The Netherlands and Chile: Trade and Innovation Partnerships

© Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The bilateral relationship between Chile and the Netherlands has created jobs, investments, and opportunities for both nations. The Netherlands is recognized in Chile for its innovative capabilities, sustainability focus, and cooperative approach—bringing together government, private sector, and knowledge institutions to deliver business solutions.

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EU - Chile Trade Framework

Infographic EU - Chile trade

Since 2002, the EU and Chile have been connected through an Association Agreement, including a Free Trade Agreement (in force since 2003). On February 1 2025 the new Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) came into effect and on June 1 2025 the provisional application of the EU-Chile Advanced Framework Agreement started. The EU remains Chile’s third-largest trade partner, with the Netherlands playing a key role.

Trade Between Chile and the Netherlands

  • Exports from Chile to the Netherlands (2024): Euro 1.5 billion, including refined copper, chemicals (molybdenum, nitrites, nitrates), fruits, vegetables, and wine.
  • Imports from the Netherlands (2024): Euro 1 billion, mainly machinery, transportation materials, chemical products, and hi-tech agricultural technology.

Both countries rely on open economies and rank highly in ease-of-doing-business. Chile’s strong retail sector, drive toward sustainability, and innovation capacity make it a promising partner.

Dutch Investment in Chile

The Netherlands is the 4th largest capital investor in Chile over the past five years, and the largest European investor. This reflects trust in Chile’s stable economy, political system, and sustainability regulations.

Key partners include:

  • InvestChile – Chile’s professional investment agency.
  • ProChile – Chile’s active export promotion agency.
  • Holland House Chile – The Chilean-Dutch Chamber of Commerce, connecting Dutch businesses.

Dutch Community and Companies in Chile

The Dutch community is active through the Dutch Club and Dutch School, recognized by the Dutch Foundation of International Education.

Major Dutch companies in Chile include: Heineken, CCU (50% Heineken), KLM, Nijhuis Saur, DSM, AkzoNobel, Philips, Signify, Arcadis, Fugro, Rabobank, Steinweg, Van Oordt, and more. Many are leaders in innovation and sustainability.

Dutch Innovation: A Culture of Creativity

Innovation has been part of Dutch identity for over 800 years, starting with windmills to reclaim farmland. Today, the Netherlands is a hub for startups and groundbreaking inventions.

Examples of Dutch innovations:

  • Submarine
  • Compact disc (CD)
  • Microscope and telescope
  • Bluetooth & Wi-Fi
  • Stormproof umbrella

This culture of invention makes the Netherlands a trusted partner for Chile in developing sustainable and innovative solutions.

World-leading in Chipmaking Machines

Out of our optical expertise (Compact disk, microscope, telescope) and the Philips company, the currently biggest Dutch Company ASML was created. A company widely recognized as world-leader in the production of lithography machines and specifically the machines using Extreme Ultraviolet. The ultra-advanced lithography technology is fundamental to mass producing semiconductor chips. With it, the world’s top chipmakers are creating microchips that are more powerful, faster and energy efficient.

Did you know that the export value of these machines for the Netherlands, is comparable to the value of copper ore exports from Chile?   

Working Together with the Netherlands on Trade and Innovation

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Chile supports partnerships in trade, investment, and innovation. We connect Chilean stakeholders with Dutch expertise, technology, and networks to co-develop projects that strengthen economic ties and promote sustainability.

Let’s Connect

Trade and innovation thrive on collaboration. Whether you are a policymaker, entrepreneur, or researcher, the Netherlands invites you to explore opportunities with Dutch companies and institutions. Together, we can co-create sustainable solutions for Chile’s economy and society.