| Everyone's talking about China. Don't miss the | | | | democratically elected governments initiated market |
| opportunities in the other CHI..Yes. Chile with an "LE" | | | | reforms and opened up the economy. Exports and |
| not "NA"While the whole region is back in favor with | | | | foreign investment took off and debt levels came |
| investors, it seems appropriate to highlight Chile which | | | | down. Foreign investors in Chile are treated the same |
| is the economic star of Latin America.Chile is about | | | | as Chilean investors.Chile's Take Off and Steady |
| two times the size of Montana and has an incredible | | | | GrowthFrom 1991-1998 economic growth increased an |
| coastline of 2,650 miles. While only 3% of its land is | | | | average of 8% and per capita income on a purchasing |
| arable, it has an amazing variety of climates and rich | | | | power basis has grown to $10,700. Since then growth |
| agricultural production. It gained its independence from | | | | has moderated to a 4-5% range but a total Chilean |
| Spain in 1810 and has 16 million citizens of which 90% | | | | public and foreign debt at 50% of GDP is very low |
| are Catholic.The Chile story is somewhat similar to | | | | relative to other Latin countries.Trade is very important |
| Ireland before its economic takeoff. From 1978 to 1988, | | | | to Chile with exports accounting for 25% of GDP. It is |
| per capita income increased only $100 to reach | | | | rich in natural resources (copper, timber, fruit and fish) |
| $1,510.Next, both a military government followed by | | | | and has been busy signing free trade agreements. |