The Central Bank of Chile published preliminary regional accounts showing that the national economy contracted 0.2% in the second quarter of 2026, with activity declining in seven of the country’s 16 regions. The northern macrozone was the main drag, largely because of lower copper extraction, while 1.6% growth in the Metropolitan Region provided the largest offset. Construction also weighed on activity across most regions, while personal services and trade supported growth. Household consumption rose 1.2% nationally and increased in eight regions, led mainly by spending on services, including health and tourism. Goods exports fell 1.9% as weaker copper shipments drove declines in seven regions, particularly in the northern and central southern macrozones. Regional GDP outcomes ranged from an 8.3% increase in Atacama, supported by gold and silver mining, to a 6.3% contraction in Antofagasta, primarily reflecting copper mining. The central bank also revised first quarter 2026 estimates for regional GDP, household consumption and goods exports following updates to underlying regional indicators and quarterly national accounts data.
2026-09-23Central Bank of Chile
Central Bank of Chile reports 0.2% second quarter economic contraction driven by weaker copper mining
The Central Bank of Chile reported that the economy contracted 0.2% in the second quarter of 2026 as weaker copper mining drove declines in seven of 16 regions. Household consumption rose 1.2%, supported by services, while goods exports fell 1.9% mainly because of lower copper shipments.