These depend largely on demand and prices in the world market and on Chile's ability to compete with other mineral-producing countries. The exploitation of Chile's mineral resources is to large extent in the hands of foreign, mainly U.S., companies.
Mining plays a dominant role in central Chile.
Forestry, fishing, and mining are important in the south. The fluctuation in the extend and value of the production of minerals has prompted the development of industry and agriculture, especially for export. Inflation has been one of the lowest in Latin America.