New interim trade agreement between the EU and Chile

On February 1, 2025, the EU–Chile Interim Trade Agreement (ITA) will enter into force, marking a new stage in trade relations between the European Union and Chile. This agreement, which replaces the EU–Chile Association Agreement in force since 2003, aims to modernize trade rules and simplify bilateral transactions.

Below, discover the latest developments, advantages, and how this agreement will influence exports and imports between the EU and Chile.

What are the main changes of the EU–Chile Interim Trade Agreement (ITA)?

The ITA introduces a modern approach to origin certification, adapting to the demands of today’s global trade.

• • New self-certification system: tariff preferences will now be granted through statements of origin issued by exporters registered in the REX system (Registered Exporter System), or based on the importer’s knowledge.
  • Certificates of origin eliminated: traditional EUR.1 certificates and invoice declarations will no longer be valid as proof of preferential origin.
  • Authorized exporter number: existing authorized exporter numbers under the former Association Agreement will no longer be valid upon entry into force of the ITA. In addition, declarations must comply with the formats set out in Annex 3-C of the ITA.

What documentation will be required for exports from the EU to Chile?

With the entry into force of the ITA, the documentation required to export from the EU to Chile will vary depending on the value of the goods:

• Shipments over €6,000: the REX number will be mandatory, together with a statement of origin included on the invoice or another commercial document.
• Shipments under €6,000: in this case, a statement of origin will be sufficient, without the need to be registered in the REX system.

What documentation is essential for imports from Chile to the EU?

For goods imported from Chile into the EU, tariff preferences will be based on:

• A statement of origin, or
• The importer’s knowledge demonstrating that the product is originating.

What are the benefits of the new Interim Trade Agreement?

The new interim trade agreement brings significant advantages for economic operators:

• Greater competitiveness: tariff benefits for almost all EU exports improve exporters’ conditions compared to their international competitors.
• Cost reduction and improved customs reliability: the elimination of paper certificates simplifies procedures, reduces administrative costs, and avoids issues such as the loss of original documents. It also strengthens operational control, improving the perception of customs authorities.
• Faster procedures: documentary modernization speeds up customs clearance and avoids unnecessary delays in trade operations.
• Promotion of trade relations: this updated framework strengthens economic ties between the EU and Chile.

How to comply with the new EU–Chile Interim Trade Agreement?

To adapt to the ITA, companies must take several steps:

• Registration in the REX system: it is essential for European exporters to manage their registration through the competent authorities in their country of residence. This step is mandatory to issue valid statements of origin.
• Verification of rules of origin: before issuing statements of origin, companies must confirm that products meet the agreement’s requirements.
• Updating internal processes: companies must adapt their commercial documentation to the format stipulated by the ITA.

Stay informed and adapt your processes to make the most of the benefits of the new EU–Chile Interim Trade Agreement.

Do you have questions about how to complete the Registered Exporter (REX) registration?

You can rely on specialized services to manage and process your application with the Customs Authorities, ensuring that you obtain REX authorization smoothly.