According to the Global Innovation Index, Chile ranks first in Latin America for innovation. The South American country is spending more on research and development than it was before the 2008 crisis. This spending by the government is spurring innovation through investments in startups and loosening restrictions for larger companies looking to penetrate the Latin American market. Chile is also ranked 14th for the number of firms created each year.

Chilean gastronomy is a combination of traditional Spanish cuisine, Chilean Mapuche culture, and local ingredients, with later important influences from other European cuisines, mainly from Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and France.

The food tradition and recipes in Chile are notable for the variety of flavors and ingredients. The country’s diverse geography and climate host a wide range of agricultural produce, fruits, and vegetables. Chile is also one of the world’s largest wine producers, and many Chilean recipes are enhanced and accompanied by local wines.

In traditional restaurants you would find most menus changing through the seasons. In winter, soups, stews, and dishes eaten with a spoon are at the forefront; cazuela (casserole), caldillo de congrio (conger stock), milcao (grated potatoes stew) or charquicán (dried meat stew) are a must have. In summer however, the food is lighter and made with fresh products; gambas al pil pil (shrimps in garlic), ensalada de digüeñes (cyttaria fungus salad), chorillana (fried fine onions, meat and eggs) and many more. Finally, Curanto. This dish is made for a minimum of 25 people. It is more than a traditional dish, it’s a celebration that mixes fish, beef, chicken, seaweed and potatoes and congregates people together.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and wildfire are common in Chile. Equipment and technologies to monitor and respond to these threats are in constant demand. Chile’s wildfire season lasts from November through April and has worsened over the last decade due to climate change and an ongoing historic drought.

The Chilean market for safety and security is highly competitive. U.S. companies must compete with foreign suppliers from China, India, Spain, Germany, Brazil, and other countries. U.S. technology is highly regarded in the Chilean market; however, the price has always been a priority in Chile.