Chile Hits Record $10.4 Billion in Monthly Exports, Driven by Mining and Agriculture

Chile achieved a historic milestone in January 2025, recording $10.431 billion in exports—its highest monthly figure ever.

This represents a 10.4% increase compared to January 2024, equivalent to an additional $983 million, according to data from the Undersecretariat of International Economic Relations (Subrei), the Central Bank of Chile, and the National Customs Service.

The surge highlights Chile’s resilience amid global trade uncertainties. Mining exports led the charge, contributing $4.793 billion, a 13.5% year-over-year increase. Copper remained the sector’s backbone, with shipments rising 15.8% to $4.051 billion, adding $554 million compared to January 2024.

Gold exports soared by 157%, reaching $296 million (+$181 million), while silver exports climbed 15.7% to $51 million (+$7 million). However, lithium carbonate shipments fell 36%, totaling $193 million (-$108 million), reflecting volatility in this critical resource market.

Agriculture also posted remarkable growth, with fresh fruit exports hitting a record $2.66 billion—a 14.7% increase (+$342 million) from January 2024—accounting for 25.5% of total exports.

Chile’s Export Boom

Cherries dominated this category, generating $2.278 billion in revenue, up 20.8% (+$392 million), and representing 21.8% of Chile’s total exports for the month. Other fruits like avocados, lemons, apples, and cranberries also saw increased demand.

Processed foods contributed $1.183 billion in exports, showing modest growth of 0.6% (+$7 million). Organic food exports surged by 30%, driven by products like blueberries and premium wines.

Wine exports overall rose by 4.4%, reaching $145 million, fueled by strong demand for bottled varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The forestry sector recorded $572 million in shipments, reflecting a 4% increase.

Gains from cellulose (+26.3%) and cardboard (+4.9%) offset declines in sawn wood (-16.6%) and plywood (-27.9%). Chile’s trade surplus widened to $3.376 billion in January, its largest since records began in 1991, bolstered by strong export growth across multiple sectors.

Claudia Sanhueza, Undersecretary for International Economic Relations, emphasized the importance of diversifying Chile’s export portfolio to navigate global uncertainties effectively.

The figures underscore Chile’s role as a key player in global trade while highlighting its capacity to adapt and thrive despite economic challenges.