Image: La Tercera
Chile’s fuel distribution landscape has undergone a major transformation with the arrival of ARAMCO, Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil giant and one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemical companies. This marks the company’s first major expansion into South America’s retail fuel market, representing both a significant shift in Chile’s energy sector and a strategic step in ARAMCO’s global diversification plans.
Backed by decades of industry leadership and vast financial resources, ARAMCO has launched an ambitious expansion strategy, rapidly positioning itself as a major player in Chile’s competitive fuel market and reshaping fuel distribution across the country.
To better understand the significance of this investment, it is also important to consider the broader commercial and diplomatic relationship between Chile and Saudi Arabia.
Trade Agreements and Saudi Companies in Chile
While Chile and Saudi Arabia maintain cordial diplomatic and trade relations, there is currently no dedicated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries. However, Chile’s open economy and its extensive network of FTAs with major global markets create a favorable environment for foreign investment, which likely contributed to ARAMCO’s decision to enter the Chilean market.
Aside from ARAMCO, only a limited number of Saudi companies currently operate in Chile, mainly in the construction, logistics, and industrial sectors. Nevertheless, ARAMCO stands out as the largest and most high-profile Saudi investment in Chile’s energy market to date.
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. The 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 fuel distribution plants.
In just 15 months, the company rebranded a large portion of these stations under the ARAMCO name, introducing its own visual identity and operational standards across the country.
As of June 2025, ARAMCO manages more than 200 service stations and over 130 Aramco Stop convenience stores throughout Chile, rapidly becoming one of the country’s most visible players in the fuel retail sector.
Punta Arenas: The Southernmost ARAMCO Gas Station in the World
A milestone in ARAMCO’s expansion was the inauguration of its 200th gas station in Punta Arenas—the southernmost in the company’s global network. Strategically located near the Strait of Magellan, this station not only improves fuel access but also strengthens connectivity 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 emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility, urging 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 fully dependent on imported fuel, making it strategic for companies controlling distribution and retail. Its stable economy and transparent rules for foreign investment also make it an attractive gateway into Latin America for ARAMCO.
ARAMCO competes with COPEC, ENEX (Shell), and EXXONMOBIL, which has recently entered the Chilean market. Its presence has boosted competition, improving station design, fuel quality, and customer service.
While primarily an oil company, ARAMCO invests globally in carbon capture, hydrogen, and renewables. In Chile, authorities stress alignment with local climate plans. Its support for clean energy projects in the country remains to be seen.
Its entry may increase competition, potentially lowering prices in the long term. However, Chilean fuel prices are also influenced by global oil markets and local taxes, so changes could be gradual.
Halal is an Arabic word meaning "permissible" under Islamic law. It applies to food, drinks, and other products that comply with Islamic principles, such as meat from animals slaughtered in a specific way, and items free from pork or alcohol.
Companies often provide halal certification labels. While ARAMCO primarily deals in fuel, any consumer products or investments targeting Muslim markets would comply with recognized halal standards if certified.
Yes, ARAMCO operates worldwide in exploration, production, refining, and chemicals, and has offices and partnerships across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, showcasing the Kingdom’s global leadership.
While Chile is a key entry point, ARAMCO explores strategic opportunities in the region, including partnerships in Brazil, Mexico, and other markets, focusing on energy infrastructure and fuel distribution.
ARAMCO’s investments can create jobs, improve fuel supply chains, and introduce advanced technologies, contributing to local economic growth and development in Chile.
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