Page:CREST-Allendes Chile Supply Demand Gap.pdf/13

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Approved For Release 2006/04/19 ; CIA-RDP85T00875RO01700040058-3
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  1. Imports - An Important Crutch So Far
  2. Rising imports thus far have enabled Chile significantly to increase consumer supplies. Imports increased by almost 13% in 1971 and are rising an estimated 15% in 1972, despite a two-year drop in export earnings of about 20%. Partly filling the gap between declining output and spiraling demand. foodstuffs imports jumped by more than 70% in 1971 and have been boosted by another 35% or so in 1972. Net food purchases are approaching $400 million this year. compared with $150 million in 1970 (sue Figure 4). Imports of industrial raw materials and fuel have risen by perhaps 40% since 1970, while machinery purchases have dropped to a Chile: Net Imports of FoodstuffsFigure 4
    Million US$

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