Viña del Mar Cracks Down on Illegal Commerce with Joint Enforcement Efforts

Viña del Mar, Chile, is intensifying its efforts to combat illegal commerce through coordinated inspections involving municipal inspectors, the Carabineros de Chile (Chilean national gendarmerie), and the Maritime Police. These joint operations aim to enforce a new ordinance regulating commerce on public roads and protect established businesses within the commune.

Nearly 100 Infractions Issued

At the close of the summer season, the Municipality of Viña del Mar reported issuing approximately 100 infractions for violations of the ordinance. These infractions address a range of illegal commercial activities, including operating without proper permits, exceeding authorized space, and engaging in unauthorized transactions.

Comprehensive Strategy for Combating Informal Commerce

The regulations are part of a broader strategy to address informal commerce in Viña del Mar. This strategy involves collaboration with various state actors, including the Investigative Police of Chile (PDI), the Presidential Delegation, and other relevant agencies. The Carabineros de Chile, established in 1927, play a key role in maintaining order and enforcing laws throughout the country [Carabineros de Chile].

Types of Infractions

The majority of infractions issued during the period related to the following activities:

• Commercial activity on public roads without permission
• Commercial activity on premises lacking a municipal permit
• Commercial activity on public roads with an expired permit
• Exceeding the authorized surface area for commercial activity
• Managing or conducting unauthorized commercial transactions
• Purchasing goods from illegal commerce

Protecting Security, Public Order, and Established Businesses

These enforcement efforts aim not only to prevent illegal commerce but similarly to safeguard security and public order within Viña del Mar. The municipality intends to support legitimate businesses operating within the commune.

Penalties for Purchasing from Illegal Commerce

Under the amended ordinance, individuals purchasing goods from illegal commerce are subject to fines ranging from $209,667 to $349,445 Chilean pesos (as of March 2026). The exact amount of the fine will be determined by the Local Police Court and adjusted according to the value of the Unidad de Fomento (UTM) at the time of the infraction.