In the most recently released U.S. Department of Commerce “Country Commercial Guides,” Chile receives high marks as a promising market for American manufacturers of agricultural machinery and equipment.

Published at the end of last year, the annual market assessment notes that economic growth in the agricultural sector is projected to expand this year by six percent, boosting the national economy, which recorded a healthy first quarter growth of 8.5 percent.

Commerce Department researchers add that the market for specialized and energy efficient agriculture machinery is among the best prospects since it can help reduce labor and energy costs. “Agricultural productivity has increased in recent years, but needs to increase even more, in direct relation to the use of new and higher efficiency machinery, technology and natural fertilizers and soil enhancers,” the report states.

The Guide notes that the agriculture sector must mechanize agricultural processes such as harvesting, and labor replacement machinery and equipment, which are in high demand by Chilean farmers. All this is aimed at reducing production costs to remain competitive in the global market, where Chile is an important food supplier (total exports estimated for 2015 at $10.5 billion).

Under “Best Prospects” the Guide reports that irrigation infrastructure is required to maximize efficiency of water usage and investment in irrigation and other related systems represent an opportunity for U.S. agriculture machinery manufacturers. Also offering bright prospects for American exporters are fruit harvesting equipment and energy efficient machinery to help lower production costs.

American manufacturers of agricultural machinery, greenhouse structures and accessories, fertilizers, irrigation systems, GPS and other navigational aids and apiary accessories can enter this robust market by participating in the IFT-AGRO 2016 Conference and Exhibition that shall take place in Talca, Chile, the “Central Valley” of Latin America, in April 2016. 

The International IFT- Agro 2016 Trade Show is an industry event committed to bringing together leading suppliers of technologies for the production of agricultural goods, products and services with decision-makers from small, medium and large producers who need access to technology to become more competitive in this industry.

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