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Government's Discretionary Treatment of Forestry Contractors

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The Association of Forestry Contractors (Acoforag) expresses its deep surprise, concern, and displeasure at the discriminatory treatment the Chilean Government is giving to victims of violence in the southern macrozone, particularly following the recent arson attack on the Rucalhue Hydroelectric Plant—which we categorically condemn—where the Executive Branch's response has been immediate, coordinated, and accompanied by concrete commitments to the affected company, owned by the Chinese conglomerate CWE.

We understand and share the severity of this attack, as well as the need to protect foreign investment. However, we cannot overlook the double standard in the government's actions. Forestry contractors have been targets of armed attacks, arson, threats, and million-dollar losses for over 12 years without an equivalent response from the State. Even after the Rucalhue attack, we were victims of another assault in Lautaro, yet no authority has called, approached, let alone visited the scene.

The Chinese ambassador to Chile, Niu Qingbao, has demanded formal commitments from the Government: punishment for those responsible, compensation for damages, enhanced security, and immediate legal complaints. Meetings with ministers and visits to the attack site have even taken place, led by the new Minister of Public Security, Mr. Luis Cordero.

Where is that same urgency and political will when the affected parties are national workers and entrepreneurs in the forestry sector? How many more times must we be victimized before we are considered?

Acoforag calls on the Government for equal treatment in the face of violence, demanding legal complaints for every attack, real follow-up on investigations, protective measures and compensation for victims, and acknowledgment of the institutional neglect suffered by forestry contractors in conflict zones.

Acoforag, Concepción, April 30, 2025