This country is not cheap, compared to all Latinoamerican countries. This is a surprise for some businessmen, but it shouldn’t be. If you are coming to the most stable nation in Latin America in democracy during the last 24 years, plus the most stable growing economy during 30 years, then you must pay the price for dealing with this stable environment. Read the article on this blog, Why to invest in Chile to value the market you are getting into.
I just will highlight some elements. Chile is among the handful of nations more open to foreign trade in the world. There are almost no barriers for bringing in your products, and the duties are near to zero. ( There are a few exemptions that prove the general rule.) We have Trade agreements with all the larger economies and our nearly US$ 80 billion in annual exports are going to many regions of the planet. We import just about the same. The law is highly respected since ever, and your property rights are a serious matter here. This small country is member of the OECD, the only one in South America. Also, we do not need a VISA to enter USA for 90 days, the only Latino American country thus far in 2014.
So, many foreigners like you have come to Chile for these advantages, investing billions of dollars in Chile, aiding pressure to keep the prices high. Although competition is very intense. You still may find some prices very low on different goods and services, but there is also an inner pressure from the public to increase wages to diminish the inequalities.
If you invest in Chile, you are investing in stability.
This is my contribution to newcomers to Chile. Hope it may help you. My English is not as polite as I would like, but I hope the ideas are clear for you.