SANTIAGO, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Chilean government on Tuesday unveiled a series of measures to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the export sector affected by recent political unrest.

The plan earmarks 4.5 million U.S. dollars to help some 2,000 export firms in the short- and medium-term, Jorge O'Ryan, director of ProChile, an official agency dedicated to promoting Chilean exports, told reporters at a press conference.

It aims "to contribute to the tranquility of the companies, to support them so they can fulfill their international commitments, and continue to spur the country's growth in this way," said O'Ryan.

"We want smaller companies to be able to continue exporting ... as well as diversifying their markets and products," he added.

The measures include simplifying the paperwork involved in exporting, monitoring the operation of the companies, offering logistical support and providing consultation to improve trade, as well as helping connect producers with consumers.

In addition, the government will give priority to attending international trade shows and business forums in 2020 "to go out into the world with our business leaders", said O'Ryan.

The initiative also calls for supporting indigenous communities by providing training to indigenous-owned small businesses in the sector of international trade.

According to ProChile, some 84 percent of small and medium-sized Chilean exporters were affected by the protests, 81 percent saw production drop, 78 percent had cash-flow problems, and 75 percent had trouble fulfilling their contracts.

In the area of production, companies said the wave of demonstrations resulted in the absence of personnel, a lack of inputs, difficulty in warehousing output, and even damage to their facilities.

Most of the companies affected are located in Santiago and some metropolitan areas, such as Maule, Biobio, Valparaiso, Los Lagos and Nuble. Companies that export fish and seafood, fruit and wine were among the most hit.

A transit fare hike in Chile sparked protests that spread nationwide as Chileans demonstrated against the high cost of living and lack of opportunities. Enditem

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)