Chile is today most closely associated with the mining industry, an industry which was brought to international prominence because of the rescue of 33 trapped miners in 2010. Mining though is not the only industry to play an important role in the economy of Chile, and in the past few decades, diversification has ensured a much more financially stable country.

Mining still plays a vital role though in the economy of Chile, and about an eighth of the working population are employed in the industry. Chile’s mining industry primarily revolves around the mining of copper, and CODELCO, is the biggest copper producing company in the world, and consequently one of the major employers of Chile.

In addition to copper mining though, Chile also produces significant amounts of gold, silver, and materials required for a thriving cement manufacturing industry.

Recent governments in Chile have though been quick to recognise the need to diversify their industrial base, with reliance on one product being always a dangerous proposition. Mining though has been the basis for much of the country’s financial stability which has given rise to a large financial industry. The finance industry now creates the second highest amount of money, after mining, in relation to GDP.

A lot of revenue is collected from industries connected with timber. The forestry industry of Chile is second only to Brazil in terms of size, although much of the wood that is cut down is used for wood chips and pulp. The fishing and agriculture industries are also important to Chile. Fish products, particularly Salmon, are large value exports of the country, whilst Chile is also a large producer of apples, pears and grapes.

The manufacturing of products from the raw materials has also become major industries within Chile. Processing of food and drink in particular has proved big business for the country, with canned and frozen goods major exports. The production and export of wine around the world now also make up a significant proportion of exports. The manufacturing industry of Chile also includes tobacco, paper textile, and plastic production.

In addition to primary and secondary industries, Chile is also developing thriving tertiary industry. Government and service industries are large employers in the country, but tourism is also developing into a major industry for the country. The natural beauty of the country is one draw, but also evidence of the country’s Incan history attracts many.  

Following on from recent diversification, the major industries of Chile now cover a wide spectrum of differing industries. Mining is still vital to the economy of the country, but manufacturing, finance and tourism, also play important roles now.