ARAMCO in Chile: The Saudi Oil Giant’s Expansion into Latin America

Aramco fuel station at night, representing the Saudi company's expansion into Chile's fuel distribution market.
Saudi energy giant Aramco brings its fuel distribution services to Chile
Image: LA TERCERA

Chile Travel and News | By Raul Silva M. | June 2025

Recently, Chile’s fuel distribution landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the arrival of ARAMCO, Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil giant and one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemical enterprises. This marks the company’s first major venture into the South American retail fuel market, signaling not only a shift in the local energy sector but also a strategic move by ARAMCO to diversify its global footprint. 

Backed by decades of industry leadership and vast financial resources, the company has launched a bold and fast-paced expansion strategy, rapidly positioning itself as a key player in Chile’s competitive fuel market and reshaping the way fuel is supplied, distributed, and experienced across the country.


  • Entering the Market: From Esmax to a Nationwide Network

ARAMCO’s entry into Chile began with the acquisition of Esmax, the company that operated the local Petrobras service stations. This purchase, approved by Chile’s National Economic Prosecutor’s Office in 2023, gave ARAMCO access to more than 280 service points, including fuel stations, convenience stores, and distribution plants.

In just 15 months, the company has rebranded a large portion of these stations under the ARAMCO name, rolling out its own visual identity and operational standards. As of June 2025, the company manages over 200 service stations and 130+ Aramco Stop convenience stores spread throughout the Chilean territory.


  • Punta Arenas: The Southernmost ARAMCO Station in the World

A milestone in ARAMCO’s expansion was the inauguration of its 200th station in Punta Arenas—making it the southernmost service station in the company’s global network. Located near the Strait of Magellan, this station is not only geographically strategic but also enhances fuel accessibility in one of the most remote regions in the Americas.

The station features a Formula 1-inspired design, with sleek architecture and bold visual elements. It includes a modern Aramco Stop convenience store, offering a retail experience aligned with international standards.

Punta Arenas Mayor Claudio Radonich welcomed the investment, highlighting its benefits for local employment and regional development. As reported by Radio Polar during the station's inauguration in May 2025, he also emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility, encouraging ARAMCO to align with the city’s Climate Change Action Plan.


  • Fuel Innovation and Smart Services

ARAMCO stations in Chile provide a full range of fuels, including 93, 95, and 97 octane gasoline and diesel, all formulated to enhance engine efficiency and durability. The company has also introduced its premium fuel lines: Aramco ProForce 97 and ProForce Diesel, engineered to maximize performance, power, and fuel economy.

Additionally, ARAMCO launched Aramco Fleet, a digital platform that allows transportation companies to monitor fuel consumption and costs in real time—an invaluable tool for logistics and industrial sectors seeking operational efficiency.


  • Looking Ahead

ARAMCO aims to reach over 300 service stations in Chile by March 2026, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the region. With Chile serving as a strategic entry point into Latin America, the company is not only expanding its retail network but also laying the groundwork for future investments in energy infrastructure and technology.

The arrival of ARAMCO signals more than just a shift in the fuel market—it marks a step toward a more connected, modern, and competitive energy sector in Chile.


Key Questions About ARAMCO in Chile

Saudi Aramco is the state-owned oil company of Saudi Arabia and one of the world’s most valuable companies. It produces over 10 million barrels of oil per day—around 10% of the global supply—and was briefly the most valuable company on Earth, surpassing Apple in 2022 with a market cap of over $2 trillion.
Chile is a fully import-dependent country when it comes to fuel, making it a strategic market for companies seeking to control distribution and retail. Its stable economy and clear rules for foreign investment also make it an attractive gateway into Latin America for ARAMCO.
ARAMCO competes directly with COPEC, ENEX (which operates under the Shell brand), and Terpel. Its entry into the market has intensified competition, leading to improvements in station design, fuel quality, and customer service across the industry.
While ARAMCO is primarily an oil company, it has begun investing in technologies like carbon capture, hydrogen, and renewable energy worldwide. In Chile, authorities have highlighted the importance of aligning its operations with local climate action plans. It remains to be seen whether ARAMCO will support clean energy projects in the country.

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