Chile’s latest GDP YoY figure, released on November 18, 2025, registered a growth rate of 1.60%, marking a significant slowdown from the 3.10% recorded in August 2025. This data, sourced from the Sigmanomics database, covers the national economy and reflects the year-over-year change in nominal GDP measured in Chilean Pesos (CLP).

Drivers this month

• Domestic consumption growth slowed amid rising interest rates.
• Mining output remained stable but failed to offset weaker services sector.
• Export volumes faced headwinds from softer global demand and commodity price volatility.

Policy pulse

The Central Bank of Chile has maintained a restrictive monetary stance, with the benchmark interest rate at 8.25%, aiming to curb inflation that remains above the 3% target. This GDP slowdown aligns with the bank’s tightening cycle, signaling a cooling economy.

Market lens

Immediate reaction: The Chilean Peso (CLP) depreciated by 0.40% against the USD within the first hour post-release, while 2-year government bond yields rose by 15 basis points, reflecting investor caution.

Chile’s GDP growth deceleration to 1.60% YoY contrasts with the 4.00% recorded in March 2025 and the 2.30% in May 2025, indicating a clear downward trend over the past eight months. Inflation remains sticky at 3.80% YoY, while unemployment holds steady at 7.10%, according to the latest labor reports.

Monetary Policy & Financial Conditions

The Central Bank’s restrictive policy has increased borrowing costs, dampening credit growth. Lending rates rose by 120 basis points since mid-2025, reducing consumer spending and business investment. Financial conditions tightened, with the Chilean stock market index (IPSA) down 5% year-to-date.

Fiscal Policy & Government Budget

Chile’s government continues fiscal consolidation, targeting a deficit reduction to 1.50% of GDP in 2025 from 2.30% in 2024. Public investment remains focused on infrastructure and social programs, but spending restraint limits stimulus effects on growth.

External Shocks & Geopolitical Risks

Global commodity price volatility, especially copper, Chile’s main export, has pressured export revenues. Additionally, geopolitical tensions in Asia and Europe have disrupted trade flows, contributing to export softness and currency volatility.

Drivers this month

• Services sector growth contracted by 0.50%, the first decline in 18 months.
• Mining sector output remained flat, contributing 0.00 pp to GDP growth.
• Manufacturing slowed to 0.80% YoY, down from 2.10% in August.

Policy pulse

The GDP print reinforces the Central Bank’s rationale for maintaining high interest rates to temper inflation. However, the growth slowdown raises concerns about potential over-tightening and risks of recession.

Market lens

Immediate reaction: The Chilean Peso weakened against the USD, while local bond yields climbed, reflecting market concerns over slower growth and inflation persistence. Equity markets also showed increased volatility.

Looking ahead, Chile’s economy faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. The GDP slowdown suggests a cautious growth environment for the near term, but structural reforms and fiscal discipline could support medium-term stability.

Bullish scenario (25% probability)

• Global commodity prices rebound, boosting export revenues.
• Monetary policy eases in H2 2026 as inflation moderates.
• Domestic demand recovers with improved consumer confidence.
• GDP growth rebounds to 3.50% YoY by late 2026.

Base scenario (50% probability)

• Continued moderate growth around 1.50–2.00% YoY.
• Monetary policy remains restrictive but stable.
• Fiscal consolidation limits stimulus but maintains stability.
• External demand remains subdued but stable.

Bearish scenario (25% probability)

• Commodity prices decline sharply, pressuring exports.
• Geopolitical tensions worsen, disrupting trade.
• Monetary tightening triggers recessionary pressures.
• GDP contracts by 0.50% YoY in 2026.

Chile’s latest GDP YoY print of 1.60% signals a clear economic slowdown from earlier in 2025. The interplay of tighter monetary policy, fiscal discipline, and external shocks shapes a cautious macro outlook. While risks remain tilted to the downside, structural reforms and potential commodity price stabilization offer a path to moderate growth. Market participants should monitor inflation trends, central bank guidance, and global trade developments closely.

Key Markets Likely to React to Gross Domestic Product YoY

The Chilean GDP growth rate is a critical barometer for several key markets. The Chilean Peso (CLPUSD) typically reacts to growth surprises due to its impact on trade balance and capital flows. The IPSA stock index reflects domestic economic health and corporate earnings expectations. Copper prices (COPPERUSD) are closely linked to Chile’s export revenues and fiscal health. The US Dollar Index (DXY) influences currency dynamics, while Bitcoin (BTCUSD) occasionally serves as a risk sentiment proxy in emerging markets.

Selected Tradable Symbols

• CLPUSD – Chilean Peso vs. US Dollar, sensitive to GDP and trade data.
• IPSA – Chile’s main stock market index, reflects economic growth.
• USDCLP – Inverse of CLPUSD, important for import costs and inflation.
• COPPERUSD – Copper price, a major export driver for Chile.
• BTCUSD – Bitcoin, a proxy for risk appetite affecting emerging markets.

GDP vs. CLPUSD Since 2020: Insight Box

Since 2020, Chile’s GDP growth and the CLPUSD exchange rate have shown a moderate inverse correlation. Periods of strong GDP growth (e.g., 2021–2022) coincided with CLP appreciation, while slowdowns (2023–2025) aligned with CLP depreciation. This relationship underscores the Peso’s sensitivity to domestic economic performance and external shocks, making it a key indicator for currency traders and policymakers alike.

FAQs

What is the current GDP YoY growth rate for Chile?

The latest GDP YoY growth rate for Chile is 1.60% as of November 2025.

How does Chile’s GDP growth affect its currency?

Stronger GDP growth tends to support the Chilean Peso (CLP) through improved trade balances and investor confidence.

What are the main risks to Chile’s economic outlook?

Key risks include commodity price volatility, geopolitical tensions, and potential over-tightening of monetary policy.

Final Takeaway: Chile’s economy is navigating a challenging transition marked by slower growth and persistent inflation. Vigilant policy calibration and external developments will determine its trajectory in 2026.

This has been drafted with AI assistance and then thoroughly reviewed, refined, and approved by our human editorial team to ensure accuracy, and originality.

Updated 11/18/25