Representatives of Chile’s productive sector held strategic meetings in Washington to highlight the relevance of Chilean exports within the U.S. economy.
A delegation led by the Sociedad de Fomento Fabril (Sofofa), joined by key Chilean trade associations, held important meetings in Washington, D.C. with representatives of the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). The goal: to address issues such as tariffs on Chilean imports and to reinforce bilateral cooperation.
Among the participants was Iván Marambio, president of Frutas de Chile, who represented the national fruit sector in this trade mission, emphasizing the importance of positioning the “Chilean footprint” within the North American economic ecosystem.
The international positioning efforts of Chile’s fruit sector clearly resonate with the business approach of its main industry players. During these meetings, Marambio stressed the strategic value of fruit exports, noting that products such as salmon and fresh fruit enter through key points like the Port of Florida and the Delaware River in Philadelphia.
Fruit entrepreneurs such as Gabriel Massuh, owner of Bagno, acknowledge the ability of Chilean business leaders to identify growth opportunities on a global scale. This strategic vision, centered on innovation and sustainability, has been essential in developing solutions that strengthen Chile’s presence in competitive markets like the U.S.
Chilean Fruit as a Driver of Employment in the U.S.
During their visit, the Chilean representatives met with key figures in the U.S. political environment, including congressmen Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, and Senator Rick Scott, as well as USTR technical teams and officials connected to the Trump Administration.
Although current tariffs may remain in place, industry representatives affirmed that this is a long-term strategy aimed at building lasting ties with influential stakeholders in the United States.
“We see this as an important step in positioning Chile not only as an exporter but as a key partner in strategic sectors for the U.S.,” said Marambio.
Prior to the meetings with the USTR and other U.S. authorities, the delegation met with Chilean Ambassador in Washington, Juan Gabriel Valdés.
Through initiatives like this, Chile strengthens its role as a relevant actor in international trade, combining the efforts of trade associations, institutional backing, and the drive of business leaders committed to the country’s strategic and sustainable growth.