Brazilian President Lula da Silva and Chilean President Gabriel Boric recently concluded the Brazil–Chile Business Forum in Brasília, aiming to enhance bilateral trade. Both leaders emphasized the importance of mutual benefits in trade agreements, with Lula highlighting social policies’ impact on economic growth. They announced the signing of 13 agreements across various sectors, including a key project to enhance regional connectivity. As trade relations flourish, both countries aim for strengthened collaboration and integration.
On April 22, in Brasília, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Chilean President Gabriel Boric wrapped up the Brazil–Chile Business Forum, a key event aiming to enhance trade relations between their nations. The gathering occurred at the National Confederation of Industry’s headquarters and gathered business leaders from various sectors. This meeting underscores the commitment both leaders have to bolster economic ties between Brazil and Chile.
During the forum, President Lula expressed a shared vision for international trade, emphasizing that “a good deal is one where both countries profit.” He firmly stated, “This is the moment for us to summon the courage to decide what we want to be, what we will be, how we will trade.” Lula clearly indicated his disregard for geopolitical disputes, focusing instead on the essential needs of the people in both nations.
Lula highlighted the importance of social policies in improving living standards and stimulating economic growth. He noted a significant income increase for the poorest in Brazil—10.7% over the past two years—which he believes directly correlates with an uptick in tourism to Chile. The Brazilian President stated this increase fosters a desire among Brazilians to travel and spend, thus stimulating both economies.
Chilean President Boric praised the burgeoning trade relations, noting that Brazil is currently Chile’s third-largest trading partner. He remarked, “Today, I am pleased to confirm that our trade relationship is at an excellent moment.” Boric also discussed the South American Integration Routes project, particularly emphasizing the Capricorn Bioceanic Route, which is to link Brazilian and Chilean ports. This ambitious infrastructure project, expected to be completed by 2026, aims to enhance regional connectivity.
Mario Cezar de Aguiar, Vice President of CNI, expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the leaders and businesses present at the event. He highlighted the necessity of continuing to deepen the partnership between Brazil and Chile amidst global uncertainties. Rosario Navarro, the President of the Chilean Society of Industrial Promotion, added that the forum delineated a clear path for deeper integration.
In the course of his official visit, Boric and Lula also signed 13 agreements covering diverse sectors, such as public security, science, technology, culture, and more. Brazil and Chile both benefit from dynamic trade relations that include extensive cooperation on various political fronts, and trade balances continue to grow. For instance, in just the first quarter of 2025, total trade reached USD 2.7 billion, led by major Brazilian exports like crude oil and meat, alongside Chilean imports of salmon and wine, further cementing their partnership.
Overall, the forum emphasized the significance of collaboration between Brazil and Chile, building upon existing economic ties while looking forward to future opportunities for growth and integration in the region.
In conclusion, the Brazil–Chile Business Forum showcased a hopeful outlook for the future of trade between the two countries. The commitment from both presidents to prioritize mutual interests was clear and echoed throughout the discussions. With the signing of numerous agreements and initiatives aimed at boosting cooperation, Brazil and Chile remain poised to further solidify their economic relationship. A united approach towards social and economic policies appears to be at the forefront of their efforts, promising a brighter path ahead for both nations.
Original Source: www.gov.br
