02.11.202611:44:47UTC+00Chile Economic Activity Returns to Growth

Chile’s IMACEC economic activity index grew 0.2% year-on-year in September 2026, following a 1.0% contraction in August, signaling a return to expansion after two consecutive months of decline. Goods production fell 2.0%, weighed down by a 12.1% drop in mining—particularly copper—amid lower ore grades and a temporary suspension of operations. In contrast, output of other goods rose 4.0%, supported by increased electricity generation driven by greater water availability. Manufacturing expanded 4.5%, boosted by higher production of fishery products as well as metal products, machinery and equipment. Trade activity advanced 4.5%, with all segments reporting gains, led by wholesale and retail sales. Services increased 0.9%, driven mainly by personal services—especially health—and by transport. The non-mining IMACEC rose 2.0%. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, overall economic activity increased 1.9%, following a downwardly revised 0.6% decline in August.