Chiles President Kast Cancels or Repeals Dozens of Environmental Regulations

Chilean Government Suspends 43 Environmental Rules Amid Shift in Policy

The Chilean Ministry of Environment has announced the suspension of 43 environmental regulations, including measures related to pollution, emissions, and national park creation. The decision was made by the new government, led by President Jose Antonio Kast, who took office on March 11.

According to the ministry, the rules were withdrawn while still under review by the Comptroller General’s Office. Many of the regulations were introduced in the final days of former President Gabriel Boric’s term in office.

The suspension affects various aspects of environmental policy, including power plant emissions and smelting plant pollution. The Environment Ministry has stated that it is “standard practice” for new administrations to update policies, citing a need to ensure that all administrative acts meet high standards of legal quality and protect the country’s natural heritage.

President Kast has emphasized the importance of balancing environmental protection with economic growth and job creation. He has promised to implement policies that prioritize full employment while respecting the environment.

The decision marks a significant shift in policy for the new government, which has campaigned on a platform of deregulation and reduced government spending. The administration has already taken steps to cut $3 billion from the budget in 2026, in addition to the $800 million cuts outlined by Boric’s administration.

President Kast has also focused on regional security, particularly along the northern border with Peru and Bolivia, where he has implemented measures to strengthen security and prevent irregular migration.

Source: Al Jazeera