Chile unveils plan for Expo 2020 Dubai pavilion

The Republic of Chile has announced it is intensifying preparations for its participation at Expo 2020 Dubai, revealing details of its pavilion.

Its 700 square metre country pavilion will be showcasing sustainable and reliable food production, renewable energy, productive and sustainable mining, sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship and innovation, sustainable infrastructure, astronomy and solid institutions, a statement said.

“The priority for Chile at Expo 2020 will be to highlight the four pillars which embody our nation. We are a land of geographic extremes, with desert, mountains, glaciers and coastline. A country where contemporary co-exists with tradition, through the heart and soul of the Chilean people," said Alvaro Saieh, Commissioner General of Chile.

“Chile is a country dedicated to progress and sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life for our citizens. A country with a solid reputation, a country that is considered a true and trusted partner,” he added.

Chilean exports to the MENA region in 2018 jumped 19 percent to over $425 million, partly attributed to robust Chilean walnut exports, according to the latest research from the Trade Commission of Chile.

As an agricultural-friendly country, Chile has around 20 products that are among the most exported globally including fresh grapes and blueberries, salmon fillets, dried plums and dried apples.

“Chilean shipments of walnuts to the Middle East topped $50 million alone, with the UAE accounting for $26 million, followed by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, a 73 percent increase over 2018,” said Jorge Daccarett, Deputy Commissioner General of Chile.

“Thanks to the yield and more importantly the quality of our produce, Chilean exporters meet the highest standards, and we are also developing the halal food and beverage sector. Naturally, with 25 million visitors expected, we are confident that Expo 2020 will deliver the steppingstone we need, to develop further trade opportunities throughout the region and further afield to South Asia.”

Chile will also be showcasing its renewable energy capabilities, with 4,000 hours of sunshine in certain regions per year, Chile has the best conditions in the world for solar energy production.

Chile’s coastline stretches 4,000km, offering significant potential for marine energy, while the Andes mountain range contains important geothermal energy reserves.

Daccarett also said that Chile is a world leader in mining and is attracting increasing amounts of foreign investment, especially considering its mineral wealth. Chile holds 29 percent of the world’s copper reserves, 16 percent of the molybdenum reserves, 15 percent of silver reserves, 7 percent gold, and 54 percent of the world’s lithium reserves.

With more than 200 participants, including 192 countries, and 25 million expected visits, Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest event ever held in the Arab region and will run for six months from October 20 to April 10, 2021.