Does Chile have the financial resources to fund reconstruction efforts?
Chile is the leading economy in South America. After decades of consistent growth, Chile has a large established, well-educated middle class. In terms of funding for the reconstruction effort, Chile has banked billions of dollars from its export of its highly sought-after copper and other resources and food products. Beyond this, many of the buildings damaged by the earthquake and tsunami were insured by large multi-national insurance providers who are obligated to pay out. President Piñera has a solid plan in place to cover finance issues. Click here to view plan
Will they buy International products?
Chile has several free-trade agreements which means the vast majority of products enter the country with no import duties. They actively seek out the best products available worldwide and purchase over $40.0 Billion of goods annually already. The additional opportunity provided by the reconstruction effort should fuel the market even more.
Is this show just for U.S. Companies?
Not in the least! We were asked specifically by the Intendantes of Regions VI, VII and VIII to return as soon as was possible, this time bringing in companies from around the world.
What does Chile need most right now?
Chile has the unprecedented opportunity to not only rebuild, but re-imagine itself, and as such they need Urban planners to help redesign their cities and infrastructure, Marine architects who can help reconstruct their ports and canals, Construction equipment, Telecommunications, and Green Energy, just to name a few.
How does Chile handle large projects?
Chile handles a their large scale project and public works with a system of Concessions that is handled by their Ministry of Public Works. You can find details about doing business in Chile and the Concession system here.
I have a smaller company, why should I get started in Chile?
Chile is a fast growing economy in spite of both the earthquake and the global economic downturn. Additionally, they have the means to rebuild as well as the desire to invest in the latest and greatest technology available. There is no better time to meet with the players and launch into this market.
Is there a market for my products long-term?
The types of products and services showcasing at REBUILD CHILE EXPO INTERNATIONAL have been and will continue to be in great demand in Chile. The country has been ambitiously upgrading its infrastructure such as roads, bridges and port facilities, in addition to factories, offices and individual homes maintained by the private sector. The earthquake and tsunami have greatly accelerated the pace – and the urgency – of Chile’s ongoing modernization program.
Do I need an agent in order to do business in Chile?
It is not necessarily a firm legal requirement as it is elsewhere, but it’s a good idea. Most International trade transactions do involve an agent experienced in the local market and Chile is no exception. You will want someone looking after your interests even after you return to the USA. We intend to invite a number of potential agents to REBUILD CHILE EXPO, using your Embassy’s knowledge and expertise to identify those agents with the most experience and best reputations.
I already have an agent in Chile, why would I want to be part of this show directly?
The earthquake and tsunami have caused such a surge in demand that your existing agent may be overwhelmed, particularly if he is representing a number of product lines. Also, you want to make sure that your absolute latest, newest, equipment is promoted at the show. Chile has determined it will respond to the damage of the earthquake and tsunami not by just settling for replacement of what was lost, but instead, will rebuild with state-of-the-art technology that will leave the country in a better position than it was before the events of 27 February 2010.
Why a trade show and conference versus some other way of making my products known in Chile?
Trade shows are an established tradition in Chile and are the preferred way for Chilean buyers to meet suppliers and see their products for themselves. Face-to-face remains a crucial ingredient in establishing successful business relationships in Chile. In fact, it is extremely rare for a sale to go through without at least one personal meeting. Beyond this, it is important to remember that tradeshows are not a “one way street” where sellers tout their products to a passive audience. Trade shows enable direct two-way communication whereby suppliers can glean valuable first-hand information from their current or potential customers about their particular wants and needs.
Wouldn’t it be better for me to exhibit in a show focused specifically on my product sector?
The immediate needs to repair, restock and rebuild are broadly-based. Government and municipal authorities, in particular, are in need of all manner of products and expertise to help them respond. Because of the immediacy, there is simply not enough time to attend a series of individual product shows staged over the course of many months.
The event is happening so soon, I didn’t budget for it and don’t think I can get ready in time.
We are providing fully-comprehensive “turn-key” stands as well as executive club and product catalog display options to fit many budgets. The time is tight, but an individual exhibitor need not worry about any operational details. We can take care of such details as having posters printed, finding temporary staffing, etc. Beyond this, buyers at this event aren’t looking for fancy displays, they are looking for first-hand information from companies that have the products and expertise they urgently need.
How are you going to get the right visitors to attend?
We are working closely with the over twenty seven Embassies, Trade Organizations and Chambers of Commerce worldwide, Chilean AmCham, U.S. Department of Commerce, and with representatives of the Government of Chile on the national, regional and municipal level. The Embassy and Kallman Worldwide are both making concentrated efforts to identify, invite, and encourage the key decision-makers to attend REBUILD CHILE EXPO. Additionally, we have begun direct marketing and advertising activities aimed at attracting VIP visitors to the event including campaigns with Chilean radio (ADN), television (National TV 7) and media outlets (El Mercurio).
I’m a consultant (or service provider). Is there a way I can take part in REBUILD CHILE EXPO?
Absolutely! The impetus behind REBUILD CHILE EXPO is to provide a way for the Chilean authorities who have been tasked with solving the many issues associated with the rebuilding of a significant portion of the country’s economy a way to glean first-hand information from global experts. You can meet them one-on-one in your own exhibit booth and then again at presentations we can facilitate whereby leading experts share their insights with larger audiences.