Chile and Guatemala: challenges and opportunities for bilateral trade in goods

Chile and Guatemala have a solid and stable relationship that has materialised in various instances of mutual cooperation and understanding. Despite this, in aspects such as bilateral trade in goods, the relationship can still be strengthened through a process of mutual knowledge and an improvement in trade exchange, which is currently highly concentrated in goods corresponding to two tariff headings in particular: cane sugar and technically specified natural rubber. This article addresses a number of relevant points. Firstly, it describes Chile and Guatemala as trade partners according to their own and each other's visions. This is followed by the identification of barriers or limitations to bilateral trade in goods, which are related to institutional factors, the concept of export mindset and logistical problems. A third section presents the opportunities identified to promote bilateral trade, which are related to new strategic partnerships, spaces for international cooperation, and suggested courses of action.