic Route project, which aims to link Brazilian ports to Chilean ports, stating its completion is expected by 2026 during Lula’s current administration.

The vice president of CNI, Mario Cezar de Aguiar, praised the collaboration and potential synergy between the two nations, saying it could transform trade while providing solutions to global uncertainties. Rosario Navarro, president of the Chilean Society of Industrial Promotion, echoed this sentiment by calling for actionable steps towards deeper integration.

The State visit by President Boric also resulted in the signing of 13 different agreements between the two nations, covering areas from agriculture to artificial intelligence. Such initiatives reflect a dynamic trade relationship characterized by exponential growth and mutual investment.

In the first quarter of 2025, trade between Brazil and Chile reached USD 2.7 billion, mainly driven by Brazilian exports of commodities like oil and meat, alongside Chilean imports of salmon and wine. The two countries recognize each other’s importance and are focusing on advancing joint initiatives in various fields from technology to defense, solidifying Chile’s status as a significant South American partner for Brazil.

The Brazil-Chile Business Forum marked a significant moment for both nations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in trade and economic prosperity. With ongoing projects like the Capricorn Bioceanic Route and the mutual commitment to social policies, both leaders reiterated that strong partnerships can benefit their peoples. Through the signing of agreements, the future looks promising for deepening economic ties and enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors.

Original Source: www.gov.br