Chile’s imports up due to economic expansion
Chile's imports increased in September to the highest monthly level since 1990s as economic expansion fueled demand. Imports soared to $2.1 billion in September from $1.99 billion recorded in August and $1.45 billion registered in September 2003, according to Central Bank. Accordingly, country's trade surplus narrowed to $336.5 million from $787.6 million in August. Exports were recorded as $2.4 billion against $2.8 billion in August. Chile's domestic demand started to accelerate and that will be the most dynamic factor for economic expansion next year. Chilean economy expanded by 7.4% in August from a year earlier. This was the fastest growth rate recorded since March 1998. GDP (Gross Domestic Demand) grew by 5.1% in the second quarter while domestic demand rose by 5.7%.