However, other important private companies are exploiting and exploring new mines. Other mining activities include gold, iron, silver, salt, zinc, manganese, coal, oil and natural gas. Agriculture Chile has taken good advantage of its geographic location, soil and climate to further expansion in agriculture . Particular success has been achieved in wines and fruits. The primary fruits produced for export are grapes, apples, pears, kiwi, plums, nectarines and peaches.
Chile is one of the few nations in the world free of phylloxera.
This insidious disease affects vineyards by destroying the vine. Local regulations comply with the most demanding international standards. The Mediterranean Fruit Fly Thanks to its strict phitosanitary measures, Chile is the only Latin American country free of the Mediterranean fruit fly in its agricultural areas. When released, these genetically-engineered insects mate with the common variety, bringing reproduction to a halt. 7.4 million hectares are covered by native forests, rich in noble woods and slow-growth species.