News Details

In an effort to strengthen its environmental protection commitments, the Chilean government has announced a new regulation aimed at controlling the import and export of substances that deplete the ozone layer. The regulation, published on April 2, 2024, follows the guidelines set by the Montreal Protocol and its amendments, with particular focus on substances listed in Annexes A, B, C, E, and F.

The decree, which came into effect on April 14, 2026, establishes key limits on the maximum allowable importation volumes of these substances. These substances, which include chemicals such as HCFCs and HFCs, are crucial to industries like refrigeration and air conditioning, but their use has been linked to environmental degradation due to their ozone-depleting properties.

Regulation Aims to Phase Out Harmful Chemicals by 2030

One of the primary objectives of this new regulation is to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances. Chile, in line with its obligations under the Montreal Protocol, is committed to reducing its consumption of chemicals such as HCFC-22, HCFC-141b, and HFC-134a. These chemicals, once widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, are known for their high global warming potential.

Under the new rules, the Chilean government will gradually lower the allowable import volumes of these substances, with a total ban on the import of HCFCs and certain HFCs slated for 2030. The regulation also imposes restrictions on the importation of certain products containing these substances, including air conditioning units, refrigerators, and vehicles that use these chemicals.

New Measures for Recovery and Recycling

In addition to these importation restrictions, the new regulation introduces provisions for the recovery and recycling of controlled substances. The regulation encourages the extraction and purification of ozone-depleting substances from used equipment to allow for their reuse. Such actions are seen as vital to meeting Chile’s international commitments, while reducing the country’s reliance on newly manufactured chemicals.

Compliance and Enforcement

The regulation grants significant enforcement authority to the Chilean Customs Service (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas), which will monitor imports and exports of controlled substances. Customs will work in conjunction with the Ministry of the Environment to ensure that the regulations are adhered to and to oversee the gradual phase-out of harmful chemicals.

Furthermore, the Ministry of the Environment will oversee the distribution of the annual import quotas for these substances, ensuring that the volumes are in compliance with international targets.

Impact on Industry

The new rules are expected to have a significant impact on industries that rely heavily on these substances. Companies in the air conditioning, refrigeration, and automotive sectors will face increased costs as they transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives. However, industry stakeholders have expressed cautious optimism, stating that the transition will push innovation and further the country’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Looking Ahead

Chile’s government has reiterated that the regulation is part of its broader strategy to meet international climate goals and reduce its environmental impact. As the country moves toward a zero-emission future, this move reflects a growing global push to combat climate change and preserve the ozone layer.

With the regulation now in place, attention turns to how the business sector adapts to the new norms, and whether Chile will be able to meet its ambitious environmental targets by the end of the decade.