🇨🇱 Chile — Saturday, April 11, 2026
Highlights through the eyes of a long-term local resident.
Published — Apr 12, 5:13 AM (local) · Apr 12, 9:13 AM (UTC)
Editor · A mining industry entrepreneur based in Santiago for 3 years
Santiago
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Kast under pressure as 'Presidente Presente' begins
President José Antonio Kast launched his 'Presidente Presente' initiative in Coltauco this Friday, a series of town hall-style meetings intended to bypass intermediaries and talk directly to citizens. The move comes as the administration grapples with declining approval ratings and public frustration over security and immigration. Kast defended his pace of change, telling attendees, 'You don't change an entire state in a month,' while emphasizing his 'step-by-step' approach.
Editor's note
It’s a classic move, isn't it? When the numbers dip, go back to the campaign trail style. Honestly, after three years here, you see the pattern: promise big, face the reality of the bureaucracy, then head to the regions to remind everyone why you were elected in the first place. If you're in Coltauco or planning to be near these events, expect heavy traffic and a fair bit of security presence.
Fiscalía findings in the Chinamart case
The PDI's anti-corruption unit has delivered a report to the Public Prosecutor’s office alleging that Senator Karol Cariola bypassed standard channels to influence the renewal of alcohol licenses for 'Chinamart,' a business owned by her friend Emilio Yang. Cariola testified this week, maintaining that she acted within the law, but investigators characterized the interventions as 'outside of regular channels.'
Editor's note
This one is getting messy. The 'Chinamart' saga has been circulating in the headlines for a while, and the PDI report makes it sound like there was a clear effort to push things through the back door. It’s the kind of thing that really sours the mood for foreign investors who are trying to play by the rules here.
Clash over 'Protected Schools' project
Tensions in the capital are rising following the attack on Science Minister Lincolao. The government is pushing the 'Protected Schools' (Escuelas Protegidas) project, which includes restricting university fee waivers (gratuidad) for students convicted of violent acts. The Republican party has demanded 'immediate discussion' for the bill, publicly blaming the Communist Party for attempting to stall the measure.
Editor's note
The violence in schools has become a major talking point. I’ve spoken to a few expats with kids in local schools, and they’re definitely feeling the unease. If you have children in the system, keep an eye on these protests—they tend to pop up near major universities and can turn ugly fast.
Growth outlook slashed to 2%
Economists surveyed by the Central Bank have lowered their growth projections for Chile to 2% for 2026, down from the 2.5% expansion seen in 2025. Meanwhile, inflation projections have spiked, fueled by higher global energy costs and internal fiscal pressures.
Editor's note
Not the best news for those of us tracking the CLP. It’s worth tightening your belts a bit if you’re holding a lot of local assets right now. The optimism we saw earlier in the year is hitting a bit of a reality check.
Codelco board updates
The Copper Workers Federation (FTC) has finalized its list of five candidates for the Codelco board of directors. The proposal is scheduled to be formally submitted to the President on April 20.
Editor's note
Codelco is always the heartbeat of the economy here. Everyone in Santiago watches these board appointments like they’re picking a new cabinet. Keep an eye on who gets the final nod—it usually signals how much the government intends to lean into productivity vs. political demands.
Artemis II returns to Earth
The Artemis II mission successfully splashed down off the coast of California this Friday, completing a 10-day historic flight around the moon. NASA confirmed all four crew members are in good health.
Editor's note
It’s a massive win for space exploration. I’ve seen some local commentary from Chilean space enthusiasts—including aspiring astronaut Matilde Gaete—calling this the 'springboard for Mars.' Makes for a great conversation starter at the bar this weekend.
Reference Media: La Tercera