Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM) 20-F 23 Apr 20 2019 FY Annual report (foreign) Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019shares
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	20-F
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	CHEMICAL & MINING CO OF CHILE INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000909037
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Trading Symbol	SQM
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	263,196,524
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Title of 12(b) Security	Series B common shares, in the form of American Depositary Shares each representing one Series B share
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Document Annual Report	true
Document Transition Report	false
Document Shell Company Report	false

Consolidated Statements of Fina

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 588,530	$ 556,066
Other current financial assets	505,490	312,721
Other current non-financial assets	50,552	47,972
Trade and other receivables, current	399,142	466,619
Trade receivables due from related parties, current	61,227	42,790
Current inventories	983,338	913,674
Current tax assets	91,433	57,110
Total current assets other than those classified as held for sale or disposal	2,679,712	2,396,952
Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale	2,454	1,430
Total non-current assets held for sale	2,454	1,430
Total current assets	2,682,166	2,398,382
Non-current assets
Other non-current financial assets	8,778	17,131
Other non-current non-financial assets	19,729	27,539
Trade receivables, non-current	1,710	2,275
Investments classified using the equity method of accounting	109,435	111,549
Intangible assets other than goodwill	188,358	189,350
Goodwill	34,726	34,866
Property, plant and equipment	1,607,070	1,454,823
Tax assets, non-current	32,179	32,179
Total non-current assets	2,001,985	1,869,712
Total assets	4,684,151	4,268,094
Current liabilities
Other current financial liabilities	298,822	23,585
Trade and other payables, current	205,790	163,751
Trade payables due to related parties, current	475	9
Other current provisions	110,565	106,197
Current tax liabilities	17,874	47,412
Provisions for employee benefits, current	16,387	20,085
Other current non-financial liabilities	126,899	194,624
Total current liabilities	776,812	555,663
Non-current liabilities
Other non-current financial liabilities	1,518,926	1,330,382
Other non-current provisions	34,690	31,822
Deferred tax liabilities	183,411	175,361
Provisions for employee benefits, non-current	35,840	37,064
Total non-current liabilities	1,772,867	1,574,629
Total liabilities	2,549,679	2,130,292
Equity attributable to owners of the Parent
Share capital	477,386	477,386
Retained earnings	1,623,104	1,623,104
Other reserves	(14,223)	(14,999)
Equity attributable to owners of the Parent	2,086,267	2,085,491
Non-controlling interests	48,205	52,311
Total equity	2,134,472	2,137,802
Total liabilities and equity	$ 4,684,151	$ 4,268,094

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Gross profit	560,052	780,172	762,501
Other income	18,218	32,048	17,827
Administrative expenses	(117,180)	(118,126)	(101,171)
Other expenses by function	(25,995)	(36,907)	(53,600)
Net impairment (losses) gains on reversal of financial assets	(1,057)	2,967	(8,038)
Other gains (losses)	(383)	6,404	543
Profit from operating activities	433,655	666,558	618,062
Finance income	26,289	22,533	13,499
Finance costs	(76,939)	(57,807)	(50,124)
Share of profit of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method	9,786	6,351	14,452
Foreign currency translation differences	(2,169)	(16,597)	(1,299)
Profit before taxes	390,622	621,038	594,590
Income tax expense	(110,019)	(178,975)	(166,173)
Net profit	280,603	442,063	428,417
Net profit attributable to:
Profit (loss) attributable to Owners of the Parent	278,115	439,830	427,697
Profit (loss) attributable to Non-controlling interests	2,488	2,233	720
Net profit	$ 280,603	$ 442,063	$ 428,417
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share (US$ per share)	$ 1.0567	$ 1.6711	$ 1.6250
Diluted earnings per share (US$ per share)	$ 1.0567	$ 1.6711	$ 1.6250

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Net profit	$ 280,603	$ 442,063	$ 428,417
Items of other comprehensive income (loss) that will not be reclassified to profit for the year, before taxes
Losses from measurements of defined benefit plans	(3,310)	(1,337)	(1,392)
Gains (losses) from financial assets measured irrevocably at fair value through other comprehensive income	1,152	(5,546)	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss) that will not be reclassified to profit for the year, before taxes	(2,158)	(6,883)	(1,392)
Items of other comprehensive income that will be reclassified to profit for the year, before taxes
Foreign currency exchange gains (losses)	788	(1,220)	(5,446)
Loss from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	0	0	(26)
Gains from cash flow hedges	1,907	5,723	2,184
Total other comprehensive income (loss) that will be reclassified to profit for the year	2,695	4,503	(3,288)
Other items of other comprehensive income (loss) before taxes	537	(2,380)	(4,680)
Income tax related to items of other comprehensive income (loss) that will not be reclassified to profit for the year
Income tax (benefit) expense related to financial assets measured irrevocably at fair value through other comprehensive income	(311)	1,498	0
Income tax expense related to measurements of defined benefit plans	702	396	282
Total income tax related to items of other comprehensive income (loss) that will not be reclassified to profit for the year	391	1,894	282
Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income (loss) that will be reclassified to profit for the year
Income tax benefit related to cash flow hedges	(2,683)	0	0
Income tax benefit related to financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	0	0	(550)
Total income tax benefit relating to components of other comprehensive income (loss) that will be reclassified to profit (loss) for the year	(2,683)	0	(550)
Total other comprehensive loss	(1,755)	(486)	(4,948)
Total comprehensive income	278,848	441,577	423,469
Comprehensive income attributable to
Comprehensive income attributable to owners of the parent	276,137	439,180	422,736
Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest	2,711	2,397	733
Total comprehensive income	$ 278,848	$ 441,577	$ 423,469

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Classes of revenue from operating activities
Cash receipts from sales of goods and rendering of services		$ 2,044,746	$ 2,284,514	$ 2,082,366
Cash receipts from premiums and benefits, annuities and other benefits from policies entered		2,925	2,140	2,967
Proceeds from leases		361	0	0
Classes of Payments
Cash payments to suppliers for the provision of goods and services		(1,284,204)	(1,226,091)	(842,079)
Cash payments to and on behalf of employees		(195,782)	(205,590)	(227,103)
Payments relating to variable leases		(1,037)	0	0
Other payments related to operating activities		(25,218)	(21,240)	(65,444)
Net cash generated from operating activities		541,791	833,733	950,707
Dividends received		14,449	8,815	2,091
Interest paid		(70,963)	(59,565)	(51,335)
Interest paid on leases liabilities		(1,537)	0	0
Interest received		25,809	22,533	13,499
Income taxes paid		(173,319)	(240,115)	(148,568)
Other income (outflows) of cash	[1]	90,741	(40,562)	(8,122)
Net cash generated from operating activities		426,971	524,839	758,272
Cash flows generated from (used in) investing activities
Cash flows arising from the loss of control of subsidiaries and other businesses		994	68,988	0
Payments made to acquire interest in joint ventures		(2,600)	(19,989)	(38,088)
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment		487	61	229
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment		(321,324)	(244,693)	(142,144)
Proceeds from sales of intangible assets		28,126	14,056	8,640
Proceeds (payments) related to futures, forward options and swap contracts		1,403	(204)	78
Purchases of intangible assets		(2,492)	(74,374)	0
Other (outflows) income of cash	[2]	(190,065)	69,151	(76,782)
Net cash generated from (used in) investing activities		(485,471)	(187,004)	(248,067)
Cash flows generated from (used in) financing activities
Repayment of lease liabilities		(7,221)	0	0
Proceeds from long-term borrowings		450,000	256,039	0
Proceeds from short-term borrowings		0	120,000	143,000
Repayment of borrowings		(7,096)	(213,000)	(180,987)
Dividends paid		(329,787)	(550,352)	(373,933)
Net cash generated from (used in) financing activities		105,896	(387,313)	(411,920)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents before the effect of exchange rate changes		47,396	(49,478)	98,285
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		(14,932)	(24,894)	17,484
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		32,464	(74,372)	115,769
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		556,066	630,438	514,669
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		$ 588,530	$ 556,066	$ 630,438
[1]	Other inflows (outflows) of cash from operating activities include increases (decreases) net of value added tax. Banking expenses, expenses associated with obtaining loans and taxes associated with interest payments.
[2]	Other inflows (outflows) of cash include investments and redemptions of time deposits and other financial instruments that do not qualify as cash and cash equivalent in accordance with IAS 7, paragraph 7, since they mature in more than 90 days from the original investment date.

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Total	Share capital [member]	Foreign currency translation reserves [member]	Gains from cash flow hedge [member]	Reserve for (losses) gains from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income [member]	Actuarial losses) from defined benefit plans [member]	Other miscellaneous reserves [member]	Total other reserves [member]	Retained earnings [member]	Equity attributable to owners of the Parent [member]	Non-controlling interests [member]
Equity at beginning of the year at Dec. 31, 2016		$ 2,307,272	$ 477,386	$ (19,463)	$ 64	$ 3,513	$ (4,834)	$ 7,832	$ (12,888)	$ 1,781,576	$ 2,246,074	$ 61,198
Profit for the year		428,417	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	427,697	427,697	720
Other comprehensive income		(4,948)	0	(5,450)	2,184	(576)	(1,119)	0	(4,961)	0	(4,961)	13
Comprehensive income		423,469	0	(5,450)	2,184	(576)	(1,119)	0	(4,961)	427,697	422,736	733
Dividends		(483,273)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(480,989)	(480,989)	(2,284)
Increase (decrease) due to transfers and other changes		0	0	0	0	0	0	3,500	3,500	(3,500)	0	0
Increase (decrease) in equity		(59,804)	0	(5,450)	2,184	(576)	(1,119)	3,500	(1,461)	(56,792)	(58,253)	(1,551)
Equity at end of the year at Dec. 31, 2017		2,247,468	477,386	(24,913)	2,248	2,937	(5,953)	11,332	(14,349)	1,724,784	2,187,821	59,647
Equity at beginning of the year (Increase (decrease) due to changes in accounting policies [member]) at Dec. 31, 2017		(1,680)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(1,680)	(1,680)	0
Equity at beginning of the year at Dec. 31, 2017		2,245,788	477,386	(24,913)	2,248	2,937	(5,953)	11,332	(14,349)	1,723,104	2,186,141	59,647
Profit for the year		442,063	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	439,830	439,830	2,233
Other comprehensive income		(486)	0	(1,394)	5,723	(4,048)	(931)	0	(650)	0	(650)	164
Comprehensive income		441,577	0	(1,394)	5,723	(4,048)	(931)	0	(650)	439,830	439,180	2,397
Dividends	[1]	(549,563)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(539,830)	(539,830)	(9,733)
Increase (decrease) in equity		(107,986)	0	(1,394)	5,723	(4,048)	(931)	0	(650)	(100,000)	(100,650)	(7,336)
Equity at end of the year at Dec. 31, 2018		2,137,802	477,386	(26,307)	7,971	(1,111)	(6,884)	11,332	(14,999)	1,623,104	2,085,491	52,311
Profit for the year		280,603	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	278,115	278,115	2,488
Other comprehensive income		(1,755)	0	562	(775)	841	(2,606)	0	(1,978)	0	(1,978)	223
Comprehensive income		278,848	0	562	(775)	841	(2,606)	0	(1,978)	278,115	276,137	2,711
Dividends	[1]	(284,932)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(278,115)	(278,115)	(6,817)
Increase (decrease) due to transfers and other changes		2,754	0	0	0	0	0	2,754	2,754	0	2,754	0
Increase (decrease) in equity		(3,330)	0	562	(775)	841	(2,606)	2,754	776	0	776	(4,106)
Equity at end of the year at Dec. 31, 2019		$ 2,134,472	$ 477,386	$ (25,745)	$ 7,196	$ (270)	$ (9,490)	$ 14,086	$ (14,223)	$ 1,623,104	$ 2,086,267	$ 48,205
[1]	See Note 19.6

Identification and Activities o

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Abstract]
Disclosure of Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Text Block]	Note 1 Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries 1.1 Historical background Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. is an open stock corporation founded under the laws of the Republic of Chile and its Chilean Tax Identification Number is 93.007.000-9. The Company was incorporated through a public deed dated June 17, 1968 by the public notary of Santiago Mr. Sergio Rodríguez Garcés. Its existence was approved by Decree No. 1,164 of June 22, 1968 of the Ministry of Finance, and it was registered on June 29, 1968 in the Registry of Commerce of Santiago, on page 4,537 No. 1,992, SQM’s headquarters are located at El Trovador 4285, Floor 6, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile, The Company's telephone number is +(56 2) 2425-2000. The Company is registered in the CMF under number 184 of March 18, 1983 and is therefore subject to oversight by that entity. 1.2 Main domicile where the Company performs its production activities The Company’s main domiciles are: Calle Dos Sur plot No. 5 - Antofagasta; Arturo Prat 1060 - Tocopilla; Administration Building w/n - Maria Elena; Administration Building w/n Pedro de Valdivia - María Elena, Anibal Pinto 3228 - Antofagasta, Kilometer 1378 Ruta 5 Norte Highway - Antofagasta, Coya Sur Plant w/n - Maria Elena, kilometer 1760 Ruta 5 Norte Highway - Pozo Almonte, Salar de Atacama (Atacama Saltpeter deposit) potassium chloride plant w/n - San Pedro de Atacama, potassium sulfate plant at Salar de Atacama w/n – San Pedro de Atacama, Minsal Mining Camp w/n CL Plant CL, Potassium– San Pedro de Atacama, formerly the Iris Saltpeter office w/n, Commune of Pozo Almonte, Iquique. 1.3 Codes of main activities The codes of the main activities as established by the CMF, as follows: - 1700 (Mining) - 2200 (Chemical products) - 1300 (Investment) 1.4 Description of the nature of operations and main activities The products of the Company are mainly derived from mineral deposits found in northern Chile where mining takes place and caliche and brine deposits are processed. (a) Specialty plant nutrition: Four main types of specialty plant nutrients are produced: potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, sodium potassium nitrate and specialty blends. In addition, other specialty fertilizers are sold including third party products. (b) Iodine: The Company produce iodine and iodine derivatives, which are used in a wide range of medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and industrial applications, including x-ray contrast media, polarizing films for LCD and LED, antiseptics, biocides and disinfectants, in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, electronics, pigments and dye components. (c) Lithium: The Company produces of lithium carbonate, which is used in a variety of applications, including electrochemical materials for batteries, frits for the ceramic and enamel industries, heat-resistant glass (ceramic glass), air conditioning chemicals, continuous casting powder for steel extrusion, primary aluminum smelting process, pharmaceuticals and lithium derivatives, We are also a leading supplier of lithium hydroxide, which is primarily used as an input for the lubricating greases industry and for certain cathodes for batteries. (d) Industrial chemicals: (e) Potassium: The Company produce potassium chloride and potassium sulfate from brines extracted from the Salar de Atacama. Potassium chloride is a commodity fertilizer used to fertilize a variety of crops including corn, rice, sugar, soybean and wheat. Potassium sulfate is a specialty fertilizer used mainly in crops such as vegetables, fruits and industrial crops. (f) Other products and services: Our subsidiary SQM Salar holds exclusive rights to exploit the mineral resources in an area covering approximately 140,000 hectares of land in the Salar de Atacama in northern Chile, of which SQM Salar is only entitled to exploit the mineral resources in 81,920 hectares. These rights are owned by Corfo and leased to SQM Salar pursuant to the Lease Agreement. Corfo cannot unilaterally amend the Lease Agreement and the Project Agreement, and the rights to exploit the resources cannot be transferred. The Lease Agreement establishes that SQM Salar is responsible for making quarterly lease payments to Corfo according to specified percentages of the value of production of minerals extracted from the Salar de Atacama brines, maintaining Corfo’s rights over the Mining Exploitation Concessions and making annual payments to the Chilean government for such concession rights. The Lease Agreement was entered into in 1993 and expires on December 31, 2030. On January 17, 2018, SQM and CORFO reached an agreement to end an arbitration process directed by the arbitrator, Mr. Héctor Humeres Noguer, in case 1954-2014 of the Arbitration and Mediation Center of Santiago Chamber of Commerce (Centro de Arbitrajes y Mediación de la Cámara de Comercio de Santiago) and other cases related to it. The agreement signed in January 2018, includes important amendments to the lease agreement and project agreement signed between CORFO and SQM in 1993. The main modifications became effective on April 10, 2018 and requires an increase in the lease payments by increasing the lease rates associated with the sale of the different products produced in the Salar de Atacama, including lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide and potassium chloride. Regarding lithium carbonate, the former rate of 6.8% on FOB sales was changed to the following structure of progressive rates based on the final sale price: Price US$/MT Li2CO3 Lease payment rate $0 - $4,000 6.80 % $4,000 - $5,000 8.00 % $5,000 - $6,000 10.00 % $6,000 - $7,000 17.00 % $7,000 - $10,000 25.00 % > $10,000 40.00 % See Note 24.2 for the disclosure of lease payments made to CORFO for all periods presented. Regarding potassium chloride, the former rate of 1.8% on FOB sales was changed to the following structure of progressive rates based on the final sale price: Price US$/MT Li2CO3 Lease payment rate $0 - $300 3.0 % $300 - $400 7.0 % $400 - $500 10.0 % $500 - $600 15.0 % > $600 20.0 % Similarly, the lease rates associated with the other products (lithium hydroxide, potassium sulfate and others) shall have similar changes to those described in the previous products. SQM Salar commits to contribute between US$ 10.8 million and US$ 18.9 million per year to research and development efforts, between US$ 10 to US$ 15 million per year to the communities in close proximity to the Salar de Atacama, and 1.7% of total annual sales of SQM Salar to regional development . 1.5 Other background (a) Staff As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the workforce was as follows: As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Employees S.Q.M S.A. Other ‎ subsidiaries Total S.Q.M S.A. Other ‎ subsidiaries Total Executives 30 91 121 33 89 122 Professionals 110 1,170 1,280 115 1,078 1,193 Technicians and operators 282 3,481 3,763 260 3,287 3,547 Foreign employees 17 560 577 11 417 428 Overall total 439 5,302 5,741 419 4,871 5,290 (b) Main shareholders As of December 2019, The following table shows information about the main shareholders of the Company’s Series A or Series B shares in circulation as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, in line with information provided by the DCV. The following table presents the information about the beneficial ownership of Series A and Series B shares of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, with respect to each shareholder that, to our knowledge, owns more than 5% of the outstanding Series A or Series B shares. The following information is derived from our registry and reports managed by the DCV and informed to the CMF and the Chilean Stock Exchanges. whose main shareholders are the following: Shareholders as of December 31, 2019 No. of Series A % of Serie A ‎ shares No. of Series B % of Serie B ‎ shares % of total ‎ shares Inversiones TLC SpA (1) 62,556,568 43.80 % - - 23.77 % Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. 44,894,152 31.43 % 3,793,154 3.15 % 18.50 % The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs - - 38,311,788 31.83 % 14.56 % Potasios de Chile S.A. 18,179,147 12.73 % - - 6.91 % Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada 8,798,539 6.16 % - - 3.34 % Banco Itau via foreign investor accounts - - 7,373,216 6.13 % 2.80 % Banco de Chile non-resident third party accounts 109 - 6,842,746 5.68 % 2.60 % Banco Santander via foreign investor accounts - - 6,618,416 5.50 % 2.51 % Euroamerica C de B S.A. 3,056 - 4,863,467 4.04 % 1.85 % Banchile C de B S.A. 491,729 0.34 % 4,285,696 3.56 % 1.82 % Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada 4,147,263 2.90 % 46,500 0.04 % 1.59 % Santiago stock exchanges 30,590 0.02 % 3,077,930 2.56 % 1.18 % (1) As reported by DCV, which records the Company's shareholders' register as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, Inversiones TLC SpA, a subsidiary of Tianqi Lithium Corporation ("Tianqi"), is the direct owner of 62,556,568 shares of SQM equivalent to 23.77% of SQM’s shares'' According to information provided to the CMF by Inversiones TLC SpA dated December 5, 2018, Inversiones TLC SpA owns 25.86% of SQM’s shares Shareholders as of December 31, 2018 No. of Series A % of Serie A ‎ shares No. of Series B % of Serie B ‎ shares % of total ‎ shares Inversiones TLC SpA (1) 62,556,568 43.80 % - - 23.77 % Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. 44,894,152 31.43 % 10,093,154 8.38 % 20.89 % The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs - - 35,254,267 29.29 % 13.39 % Potasios de Chile S.A. 18,179,147 12.73 % - - 6.91 % Banco de Chile via non-resident third party accounts 15,687 0.01 % 10,703,812 8.89 % 4.07 % Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada 8,798,539 6.16 % - - 3.34 % Banco Itau via foreign investor accounts - - 8,085,730 6.72 % 3.07 % Banco Santander via foreign investor accounts - - 7,138,685 5.93 % 2.71 % Banchile C de B S. A. 528,092 0.37 % 4,028,611 3.35 % 1.73 % Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada 3,711,598 2.60 % 46,500 0.04 % 1.43 %

Basis of presentation for the c

Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [Abstract]
Disclosure of basis of preparation of financial statements [text block]	Note 2 Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements 2.1 Accounting period These consolidated financial statements cover the following periods: (a) Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of December 31, 2019 and 2018. (b) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. (c) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. (d) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. (e) Consolidated Statements of Direct-Method Cash Flows for ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. 2.2 Consolidated financial statements These consolidated financial statements of the company and its subsidiaries were prepared in accordance with IFRS and represent the full, explicit and unreserved adoption of IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (the “IASB”). These consolidated financial statements fairly present the Company’s financial position as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 and the results of operations, changes in equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. IFRS establish certain alternatives for their application, those applied by the Company are detailed in Notes 2 and 3. The accounting policies used in the preparation of these consolidated annual fi nancial statements Certain reclassifications were made as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 to present figures consistently with reported amounts as of December 31, 2019. These revisions were not considered material to the previously issued financial statements. Items Original balances ‎ reported as of ‎ December 31, 2018 Reclassification Balances reclassified ‎ as of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Trade and other receivables, current 464,855 1,764 466,619 Trade receivables due from related parties, current 44,554 (1,764 ) 42,790 Other non-financial assets, current 49,186 (1,214 ) 47,972 Intangible assets other than goodwill 188,283 1,067 189,350 Goodwill 34,718 148 34,866 Cost of sales (1,483,524 ) (2,107 ) (1,485,631 ) Finance costs (59,914 ) 2,107 (57,807 ) 2.3 Basis of measurement The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for the following: (a) Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost and net realizable value. (b) Financial derivatives at fair value. (c) Certain financial investments classified as available for sale measured at fair value with an offsetting entry in other comprehensive income. 2.4 Accounting pronouncements New accounting pronouncements (a) The following standards, interpretations and amendments are mandatory for the first time for annual periods beginning on January 1, 2019: Standards and Interpretations Description Mandatory for annual periods ‎ beginning on or after IFRS 16 "Leases" - issued in January 2016 Establishes the standards to recognize, measure, present and disclose leases. IFRS 16 replaces IAS 17 and introduces a unique lessee accounting model that requires a lessee to recognize the assets and liabilities of all rental contracts with a term of over 12 months, unless the underlying asset is of low value. IFRS 16 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, and early implementation is permitted for entities that apply IFRS 15, or before the date that IFRS 16 is initially implemented. 01-01-2019 IFRIC 23 "Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments". Published in June 2016 This interpretation clarifies how to apply the recognition and measurement requirements in IAS 12, when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. 01-01-2019 Amendments and improvements Description Mandatory for annual periods Amendment to IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”. Published in October 2017 The amendment permits more assets to be measured at amortized cost than under the previous version of IFRS 9, in particular some pre-payable financial assets with negative compensation. The assets affected, which include some loans and debt securities, would otherwise have been measured at fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL). For them to qualify for amortized cost measurement, the negative compensation must be “reasonable compensation for early termination of the contract.” 01-01-2019 Amendment to IAS 28 “Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures” Published in October 2017 This amendment clarifies that companies should apply IFRS 9 to account for long-term interests in an associate or joint venture to which the equity method is not applied. The IASB Board has published an example that illustrates how companies should apply the requirements of IFRS 9 and IAS 28 to long-term interests in an associate or joint venture. 01-01-2019 Amendment to IFRS 3 “Business Combinations” - Published in December 2017 The amendment clarified that gaining control of a company that is a joint venture deals with a business combination that is achieved in stages. The acquirer must remeasure previously held interests in that business at fair value at the date of acquisition. 01-01-2019 Amendment to IFRS 11 “Joint Arrangements” - Published in December 2017. The amendment clarified that when an entity obtains joint control of a business that is a joint operation, the entity does not remeasure previously held interests in that business. 01-01-2019 Amendment to IAS 12 “Income Tax” - Published in December 2017. This modification clarified that the income tax consequences of dividends on financial instruments classified as equity should be recognized when the past transactions or events that generated distributable profits were originally recognized. 01-01-2019 Amendment to IAS 23 Borrowing Costs - Published in December 2017. This amendment clarifies that the borrowing costs of specific borrowings that remain outstanding after the related qualifying asset is ready for intended use or for sale will be considered as part of the general borrowing costs of the entity. 01-01-2019 Amendment to IAS 19 “Employee Benefits” - Published in February 2018 The amendment requires entities to use updated assumptions to determine the current service cost and net interest for the remainder of the period after a modification, reduction or settlement of the plan; and to recognize in profit or loss as part of the cost of the past service, or a profit or loss in the settlement, any reduction in a surplus, even if that surplus was not previously recognized because it did not exceed the upper limit of the asset 01-01-2019 Management considers that the adoption of the aforementioned standards, amendments and interpretations did not significantly impact the company’s consolidated financial statements, except for IFRS 16, detailed in notes 4.2 and 13.4 f). (b) Standards, interpretations and amendments issued that had not become effective for financial statements beginning on January 1, 2019 and which the Company has not adopted early are as follows: Standards and Interpretations Description Mandatory for annual periods ‎ beginning on or after Amendment to IFRS 3 “Definition of a Business” - Published in October 2018 This amendment revises the definition of a business. Based on the feedback received by the IASB, the application of the current guidance is frequently seen as too complex, and results in too many transactions that qualify as business combinations. 01-01-2020 Amendment to IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements” and “IAS 8” Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors - Published in October 2018. This amendment establishes a consistent definition of materiality in all the IFRCs and the Conceptual Framework for Financial Information; it clarifies the explanation of the definition of material; and it incorporates some of the guidelines in IAS 1 on immaterial information. 01-01-2020 Amendment to IFRS 10 “Consolidated Financial Statements” and IAS 28 “Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures”, Published in September 2014 These amendments address an inconsistency between the requirements in IFRS 10 and those in IAS 28 in dealing with the sale or contribution of assets between an investor and its associate or joint venture. The main consequence of the amendments is that a full gain or loss is recognized when a transaction involves a business (whether it is housed in a subsidiary or not), A partial gain or loss is recognized when a transaction involves assets that do not constitute a business, even if these assets are housed in a subsidiary. Undetermined Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7 “Reform to the referential interest rate” Published in September 2019 These amendments provide certain simplifications in relation to the reform to the referential interest rates. These simplifications relate to hedge accounting and affect the IBOR reform, which generally shouldn’t result in the finalization of hedge accounting. However, any hedge ineffectiveness should continue to be recorded in the results . 01-01-2020 Management believes that the adoption of the above standards, amendments and interpretations will not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. 2.5 Basis of consolidation (a) Subsidiaries The Company established control as the basis of consolidation of its financial statements. The Company controls a subsidiary when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the subsidiary and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the subsidiary. The consolidation of a subsidiary starts when the Group controls it and it is no longer included in the consolidation when this control is lost. Subsidiaries are consolidated through a line by line method, adding items that represent assets, liabilities, income and expenses with a similar content, and eliminating operations between companies within the SQM Group. Results for dependent companies acquired or disposed of during the period are included in the consolidated accounts from the date on which control is transferred to the SQM Group or until the date when this control ends, as relevant. To account for an acquisition of a business, the Company uses the acquisition method. Under this method, the acquisition cost is the fair value of assets delivered, equity securities issued, and incurred or assumed liabilities at the date of exchange. Assets, liabilities and contingencies identifiable assumed in a business combination are measured initially at fair value at the acquisition date. For each business combination, the Company will measure the non-controlling interest of the acquiree either at fair value or as proportional share of net identifiable assets of the acquire. For more information, please see Note 8.1. (b) Companies included in consolidation: Ownership interest Functional As of December 31, 2019 As of TAX ID No. Foreign subsidiaries Country of origin Currency Direct Indirect Total Total Foreign Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. Brazil US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. United Kingdom US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM North America Corp. USA US$ 40.0000 60.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Europe N.V. Belgium US$ 0.5800 99.4200 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina Argentina US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Soquimich European Holding B.V. Netherlands US$ 0.0000 100,0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 0.0002 99.99980 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQI Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 0.0159 99.98413 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Comercial De México S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0100 99.9900 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign North American Trading Company USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Administración Y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Perú S.A. Peru US$ 0.0091 99.99093 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Ecuador S.A. Ecuador US$ 0.0040 99.9960 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. USA US$ 0.1000 99.9000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Investment Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil US$ 0.8400 99.1600 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM France S.A. France US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Japan Co. Ltd. Japan US$ 0.1597 99.84030 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ 1.6700 98.3300 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Oceania Pty Limited Australia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Rs Agro-Chemical Trading A.V.V. Aruba US$ 98.3333 1.666700 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Colombia SAS Colombia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Australia PTY Australia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SACAL S.A. (1) Argentina ARS 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Indonesia S.A. Indonesia US$ 0.0000 80.0000 80.0000 80.0000 Foreign SQM Virginia L.L.C. USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Italia SRL Italy US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Comercial Caimán Internacional S.A. Panama US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Africa Pty. South Africa US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Lithium Specialties LLC USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Iberian S.A. Spain US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. China US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Thailand Limited. Thailand US$ 0.0000 99.99600 99.9960 99.9960 Foreign SQM International N.V. Belgium US$ 0.5800 99.4200 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. China US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 96.801.610-5 Comercial Hydro S.A. Chile US$ 0.0000 60.6383 60.6383 60.6383 96.651.060-9 SQM Potasio S.A. Chile US$ 99.9999 0.0000 99.9999 99.9999 96.592.190-7 SQM Nitratos S.A. Chile US$ 99.9999 0.0001 100.0000 100.0000 96.592.180-K Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Chile US$ 51.0000 0.0000 51.0000 51.0000 86.630.200-6 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (2) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 60.6381 79.947.100-0 SQM Industrial S.A. Chile US$ 99.0470 0.9530 100.0000 100.0000 79.906.120-1 Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. Chile Ch$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 79.876.080-7 Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. Chile Ch$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 79.770.780-5 Servicios Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A. Chile US$ 0.0003 99.9997 100.0000 100.0000 79.768.170-9 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Chile US$ 0.0000 60.6383 60.6383 60.6383 79.626.800-K SQM Salar S.A. Chile US$ 18.1800 81.8200 100.0000 100.0000 78.053.910-0 Proinsa Ltda. (3) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 60.5800 76.534.490-5 Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. Chile Ch$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 76.425.380-9 Exploraciones Mineras S.A. Chile US$ 0.2691 99.7309 100.0000 100.0000 76.064.419-6 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. (4) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 42.4468 42.4468 42.4468 76.145.229-0 Agrorama S.A. Chile Ch$ 0.0000 60.6387 60.6387 60.6387 76.359.919-1 Orcoma Estudios SPA Chile US$ 51.0000 0.0000 51.0000 51.0000 76.360.575-2 Orcoma SPA Chile US$ 100.0000 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 76.686.311-9 SQM MaG SpA Chile US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 1) On June 26, 2019, SACAL was liquidated. 2) On March 01, 2019, SQMC Internacional merged with Soquimich Comercial S.A. 3) On April 01, 2019, Proinsa Ltda was liquidated. 4) Comercial Agrorama Ltda was consolidated as it is controlled through the subsidiary Soquimich Comercial S.A. 2.6 Investments in associates and joint ventures (a) Joint ventures Investments in joint arrangements are classified as joint operations or joint ventures. The classification depends on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor, rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement. With respect to joint operations, the Company recognizes its direct right to the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of the joint operation and its share of the jointly owned or incurred assets, liabilities, income and expenses. (b) Joint ventures and investments in associates Interests in companies over which joint control is exercised (joint ventures) or where an entity has significant influence (associates) are recognized using the equity accounting method. Significant influence is presumed when the investor owns over 20% of the investee’s share capital. The investment is recognized using this method in the statement of financial position at cost plus changes subsequent to acquisition and includes the proportional share of the associate’s equity. For these purposes, the percentage interest in the associate is used. The associated acquired goodwill is included in the investee’s book value and is not amortized. The debit or credit to the income statement reflects the proportional share of the profit or loss of the associate. Unrealized gains from transactions with subsidiaries or associates are eliminated in accordance with the Company's percentage interest in such entities. Any unrealized losses are also eliminated, unless that transaction provides evidence that the transferred asset is impaired. Changes in associate’s equity are recognized proportionally with a charge or credit to "Other Reserves" and are classified according to their origin. The reporting dates of the associate, the Company and related policies are similar for equivalent transactions and events in similar circumstances. In the event that significant influence is lost, or the investment is sold, or held for sale, the equity method is suspended, until the proportional part of the gain or loss is recognized. If the resulting value under the equity method is negative, the share of profit or loss is reflected as zero in the consolidated financial statements, unless there is a commitment by the Company to restore the capital position of the Company, in which case the related risk provision and expense are recorded. Dividends received by these companies are recorded by reducing the value of the investment, and the proportional part of the gain or loss recognized in accordance with the equity method is included in the consolidated income statement under "Share of Gains (Losses) of Associates and Joint Ventures Accounted for Using the Equity Method''.

Significant accounting policies

Significant accounting policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of changes in accounting policies accounting [Abstract]
Disclosure of changes in accounting policies, accounting estimates and errors [text block]	Note 3 Significant accounting policies 3.1 Classification of balances as current and non-current In the attached consolidated statement of financial position, balances are classified in consideration of their recovery (maturity) dates; i.e., those maturing within a period equal to or less than 12 months are classified as current counted from the closing date of the consolidated financial statements and those with maturity dates exceeding the aforementioned period are classified as non-current. The exception to the foregoing relates to deferred taxes, which are classified as non-current, regardless of the maturity they have. 3.2 Functional and presentation currency The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars, which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency and is the currency of the main economic environment in which it operates. Consequently, the term foreign currency is defined as any currency other than the U.S. dollar. The consolidated financial statements are presented in thousands of United States dollars without decimals. 3.3 Foreign currency translation (a) SQM group entities: The revenue, expenses, assets and liabilities of all entities that have a functional currency other than the presentation currency are converted to the presentation currency as follows: - Assets and liabilities are converted at the closing exchange rate prevailing on the reporting date. - Revenues and expenses of each profit or loss account are converted at monthly average exchange rates. - All resulting foreign currency translation gains and losses are recognized as a separate component in translation reserves. In consolidation, foreign currency differences arising from the translation of a net investment in foreign entities are recorded in equity “other reserves”, At the date of disposal, such foreign currency translation differences are recognized in the statement of income as part of the gain or loss from the sale. The main exchange rates and UF used to translate monetary assets and liabilities, expressed in foreign currency at the end of each period in respect to U.S. dollars, are as follows: Currencies As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 US$ US$ Brazilian real 4.02 3.87 New Peruvian sol 3.31 3.37 Argentine peso 59.83 37.74 Japanese yen 108.9 110.38 Euro 0.89 0.87 Mexican peso 18.89 19.68 Australian dollar 1.43 1.42 Pound Sterling 0.76 0.79 South African rand 14.06 14.35 Ecuadorian dollar 1.00 1.00 Chilean peso 748.74 694.77 Chinese yuan 6.98 6.88 Indian rupee 71.31 69.93 Thai Baht 29.97 32.53 Turkish lira 5.94 5.27 Polish Z l ty 3.79 - UF (*) 37.81 39.68 (*) US$ por UF (b) Transactions and balances Non-monetary transactions in currencies other than the functional currency (Dollar) are translated to the respective functional currencies of Group entities at the exchange rate on the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are retranslated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at that date. All differences are recorded in the statement of income except for all monetary items that provide an effective hedge for a net investment in a foreign operation. These items are recognized in other comprehensive income on the divestment, when they are recognized in the statement of income. Charges and credits attributable to foreign currency translation differences on those hedge monetary items are also recognized in other comprehensive income. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historical cost in a foreign currency are translated to the functional currency at the historical exchange rate of the transaction. Non-monetary items that are measured based on fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date on which the fair value is determined. 3.4 Consolidated statement of cash flows Cash equivalents correspond to highly liquid short-term investments that are easily convertible into known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in their value and mature in less than three months from the date of acquisition of the instrument. For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and cash equivalents as defined above. The statements of cash flows present cash transactions performed during the year, determined using the direct method. 3.5 Financial assets Management determines the classification of its financial assets in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 9, at fair value (either through other comprehensive income, or through profits or losses), and at amortized cost. The classification depends on the business model of the entity to manage the financial assets and the contractual terms of the cash flows. In the initial recognition, the Company measures its financial assets at fair value more or less, in the case of a financial asset that is not accounted for at fair value through profit or loss, the transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset. In the case of accounts receivables and other accounts receivables, the transaction price at the initial recognition is measured in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 15. After initial recognition, the Company measures its financial assets according to the Company's business model for managing its financial assets and the contractual terms of its cash flows: i) Financial instruments measured at amortized cost, Financial assets that meet the following conditions are included in this category (i) the business model that supports it aims to maintain the financial assets to obtain the contractual cash flows and (ii) the Contractual conditions of the financial asset give place, on specified dates, to cash flows that are only payments of the principal and interest on the outstanding principal amount. The Company’s financial assets that meet these conditions are: (iii) cash equivalents; (iv) related entity receivables; (v) trade debtors; (vi) other receivables. ii) Financial instruments at fair value. A financial asset should be measured at fair value through profit or loss or fair value through other comprehensive income, depending on the following: (i) "Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income": Assets held to collect contractual cash flows and to be sold, where the asset cash flows are only capital and interest payments, are measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. Changes in book values are through other comprehensive income, except for the recognition of impairment losses, interest income and exchange gains and losses, which are recognized in the income statement. When a financial asset is derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in other comprehensive income is reclassified from equity to the income statement. Interest income from these financial assets is included in financial income using the effective interest method. Exchange gains and losses are presented in the income statement and impairment losses are separately presented in the income statement. (ii) "Fair Value Through Profit and Loss": Assets that do not meet the amortized cost or "Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income" criteria are valued at "Fair Value Through Profit and Loss". iii) Financial equity assets at fair value through other comprehensive income. Equity instruments that are not classified as held for trading and which the Group has irrevocably chosen to recognize in this category. Prior to 2018, the Company evaluated at the date of each report, whether there was objective evidence that any asset or group of financial assets presented any impairment. An asset or group of financial assets presented a deterioration, if and only if, there was objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset or group of these. In order to recognize impairment, the loss event must have an impact on the estimation of future flows of the asset or groups of financial assets. Beginning 2018, the Company evaluates expected credit losses associated with its debt instruments carried at amortized cost and fair value through other comprehensive income. The impairment method used depends on whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. The Company applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measure expected credit losses using the lifetime expected loss on all trade receivables. Expected credit losses are measured by grouping receivables by their shared credit risk characteristics and days overdue. Therefore, the Company has concluded that the expected loss rates for trade receivables are a reasonable approximation of the loss rates for these assets. Expected loss rates are based on sales payment profiles and historical credit losses within this period. Historical loss rates are adjusted to reflect current and expected information regarding macroeconomic factors that affect the ability of customers to meet their commitments. 3.6 Accounting policy for financial liabilities Management determines the classification of its financial liabilities in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 9, at fair value or at amortized cost. The classification depends on the business model of the entity to manage the financial assets and the contractual terms of the cash flows. At the initial recognition, the Company measures its financial liabilities by their fair value more or less, in the case of a financial liability that is not accounted for at fair value through profit or loss, the transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial liability. After initial recognition, the Company measures its financial liabilities at amortized cost unless the Company, at the initial moment, irrevocably designates the financial liability as measured at fair value through profit or loss. Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost are commercial accounts payable and other accounts payable and other financial liabilities. Valuation at amortized cost is made using the effective interest rate method. Amortized cost is calculated by considering any premium or discount on the acquisition and includes transaction costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate. Financial liabilities are recorded as not current when they mature in more than 12 months and as current when they mature in less than 12 months. Interest expenses are recorded in the period in which they are accrued, according to a financial criterion. 3.7 Re classification of financial instruments When the Company changes its business model for managing financial assets, it will reclassify all its financial assets affected by the new business model. Financial liabilities cannot be reclassified. 3.8 Financial instrument derecognition The Company derecognizes a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred; and the control of the financial assets has not been retained. The Company derecognizes a financial liability when its contractual obligations or a part of these are discharged, paid to the creditor or legally extinguished. 3.9 Derivative and hedging financial instruments Derivatives are recognized initially at fair value as of the date on which the derivatives contract is signed and, they are subsequently assessed at fair value. The method for recognizing the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative has been designated as an accounting hedge instrument and, if so, it depends on the type of hedging, which may be as follows: a) Fair value hedge of assets and liabilities recognized (fair value hedges); b) Hedging of a single risk associated with an asset or liability recognized or a highly probable forecast transaction (cash flow hedge). At the beginning of the transaction, the Company documents the relationship that exists between hedging instruments and those items hedged, as well as their objectives for risk management purposes and the strategy to conduct different hedging operations. The Company also documents its evaluation both at the beginning and at the end of each period if the derivatives used in hedging transactions are highly effective to offset changes in the fair value or in cash flows of hedged items. The fair value of derivative instruments used for hedging purposes is shown in Note 13.3. Changes in the cash flow hedge reserve are classified as a non-current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the hedged item is more than 12 months, and as a current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the entry is less than 12 months. Derivatives that are not designated or do not qualify as hedging derivatives are classified as current assets or liabilities, and changes in the fair value are directly recognized through profit or loss. a) Fair value hedge Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of interest rate swaps that hedge fixed rate borrowings is recognized in profit or loss within finance costs, together with changes in the fair value of the hedged fixed rate borrowings attributable to interest rate risk. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized in profit or loss within other income or other expenses. If the hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the adjustment to the carrying amount of a hedged item for which the effective interest method is used is amortized to profit or loss over the period to maturity using a recalculated effective interest rate. b) Cash flow hedges The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is initially recognized with a debit or credit to other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is immediately recognized with a debit or credit to income, as appropriate. When a hedging instrument expires, or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative deferred gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging in equity at that time remains in equity until the forecast transaction occurs, resulting in the recognition of a non-financial asset such as inventory. When the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging that were reported in equity are immediately reclassified to profit or loss. 3.1 0 Derivative financial instruments not considered as hedges Derivative financial instruments not considered as hedges are recognized at fair value with the effect in the results of the year. The Company has derivative financial instruments to hedge foreign currency risk exposure. The Company continually evaluates the existence of embedded derivatives in both its contracts and in its financial instruments. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company does not have any embedded derivatives. 3.11 Deferred acquisition costs from insurance contracts Acquisition costs from insurance contracts are classified as prepayments and correspond to insurance contracts in force, recognized using the straight-line method and on an accrual basis independent of payment date. These are recognized under other non-financial assets . 3.12 Classification Leases Below are accounting policies applied by the Company prior to the adoption of IFRS 16: (a) Lease - Finance lease Leases are classified as finance leases when the Company substantially owns all the risks and rewards inherent in the ownership of the asset. Finance leases are capitalized at the commencement of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Each finance lease payment is apportioned between the liability and the finance charges so as to obtain the constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. The respective lease obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other non-current liabilities. The interest part of the finance cost is charged to the consolidated financial statements for the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each year. (b) Lease - Operating lease Leases where the lessor retains a significant part of the risks and benefits derived from the property are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments (net of any incentive received by the lessor) should be recognized as an expense in the income statement or capitalized (as appropriate) over the lease term on a straight-line basis. Below are the Company’s new accounting policies after the adoption of IFRS 16 on January 1, 2019. These have been applied since the initial date of application: (i) Right-of-use assets The Company recognizes right-of-use assets on the initial lease date (i.e., the date on which the underlying asset is available for use). Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, adjusted by any new measurement of the lease liability. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of recognized lease liabilities, direct initial costs incurred and lease payments made on the start date or sooner, less the lease incentives received. Unless the Company is reasonably sure it will take ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease period, the assets recognized through right-of-use are depreciated in a straight line during the shortest period of their estimated useful life and lease period. Right-of-use assets are subject to impairment as per “IAS 36 Impairment of Assets”. (ii) Lease liabilities On the lease start date, the Company recognizes lease liabilities measured at present value of lease payments that will be made during the lease period (which haven’t been paid by that date). Lease payments include fixed payments, less incentives for lease receivables, variable lease payments that are dependent on an index or rate and amounts that are expected to be paid as guaranteed residual value. Lease payments also include the exercise price of a purchase option if the Company is reasonably sure it will exercise this and penalty payments for terminating a lease, if the lease period reflects that the Company will exercise the option to terminate. Variable lease payments that are not dependent on an index or rate are recognized as expenses in the period that produces the event or condition that triggers payment. When calculating the present value of lease payments, the Company uses the incremental borrowing rate on the initial lease date if the interest rate implicit in the lease cannot be determined easily. After the start date, the lease liability balance will increase to reflect the accumulation of interest and will diminish as lease payments are made. Furthermore, the book value of lease liabilities is remeasured in the event of an amendment, a change in the lease period, a change in the fixed lease payments in substance or a change in the assessment to buy the underlying asset. (iii) Short-term leases and low-value asset leases The Company applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to leases with a lease term of 12 months or less starting on the start date and that don’t have a purchase option. It also applies the low-value asset lease recognition exemptions (i.e., when the underlying asset is below USD$ 5,000). Lease payments in short-term leases and low-value asset leases are recognized as lineal expenses during the lease term. (iv) Significant judgments in the determination of the lease term for contracts with renewal options The Company determines the lease term as the non-cancellable period of the lease, together with periods covered by an option to extend the lease if it is reasonably certain that this will be exercised, or any period covered by an option to terminate the lease, if it is reasonably certain that this will not be exercised. The Company has the option, under some of its leases, to lease assets for additional terms. The Company applies its judgment when assessing whether it is reasonably certain that it will exercise the option to renovate. In other words, it considers all the relevant factors that create an economic incentive for it to exercise the option to renovate. After the start date, the Company reevaluates the lease term if there is a significant event or change in the circumstances that are under its control and affect its capacity to exercise (or not exercise) the option to renovate. 3.13 Inventory measurement The method used to determine the cost of inventories is the weighted average monthly cost of warehouse storage. In determining production costs for own products, the company includes the costs of labor, raw materials, materials and supplies used in production, depreciation and maintenance of the goods that participate in the production process, the costs of product movement necessary to maintain stock on location and in the condition in which they are found, and also includes the indirect costs of each task such as laboratories, process and planning areas, and personnel expenses related to production, among others. For finished and in-process products, the company has four types of provisions, which are reviewed quarterly: 1. Provision associated with the lower value of stock : This provision is directly identified with the product that generates it and involves three types: (i) provision of lower realizable value, which corresponds to the difference between the inventory cost of intermediary or finished products and the sale price minus the necessary costs to bring them to the same conditions and location as the product with which they are compared; (ii) provision for future uncertain use that corresponds to the value of those products in process that are likely not going to be used in sales based on the company’s long-term plans; and (iii) reprocessing costs of products that are unfeasible for sale due to current specifications. 2. Provision associated with physical differences in inventory 3. Potential errors in the determination of stock 4. Provisions undertaken by commercial offices Inventories of raw materials, materials and supplies for production are recorded at acquisition cost. Cyclical inventories are performed in warehouses, as well as general inventories every three years, Differences are recognized at the moment they are detected. The company has a provision that makes quarterly calculations from percentages associated with each type of material (classification by warehouse and rotation), these percentages use the lower value resulting from deterioration or obsolescence as well as potential losses. This provision is reviewed at least annually, and considers the historical profit and loss obtained in the inventory processes. 3.14 Transactions with non-controlling interests Non-controlling interests are recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position within equity but separate from equity attributable to the owners of the Parent. 3.15 Related party transactions Transactions between the Company and its joint ventures, associates and other related parties are part of the Company’s normal operations within its scope of business activities. Conditions for such transactions are those normally effective for those types of operations with regard to terms and market prices. The maturity conditions vary according to the originating transaction. 3.16 Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment assets are stated at acquisition cost, net of the related accumulated depreciation, amortization and impairment losses that they might have experienced. In addition to the price paid for the acquisition of tangible property, plant and equipment, the Company has considered the following concepts as part of the acquisition cost, as applicable: (a) Accrued interest expenses during the construction period that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are those that require a substantial period prior to being ready for use. The interest rate used is that related to the project’s specific financing or, should this not exist, the average financing rate of the investor company. (b) The future costs that the Company will have to experience, related to the closure of its facilities at the end of their useful life, are included at the present value of disbursements expected to be required to settle the and its subsequent variation is recorded directly in results. Having initially recognized provisions for closure and refurbishment, the corresponding cost is capitalized as an asset in “Property, plant and equipment” and amortized in line with the amortization criteria for the associated assets. Construction-in-progress is transferred to property, plant and equipment in operation once the assets are available for use and the related depreciation and amortization begins on that date. Extension, modernization or improvement costs that represent an increase in productivity, ability or efficiency or an extension of the useful lives of property, plant and equipment are capitalized as a higher cost of the related assets. All the remaining maintenance, preservation and repair expenses are charged to expense as they are incurred. The replacement of assets, which increase the asset’s useful life or its economic capacity, are recorded as a higher value of property, plant and equipment with the related derecognition of replaced or renewed elements. Gains or losses which are generated from the sale or disposal of property, plant and equipment are recognized as income (or loss) in the period and calculated as the difference between the asset’s sales value and its net carrying value. Costs derived from the daily maintenance of property, plant and equipment are recognized when incurred. Right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) are recognized in the “property, plant and equipment” line item and are classified within this based on the underlying asset class. 3.17 Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment are depreciated through the straight-line distribution of cost over the estimated technical useful life of the asset, which is the period in which the Company expects to use the asset. When components of one item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are recorded as separate assets. Useful lives are reviewed on an annual basis. Fixed assets associated with the Salar de Atacama consider useful life to be the lesser value between the technical useful life and the years remaining until 2030. In the case of certain mobile equipment, depreciation is performed depending on the hours of operation. The useful lives used for the depreciation and amortization of assets included in property, plant and equipment in years are presented below : Classes of property, plant and equipment Minimum life or rate ‎ (years) Maximum life or rate ‎ (years) life or average rate ‎ in years Mining assets 3 10 5 Energy generating assets 5 10 6 Buildings 3 15 8 Supplies and accessories 2 10 3 Office equipment 5 5 5 Transport equipment 2 2 2 Network and communication equipment 2 10 5 IT equipment 2 8 5 Machinery, plant and equipment 1 15 7 Other property, plant and equipment 1 10 5 3.18 Goodwill Goodwill acquired represents the excess in acquisition cost on the fair value of the Company's ownership of the net identifiable assets of the subsidiary on the acquisition date. Goodwill acquired related to the acquisition of subsidiaries is included in goodwill, which is subject to impairment tests annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired and is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses related to the sale of an entity include the carrying value of goodwill related to the entity sold. This intangible asset is assigned to cash-generating units with the purpose of testing impairment losses, it is allocated based on cash-generating units expected to obtain benefits from the business combination from which the aforementioned goodwill acquired arose. 3.19 Intangible assets other than goodwill Intangible assets other than goodwill mainly relate to water rights, emission rights, commercial brands, costs for rights of way for electricity lines, license costs and the development of computer software and mining property and concession rights, client portfolio and commercial agent. (a) Water rights Water rights acquired by the Company relate to water from natural sources and are recorded at acquisition cost. Given that these assets represent legal rights granted in perpetuity to the Company, they are not amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. (b) Rights of way for electric lines As required for the operation of industrial plants, the Company has paid rights of way in order to install wires for the different electric lines on third party land. These rights are presented under intangible asset. Amounts paid are capitalized at the date of the agreement and amortized in the statement of income according to the life of the right of way. (c) Computer software Licenses for IT programs acquired are capitalized based on their acquisition and customization costs. These costs are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Expenses related to the development or maintenance of IT programs are recognized as an expense as and when incurred. Costs directly related to the production of unique and identifiable IT programs controlled by the Group, and which will probably generate economic benefits that are higher than its costs during more than a year, are recognized as intangible assets. Direct costs include the expenses of employees who develop information technology software and general expenses in accordance with corporate charges received. The costs of development for IT programs are recognized as assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives. (d) Mining property and concession rights The Company holds mining property and concession rights from the Chilean and Australian Governments. Property rights are usually obtained at no initial cost (other than the payment of mining patents and minor recording expenses) and once the rights on these concessions have been obtained, they are retained by the Company while annual patents are paid. Such patents, which are paid annually, are recorded as prepaid assets and amortized over the following twelve months. Amounts attributable to mining concessions acquired from third parties that are not from the Chilean Government are recorded at acquisition cost within intangible assets. (e) Client portfolio The period for exploiting these portfolios is limited so they are considered assets with a definite useful life and are therefore subject to amortization. 3.20 Research and development expenses Research and development expenses are charged to profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure was incurred. 3.21 Exploration and evaluation expenses The Company holds mining concessions for exploration and exploitation of ore, the Company gives the following treatment to expenses associated with exploration and assessment of these resources: (a) Caliche Once the rights have been obtained, the Company records the disbursements directly associated with the exploration and assessment of the deposit as an at cost asset. These disbursements include the following items: Geological surveys, drilling, borehole extraction and sampling, activities related to the technical assessment and commercial viability of the extraction, and in general, any disbursement directly related to specific projects where the objective is to find ore resources. If the technical studies determine that the ore grade is not economically viable, the asset is directly charged to profit and loss. If determined otherwise, the asset described above is associated with the extractable ore tonnage which is amortized as it is used. These assets are presented in the “other non-current assets category”, reclassifying the portion related to the area to by extracted that year as inventories. (b) Metal exploration Expenses related to metal exploration are charged to profit or loss in the period in which th

Changes in accounting estimates

Changes in accounting estimates and policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Changes In Accounting Estimates Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of changes in accounting estimates [text block]	Note 4 Changes in accounting estimates and policies 4.1 Changes in accounting estimates There have been no changes in the methodologies used to determine such estimates in the periods presented. 4.2 Changes in accounting policies The accounting principles and criteria were applied consistently , except for the following: (a) The Company’s consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2019, show changes in the accounting policies over the previous period due to the application of IFRS 16 as of January 1, 2019. During 2018, management initially measured the impact of adopting IFRS 16 from the date the standard became effective, which it determined by evaluating its lease contracts. These assets should be recorded on the initial application date as right-of-use assets, depending on their nature and lease terms, and they will be amortized over the shorter of their contractual period or useful life. Contracts were evaluated for evidence of a lease under IFRS 16, and right-of-use assets were identified that included: trucks, cranes, excavators, property (buildings, warehouses, storerooms, land), where SQM has the power to control them during the contract, without the supplier changing its operating instructions. The Company constructed a debt curve based on the Company’s public debt instruments at the valuation date to determine the discount rate for the estimated initial measurement. The rates used to discount the right-of-use asset and the leasing liability were estimated according to the contract currencies (USD, EURO, Mexican peso, UF and CLP) and terms. The Company chose to fully apply the simplified transaction approach. The Company chose to apply the simplified transition approach. Under this method, the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard is recognized at January 1, 2019 and comparative amounts are not restated. As the amount of right-of-use assets recognized was equal to the lease liability, there was no impact on retained earnings as a result of the adoption of IFRS 16. The values of right-of-use assets and leasing liabilities for contracts classified under IFRS 16 amounted ThUS$ 45,115 as of January 1, 2019. The weighted average of the incremental lease loan rate applied to lease liabilities recognized in the statement of financial position on the adoption date is 8.08%. The difference generated between operating lease commitments disclosed applying IAS 17 on December 31, 2018, and lease liabilities recognized on the date of initial application under IFRS 16 is primarily because most of the payment agreements with suppliers are negotiated on variable terms. (b) The Company’s consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2018 show changes in the accounting policies since the previous period due to the application of IFRS 9 as of January 1, 2018. The application of IFRS 9 had an impact of ThUS$ 2,301 (ThUS$ 1,680 net of deferred taxes), as of January 1, 2018 due to the application of the new impairment model in equity in accordance with IAS 8.

Financial risk management

Financial risk management	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Financial Risk Management Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of financial risk management [text block]	Note 5 Financial risk management 5.1 Financial risk management policy The Company’s financial risk management policy is focused on safeguarding the stability and sustainability of the Company and its subsidiaries with regard to all such relevant financial uncertainty components. The Company’s operations are subject to certain financial risk factors that may affect its financial position or results. The most significant risk exposures are market risk, liquidity risk, currency risk, doubtful accounts risk, and interest rate risk, among others. There could also be additional risks, which are either unknown or known but not currently deemed to be significant, which could also affect the Company’s business operations, its business, financial position, or profit or loss. The financial risk management structure includes identifying, determining, analyzing, quantifying, measuring and controlling these events. Management and in particular, Finance Management, is responsible for constantly assessing the financial risk. 5.2 Risk Factors (a) Credit risk A global economic downturn - and its potentially negative effects on the financial situation of our customers - could extend the payment terms of the Company's receivables by increasing its exposure to credit risk. Although measures are taken to minimize the risk, this global economic situation could mean losses with adverse material effects on the business, financial position or profit and loss of the Company's operations. To mitigate these risks, the Company maintains an active control of collection and uses measures such as the use of credit insurance, letters of credit and prepayments for a portion of receivables. The concentration of credit risk with respect to sales debtors is reduced due to the large number of companies that comprise the Company's customer base and their distribution throughout the world. Financial investments correspond to time deposits whose maturity date is greater than 90 days and less than 360 days from the date of investment, so they are not exposed to excessive market risks. The credit risk associated with receivables is analyzed in Note 13.2 and the associated accounting policy can be found in Note 3.5. The credit quality of financial assets that are not past due or impaired can be evaluated by reference to external credit ratings (if available) or historical information on counterparty late payment rates: Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco de Chile Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 50,221 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 42,096 Banco Itau Corpbanca Time deposits P-2 A-2 - 39,093 Banco Santander Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 2,708 Scotiabank Sud Americano Time deposits - - F1+ 14,428 Banco Estado Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 500 BBVA Banco Francés Time deposits - - - 53 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional Investment fund deposits Aaa-mf AAAm AAAmmf 181,155 Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional cash reserves Investment fund deposits - AAAm AAAmmf 146,078 Total 476, 332 Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco Scotiabank Sud Americano 90 days to 1 year P-2 - - 54,180 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones (*) 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 178,448 Banco Santander 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 74,365 Banco Itau Corpbanca 90 days to 1 year P-2 A-2 - 127,579 Banco Security 90 days to 1 year - A-2 F2 17,965 Banco de Chile 90 days to 1 year - - - 18,026 Banco Estado 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 15,126 Total 485,689 (*) This includes ThUS$ 1,870 associated with collateral in guarantee used to reduce the liquidity risk. The following table presents comparative information as of December 2018: Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco de Chile Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 7,305 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 27,428 Banco Itau Corpbanca Time deposits P-2 A-2 - 61,946 Banco Santander Time deposits - - - 432 Banco Estado Time deposits - - - 3,602 BBVA Banco Francés Time deposits - - - 84 Nedbank Time deposits P-3 B - 647 Scotiabank Sud Americano Time deposits - - - 86,222 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional Investment fund deposits Aaa-mf AAAm AAAmmf 133,809 Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional cash reserves Investment fund deposits - AAAm AAAmmf 132,108 Total 453,583 Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco Scotiabank 90 days to 1 year - - - 24,898 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 145,834 Banco Santander 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 23,124 Banco Itau Corpbanca 90 days to 1 year P-2 A-2 - 70,719 Banco Security 90 days to 1 year - - - 27,215 Total 291,790 (b) Currency risk The functional currency of the company is the US dollar, due to its influence on the determination of price levels, its relation to the cost of sales and considering that a significant part of the Company’s business is conducted in this currency. However, the global nature of the Company's business generates an exposure to exchange rate variations of several currencies with the US Dollar. Therefore, the Company maintains hedge contracts to mitigate the exposure generated by its main mismatches (net between assets and liabilities) in currencies other than the US dollar against the exchange rate variation, updating these contracts periodically depending on the amount of the mismatching to be covered in these currencies. Occasionally, subject to the approval of the Board, the Company ensures short-term cash flows from certain specific line items in currencies other than the US Dollar. A significant portion of the Company’s costs, especially salary payments, is associated with the Peso. Therefore, an increase or decrease in its exchange rate with the US Dollar would affect the Company's profit and loss. By the fourth quarter, approximately US$ 424 million accumulated in expenses are associated with the Peso. As of December 31, 2019, the Company held derivative instruments classified as hedges of foreign exchange risks associated with 73% of all the bond liabilities denominated in UF, for a fair value of US$ 18.9 million against the Company. As of December 31, 2018, this value amounted to US$ 3.9 million against the company. As of December 31, 2019, the exchange rate value for equivalent Pesos to US Dollars was Ch$ 748.74 per US Dollar, and as of December 31, 2018, it was Ch$ 694.77 per Dollar. (c) Interest rate risk Interest rate fluctuations, primarily due to the uncertain future behavior of markets, may have a material impact on the financial results of the Company. Significant increases in the rate could make it difficult to access financing at attractive rates for the Company's investment projects. The Company maintains current and non-current financial debt at fixed rates and LIBOR rate plus spread. As of December 31, 2019, the Company has around 4% of its financial liabilities linked to variations in the LIBOR rate. Therefore, significant rate increases could impact its financial position. A change of 100 basis points in this rate could result in changes to financial expenses of close to US$ 0.06 million. (d) Liquidity risk Liquidity risk relates to the funds needed to comply with payment obligations. The Company’s objective is to maintain financial flexibility through a comfortable balance between fund requirements and cash flows from regular business operations, bank borrowings, bonds, short term investments, and marketable securities, among others. For this purpose, the Company keeps a high liquidity ratio, which enables it to cover current obligations with clearance. On December 31, 2019, this ratio was 3.45. The Company has an important capital expense program which is subject to change over time. On the other hand, world financial markets go through periods of contraction and expansion that are unforeseeable in the long-term and may affect SQM’s access to financial resources. Such factors may have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial position and results of operations. SQM constantly monitors the matching of its obligations with its investments, taking due care of maturities of both, from a conservative perspective, as part of this financial risk management strategy. As of December 31, 2019, the Company had unused available revolving credit facilities with banks for a total of US$ 477 million. The position in other cash and cash equivalents is invested in highly liquid mutual funds with an AAA risk rating. Nature of undiscounted cash flows As of December 31, 2019 (in millions of US$) Carrying ‎ amount Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total Bank borrowings 70.19 2.17 74.87 - 77.04 Unsecured obligations (1) 1,697.11 326.34 614.29 1,184.38 2,125.01 Sub total 1,767.30 328.51 689.16 1,184.38 2,202.05 Hedging liabilities 23.66 6.57 24.33 32.37 63.27 Derivative financial instruments 3.17 3.17 - - 3.17 Sub total 26.83 9.74 24.33 32.37 66.44 Current and non-current lease liabilities 42.632 8.903 22.983 10.746 42.632 Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable 205.7 205.7 - - 205.70 Total 2,042.462 552.853 736.473 1,227.496 2,516.822 (1) Unsecured obligations are presented on a contractual basis and have no effects related to anticipated redemptions. Nature of undiscounted cash flows As of December 31, 2018 (in millions of US$) Carrying ‎ amount Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total Bank borrowings 70.25 4.10 79.66 - 83.76 Unsecured obligations 1,273.07 61.37 823.76 713.60 1,598.73 Sub total 1,343.32 65.47 903.42 713.60 1,682.49 Hedging liabilities 17.32 5.52 15.64 29.27 50.43 Derivative financial instruments 2.86 2.86 - - 2.86 Sub total 20.18 8.38 15.64 29.27 53.29 Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable 163.75 163.17 0.58 - 163.75 Total 1,527.25 237.02 919.64 742.87 1,899.53 5.3 Risk measurement The Company has methods to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of financial risk hedging strategies, both prospectively and retrospectively. These methods are consistent with the risk management profile of the SQM Group.

Background of companies include

Background of companies included in consolidation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Background of companies included in consolidation [Abstract]
Background of companies included in consolidation [Text Block]	Note 6 Background of companies included in consolidation 6.1 Parent’s stand-alone assets and liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Assets 4,069,649 3,737,892 Liabilities (1,983,382 ) (1,652,401 ) Equity 2,086,267 2,085,491 6.2 Parent entity Pursuant to Article 99 of Law No. 18,045 of the Securities Market, the CMF may determine that a company does not have a controlling entity in accordance with the distribution and dispersion of its ownership. On November 30, 2018, the CMF issued the ordinary letter No. 32,131 whereby it determined that the Pampa Group, do not exert decisive power over the management of the Company since it does not have a predominance in the ownership that allows it to make management decisions. Therefore, the CMF has determined not to consider Grupo Pampa the controlling entity of the Company and that the Company does not have a controlling entity given its current ownership structure.

Board of Directors, Senior Mana

Board of Directors, Senior Management and Key management personnel	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of information about Board of Directors Senior Management and Key management personnel [Abstract]
Disclosure of Information About Board of Directors Senior Management and Key management personnel [Text Block]	Note 7 Board of Directors, Senior Management and Key management personnel 7.1 Board of Directors and Senior Management 1) Board of directors SQM S.A. is managed by a Board of Directors which is composed of 8 regular directors, who are elected for a three-year period. The Board of Directors was elected during the ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019, which included the election of 2 independent directors. As of December 31, 2019, the Company included the following committees and committee members: - Directors’ Committee: This committee is comprised by Georges de Bourguignon, Laurence Golborne Riveros y Alberto Salas Muñoz, and fulfills the functions established in Article 50 bis of Chilean Law on publicly-held corporations. This committee takes on the role of the audit committee in accordance with the US-based Sarbanes Oxley law. - The Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Committee: This committee is comprised of Gonzalo Guerrero Yamamoto, Patricio Contesse Fica y Robert J. Zatta. - Corporate Governance Committee: This committee is comprised of Hernán Büchi Buc, Patricio Contesse Fica y Francisco Ugarte Larrain. During the periods covered by these financial statements, there are no pending receivable and payable balances between the Company, its directors or members of Senior Management, other than those related to remuneration, fee allowances and profit-sharing. In addition, there were no transactions conducted between the Company, its directors or members of Senior Management. 2) Board of Directors’ Compensation Directors’ compensation differs according to the period during the corresponding year. Thus, from April 27, 2018 to April 24, 2019 (Period 2018-2019), Directors’ compensation was determined by the annual general shareholders' meeting held on April 27, 2018. While for the period from April 25, 2019 to the date of the next annual general shareholders' meeting (Period 2019-2020), Directors’ compensation was determined by the annual general shareholders' meeting held on April 25, 2019. For each of these periods , Directors’ compensation is detailed as follows: Period 2018-2019 a) The payment of a fixed, gross and monthly amount of UF 400 in favor of the Chairman of the Board of Directors, of UF 350 in favor of the vice-president of the board of directors and of UF 350 in favor of the remaining six directors and regardless of the number of Board of Directors’ Meetings held or not held during the related month. b) A variable gross amount payable in national currency to the Chairman and Vice President of the Company equivalent to 0.12% of the net liquid income earned by the Company in 2018 ; c) A variable gross amount payable in local currency to each Company director, excluding the Chairman and Vice President of the Company, equivalent to 0.06% of the net liquid income earned by the Company in 2019. Period 2019: (i) The payment of a fixed, gross and monthly amount of UF 800 in favor of the Chairman of the Board and of UF 700 in favor of the remaining seven directors and regardless of the number of Board of Directors’ Meetings held or not held during the related month. (ii) A variable gross amount payable in national currency to the Chairman and Vice President of the Company equivalent to 0.12% of the net liquid income earned by the Company in 2019 ; (iii) A variable gross amount payable in local currency to each Company director, excluding the Chairman and Vice President of the Company, equivalent to 0.06% of the net liquid income earned by the Company in 2019 . These fixed and variable amounts for both periods shall not be challenged and those expressed in percentage terms shall be paid immediately after the respective annual general shareholders meeting approves the financial statements, the annual report, the account inspectors report and the external auditors report for the respective year. All amounts expressed in UF shall be paid in Chilean pesos at its value on the last day of the respective calendar month, as determined by the CMF (formerly Superintendence of Banks and Financial Institutions) the Chilean Central Bank or any other relevant institution that replaces them. Accordingly, the compensation and profit sharing paid to members of the Directors' Committee and the directors for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 amounted to ThUS$ 4,527, ThUS$ 3,791 and ThUS$ 3,231, respectively. 3) Directors’ Committee Directors' Committee compensation differs according to the period during the corresponding year. Thus, for the Period 2018-2019, Directors’ Committee compensation was determined by the annual general shareholders' meeting held on April 27, 2018. While for the Period 2019-2020, Directors’ Committee compensation was determined by the annual general shareholders' meeting held on April 25, 2019. For each of these periods the compensation of the Directors Committee comprises : Period 2018-2019 a) The payment of a fixed, gross and monthly amount of UF 113 in favor of each of the 3 directors who were members of the Directors’ Committee, regardless of the number of meetings of the Directors’ Committee that have or have not been held during the month concerned. b) The payment in domestic currency and in favor of each of the 3 directors of a variable and gross amount equivalent to 0.02% of total net profit that the Company effectively obtains during the 2018 fiscal year. Period 2019 (i) The payment of a fixed, gross and monthly amount of UF 200 in favor of each of the 3 directors who were members of the Directors’ Committee, regardless of the number of meetings of the Directors’ Committee that have or have not been held during the month concerned. (ii) The payment in domestic currency and in favor of each of the 3 directors of a variable and gross amount equivalent to 0.02% of total net profit that the Company effectively obtains during the 2019 fiscal year. These fixed and variable amounts for both periods shall not be challenged and those expressed in percentage terms shall be paid immediately after the respective annual general shareholders meeting approves the financial statements, the annual report, the account inspectors report and the external auditors report for the respective year. All amounts expressed in UF shall be paid in Chilean pesos at its value on the last day of the respective calendar month, as determined by the CMF (formerly Superintendence of Banks and Financial Institutions), the Chilean Central Bank or any other relevant institution that replaces them. 4) Health, Safety and Environmental Matters Committee: The remuneration of this committee for the 2018–2019 period was composed of the payment of a fixed, gross, monthly amount of UF 50 for each of the 3 directors on the committee regardless of the number of meetings it has held. For the 2019 period, the remuneration for the Health, Safety and Environment Committee corresponds to a fixed, gross, monthly amount of UF 100 for each of the three Directors on the committee regardless of the number of meetings it has held. 5) Corporate Governance Committee The remuneration for this committee for the 2018–2019 period was composed of the payment of a fixed, gross, monthly amount of UF 50 for each of the 3 directors on the committees regardless of the number of meetings it has held. For the 2019 period, the remuneration for the Corporate Governance Committee corresponds to a fixed, gross, monthly amount of UF 100 for each of the three Directors on the committee regardless of the number of meetings it has held. 6) Guarantees constituted in favor of the directors No guarantees have been constituted in favor of the directors. 7) Senior management compensation : a) This includes monthly fixed salary and variable performance bonuses. (See Note 7.2) b) The Company has an annual bonus plan based on goal achievement and individual contribution to the Company’s results. These incentives are structured as a minimum and maximum number of gross monthly salaries and are paid once a year. c) The Company also has retention bonuses for its executives, the value of these bonuses is linked to the Company's stock price and is payable in cash during the first quarter of 2021 (see Note 17.6) 8) Guarantees pledged in favor of the Company’s management No guarantees have been pledged in favor of the Company’s management. 9) Pensions, life insurance, paid leave, shares in earnings, incentives, disability loans, other than those mentioned in the above points. The Company’s Management and Directors do not receive or have not received any benefit during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 or compensation for the concept of pensions, life insurance, paid time off, profit sharing, incentives, or benefits due to disability other than those mentioned in the preceding points. 7.2 Key management personnel compensation As of December 31, 2019, there are 124 people occupying key management positions and 123 as of December 31, 2018. Key management personnel compensation For the ‎ year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Key management personnel compensation 22,598 27,907 27,367

Equity-accounted investees

Equity-accounted investees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Equity-accounted investees [Abstract]
Disclosure of investments accounted for using equity method [text block]	Note 8 Equity-accounted investees 8.1 Investments in associates recognized according to the equity method of accounting As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, in accordance with criteria established in Note 2: Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates accounted for using the ‎ equity method Share in other comprehensive ‎ income of associates accounted for ‎ using the equity method, net of tax Share in total other comprehensive income of associates ‎ accounted for using the equity method Associates As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 11,609 10,821 634 596 1,483 1 - 635 596 1,483 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 26,001 21,582 3,912 241 6,427 198 489 4,110 730 6,427 Ajay North America 14,669 14,951 2,871 3,728 3,677 - - 2,871 3,728 3,677 Ajay Europe SARL 7,451 7,845 1,165 1,373 1,049 (179 ) (439 ) 986 934 1,075 Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd - - - 316 393 - - - 316 393 SQM Eastmed Turkey 623 310 354 370 (25 ) (42 ) (21 ) 312 349 (25 ) Kore Potash PLC 24,739 20,467 (534 ) (1,543 ) - (549 ) (1,206 ) (1,083 ) (2,749 ) - Total 85,092 75,976 8,402 5,081 13,004 (571 ) (1,177 ) 7,831 3,904 13,030 Dividends received Associate Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of ‎ incorporation Share of ‎ ownership in ‎ associates For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in the Middle East. PO Box 71871, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates 37% - 6,632 - Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in Turkey. Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya Turkey 50% - - - Ajay North America Production and distribution of iodine derivatives. 1400 Industry RD Power Springs GA 30129 United States of America 49% 2,796 2,807 1,123 Ajay Europe SARL Production and distribution of iodine derivatives. Z.I. du Grand Verger BP 227 53602 Evron Cedex France 50% 1,055 811 968 Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients. 31 Soi 138 (Meesuk) LLapdrawrd, Bangkapi, 10240 Bangkok Thailand 40% - 362 - SQM Eastmed Turkey Production and commercialization of specialty products. Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya Turkey 50% - - - Kore Potash Ltd Prospection, exploration and mining development. L 3 88 William ST Perth, was 6000 Australia 19.67% - - - Total 3,851 10,612 2,091 The companies described in the table below are related parties of the following associates: (1) Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS (2) Terra Tarsa B.V. (3) Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Dividends received Associate Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of ‎ incorporation Share of ‎ ownership in ‎ associates (*) For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC (2) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients. 74800 Ukraine, Kakhovka, 4 Yuzhnaya Str. Ukraine 100% - - - Terra Tarsa BV (1) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients. Herikerbergweg 238, Luna Arena, 1101CM Amsterdam PO Box 23393, 1100DW Amsterdam Zuidoost Holland 50% - - - Plantacote NV (1) Sale of CRF and production and sales of WSNPK. Houtdok-Noordkaai 25a, 2030 Antwerpen, Belgium Belgium 100% - - - Doctochem Tarim Sanayai Ticaret LTD (1) Production, distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrition. . Eski Büyükdere Cad No: 7 GIZ 2000 Plaza K:17 D:67-68 Maslak Sariyer Ístambul. Turkey 100% - - - Terra Tarsa Don LLC Distribution and sale of specialty fertilizers Zorge Street, house 17, 344090, Rostov-on-Don Russian Federation 100% - - - Doktolab Tarim Arastirma San. (1) Laboratory services. 27. Cd. No:2, 07190 Aosb 2. Kısım/Döşemealtı, Antalya, Turkey Turkey 100% - - - International Technical and Trading Agencies Co WLL (3) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients, in the Middle East. P.O Box: 950918 Amman 11195 Jordan 50% - - - Total - - - (*) This percentage does not consider the shareholdings of the holders of these subsidiaries. 8.2 Assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses of associates As of and for the year ended December 31, 2019 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 28,543 9,971 7,133 - 31,588 1,713 4 1,717 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 97,797 15,196 22,420 38,522 93,768 7,824 396 8,220 Ajay North America 19,748 13,250 3,061 - 38,833 5,860 - - Ajay Europe SARL 19,589 1,456 6,144 - 35,709 2,329 (358 ) 1,971 SQM Eastmed Turkey 2,718 1,833 2,600 704 3,086 709 (84 ) 625 Kore Potash PLC 7,938 119,362 2,214 - - (2,716 ) (2,791 ) (5,507 ) Total 176,333 161,068 43,572 39,226 202,984 15,719 (2,833 ) 7,026 As of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 23,496 11,444 5,695 - 33,098 1,611 (1 ) 1,610 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 66,498 12,242 27,067 8,509 74,144 481 978 1,459 Ajay North America 21,644 12,409 3,542 - 40,290 7,608 - 7,608 Ajay Europe SARL 21,219 1,214 6,743 - 36,337 2,747 (878 ) 1,869 SQM Eastmed Turkey 1,724 2,160 1,829 1,434 3,192 740 (42 ) 698 Kore Potash PLC 6,659 148,426 2,180 - - (8,198 ) (6,882 ) (15,080 ) Total 141,240 187,895 47,056 9,943 187,061 4,989 (6,825 ) (1,836 ) As of and for the year ended December 31, 2017 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 44,801 2,032 3,764 - 35,131 4,008 (4 ) 4,004 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 81,057 10,731 36,990 11,251 75,269 12,854 (4,367 ) 8,487 Ajay North America 19,426 12,498 2,470 - 36,185 7,505 - 7,505 Ajay Europe SARL 23,555 1,266 8,534 - 32,310 2,098 2,208 4,306 SQM Eastmed Turkey 8,585 712 3,292 255 13,618 981 414 1,395 Kore Potash PLC 3,981 2,671 4,487 2,260 2,389 (49 ) (12 ) (61 ) Total 181,405 29,910 59,507 13,766 194,902 27,397 (1,761 ) 25,636 8.3 Other information The Company has no participation in unrecognized losses in investments in associates. The Company has no investments that are not accounted for according to the equity method. The basis of preparation of the financial information of associates corresponds to the amounts included in the financial statements in conformity with IFRS. 8.4 Disclosures on interest in associates (a) Transactions conducted in 2019 :  In the fourth quarter of 2019, Ajay North America paid total dividends of ThUS$ 5,706.  In the first quarter of 2019, Ajay Europe SARL paid total dividends of ThUS$ 2,107.  In July 2019, the Company made a capital increase in Kore Potash PLC for ThUS$ 2,600, increasing the share to 19.67% of investment shareholdings.  On December 11, 2019, Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS acquired 100% of shares in Doctochem Tarim Sanayi Ticaret LTD. (b) Transactions conducted in 2018 :  During the first quarter, the Company increased its capital in Kore Potash PLC by ThUS$ 3,000.  In March 2018, Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WLL paid dividends of ThUS$ 10,890. 50% of the distributed dividend was charged to retained earnings generated subsequent to 2014, in line with the Company’s statutes that establish that 37% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM. The remaining 50% was charged to retained earnings generated between 2004 and 2014, in line with the entity’s statutes that establish that 50% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM.  In March 2018, Ajay North America paid dividends of ThUS$ 1,432.  In June 2018, Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WLL paid dividends of ThUS$ 7,034. 50% of the distributed dividend was charged to retained earnings generated subsequent to 2014, in line with the Company’s statutes that establish that 37% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM. The remaining 50% was charged to retained earnings generated between 2004 and 2014, in line with the Company’s statutes that establish that 50% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM.  At the close of the second quarter of 2018, Ajay North America paid dividends of ThUS$ 5,728.  In June 2018, Ajay North Europe SARL paid dividends of ThUS$ 1,622.  In June 2018, Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd. paid dividends of ThUS$ 906.  On November 14, 2018, Soquimich European Holdings B.V. sold its share in Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd., generating a loss of ThUS$ 759.  In 2018, Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi Ve Ticaret A.S., changed its functional currency from Turkish Lira to the United States Dollar. (c) Transactions conducted in 2017:  As of December 31, 2017, a capital increase was registered for Plantacote N.V. in a sum of ThUS$4,208 (equivalent to Th€3,500), which is 100% owned by the associate company Doktor Tarsa Tarim. The functional currency of Plantacote N.V. is the Euro. The contribution was made under the heading “Subordinated loan from Dr. Tarsa”. This contribution had no impact on the Company's consolidated results.

Joint Ventures

Joint Ventures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Joint Ventures Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of joint ventures [text block]	Note 9 Joint Ventures 9.1 Policy for the accounting of equity accounted investment in joint ventures The method for recognizing joint ventures is that in which participation is initially recorded at cost, and subsequently adjusted, considering changes after the acquisition in the portion of the entity’s net assets that correspond to the investor. Profit or loss for the period will include the portion of the entity’s entire profit or loss that correspond to the investor. For these joint ventures, there is no quoted market price to measure these investments. (See Note 2.6) At the date of issuance of these financial statements, SQM is not aware of the existence of any significant contingent liabilities associated with the partnerships in joint ventures. 9.2 Disclosures of interest in joint ventures a) Operations conducted in 2019  On January 1, 2019, SQM Vitas Perú changed its functional currency from the Peruvian Sol to USD (United States dollar).  During the fourth quarter del 2019, SQM Vitas Fzco paid dividends of ThUS$ 21,196. b) Operations conducted in 2018  During the first quarter of 2018, Minera Exar S.A. increased its capital by ThUS$ 13,000. The entity was a joint venture and contributions were made on January 25, 2018 (ThUS$ 6,000) and on February 14, 2018 (ThUS$ 7,000) by SQM Potasio S.A. and Lithium Americas Corporation (LAC). Both partners share 50% ownership of the respective company.  On March 14, 2018, the company SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. was closed.  As of the date, Minera Exar S.A. has changed its functional currency from the Argentine peso to the United States dollar.  In April 2018, Minera Exar made a new capital increase of ThUS$ 7,000, which was contributed in equal parts by its partners.  On May 15, 2018, the subsidiary Soquimich European Holdings BV, signed a joint venture agreement with PAVONI & C., SpA in Italy, EUR 5.5 million were paid for a 50% share, generating a lower value of EUR 2.6 million. The functional currency of the joint venture is the Euro.  On December 31, 2018, the conditions were met for Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd, to be recognized as a separate joint venture. In previous years, the financial statements for this entity were included as part of SQM Australia Pty.  On December 31, 2018, as part of the investment in Pavoni & C., SpA. the goodwill generated in the purchase of this joint venture by an amount of ThUS$ 3,206.  The subsidiary SQM Industrial S.A. recorded an impairment loss of ThUS$ 8,802, corresponding to its Sichuan SQM-Migao Chemical Fertilizer Co, Ltd, joint venture. The impairment is disclosed by netting the value of the aforementioned investment, in the caption “Equity method investments ".  During December 2018, the Company sold its shares in Minera Exar S.A. and generated a profit before taxes of ThUS$ 14,507. c) Operations conducted in 2017 On December 1, 2017, SQM Potasio S.A. recognized the goodwill value generated by the acquisition of 50% of the joint venture Minera Exar S.A. in the amount of ThUS$6,205. On October 6, 2017, a capital contribution of ThUS$13,300 was made in the mining entity EXAR S.A., which was 50% owned by the subsidiary SQM Potasio S.A. The functional currency of EXAR S.A. was the Argentine peso (ARS). This contribution had no impact on the Company's consolidated results. 9.3 Investment in joint ventures accounted for under the equity method of accounting Dividends received For the year For the year For the year Description of the nature Country of Share of interest ended December ended December ended December Joint venture of the relationship Domicile incorporation in ownership 31, 2019 31, 2018 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. Production and distribution of soluble fertilizers. Huangjing Road, Dawan Town, Qingbaijiang District, Chengdu Municipality, Sichuan Province China 50% - - - Coromandel SQM India Production and distribution of potassium nitrate. 1-2-10, Sardar Patel Road, Secunderabad – 500003 Andhra Pradesh India 50% - - - SQM Vitas Fzco. Production and commercialization of specialty plant and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene. Jebel ALI Free Zone P.O. Box 18222, Dubai United Arab Emirates 50% 10,598 - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Production and distribution of nutrient plant solutions with specialties NPK soluble. Longquan Town, Jimo City, Qingdao Municipality, Shangdong Province China 50% - - - SQM Vitas Holland Without information production of specialized fertilizers and other products for distribution in Italy and other countries. Herikerbergweg 238, 1101 CM Amsterdam Zuidoost Holland 50% - - - Pavoni & C. Spa products for distribution in Italy and other countries. Corso Italia 172, 95129 Catania (CT), Sicilia Italy 50% - - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. Development and operation of the Mt Holland Lithium project, which will include the construction of a lithium extraction and refining mine L18, 109 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000 |PO Box Z5200 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6831 Australia 50% - - - Total 10,598 - - The companies described in the following table are related to the following joint ventures: (1) SQM Vitas Fzco. (2) Pavoni & C Spa Dividends received Joint venture Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of incorporation Share of interest in ownership (*) For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene. Via Cndeias, Km. 01 Sem Numero, Lote 4, Bairro Cia Norte, Candeias, Bahia. Brazil 49.99% - - - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene Av. Juan de Arona 187, Torre B, Oficina 301-II, San Isidro, Lima Perú 50% - - - Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) Production of specialty fertilizers and others for distribution in Italy and other countries. Mantova (MN) Via Cremona 27 Int. 25 Italy 50.48% - - - Total - - - (*) The percentages presented correspond to the ownership used in the consolidation of the company. Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures ‎ accounted for using the equity method Joint Venture As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 1,992 1,992 11,444 (632 ) (650 ) (535 ) Coromandel SQM India 1,568 1,729 1,633 (98 ) 174 165 SQM Vitas Fzco. 9,111 20,202 19,478 1,797 1,781 1,502 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 3,464 3,168 2,980 296 188 361 SQM Vitas Holland 1,304 1,345 1,429 (15 ) (14 ) (18 ) Minera Exar S.A. (1) - - 33,065 - (206 ) (27 ) Pavoni & C. Spa 6,864 7,084 - 36 (39 ) - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 40 53 - - 36 - Total 24,343 35,573 70,029 1,384 1,270 1,448 Share on other comprehensive income of associates ‎ and joint ventures accounted for using the equity ‎ method, net of tax Share on total other comprehensive income of ‎ associates and joint ventures accounted for using ‎ the equity method Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. - - - (631 ) (650 ) (535 ) Coromandel SQM India (38 ) (159 ) - (136 ) 15 165 SQM Vitas Fzco. 437 (903 ) (5 ) 2,234 878 1,497 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. - - - 296 188 361 SQM Vitas Holland (27 ) (70 ) - (42 ) (84 ) (18 ) Minera Exar S.A. (1) - - - - (206 ) (27 ) Pavoni & C. Spa (255 ) 70 - (219 ) 31 - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. (13 ) - - (13 ) 36 - Total 104 (1,062 ) (5 ) 1,489 208 1,443 (1) Minera Exar S.A. was sold in December 2018, The amounts described in the following box represent numbers used in the consolidation of the company: Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures ‎ accounted for using the equity method Joint Venture As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) 5,347 5,915 11,003 564 1,439 1,753 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) 1,955 2,671 5,961 211 (275 ) (216 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. (2) - - 669 - - (1 ) Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) 92 62 - 31 (44 ) - Total 7,394 8,648 17,633 806 1,120 1,536 Share on other comprehensive income of associates ‎ and joint ventures accounted for using the equity ‎ method, net of tax Share on total other comprehensive income of ‎ associates and joint ventures accounted for using ‎ the equity method Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) (225 ) (792 ) (51 ) 338 647 826 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) 661 (112 ) - 872 (387 ) (108 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. (2) - - - - - (1 ) Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) (1 ) - - 30 (44 ) - Total 435 (904 ) (51 ) 1.240 216 717 The following companies are subsidiaries of: (1) SQM Vitas Fzco. (2) Pavoni & C. Spa 9.4 Assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses from joint ventures: As of and for the year ended December 31, 2019 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Joint Venture Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 28,668 5,129 13,472 - 7 (1,262 ) - (1,262 ) Coromandel SQM India 4,504 633 1,704 - 8,197 (197 ) (77 ) (274 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. 9,695 20,014 1,136 - 36 3,595 (876 ) 2,719 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 7,534 26 632 - 12,003 592 - 592 SQM Vitas Holland 2,609 - 2 - - (30 ) (53 ) (83 ) SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 46,118 7,299 40,334 - 87,901 1,128 (451 ) 677 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 29,452 8,378 24,855 6,044 28,590 421 1,322 1,743 Pavoni & C. Spa 9,444 7,074 8,466 735 14,296 71 (510 ) (439 ) Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 1,616 958 2,111 383 - - (25 ) (25 ) Total 139,640 49,511 92,712 7,162 151,030 4,318 (670 ) 3,648 As of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Joint Venture Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 28,577 5,913 12,902 - 16 (1,301 ) - (1,301 ) Coromandel SQM India 5,905 852 3,050 - 11,605 348 (318 ) 30 SQM Vitas Fzco. 30,430 17,592 2,678 - 16,583 3,561 (1,806 ) 1,755 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 7,754 114 1,533 - 13,004 377 - 377 SQM Vitas Holland 2,692 - 1 - - (28 ) (139 ) (167 ) SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 36,648 7,566 31,808 - 82,625 2,879 (1,585 ) 1,294 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 22,365 7,785 18,996 5,966 28,619 (550 ) (223 ) (773 ) Pavoni & C. Spa 10,062 6,490 8,098 698 15,461 (79 ) 140 61 Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 239 100 233 - - 106 - 106 Total 144,672 46,412 79,299 6,664 167,913 5,313 (3,931 ) 1,382 9.5 Other Joint Venture disclosures: Cash and cash equivalents Other current financial liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities Joint Venture As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 33 106 - - - - Coromandel SQM India 2,240 308 - - - - SQM Vitas Fzco. 3,071 19,312 - - - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 4,640 4,543 - - - - SQM Vitas Holland 2,609 2,692 - - - - SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 2,101 1,869 9,106 13,380 - - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 225 371 258 3,819 895 801 Pavoni & C. Spa 314 407 5,509 5,464 - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 693 156 472 - - - Total 15,926 29,764 15,345 22,663 895 801 Depreciation and amortization expense Interest expense Income tax benefit (expense) from ‎ continuing operations Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. (743 ) (948 ) (691 ) - (1 ) (433 ) 153 97 200 Coromandel SQM India (291 ) 445 - (4 ) (9 ) (49 ) (27 ) (38 ) (44 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. - (509 ) (717 ) (7 ) (8 ) (16 ) - - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. (62 ) (67 ) (64 ) - - (1 ) (241 ) (187 ) (195 ) SQM Vitas Holland - - - (1 ) - - - - (337 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. - - - - - (1 ) - - - SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (33 ) (408 ) (438 ) (1,176 ) (886 ) (2,127 ) 181 (117 ) - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (287 ) (347 ) (82 ) (435 ) (425 ) (323 ) (316 ) (230 ) (362 ) Pavoni & C. Spa (149 ) (542 ) - - (335 ) - (214 ) - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. (126 ) (16 ) - (32 ) (5 ) - - (46 ) - Total (1,691 ) (2,392 ) (1,992 ) (1,655 ) (1,669 ) (2,950 ) (464 ) (521 ) (738 ) 9.6 Joint Ventures In 2017, we continued to expand our operations outside Chile and, together with our subsidiary SQM Australia Pty, we entered into an agreement to acquire 50% of the assets of the Mount Holland lithium project in Western Australia. We entered into a 50/50 unincorporated joint operation with Kidman Resources Limited (“Kidman”), the Mt Holland Lithium Project, to design, construct and operate a mine, concentrator and refinery to produce approximately 45,000 metric tons of lithium hydroxide per year. Kidman retained the exclusive right to exploit gold within the project area. SQM Australia Pty committed to pay a price of US$ 70 million for the 50% of the Mt Holland assets, which was split into an initial payment of US$15 million and a deferred payment of US$ 55 million, both payments subject to certain conditions precedent. As agreed by the parties, US$ 40 million of a total of US$70 million paid to Kidman was provided directly to the project and SQM Australia paid an additional (i) US$ 10 million as part of the initial payment, and (ii) US$ 30 million once the deferred payment took place. An additional US$ 5 million for Kidman for resolution of legal disputes. All payments subject to conditions under the purchase agreement with Kidman were executed by December 2018 . This business met the conditions stipulated in IFRS 11 to be considered a "joint operation", since management has agreed that the rights of the related assets and liabilities relate to a joint arrangement, which states that the joint operators share all interests in the related assets and liabilities in specific proportions.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
DisclosureOfCashAndCashEquivalentsExplanatory [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	Note 10 Cash and cash equivalents 10.1 Types of cash and cash equivalents As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, cash and cash equivalents are detailed as follows: Cash As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Cash on hand 71 75 Cash in banks 105,141 101,662 Other demand deposits 6,986 746 Total cash 112,198 102,483 Cash equivalents As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents 149,099 187,666 Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents 327,233 265,917 Total cash equivalents 476, 332 453,583 Total cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066 10.2 Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the short-term investments classified as cash and cash equivalents relate to mutual funds (investment liquidity funds) for investments in: Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional Cash Reserves 181,155 132,108 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional 146,078 133,809 Total 327,233 265,917 Short-term investments are highly liquid mutual funds that are basically invested in short-term fixed rate notes in the U.S. market. 10.3 Information on cash and cash equivalents by currency As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, information on cash and cash equivalents by currency is detailed as follows: Original currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Chilean Peso (*) 8,240 157,500 US Dollar 558,572 353,674 Euro 3,131 4,738 Mexican Peso 2,103 1,242 South African Rand 3,929 5,219 Japanese Yen 1,559 1,786 Peruvian Sol 4 1 Indian rupee 6 - Chinese Yuan 2,484 2,305 D i - 1 Indonesian rupee 3 - Argentine Peso 3 2 Pound Sterling 3 - Australian dollar 8,492 29,598 Polish Z l ty 1 - Total 588,530 556,066 (*) The Company maintains financial derivative instruments policies which allow Management to convert term deposits denominated in pesos and UF to US dollars. 10.4 Amount restricted (unavailable) cash balances Cash on hand and cash in banks are available resources, and their carrying value is equal to their fair value. Financial assets pledged as collateral On November 4, 2004, Isapre Norte Grande has a guarantee equivalent to the total amount owed to its subsidiaries and medical suppliers, which is administered and maintained by Banco de Chile. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, pledged assets are as follows Restricted cash balances As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. 551 712 Total 551 712 10.5 Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents The detail at the end of each period is as follows: Receiver of the deposit Type of deposit Original currency Interest rate Placement date Maturity Principal Interest accrued As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-18-2019 02-13-2020 18,000 74 18,074 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.85 % 12-26-2019 02-20-2020 20,000 8 20,008 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-15-2019 01-23-2020 14,000 62 14,062 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.50 % 11-15-2019 01-09-2020 18,000 80 18,080 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-15-2019 01-16-2020 18,000 79 18,079 Banco Itau Chile Fixed term US$ 2.90 % 12-26-2019 02-20-2020 33,000 13 33,013 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term CLP$ 2.16 % 12-30-2019 08-08-2020 6,812 - 6,812 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.51 % 11-21-2019 01-28-2020 1,000 4 1,004 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.75 % 12-02-2019 02-27-2020 2,000 6 2,006 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.60 % 11-25-2019 01-28-2020 1,000 4 1,004 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 2.15 % 16-12-2019 01-06-2020 500 - 500 Banco Santander - Santiago Fixed term US$ 2.55 % 12-09-2019 02-04-2020 1,700 3 1,703 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 2.55 % 12-16-2019 01-06-2020 2,500 3 2,503 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.64 % 11-29-2019 02-13-2020 1,500 5 1,505 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 2.80 % 11-12-2019 01-28-2020 2,000 8 2,008 Banco Santander - Santiago Fixed term US$ 2.33 % 10-16-2019 01-12-2020 1,000 5 1,005 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 2.45 % 12-17-2019 01-13-2020 3,600 3 3,603 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.20 % 11-13-2019 01-30-2020 500 2 502 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.40 % 12-02-2019 02-27-2020 2,000 5 2,005 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-18-2019 01-30-2020 1,500 6 1,506 BBVA Banco Francés Fixed term US$ 39 % 12-26-2019 01-27-2020 52 1 53 Banco Itaú S.A. On demand US$ 8 % 10-17-2019 12-31-2019 64 - 64 148,728 371 149,099 Receiver of the deposit Type of deposit Original currency Interest rate Placement date Maturity date Principal Interest accrued As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 10-18-2018 01-16-2019 14,606 90 14,696 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 11-06-2018 01-09-2019 19,632 92 19,724 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 11-30-2018 01-03-2019 14,393 38 14,431 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 12-03-2018 01-03-2019 11,515 27 11,542 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-03-2018 01-03-2019 14,393 34 14,427 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-07-2018 01-09-2019 14,393 29 14,422 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-10-2018 01-09-2019 12,954 23 12,977 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.35 % 12-10-2018 01-09-2019 12,954 21 12,975 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.06 % 12-11-2018 01-11-2019 1,300 2 1,302 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 2.75 % 12-12-2018 01-15-2019 1,000 1 1,001 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-14-2018 01-09-2019 14,392 20 14,412 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.65 % 12-17-2018 01-17-2019 14,393 18 14,411 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.60 % 12-17-2018 01-17-2019 10,892 13 10,905 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.93 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,400 2 1,402 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.30 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,400 2 1,402 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.40 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 3,000 4 3,004 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.06 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,700 2 1,702 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 2.95 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,500 2 1,502 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.26 % 12-19-2018 01-31-2019 800 1 801 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.42 % 12-26-2018 02-26-2019 2,800 1 2,801 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.26 % 12-26-2018 02-26-2019 2,800 1 2,801 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-07-2019 1,439 1 1,440 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-14-2019 2,879 1 2,880 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-21-2019 1,439 1 1,440 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 3.15 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,000 1 2,001 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 3.15 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 600 - 600 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.16 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,000 1 2,001 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.53 % 12-28-2018 01-08-2019 1,000 - 1,000 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.08 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,500 1 2,501 Banco Santander- Santiago (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.20 % 12-28-2018 01-04-2019 432 - 432 BBVA Banco Francés Fixed term US$ - 12-31-2018 01-21-2019 81 3 84 Nedbank On demand US$ - 12-31-2018 01-01-2019 647 - 647 Total 187,234 432 187,666 (*) Corresponds to a monthly rate. 10.6 Net Debt reconciliation This section sets out an analysis of net debt and the movements in net debt for each of the periods presented. The definition of net debt is disclosed in Note 19.1. Net debt As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066 Other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Other non-current financial hedge assets 3,918 13,425 Other current financial liabilities (298,822 ) (23,585 ) Other non-current financial liabilities (1,518,926 ) (1,330,382 ) Total (719,810 ) (471,755 ) Adjustment to Monetary Non-monetary initial balances Hedging and As of December by adoption of Amounts from Amounts from Other cash non-hedging Exchange rate As of December Cash and cash equivalents 31, 2018 IFRS 16 loans interest income/expenses instruments differences Other 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Obligations with the public and bank loans (1,333,793 ) - (442,465 ) 65,754 6,816 - 20,839 (70,179 ) (1,753,028 ) Current and non-current lease liabilities - (45,115 ) 7,221 1,537 - - - (1,540 ) (37,897 ) Financial instruments derived from hedging (17,318 ) - (439 ) 5,209 - (12,014 ) - 907 (23,655 ) Financial instruments derived from non-hedging (2,856 ) - - - - (313 ) - - (3,169 ) Subtotal (1,353,967 ) (45,115 ) (435,683 ) 72,500 6,816 (12,327 ) 20,839 (70,812 ) (1,817,749 ) Cash and cash equivalents 556,066 - - - 47,396 - (14,932 ) - 588,530 Deposits that do not qualify as cash and cash equivalents 291,790 - - (25,809 ) 224,499 - (31,080 ) 26,289 485,689 Derivatives from hedge assets 31,663 - - - (34,434 ) 23,034 - 925 21,188 Derivatives from other financial non-hedge assets 2,693 - - - (1,403 ) 1,242 - - 2,532 Total (471,755 ) (45,115 ) (435,683 ) 46,691 242,874 11,949 (25,173 ) (43,598 ) (719,810 )

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Inventories Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of inventories [text block]	Note 11 Inventories The composition of inventory at each period-end is as follows: Type of inventory As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw material 7,287 6,764 Supplies for production 26,064 26,840 Products-in-progress 457,563 423,621 Finished product 492,424 456,449 Total 983,338 913,674 As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company held caliche stockpiles, solutions in solar ponds and intermediary salts amounting ThUS$ 393,600 and ThUS$ 347,100, respectively (including products in progress). As of December 31, 2019, bulk inventories recognized as part of products-in-progress and finished product amounted to US$ 104,295 and US$ 204,686, respectively. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, inventory allowances recognized, amounted to ThUS$ 88,174 and ThUS$ 105,282, respectively. For finished and in-process products, recognized allowances include the provision associated with the lower value of stock (considers lower realizable value, uncertain future use, reprocessing costs of off-specification products, etc.), provision for inventory differences and the provision for potential errors in the determination of inventories (e.g., errors in topography, grade, porosity, etc.), (see Note 3.13). For raw materials, supplies, materials and parts, the lower value provision was associated to the proportion of obsolete, defective or slow-moving materials and potential differences. The breakdown of inventory allowances is detailed as follows: Type of inventory As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw material and supplies for production 2,488 1,838 Products-in-progress 71,468 82,673 Finished product 14,218 20,771 Total 88,174 105,282 The Company has not pledged inventory as collateral for the periods indicated above. As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, movements in provisions are detailed as follows: Conciliation As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 As of December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Beginning balance 105,282 96,284 81,295 Increase (decrease) in lower value provision (1) (6,987 ) 7,845 19,515 Increase (decrease) in provision relating to differences of inventory (2) (123 ) 3,176 573 Increase / decrease in provision relating to eventual differences and others (3) (6,262 ) 2,436 (178 ) Provision used (3,736 ) (4,459 ) (4,921 ) Total changes (17,108 ) 8,998 14,989 Final balance 88,174 105,282 96,284 (1) There are three types of Lower Value Provisions: (a) Economic Realizable Lower Value, (b) Potential Inventory with Uncertain Future Use and (c) Reprocessing Costs of Off-Specification Products. (2) Provisions for Inventory Differences generated when physical differences are detected when taking inventory, which exceed the tolerance levels for this process, At least two annual inventories are taken in the production sites and in the port in Chile (“zero sum” systems have immediate potential adjustments). (3) This algorithm corresponds to the provision of diverse percentages based on the complexity in the measurement and rotation of stock, as well as standard differences based on previous results, as is the case with provisions relating to Commercial Offices.

Related party disclosures

Related party disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Related Party Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of related party [text block]	Note 12 Related party disclosures 12.1 Related party disclosures Balances pending at period-end are not guaranteed, accrue no interest and are settled in cash. No guarantees have been delivered or received for trade and other receivables due from related parties or trade and other payables due to related parties. 12.2 Relationships between the parent and the entity Pursuant to Article 99 of Law of the Securities Market Law, the CMF may determine that a company does not have a controlling entity in accordance with the distribution and dispersion of its ownership, On November 30, 2018, the CMF issued the ordinary letter No. 32,131 whereby it determined that Pampa Group, do not exert decisive power over the management of the Company since it does not have a predominance in the ownership that allows it to make management decisions. Therefore, the CMF has determined not to consider Grupo Pampa as the controlling entity of the Company and that the Company does not have a controlling entity given its current ownership structure. 12.3 Detailed identification of related parties and subsidiaries As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail of entities that are identified as subsidiaries or related parties of the Company is as follows: Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Nature Foreign Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. Brazil US$ Subsidiary Foreign Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. United Kingdom US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM North America Corp. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Europe N.V. Belgium US$ Subsidiary Foreign Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina Argentina US$ Subsidiary Foreign Soquimich European Holding B.V. Holland US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQI Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Comercial De México S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign North American Trading Company United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign Administración y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Perú S.A. Perú US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Ecuador S.A. Ecuador US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Investment Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM France S.A. France US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Japan Co. Ltd. Japan US$ Subsidiary Foreign Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Oceania Pty Limited Australia US$ Subsidiary Foreign Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Indonesia S.A. Indonesia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Virginia L.L.C. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Italia SRL Italy US$ Subsidiary Foreign Comercial Caimán Internacional S.A. Panama US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM África Pty. Ltd. South Africa US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Colombia SAS Colombia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Internacional N.V. Belgium US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. China US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Lithium Specialties LLC United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Iberian S.A. Spain US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. China US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Thailand Limited Thailand US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Australia PTY Australia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SACAL S.A. (1) Argentina Ars Subsidiary 96.801.610-5 Comercial Hydro S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.651.060-9 SQM Potasio S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.592.190-7 SQM Nitratos S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.592.180-K Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 86.630.200-6 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (2) Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.947.100-0 SQM Industrial S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.906.120-1 Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 79.876.080-7 Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 79.770.780-5 Servicios Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.768.170-9 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.626.800-K SQM Salar S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 78.053.910-0 Proinsa Ltda. (3) Chile Ch$ Subsidiary Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Nature 76.534.490-5 Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 76.425.380-9 Exploraciones Mineras S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.064.419-6 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. Chile Peso Subsidiary 76.145.229-0 Agrorama S.A. Chile Peso Subsidiary 76.359.919-1 Orcoma Estudios SPA Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.360.575-2 Orcoma SPA Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.686.311-9 SQM MaG SpA Chile US$ Subsidiary Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates dirham Associate Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Turkey US$ Associate Foreign Ajay North America United States of America US$ Associate Foreign Ajay Europe SARL France Euro Associate Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Turkey Euro Associate Foreign Kore Potash PLC United Kingdom US$ Associate Foreign Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. China US$ Joint venture Foreign Coromandel SQM India India Indian rupee Joint venture Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco. United Arab Emirates dirham United Arab Emirates dirham Joint venture Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. China US$ Joint venture Foreign SQM Vitas Holland B.V. Holland Euro Joint venture Foreign Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. Australia Australian dollar Joint venture Foreign Pavoni & C. SPA Italy Euro Joint venture 96.511.530-7 Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera Chile US$ Other related parties 96.529.340-K Norte Grande S.A. Chile Peso Other related parties 79.049.778-9 Callegari Agrícola S.A. Chile Peso Other related parties Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (4) Brazil Brazilian Real Other related parties Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (4) Peru US$ Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa B.V. (5) Holland Euro Other related parties Foreign Plantacote N.V. (5) Belgium Euro Other related parties Foreign Doktolab Tarim Arastima San. Tic As (5) Turkey Turkish Lira Other related parties Foreign Doctochem Tarim Sanayai Ticaret LTD (5) Turkey Turkish Lira Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC (5) Ukraine Ukrainian Grivna Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC (5) Russian Federation Russian Ruble Other related parties Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL (6) Oman Arab Emirates dirham Other related parties Foreign International Technical and Trading Agencies CO WLL (6) Jordan Arab Emirates dirham Other related parties Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L (7) Italy Euro Other related parties (1) On 06/26/2019, SACAL S.A. was liquidated. (2) On March 1, 2019, Soquimich Comercial S.A. has obtained ownership of 100% of corporate rights in SQMC International Ltda. (3) On 04/01/2019 the company Proinsa Ltda was liquidated. (4) These entities are subsidiaries of the joint venture SQM Vitas Fzco. (5) These entities are subsidiaries of the associate Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS. (6) These entities are subsidiaries of the joint venture Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL (7) These Companies are subsidiaries of the joint venture Pavoni & C. SPA. The following other related parties correspond to mining contractual corporations. Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Relationship N/A Ara Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Tres Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Cuatro Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Cinco Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Curicó Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Curicó Tres Primera del Sector de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Evelyn Veinticuatro Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Filomena Tres Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Filomena Cuatro Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Primera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Tercera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Cuarta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Quinta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Tercera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Décima Segunda de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Sexta de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Julia Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Lorena Trigésimo Quinta de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Perseverancia Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara 40 Primera del Sector S.E. OF. Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara Tercera de Oficina Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara 40 Segunda del Sector S.E. OF Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties 12.4 Detail of related parties and related party transactions Transactions between the Parent and its subsidiaries, associated businesses, joint ventures and other related parties are part of the Company's common transactions. Their conditions are those customary for this type of transactions in respect of terms and market prices. Maturity terms for each case vary by virtue of the transaction giving rise to them. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the detail of significant transactions with related parties is as follows Tax ID No. Company Nature Country of origin Transaction For the year For the year For the year ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Associate Turkey Sale of products 14,767 16,726 17,538 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France Sale of products 21,348 19,470 15,706 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France Dividends 1,055 811 969 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America Sale of products 16,932 16,810 13,206 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America Dividends 2,796 2,807 1,123 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate Arab Emirates Sale of products 3,749 5,811 4,351 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate Arab Emirates Dividends - 6,632 Foreign Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd. (1) Associate Thailand Sale of products - 4,960 5,102 Foreign Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd. (1) Associate Thailand Dividends - 362 Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria Other related parties Brazil Sale of products 46,876 44,827 31,137 Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. Other related parties Perú Sale of products 24,138 17,204 23,058 Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco Joint venture Arab Emirates Dividends 10,598 - 85 Foreign Coromandel SQM India Joint venture India Sale of products 3,955 7,696 8,011 Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Joint venture China Sale of products 1,929 - 200 Foreign Minera Exar S.A. (2) Joint venture Argentina Loans - - 11,000 Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC Other related parties Ukraine Sale of products 1,280 1,674 1,218 Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC Other related parties Russian Federation Sale of products 40 187 423 Foreign Plantacote NV Other related parties Belgium Sale of products 4,096 4,554 2,108 Foreign Pavoni & C. SpA Joint venture Italy Sale of products 3,152 201 - Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Associate Turkey Sale of products 47 30 - Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L. Other related parties Italy Sale of products 2,359 207 - Foreign Kowa Compay Ltd. Other related parties Japan Sale of products - - 132,495 Foreign Fertilizers Co Ltd. Joint venture China Sale of services - - 252 79.049.778-9 Callegari Agricola S.A. Other related parties Chile Sale of products - - 210 77.557.430-5 Sales de Magnesio Ltda. Associate Chile Sale of products - - 45 Total 159,117 150,969 268,237 (1) During November 2018, shares held in Charlee SQM Thailand were sold. (2) During December 2018, shares held in Minera Exar S.A. were sold. (3) From December 31, 2018 then on, Kowa Company Ltd. is not considered a related party. 12.5 Trade receivables due from related parties, current: Tax ID No Company Nature Country of origin As of December As of December ThUS$ ThUS$ Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Associate Turkey 110 6,497 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France 3,712 3,756 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America 2,290 2,080 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate United Arab Emirates 803 857 96.511.530-7 Soc. de Inversiones Pampa Calichera Other related parties Chile 6 6 Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria Other related parties Brazil 27,275 15,818 Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. Other related parties Peru 23,475 12,767 Foreign Coromandel SQM India Joint venture India 1,792 2,025 Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco Joint venture United Arab Emirates 234 105 Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Joint venture China - 248 Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC Other related parties Ukraine 7 - Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC Other related parties Russian Federation 13 41 Foreign Plantacote NV Other related parties Belgium 657 312 Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Associate Turkey 47 30 Foreign Pavoni & C. SpA Joint venture Italy 1,028 12 Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L. Other related parties Italy 134 - Allowance (356) (1,764) Total 61,227 42,790 The receivables for Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. are presented net of allowances ThUS$ 10,965 and ThUS$ 10,965 as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively). 12.6 Trade payables due to related parties, current: Tax ID No Company Nature Country of origin Currency As of December As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. Joint venture China USD 243 - Foreign Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd Joint venture Australia Australian dollar 232 9 Total 475 9

Financial instruments

Financial instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Financials instruments [Abstract]
Disclosure of financial instruments [text block]	Note 13 Financial instruments Financial instruments recognized in accordance with IFRS 9 are detailed as follows, except for liabilities recognized under IFRS 16 disclosed in Note 14.4 f): 13.1 Types of other financial assets Description of other financial assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Financial assets at amortized cost (1) 485,689 291,790 Derivative financial instruments - For hedging 17,270 18,238 - Non-hedging (2) 2,531 2,693 Total other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 4,785 3,631 Derivative financial instruments - For hedging 3,918 13,425 Financial assets at amortized cost 75 75 Total other non-current financial assets 8,778 17,131 Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Banco de Crédito e Inversiones 185,400 145,834 Banco Santander (3) 74,365 23,124 Banco Itaú CorpBanca 120,628 70,719 Banco Security 17,964 27,215 Banco de Chile 18,026 - Banco Estado 15,126 - Scotiabank Sud Americano 54,180 24,898 Total 485,689 291,790 (1) Corresponds to term deposits whose maturity date is greater than 90 days and less than 360 days from the investment date constituted in the aforementioned financial institutions. (2) Correspond to forwards and options that were not classified as hedging instruments (See detail in Note 14.3). (3) This balance includes ThUS$ 1,870 corresponding to margin calls, which are considered as collateral guarantees. 13.2 Trade and other receivables As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Trade and other receivables Currents Non-current Total Currents Non-current Total ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Trade receivables, current 367,583 - 367,583 430,914 - 430,914 Prepayments, current 20,309 - 20,309 16,147 - 16,147 Other receivables, current 11,250 1,710 12,960 19,558 2,275 21,833 Total trade and other receivables 399,142 1,710 400,852 466,619 2,275 468,894 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Trade and other receivablaes Assets before ‎ allowances Allowance for ‎ doubtful trade ‎ receivables Assets for trade ‎ receivables, net Assets before ‎ allowances Allowance for ‎ doubtful trade ‎ receivables Assets for trade ‎ receivables, net ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Receivables related to credit operations. current 383,775 (16,192 ) 367,583 445,670 (14,756 ) 430,914 Trade receivables, current 383,775 (16,192 ) 367,583 445,670 (14,756 ) 430,914 Prepayments, current 21,092 (783 ) 20,309 16,990 (843 ) 16,147 Other receivables, current 15,659 (4,409 ) 11,250 23,863 (4,305 ) 19,558 Current other receivables 36,751 (5,192 ) 31,559 40,853 (5,148 ) 35,705 Other receivables. non-current 1,710 - 1,710 2,275 - 2,275 Non-current receivables 1,710 - 1,710 2,275 - 2,275 Total trade and other receivables 422,236 (21,384 ) 400,852 488,798 (19,904 ) 468,894 (a) Portfolio stratification The Company’s policy is to require guarantees (such as letters of credit, guarantee clauses and others) and/or maintaining insurance policies for certain account receivables as deemed necessary by management. (b) Uncollateralized portfolio As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 the detail of the uncollateralized portfolio is as follows: As of December 31, 2019 Total uncollateralized portfolio Past due segments Number of customers with non- ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross non-renegotiated portfolio ThUS$ Number of customers with ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross renegotiated portfolio ‎ ThUS$ Current 1,486 351,931 69 892 1 - 30 days 166 20,195 72 526 31 - 60 days 26 1,279 4 10 61 - 90 days 12 519 3 54 91 - 120 days 5 1,026 2 66 121 - 150 days 5 361 7 49 151 - 180 days 7 190 2 33 181 - 210 days 4 51 - - 211 - 250 days 6 48 8 11 >250 days 144 5,449 137 1,085 Total 1,861 381,049 304 2,726 As of December 31, 2018 Total uncollateralized portfolio Past due segments Number of customers with non-renegotiated portfolio Gross non-renegotiated ‎ portfolio ThUS$ Number of customers with ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross renegotiated portfolio ‎ ThUS$ Current 1,390 404,670 136 668 1 - 30 days 1,229 19,422 390 596 31 - 60 days 801 5,705 154 118 61 - 90 days 648 2,279 41 75 91 - 120 days 489 1,220 27 47 121 - 150 days 80 423 16 29 151 - 180 days 43 186 21 176 181 - 210 days 7 1,291 41 231 211 - 250 days 7 108 101 242 >250 days 140 7,036 305 1,148 Total 4,834 442,340 1,232 3,330 (c) Allowance for doubtful accounts: As of December 31, 2019 Trade receivables due Trade accounts receivable days past due from related Trade and other receivables Current 1 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days Over 90 days Trade parties ThUS $ ThUS $ Expected loss rate 1 % 18 % 34 % 44 % 78 % - - Total gross carrying amount 352,823 20,721 1,288 573 8,370 383,775 72,859 Impairment estimate 5,285 3,664 440 251 6,552 16,192 11,323 As of December 31, 2018 Trade receivables due Trade accounts receivable days past due from related Trade and other receivables Current 1 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days Over 90 days Trade parties ThUS $ ThUS $ Expected loss rate 1 % 9 % 5 % 4 % 65 % - - Total gross carrying amount 408,300 20,018 2,861 2,354 12,137 445,670 55,520 Allowance for doubtful accounts 4,811 1,858 146 89 7,852 14,756 12,730 As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the reconciliation of the allowance is as follows : Provisions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS $ ThUS $ Allowance for doubtful accounts at the beginning of the Period 32,634 34,936 Adjustment to initial balance derived from the adoption of IFRS 9 - 2,301 Increase / (decrease) of impairment provision 1,057 (2,967 ) Provision used (984 ) (1,636 ) Allowance for doubtful accounts at the end of the year 32,707 32,634 (1) Trade and Other Receivables allowance current 16,192 14,756 (2) Other receivables allowance current 5,192 5,148 (3) Related party receivables allowance current 11,323 12,730 Recovery of Insurance 320 827 Total allowance for doubtful accounts 32,707 32,634 Renegotiated allowance 1,905 2,056 Non-renegotiated allowance 30,802 30,578 13.3 Hedging assets and liabilities The balance represents derivative financial instruments measured at fair value which have been classified as hedges for exchange and interest rate risks relating to the total obligations with the public associated with bonds in UF and investments in Chilean pesos. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the notional amount of cash flows agreed upon in US dollars of the cross-currency swap contracts amounted to ThUS$ 435,167 and ThUS$ 461,659, respectively. ThUS$ Assets / (Liabilities) ‎ Derivative financial ‎ instruments Total Realized Hedging Reserve in Gross ‎ Equity Hedging of underlying debt at December 31, 2019 Hedging Assets 3,918 (4,194 ) 8,112 Hedging Liabilities (22,771 ) (25,363 ) 2,592 Hedge of underlying Debt (18,853 ) (29,557 ) 10,704 Hedge of underlying investment at December 31, 2019 Hedging Assets 17,270 17,857 (587 ) Hedging Liabilities (889 ) (711 ) (178 ) Hedge of underlying investments 16,381 17,146 (765 ) ThUS$ Assets / (Liabilities) ‎ Derivative financial ‎ instruments Total Realized Hedging Reserve in Gross ‎ Equity Hedge of underlying debt at December 31, 2018 Hedging Assets 13,425 5,244 8,181 Hedging Liabilities (17,318 ) (18,859 ) 1,541 Hedge of underlying debt (3,893 ) (13,615 ) 9,722 Hedge of underlying investment at December 31, 2018 Hedging Assets 18,146 19,911 (1,765 ) Hedge of Underlying Investments 18,146 19,911 (1,765 ) Hedging effect in profit and loss and equity for the year ended Total variation Profit and loss Hedging reserve due to Analysis effect by type of hedging Hedge of underlying debt (14,960 ) (15,942 ) 982 Hedge of underlying investments (1,765 ) (2,765 ) 1,000 Total hedging effect on profit or loss and equity for the year (16,725 ) (18,707 ) 1,982 Analysis Effect by type of asset Hedging in Current and Non-Current Assets (10,383 ) (11,492 ) 1,109 Hedging in Current and Non-Current Liabilities (6,342 ) (7,215 ) 873 Total hedging effect in Profit or Loss and Shareholders' Equity for the year (16,725 ) (18,707 ) 1,982 The balances in the “total realized” column consider the intermediate effects of the contracts in force from January 1 to December 31, 2019 and from January 1 to December 31, 2018. Hedging derivative contract maturities are detailed as follows: Series Contract amount Currency Maturity date ThUS$ H 148,159 UF 01-04-2023 O 58,748 UF 02-01-2022 P 134,228 UF 01-15-2028 The Company uses cross currency swap derivative instruments to hedge the possible financial risk associated with the volatility of the exchange rate associated with Chilean pesos and UF. The objective is to hedge the exchange rate financial risks associated with bonds payable. Hedges are documented and tested to measure their effectiveness. Based on a comparison of critical terms, hedging is highly effective, given that the hedged amount is consistent with obligations maintained for bonds denominated in UF. Likewise, hedging contracts are denominated in the same currencies and have the same maturity dates of bond principal and interest payments. Effectiveness Effectiveness tests have verified that hedges are effective as of the reporting date. This note describes the fair values of derivative instruments classified as hedges. 13.4 Financial liabilities Other current and non-current financial liabilities As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail is as follows: As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Other current and non-current financial ‎ liabilities Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Liabilities at amortized cost Bank borrowings 199 69,138 69,337 300 68,870 69,170 Unsecured obligations 280,578 1,403,108 1,683,686 15,145 1,249,479 1,264,624 Derivative financial instruments For hedging 7,183 16,477 23,660 5,285 12,033 17,318 Non-hedging liabilities 3,168 - 3,168 2,855 - 2,855 Lease liabilities 7,694 30,203 37,897 - - - Total 298,822 1,518,926 1,817,748 23,585 1,330,382 1,353,967 Current and non-current bank borrowings As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail is as follows: Current and non-current bank borrowings As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current bank borrowings 199 300 Non-current bank borrowings 69,138 68,870 Current and non-current bank 69,337 69,170 a) Bank borrowings, current: As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the detail of this caption is as follows: Currency or Debtor Creditor adjustment Tax ID No Company Country Tax ID No Financial institution Country index Repayment maturity Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA US$ Upon maturity 05-29-2023 2.11 % 3.01 % Foreign Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim. Brazil Foreign Banco Itau Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 12-31-2019 13.57 % 4.25 % Debtor Creditor Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2019 Current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Financial institution Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Borrowing ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - - - 187 187 - 187 Nitratos Naturais do Chile Banco Itau Brasil - - - 12 - 12 - 12 Total - - - 12 187 199 - 199 Currency or Debtor Creditor adjustment Tax ID No Company Country Tax ID No Financial institution Country index Repayment maturity Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA US$ Upon maturity 05-29-2023 3.60 % 3.98 % Foreign Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim Brazil Foreign Banco ITAU Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 01-31-2019 5.17 % 5.17 % Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil Foreign Banco ITAU Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 01-31-2019 5.5 % 5.5 % Debtor Creditor Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2018 Current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Company Financial institution Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Borrowing ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - - - 248 248 - 248 Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim Banco ITAU Brasil - - - 11 - 11 - 11 SQM Brasil Limitada Banco ITAU Brasil - - - 41 - 41 - 41 Total - - - 52 248 300 - 300 b) Unsecured obligations, current: As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail of current unsecured interest-bearing obligations is composed of promissory notes and bonds is as follows: Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 0.43 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 2.35 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 1.42 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$450 05-07-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.07 % 4.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2020 UF Semiannual Semiannual 1.36 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.41 % 3.80 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.71 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.11 % 3.45 % Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2019 Current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Country Series Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 - 252,674 252,674 - 252,674 252,674 (386 ) 252,288 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 4,648 - 4,648 4,648 - 4,648 (433 ) 4,215 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$300 - 2,658 2,658 - 2,658 2,658 (614 ) 2,044 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$450 - 2,869 2,869 - 2,869 2,869 (679 ) 2,190 SQM S.A. Chile H 17,166 - 17,166 17,166 - 17,166 (139 ) 17,027 SQM S.A. Chile O 890 - 890 890 - 890 (67 ) 823 SQM S.A. Chile P 1,686 - 1,686 1,686 - 1,686 (12 ) 1,674 SQM S.A. Chile Q - 323 323 - 323 323 (6 ) 317 Total 24,390 258,524 282,914 24,390 258,524 282,914 (2,336 ) 280,578 Effective rates of bonds in Chilean pesos and UF are expressed and calculated in U.S. dollars based on the flows agreed in Cross Currency Swap Agreements. Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 0.95 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 2.75 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 1.77 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2019 UF Semiannual Semiannual 1.90 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.60 % 3.80 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.07 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.34 % 3.45 % Nominal maturities as of December 31, 2018 Current maturities as of December 31, 2018 Company Country Series Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 2,674 - 2,674 2,674 - 2,674 (386 ) 2,288 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 - 4,648 4,648 - 4,648 4,648 (433 ) 4,215 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$300 2,658 - 2,658 2,658 - 2,658 (614 ) 2,044 SQM S.A. Chile H - 3,756 3,756 - 3,756 3,756 (139 ) 3,617 SQM S.A. Chile O - 934 934 - 934 934 (67 ) 867 SQM S.A. Chile P - 1,784 1,784 - 1,784 1,784 (12 ) 1,772 SQM S.A. Chile Q 342 - 342 342 - 342 - 342 Total 5,674 11,122 16,796 5,674 11,122 16,796 (1,651 ) 15,145 Effective rates of bonds in Chilean pesos and UF are expressed and calculated in U.S. dollars based on the flows agreed in Cross Currency Swap Agreements. c) Bank borrowings, non-current The following table shows the details of bank loans that accrue non-current interest as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Debtor Creditor Currency or Type of Tax ID No. Company Country Tax ID No. Financial institution Country adjustment index amortization Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA USD Maturity 2.84 % 3.01 % Debtor Creditor Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Financial institution Between ‎ 1 and 2 Between ‎ 2 and 3 Between ‎ 3 and 4 Total Between ‎ 1 and 2 Between ‎ 2 and 3 Between ‎ 3 and 4 Subtotal Costs of ‎ obtaining ‎ loans Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (862 ) 69,138 Total - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (862 ) 69,138 Debtor Creditor Currency or Type of Tax ID No. Company Country Tax ID No. Financial institution Country adjustment index amortization Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA USD Maturity 3.98 % 3.98 % Debtor Creditor Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Company Financial institution Between Between Between Total Between Between Between Subtotal Costs of Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (1,130 ) 68,870 Total - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (1,130 ) 68,870 d) Non-current unsecured interest-bearing bonds The following table shows the details of bank loans that accrue non-current interest as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2025 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.08 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2023 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 3.43 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$450 05-07-2029 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.19 % 4.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2030 UF Semiannual Semiannual 4.78 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2033 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.70 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2028 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.24 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2038 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.45 % 3.45 % Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Series Over 1 Over 2 Over 3 Over 4 Over 5 Total Over 1 Over 2 Over 3 Over 4 Over 5 Subtotal Bond Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ MUS$250 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 (1,514 ) 248,486 MUS$300 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 (1,393 ) 298,607 MUS$450 - - - 450,000 450,000 - - - - 450,000 450,000 (5,923 ) 444,077 H 13,749 13,749 13,749 13,749 75,621 130,617 13,749 13,749 13,749 13,749 75,621 130,617 (1,253 ) 129,364 O - - - - 56,715 56,715 - - - - 56,715 56,715 (811 ) 55,904 P - - - - 113,430 113,430 - - - - 113,430 113,430 (89 ) 113,341 Q - - - - 113,430 113,430 - - - - 113,430 113,430 (101 ) 113,329 Total 13,749 13,749 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,414,192 13,749 13,749 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,414,192 (11,084 ) 1,403,108 Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repaymen Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 5.50 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2025 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.38 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2023 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 3.63 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2030 UF Semiannual Semiannual 4.90 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2033 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.80 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2028 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.25 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2038 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.45 % 3.45 % Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Series Over 1 ‎ year to 2 Over 2 ‎ years to 3 Over 3 ‎ Years to 4 Over 4 ‎ Years to 5 Over 5 ‎ years Total Over 1 ‎ year to 2 Over 2 ‎ years to 3 Over 3 ‎ Years to 4 Over 4 ‎ Years to 5 Over 5 ‎ years Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ MUS$250 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 (131 ) 249,869 MUS$250 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 (2,202 ) 247,798 MUS$300 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 (2,006 ) 297,994 H 14,428 14,428 14,428 14,428 100,992 158,704 14,428 14,428 14,428 14,428 100,992 158,704 (1,392 ) 157,312 O - - - - 59,514 59,514 - - - - 59,514 59,514 (878 ) 58,636 P - - - - 119,028 119,028 - - - - 119,028 119,028 (101 ) 118,927 Q - - - - 119,028 119,028 - - - - 119,028 119,028 (85 ) 118,943 Total 264,428 14,428 314,428 14,428 648,562 1,256,274 264,428 14,428 314,428 14,428 648,562 1,256,274 (6,795 ) 1,249,479 e) Additional information Bonds As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the details of each issuance are as follows: (i) Serie “H” bonds On January 13, 2009, the Company placed the Series H bond for UF 4,000,000 (ThUS$139,216) at an annual interest rate of 4.9%, with a term of 21 years and amortizations of principal beginning in 2019. On July 5, 2019, amortization of principal amounted to UF 181,818.18, (ThUS$ 7.494) with an associated cross currency swap hedge income of ThUS$ 439. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 , the Company made the following payments relating to the Series H bonds: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payments of interest, Series H bonds 7,868 8,325 7,691 Hedge 1,952 495 - (ii) Single series bonds, second issue ThUS$ 250,000 On April 21, 2010, the Company informed the CMF of its placement in international markets of an unsecured bond of ThUS$ 250,000 with a maturity of 10 years beginning on the aforementioned date with an annual interest rate of 5.5% and destined to refinance long-term liabilities. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the detail of payments charged to this line of single series bonds, second issue is as follows: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Interest payment 13,750 13,750 13,750 (iii) Series “O” bonds On April 4, 2012, the Company issued “Series O” for UF 1,500,000 (ThUS$ 69,901) at a term of 21 years with a single payment at the maturity of the term and annual interest rate of 3.80%. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company made the following payments relating to Series O bonds and their associated hedging: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest, Series O bonds 2,308 2,457 2,301 Hedge 354 205 - (iv) Single series bonds, third issue MUS$ 300 On April 3, 2013, the Company issued a non-secured bond in the United States with a value of US$ 300 million. The bond is for a 10-year term with an annual coupon rate of 3.625%. The funds raised were used to refinance long term liabilities and finance general corporate objectives. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the following payments have been made with a debit to the line of single-series bonds, third issue: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 10,875 10,875 10,875 (v) Single series bonds, fourth issuance ThUS $250,000 On October 23, 2014, the Company informed the CMF the issuance and placement of unsecured bonds amounting ThUS$ 250,000 in international markets. These bonds mature in 2025 and have annual interest rate of 4.375%, which were offered to investors at a price of 99.410% with respect to capital. The aforementioned agreement was performed in conformity with the provisions of Rule 144A of the US Securities Act of 1933 and these bonds were publicly offered in Chile. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the following payments have been made. Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 10,938 10,938 10,938 (vi) Series “P” bonds On April 5, 2018, the Company informed the CMF that on March 29, 2018, it was authorized the placement on the stock market of the Series “P” bond with a value of UF 3,000,000, with a charge to the 10 year Bonds Line registered in the CMF Securities Registry under number 563. The bonds Series P (i) mature on January 15, 2028; (ii) will accrue on the unpaid principal, expressed in UF, at an annual interest rate of 3.25% from January 15, 2018; and (iii) can be early redeemed by the Company starting from the date of placement, that was, as of April 5, 2018. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the following payments and their associated CCS have been made: Payments made For the year ended ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 3,960 1,085 - CCS Coverage 2,995 1,421 - (vii) Series Q bonds On October 31, 2018, the issuance of Series Q bonds (the "Bonds" Series Q) was authorized in the general stock market for the amount of UF 3,000,000, which were registered in the Securities Registry of your Commission on February 14, 2012 under number 700. The bonds Series Q (i) mature on the first day of June 2038; (ii) will earn an interest rate of 3.45% per annum on the outstanding capital, expressed in UF, from June 1, 2018 thereon; and (iii) may be early redeemed by the Company starting from the placement date, that was, as of November 8, 2018. On November 8, 2018, all the Series Q Bonds have been placed and sold to Euroamerica S.A. for a total amount of $ 83,567,623,842, which was paid in full and in cash by Euroamerica S.A. to the Company. The funds obtained from the aforementioned placement will be used approximately 90% to finance the expansion program of lithium, potassium nitrate and iodine plants in Chile; the remainder will be used for the investment plan of the Company and its subsidiaries, and to finance working capital. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the following payments have been made: Payments made For the year ended ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 3,791 319 - (viii) Single series fifth issue bonds ThUS$ 450,000 On May 7, 2019 the CMF was informed that the Company issued and placed unsecured bonds for ThUS$ 450,000 on international markets. Essentially, these bonds will mature in 2029, carry an interest rate of 4.25% per annum, and were offered to investors at a price of 99.984% with respect to the capital. This agreement was signed on May 7, 2019 and the bonds were issued and placed in accordance with the provisions of Rule 144A of the US Securities Act of 1933 and they will not be traded in Chile. For the year ended December 31, 2019, the following payments have been made: Payments made For the year ended ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 9,563 - - f) Current and non-current lease liabilities Current Non-Current Balance as of Associated leasing Up to 1 ‎ month 1 to 3 ‎ months 3 to 12 ‎ months Total 1 to 5 ‎ years 5 or more ‎ years Total December 31, ‎ 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Buildings 262 795 1,830 2,887 13,507 9,792 23,299 26,186 Transport equipment 70 211 571 852 2,530 - 2,530 3,382 Machinery, plant and equipment 327 993 2,635 3,955 3,993 381 4,374 8,329 Total 659 1,999 5,036 7,694 20,030 10,173 30,203 37,897 As of December 31, Adoption of Monetary Non- Monetary Balance as of Changes in Lease Liabilities 2018 IFRS 16 Principal l paid Interest paid Interest accrued December 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Buildings - 29,289 (3,101 ) (840 ) 838 26,186 Machinery, plant and equipment - 11,933 (3,605 ) (635 ) 636 8,329 Transport equipment - 3,893 (515 ) (62 ) 66 3,382 Total - 45,115 (7,221 ) (1,537 ) 1,540 37,897 The weighted average of the incremental lease loan rate applied to lease liabilities recognized in the statement of financial position as of December 31, 2019 is 8.08%. Operating lease expenses Total lease expenses relating to lease payments under 1 year, low-value leases and variable payments amounted to ThUS$ 51,756 for the year ended December 31, 2019. See Note 24.8. 13.5 Trade and other payables a) Details trade and other payables As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Details trade and Other payables Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Accounts payable 205,414 - 205,414 163,373 - 163,373 Other accounts payable 376 - 376 378 - 378 Total 205,790 - 205,790 163,751 - 163,751 As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the balance of current and past due suppliers is as follows: Suppliers current on all payments Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2019 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 126,577 4,655 128 116 2,019 - 133,495 Services 51,785 168 - - 87 - 52,040 Others 8,741 146 - - - 8,887 Total 187,103 4,969 128 116 2,106 - 194,422 Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2018 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 - 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 48,969 1,919 912 25 280 - 52,105 Services 37,376 314 157 107 54 - 38,008 Others 54,978 161 20 - 3 - 55,162 Total 141,323 2,394 1,089 132 337 - 145,275 Suppliers past due on payments Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2019 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 2,086 264 35 65 1,060 - 3,510 Services 3,073 329 116 387 580 - 4,485 Others 1,918 45 311 215 508 - 2,997 Total 7,077 638 462 667 2,148 - 10,992 Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2018 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more days Total ThUS$ Goods 1,533 209 210 255 462 - 2,669 Services 12,229 838 109 111 450 - 13,737 Others 1,039 385 92 6 170 - 1,692 Total 14,801 1,432 411 372 1,082 - 18,098 Purchase commitments held by the Company are recognized as liabilities when the goods and services are received by the Company. As of December 31, 2019, the Company has purchase orders amounting to ThUS$ 101,280 (ThUS$ 59,919 as of December 31, 2018). 13.6 Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss This balance relates to derivative instruments measured at their fair value, which have generated balances against the Company. The detail of this type of instrument is as follows: Financial liabilities at fair value with an impact ‎ on profit or loss As of December 31, ‎ 2019 Effect on profit or loss ‎ for the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 Effect on profit or loss ‎ for the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current Derivative financial instruments (IRS) - (16 ) 91 16 Total - (16 ) 91 16 13.7 Financial asset and liability categories a) Financial Assets As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Description of financial assets Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Cash and cash equivalents 588,530 - 588,530 556,066 - 556,066 Trade receivables due from related parties 61,227 - 61,227 42,790 - 42,790 Financial assets measured at amortized cost 485,689 75 485,764 291,790 75 291,865 Loans and receivables measured at amortized cost 399,142 1,710 400,852 466,619 2,275 468,894 Total financial assets measured at amortized cost 1,534,588 1,785 1,536,373 1,357,265 2,350 1,359,615 Derivative financial instruments for hedging purposes 17,270 3,918 21,188 18,238 13,425 31,663 Derivative financial instruments held for trading 2,531 - 2,531 2,693 - 2,693 Financial assets at fair value thr

Intangible assets and goodwill

Intangible assets and goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Abstract]
Disclosure of intangible assets and goodwill [text block]	Note 14 Intangible assets and goodwill 14.1 Balances Balances As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Intangible assets other than goodwill 188,358 189,350 Goodwill 34,726 34,866 Total 223,084 224,216 14.2 Disclosures on intangible assets and goodwill Intangible assets relate to goodwill, water rights, trademarks, industrial patents, rights of way, software, and mining claims which correspond to exploitation rights acquired from third parties. Balances and movements in the main classes of intangible assets as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows: As of December 31, 2019 Intangible assets and goodwill Useful life Gross Value Accumulated ‎ amortization Accumulated ‎ impairment Net value ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ IT programs Finite 34,471 (28,460 ) - 6,011 Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service. Finite 1,259 (1,131 ) (7 ) 121 Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite 182,260 - (2,642 ) 179,618 Mining property Finite 1,500 (206 ) - 1,294 Customer-related intangible assets Finite 1,778 (505 ) - 1,273 Other intangible assets. Finite 929 (888 ) - 41 Intangible assets other than goodwill 222,197 (31,190 ) (2,649 ) 188,358 Goodwill Indefinite 38,120 - (3,394 ) 34,726 Total Intangible Assets 260,317 (31,190 ) (6,043 ) 223,084 As of December 31, 2018 Intangible assets and goodwill Useful life Gross Value Accumulated ‎ amortization Accumulated ‎ impairment Net value ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ IT programs Finite 29,137 (24,569 ) - 4,568 Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service. Finite 1,254 (1,096 ) (7 ) 151 Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite 183,349 - (1,729 ) 181,620 Mining property Finite 1,500 (88 ) - 1,412 Customer-related intangible assets Finite 1,778 (205 ) - 1,573 Other intangible assets Finite 911 (885 ) - 26 Intangible assets other than goodwill 217,929 (26,843 ) (1,736 ) 189,350 Goodwill Indefinite 38,120 - (3,254 ) 34,866 Total Intangible Assets 256,049 (26,843 ) (4,990 ) 224,216 a) Estimated useful lives or amortization rates used for finite identifiable intangible assets Finite useful life of an asset measures the length of, or number of production or similar units constituting that useful life. The estimated useful life for software which they are amortized corresponds to the periods defined by the contracts or rights from which they originate. Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property, service and exploitation rights, mainly relate to water rights and have a finite useful life to the extent to which they are subject to a fixed-term contract or otherwise they are considered to be indefinite. The company owns mining property granted by Corfo, which correspond to assets subject to restitution. For this reason, they are considered assets with a finite useful life and their useful life is assigned until the year 2030 when the contract ends. b) Method used to assess identifiable intangible assets with indefinite useful life The recoverable value of the cash-generating unit has been determined annually based on a calculation of value-in-use using cash flow projections for a period of 5 years, plus perpetuity on December 31. The current value of future cash flows generated by these assets has been estimated given the variation in sales volumes, market prices and costs, discounted at a weighted average cost of capital (WACC) rate of 8.48% as of December 31, 2019. This group of intangible assets includes water rights acquired in Chile and mining property held by the company in Chile and Australia, which are recorded at acquisition cost. c) Minimum and maximum amortization life or rates of intangible assets: Estimated useful life or amortization rate Minimum Life or ‎ Rate Maximum Life or ‎ Rate Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite Indefinite Mining property 1 year 11 years Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service 1 year 16 years Commercial trademarks 1 year 5 years IT programs 2 years 6 years The following table shows the movements in goodwill as of December 31, 2019 : Company Gross value ‎ As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Accumulated ‎ impairment ‎ losses Net value ‎ As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - (3,214 ) - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - (180 ) 140 Soquimich European Holding 11,373 - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - 724 Total 38,120 - (3,394 ) 34,726 d) Information to be disclosed on assets generated internally The Company has no intangible assets internally generated. Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, impairments of intangible assets and goodwill was recognized amounting ThUS$ 913, ThUS$1,941 and ThUS$1,164, respectively and ThUS$ 140, ThUS$3,254 and zero, respectively. e) Reconciliation of identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2019: Gross Value Movements in identifiable intangible ‎ assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining ‎ property finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 29,137 1,254 183,349 1,500 1,778 911 38,120 256,049 Additions 2,606 5 227 - - 18 - 2,856 Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (7 ) - (2 ) - - - - (9 ) Decreases through sale - - (1,314 ) - - - - (1,314 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,735 - - - - - - 2,735 Total increases (decreases) 5,334 5 (1,089 ) - - 18 - 4,268 Closing balance 34,471 1,259 182,260 1,500 1,778 929 38,120 260,317 Accumulated amortization and impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance (24,569 ) (1,103 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (31,833 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency 3 - - - - - - 3 Other increases (decreases) (256 ) - - - - - - (256 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - - (913 ) - - - (140 ) (1,053 ) Amortization (3,638 ) (35 ) - (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) - (4,094 ) Total increases (decreases) (3,891 ) (35 ) (913 ) (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) (140 ) (5,400 ) Closing balance (28,460 ) (1,138 ) (2,642 ) (206 ) (505 ) (888 ) (3,394 ) (37,233 ) Net value ‎ Movements in Identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 4,568 151 181,620 1,412 1,573 26 34,866 224,216 Additions 2,606 5 227 - - 18 - 2,856 Amortization (3,638 ) (35 ) - (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) - (4,094 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - - (913 ) - - - (140 ) (1,053 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (4 ) - (2 ) - - - - (6 ) Decreases through sale - - (1,314 ) - - - - (1,314 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,479 - - - - - - 2,479 Total increases (decreases) 1,443 (30 ) (2,002 ) (118 ) (300 ) 15 (140 ) (1,132 ) Closing balance 6,011 121 179,618 1,294 1,273 41 34,726 223,084 Reconciliation of identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2018: Gross Value Movements in identifiable intangible ‎ assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 25,060 1,250 104,858 1,500 1,778 171 37,972 172,589 Additions 1,159 5 77,201 - - 11 - 78,376 Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (5 ) (1 ) (4 ) - - - - (10 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,923 - 1,294 - - 729 148 5,094 Total increases (decreases) 4,077 4 78,491 - - 740 148 83,460 Closing balance 29,137 1,254 183,349 1,500 1,778 911 38,120 256,049 Accumulated amortization and impairment Movements in identifiable IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance (19,769 ) (1,061 ) - - - - - (20,830 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency 4 - - - - - - 4 Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - (7 ) (1,729 ) - - - (3,254 ) (4,990 ) Amortization (2,880 ) (35 ) - (88 ) (205 ) - - (3,208 ) Other increases (decreases) (1,924 ) - - - - (885 ) - (2,809 ) Total increases (decreases) (4,800 ) (42 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (11,003 ) Closing balance (24,569 ) (1,103 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (31,833 ) Net value ‎ Movements in Identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 5,291 189 104,858 1,500 1,778 171 37,972 151,759 Additions 1,159 5 77,201 - - 11 - 78,376 Amortization (2,880 ) (35 ) - (88 ) (205 ) - - (3,208 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - (7 ) (1,729 ) - - - (3,254 ) (4,990 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (1 ) (1 ) (4 ) - - - - (6 ) Other increases (decreases) 999 - 1,294 - - (156 ) 148 2,285 Total increases (decreases) (723 ) (38 ) 76,762 (88 ) (205 ) (145 ) (3,106 ) 72,457 Closing balance 4,568 151 181,620 1,412 1,573 26 34,866 224,216 g) Reconciliation of identifiable goodwill as of December 31, 2019 : Gross Value Movements in identifiable ‎ goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - - - 3,214 SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - - - - - - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - - - 320 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 38,120 - - - - - - - - 38,120 Closing balance 38,120 - - - - - - - - 38,120 Accumulated impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. (3,214 ) - - - - - - - - (3,214 ) SQM S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Investment Corporation - - - - - - - - - - Soquimich Comercial S.A. (40 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (180 ) Soquimich European Holding B.V. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. - - - - - - - - - - Total increases (decreases) (3,254 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (3,394 ) Closing balance (3,254 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (3,394 ) Net Value Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - - - - - - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 280 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 140 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 34,866 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 34,726 Closing balance 34,866 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 34,726 h) Reconciliation of identifiable goodwill as of December 31, 2018: Gross Value ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - - - 3,214 SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - 148 148 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - - - 320 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 37,972 - - - - - - 148 148 38,120 Closing balance 37,972 - - - - - - 148 148 38,120 Accumulated impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. - - - - - - - (3,214 ) (3,214 ) (3,214 ) SQM S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Investment Corporation - - - - - - - - - - Soquimich Comercial S.A. - - - - - - - (40 ) (40 ) (40 ) Soquimich European Holding B.V. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. - - - - - - - - - - Total increases (decreases) - - - - - - - (3,254 ) (3,254 ) (3,254 ) Closing balance - - - - - - - (3,254 ) (3,254 ) (3,254 ) Net Value ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - (3,214 ) (3,214 ) - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - 148 148 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - (40 ) (40 ) 280 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 37,972 - - - - - - (3,106 ) (3,106 ) 34,866 Closing balance 37,972 - - - - - - (3,106 ) (3,106 ) 34,866

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment explanatory [Text Block]	Note 15 Property, plant and equipment As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail of property, plant and equipment is as follows: 15.1 Types of property, plant and equipment Description of types of property, plant and equipment As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Property, plant and equipment, net Land 23,620 24,695 Buildings (1) 252,969 238,808 Other property, plant and equipment 32,604 28,175 Transport equipment (2) 6,042 2,892 Supplies and accessories 4,579 4,722 Office equipment 420 513 Network and communication equipment 663 692 Mining assets 23,174 11,501 IT equipment 4,359 4,980 Energy generating assets 5,998 6,117 Constructions in progress 375,316 207,830 Machinery, plant and equipment (3) 877,326 923,898 Total 1,607,070 1,454,823 (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ 25,742 corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (2) The line item “Transport equipment” I ncludes Th US$ 3,356. corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) the property, plant and equipment line item includes ThUS$ 8,066 corresponding to right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US$ 37,164. corresponding to right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) Property, plant and equipment, gross Land 23,620 24,695 Buildings (1) 695,316 648,719 Other property, plant and equipment 257,206 245,731 Transport equipment (2) 16,036 11,668 Supplies and accessories 25,531 24,456 Office equipment 11,441 11,377 Network and communication equipment 8,009 7,505 Mining assets 161,619 132,309 IT equipment 28,693 29,955 Energy generating assets 38,495 36,930 Constructions in progress 375,316 207,830 Machinery, plant and equipment (3) 3,154,435 3,068,862 Total 4,795,717 4,450,037 (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ 29,289 corresponding to right-of-use assets; (2) The line item “Transport equipment” I ncludes ThUS$ 3,893 corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) the property, plant and equipment line item includes Th US$ 11,933 corresponding to right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US $45,115 corresponding to right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of property, plant and equipment, total Accumulated depreciation and impairment of buildings (1) (442,347 ) (409,911 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of other property, plant and equipment (224,602 ) (217,556 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of transport equipment (2) (9,994 ) (8,776 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of supplies and accessories (20,952 ) (19,734 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of office equipment (11,021 ) (10,864 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of network and communication equipment (7,346 ) (6,813 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of mining assets (138,445 ) (120,808 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of IT equipment (24,334 ) (24,975 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of energy generating assets (32,497 ) (30,813 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of machinery, plant and equipment (3) (2,277,109 ) (2,144,964 ) Total (3,188,647 ) (2,995,214 ) (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ (3,547) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets ; (2) The line item “Transport equipment”. I ncludes Th US$ (537) corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) The property, plant and equipment line item includes Th US$ (3,867) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US$ (7,951) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets (IFRS 16). Description of Machinery, plant and equipment As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Machinery, plant and equipment, net Pumps 32,525 34,145 Conveyor Belt 21,911 22,082 Crystallizer 24,102 27,112 Plant Equipment 170,263 188,934 Tanks 14,159 14,876 Filter 27,080 29,300 Electrical equipment/facilities 92,090 96,179 Other Property, Plant & Equipment 53,396 58,997 Site Closure 12,056 12,967 Right-of-use assets 8,066 - Piping 96,402 98,498 Well 238,670 250,045 Pond 41,319 42,903 Spare Parts 45,287 47,860 Total 877,326 923,898 15.2 Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by type: Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by class as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,695 648,719 245,731 11,668 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,068,862 4,450,037 Initial recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Balance with recognition of IFRS 16 24,695 678,008 245,731 15,561 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,080,795 4,495,152 Additions - 290 332 - 37 43 159 - 492 - 314,236 6,077 321,666 Disposals - - (858 ) - - - - - (3 ) - - (17 ) (878 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (35 ) (72 ) (4 ) (2 ) (9 ) (3 ) - - (6 ) - - (72 ) (203 ) Reclassifications 132 18,526 12,456 477 745 - 89 16,901 1,289 1,565 (140,104 ) 88,088 164 Other increases (decreases) - - (451 ) - 302 24 256 12,409 (3,034 ) - (6,646 ) (20,436 ) (17,576 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (1,172 ) (1,436 ) - - - - - - - - - - (2,608 ) Total changes (1,075 ) 17,308 11,475 475 1,075 64 504 29,310 (1,262 ) 1,565 167,486 73,640 300,565 Closing balance 23,620 695,316 257,206 16,036 25,531 11,441 8,009 161,619 28,693 38,495 375,316 3,154,435 4,795,717 Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies and Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance - (409,911 ) (217,556 ) (8,776 ) (19,734 ) (10,864 ) (6,813 ) (120,808 ) (24,975 ) (30,813 ) - (2,144,964 ) (2,995,214 ) Changes Disposals - - 858 - - - - - 1 - - - 859 Depreciation expense - (32,547 ) (8,013 ) (1,220 ) (1,144 ) (161 ) (426 ) (7,033 ) (1,158 ) (1,676 ) - (142,866 ) (196,244 ) Impairment - (49 ) - - - - - - - - - - (49 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference - 28 3 1 7 1 - - 5 - - 34 79 Reclassifications - 7 (6 ) 1 6 - 1 - (5 ) - - (207 ) (203 ) Other increases (decreases) (*) - (155 ) 112 - (87 ) 3 (108 ) (10,604 ) 1,798 (8 ) - 10,894 1,845 Decreases for classification as held for sale - 280 - - - - - - - - - - 280 Total changes - (32,436 ) (7,046 ) (1,218 ) (1,218 ) (157 ) (533 ) (17,637 ) 641 (1,684 ) - (132,145 ) (193,433 ) Closing balance - (442,347 ) (224,602 ) (9,994 ) (20,952 ) (11,021 ) (7,346 ) (138,445 ) (24,334 ) (32,497 ) - (2,277,109 ) (3,188,647 ) Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,695 238,808 28,175 2,892 4,722 513 692 11,501 4,980 6,117 207,830 923,898 1,454,823 Initial recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Balance with recognition of IFRS 16 24,695 268,097 28,175 6,785 4,722 513 692 11,501 4,980 6,117 207,830 935,831 1,499,938 Additions - 290 332 - 37 43 159 - 492 - 314,236 6,077 321,666 Disposals - - - - - - - - (2 ) - - (17 ) (19 ) Depreciation expense - (32,547 ) (8,013 ) (1,220 ) (1,144 ) (161 ) (426 ) (7,033 ) (1,158 ) (1,676 ) - (142,866 ) (196,244 ) Impairment - (49 ) - - - - - - - - - - (49 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (35 ) (44 ) (1 ) (1 ) (2 ) (2 ) - - (1 ) - - (38 ) (124 ) Reclassifications 132 18,533 12,450 478 751 - 90 16,901 1,284 1,565 (140,104 ) 87,881 (39 ) Other increases (decreases ) (1) - (155 ) (339 ) - 215 27 148 1,805 (1,236 ) (8 ) (6,646 ) (9,542 ) (15,731 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (2) (1,172 ) (1,156 ) - - - - - - - - - - (2,328 ) Total changes (1,075 ) (15,128 ) 4,429 (743 ) (143 ) (93 ) (29 ) 11,673 (621 ) (119 ) 167,486 (58,505 ) 107,132 Closing balance 23,620 252,969 32,604 6,042 4,579 420 663 23,174 4,359 5,998 375,316 877,326 1,607,070 (1) The net balance of “Other Increases (Decreases)” corresponds to all those items that are reclassified to or from “Property, Plant and Equipment”, They can have the following origin: (i) work in progress which is expensed to profit or loss, forming part of operating costs or other expenses per function, as appropriate; (ii) the variation representing the purchase and use of materials and spare parts; (iii) projects corresponding mainly to exploration expenditures and ground studies that are reclassified to the item other non-current financial assets; (iv) software that is reclassified to “Intangibles”. (2) The Company classifies as non-current held for sale property, plant and equipment (disposal group) that, at the closing date of the financial statements, is subject to a commitment for sale or where the sales process has been initiated and where the sale is expected to occur within twelve months of that date, is classified by the Company as non-current assets held for sale. These assets or disposal groups are valued at the lower of carrying amount or the estimated sales value less the costs to sell and stop being amortized from the moment they are classified as non-current assets held for sale. Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,900 610,264 244,831 11,195 19,498 11,105 7,356 129,028 27,038 36,643 165,054 2,938,287 4,225,199 Additions - 28 833 - 41 15 - - 489 - 263,290 1,448 266,144 Disposals - (38 ) (7,811 ) (51 ) - - - - (10 ) - (6,582 ) (1,666 ) (16,158 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (64 ) (134 ) (8 ) (3 ) (19 ) (6 ) - - (11 ) - - (153 ) (398 ) Reclassifications - 38,746 10,330 529 4,889 268 150 3,281 2,100 75 (184,095 ) 123,726 (1 ) Other increases (decreases) - (147 ) (2,444 ) (2 ) 47 (5 ) (1 ) - 349 212 (29,837 ) 7,220 (24,608 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (141 ) - - - - - - - - - - - (141 ) Total changes (205 ) 38,455 900 473 4,958 272 149 3,281 2,917 287 42,776 130,575 224,838 Closing balance 24,695 648,719 245,731 11,668 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,068,862 4,450,037 Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies and Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance - (379,945 ) (219,969 ) (7,938 ) (17,626 ) (10,618 ) (6,306 ) (112,791 ) (23,637 ) (28,782 ) - (1,988,233 ) (2,795,845 ) Disposals - 38 7,737 8 - - - - 10 - - 1,722 9,515 Depreciation expense - (29,829 ) (7,415 ) (880 ) (2,056 ) (271 ) (483 ) (8,017 ) (1,374 ) (2,026 ) - (158,900 ) (211,251 ) Impairment - (437 ) - - - - - - - (12 ) - (941 ) (1,390 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference - 41 4 1 12 3 - - (1 ) - - 61 121 Reclassifications - 106 (483 ) - (87 ) (17 ) (28 ) - 90 1 - 419 1 Other increases (decreases) - 115 2,570 33 23 39 4 - (63 ) 6 - 908 3,635 Total changes - (29,966 ) 2,413 (838 ) (2,108 ) (246 ) (507 ) (8,017 ) (1,338 ) (2,031 ) - (156,731 ) (199,369 ) Closing balance - (409,911 ) (217,556 ) (8,776 ) (19,734 ) (10,864 ) (6,813 ) (120,808 ) (24,975 ) (30,813 ) - (2,144,964 ) (2,995,214 ) Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,900 230,319 24,862 3,257 1,872 487 1,050 16,237 3,401 7,861 165,054 950,054 1,429,354 Changes Additions - 28 833 - 41 15 - - 489 - 263,290 1,448 266,144 Disposals - - (74 ) (43 ) - - - - - - (6,582 ) 56 (6,643 ) Depreciation expense - (29,829 ) (7,415 ) (880 ) (2,056 ) (271 ) (483 ) (8,017 ) (1,374 ) (2,026 ) - (158,900 ) (211,251 ) Impairment - (437 ) - - - - - - - (12 ) - (941 ) (1,390 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (64 ) (93 ) (4 ) (2 ) (7 ) (3 ) - - (12 ) - - (92 ) (277 ) Reclassifications - 38,852 9,847 529 4,802 251 122 3,281 2,190 76 (184,095 ) 124,145 - Other increases (decreases ) (1) - (32 ) 126 31 70 34 3 - 286 218 (29,837 ) 8,128 (20,973 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (2) (141 ) - - - - - - - - - - - (141 ) Total changes (205 ) 8,489 3,313 (365 ) 2,850 26 (358 ) (4,736 ) 1,579 (1,744 ) 42,776 (26,156 ) 25,469 Closing balance 24,695 238,808 28,175 2,892 4,722 513 692 11,501 4,980 6,117 207,830 923,898 1,454,823 (1) The net balance of “Other increases (Decreases)” corresponds to all those items that are reclassified to or from property, plant and equipment, They can have the following origin: (i) work in progress which is expensed to profit or loss, forming part of operating costs or other expenses per function, as appropriate;, (ii) the variation representing the purchase and use of materials and spare parts; (iii) projects corresponding mainly to exploration expenditures and ground studies that are reclassified to the item other non-current financial assets; (iv) assets for retirement obligations and (v) software that is reclassified to Intangibles. (2) The Company classifies as non-current held for sale property, plant and equipment (disposal group) that, at the closing date of the financial statements, is subject to a commitment for sale or where the sales process has been initiated and where the sale is expected to occur within twelve months of that date, is classified by the Company as non-current assets held for sale. These assets or disposal groups are valued at the lower of carrying amount or the estimated sales value less the costs to sell and stop being amortized from the moment they are classified as non-current assets held for sale. 15.3 Reconciliation of changes in right of use assets, by classes Re c Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance - - - - - - - - - - - - - Initial recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Balance with recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Depreciation expense - (3,547 ) - (537 ) - - - - - - - (3,867 ) (7,951 ) Impairment - - - - - - - - - - - - - Other increases (decreases) - - - - - - - - - - - - - Total changes - (3,547 ) - (537 ) - - - - - - - (3,867 ) (7,951 ) Closing balance - 25,742 - 3,356 - - - - - - - 8,066 37,164 The Company’s lease activities included the following aspects: (a) The nature of the Company’s lease activities is related to contracts focused primarily on business operations, notably rights-of-use to equipment and real estate. (b) The Company does not estimate any significant future cash outflows that would potentially expose the Company, and these are likewise not reflected in the measurement of lease liabilities, related to concepts such as (i) variable lease payments, (ii) expansion options and termination options, (iii) guaranteed residual value and (iv) leases not yet undertaken but committed by the Company. (c) These are not subject to restrictions or agreements imposed by contracts. (d) There were no sales lease back in the period. 15.4 Detail of property, plant and equipment pledged as guarantee There are no restrictions in title or guarantees for compliance with obligations that affect property, plant and equipment. 15.5 Impairment of assets As indicated in Note 3.16 to the financial statements, the recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment is measured whenever there is an indication that the asset could be impaired. For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized impairment losses amounting ThUS$ 49, ThUS$ 1,390 and ThUS$5,205, respectively. 15.6 Additional Information As of December 31, 2019, capitalized interest as part of a s

Other current and non-current n

Other current and non-current non-financial assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Abstract]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Text Block]	Note 16 Other current and non-current non-financial assets As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the detail of other current and non-current assets is as follows: Other non-financial assets, current As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Domestic value added tax 17,807 20,209 Foreign value added tax 8,566 7,211 Prepaid mining property 1,244 1,329 Prepaid insurance 7,135 1,763 Other prepayments 1,423 1,774 Refund of value added tax to exporters 10,560 12,545 Other taxes 3,213 2,800 Other assets 604 341 Total 50,552 47,972 Other non-financial assets, non-current As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Stain development expenses and prospecting expenses (1) 18,654 26,189 Guarantee deposits 551 712 Other assets 524 638 Total 19,729 27,539 1) Reconciliation of changes in assets for exploration and mineral resource evaluation, by type. Movements in assets relating to the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017: Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 26,189 17,721 23,008 Change in assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources Additions - 11,298 - Short-term reclassifications (1,311 ) 1,987 595 Increase (decrease) due to transfers and other charges (6,224 ) (4,817 ) (5,882 ) Total changes (7,535 ) 8,468 (5,287 ) Final balance 18,654 26,189 17,721 As of the reporting date, no revaluations of assets for exploration and assessment of mineral resources have been conducted.

Employee benefits

Employee benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about provision for employee benefits [Abstract]
Disclosure of employee benefits [text block]	Note 17 Employee benefits 17.1 Provisions for employee benefits Classes of benefits and expenses by employee As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current Profit sharing and bonuses 16,387 20,085 Total 16 ,387 20,085 Non-current Profit sharing and bonuses 8,026 8,831 Severance indemnity payments 27,814 28,233 Total 35, 840 37,064 17.2 Policies on defined benefit plan This policy is applied to all benefits received for services provided by the Company's employees. Short-term benefits for active employees are represented by salaries, social welfare benefits, paid time off, sickness and other types of leave, profit sharing and incentives and non-monetary benefits; e.g., healthcare service, housing, subsidized or free goods or services. These will be paid in a term which does not exceed twelve months. The Company only provides compensation and benefits to active employees, with the exemption of SQM North America. (see Note 17.4) The Company maintains incentive programs for its employees based on their personal performance, the Company’s performance and other short-term and long-term indicators. For each incentive bonus delivered to the Company’s employees, there will be a disbursement in the first quarter of the following year and this will be calculated based on profit for the period at the end of each period applying a factor obtained subsequent to each employee’s appraisal process. Employee benefits include retention bonuses for the Company’s executives, which are linked to the Company’s share price and are paid in cash. Staff severance indemnities are agreed and payable based on the final salary, calculated in accordance with each year of service to the Company, with certain maximum limits in respect of either the number of years or in monetary terms. In general, this benefit is payable when the employee or worker ceases to provide his/her services to the Company and there are a number of different circumstances through which a person can be eligible for it, as indicated in the respective agreements; e.g., retirement, dismissal, voluntary retirement, incapacity or disability, death, etc. Law No. 19,728 published on May 14, 2001 which became effective on October 1, 2002 required Compulsory Unemployment Insurance in favor of all dependent employees regulated by the Chilean Labor Code, Article 5 of this law established that this insurance is paid through monthly contribution payments by both the employee and the employer. 17.3 Other long-term benefits The other long-term benefits relate to staff severance indemnities and are recorded at their actuarial value a nd an executive compensation plan (see Note 17.6). The actuarial assessment method has been used to calculate the Company’s obligations with respect to staff severance indemnities, which relate to defined benefit plans consisting of days of remuneration per year served at the time of retirement under conditions agreed in the respective agreements established between the Company and its employees. Under this benefit plan, the Company retains the obligation to pay staff severance indemnities related to retirement, without establishing a separate fund with specific assets, which is referred to as not funded. The discount interest rate of expected flows to be used was 3.68%. (a) Benefit payment conditions The staff severance indemnity benefit relates to remuneration days for years worked for the Company without a limit being imposed in regard of amount of salary or years of service. It applies when employees cease to work for the Company because they are made redundant or in the event of their death. This benefit is applicable up to a maximum age of 65 for men and 60 for women, which are the usual retirement ages according to the Chilean pensions system as established in Decree Law 3,500 of 1980. (b) Methodology The Company’s benefits obligation under IAS 19, Projected Benefit Obligation (PBO) is determined as follows: To determine the Company's total liability, we used computer software to develop a mathematical simulation model using the data for each individual employee. This model considered months as discrete time, i.e., the Company determined the age of each person and his/her salary on a monthly basis according to the growth rate. This information on each person was simulated from the beginning of his/her employment contract or when he/she started earning benefits up to the month in which he/she reaches normal retirement age, generating in each period the possible retirement according to the Company’s turnover rate and the mortality rate according to the age reached. When he/she reaches the retirement age, the employee finishes his/her service for the Company and receives a retirement indemnity. The methodology followed to determine the accrual for all the employees covered by agreements took account of the turnover rates and the mortality rate RV-2014 established by the CMF to calculate pension-related life insurance reserves in Chile according to the Accumulated Benefit Valuation or Accrued Cost of Benefit Method. This methodology is established in IAS 19 on “Retirement Benefit Costs”. 17.4 Post-employment benefit obligations Our subsidiary SQM NA, together with its employees established a pension plan until 2002 called the “SQM North America Retirement Income Plan”. This obligation is calculated measuring the expected future forecast staff severance indemnity obligation using a net salary gradual rate of restatements for inflation, mortality and turnover assumptions, discounting the resulting amounts at present value using the interest rate defined by the authorities. Since 2003, SQM North America offers to its employees benefits related to pension plans based on the 401-K system, which do not generate obligations for the Company. Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Changes in the benefit obligation ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year 8,657 8,755 8,185 Service cost - - 2 Interest cost 336 319 359 Actuarial loss 984 63 556 Benefits paid (391 ) (480 ) (347 ) Total 9,586 8,657 8,755 Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Changes in the plan assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Fair value of plan assets at the beginning of the year 8,404 8,751 7,404 Actual return (loss) in plan assets 741 133 1,694 Benefits paid (391 ) (480 ) (347 ) Fair value of plan assets at the end of the year 8,754 8,404 8,751 Financing status (832 ) (253 ) (4 ) Items not yet recognized as net periodic pension cost components: Net actuarial loss at the beginning of the year (2,614 ) (2,614 ) (3,432 ) Amortization during the year 242 160 219 Net estimated gain or loss occurred during the year (854 ) (568 ) 599 Adjustment to recognize the minimum pension obligation (3,226 ) (3,022 ) (2,614 ) Service cost or benefits received during the year As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Service cost or benefits received during the year - - 2 Interest cost in benefit obligation 336 319 359 Actual return in plan assets 741 133 1,694 Amortization of prior year losses 242 160 219 Net gain during the year (854 ) (568 ) 599 Net periodic pension expense (33 ) (159 ) 41 17.5 Staff severance indemnities As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, severance indemnities calculated at the actuarial value are as follows: Classes of benefits and expenses by employee As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance (28,233 ) (27,445 ) (22,532 ) Current cost of service (2,880 ) (1,529 ) (934 ) Interest cost (1,661 ) (1,658 ) (1,488 ) Actuarial gain/loss (2,514 ) (1,617 ) (1,144 ) Exchange rate difference 2,475 2,710 (2,284 ) Benefits paid during the year 4,999 1,306 937 Total (27,814 ) (28,233 ) (27,445 ) (a) Actuarial assumptions The liability recorded for staff severance indemnity is valued at the actuarial value method, using the following actuarial assumptions: Actuarial assumptions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Annual/Years Mortality rate RV - 2014 RV - 2014 RV - 2014 Actual annual interest rate 3.68 % 4.64 % 5.114 % Voluntary retirement rate: Men 6.49 % 6.49 % 6.49 % Annual Women 6.49 % 6.49 % 6.49 % Annual Salary increase 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % Annual Retirement age: Men 65 65 65 Years Women 60 60 60 Years (b) Sensitivity analysis of assumptions As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company has conducted a sensitivity analysis of the main assumptions of the actuarial calculation, determining the following: Sensitivity analysis as of December 31, 2019 Effect + 100 basis ‎ points Effect + 100 basis ‎ points ThUS$ ThUS$ Discount rate (1,796 ) 2,021 Employee turnover rate (236 ) 263 Sensitivity analysis as of December 31, 2018 Effect + 100 basis ‎ points Effect + 100 basis ‎ points ThUS$ ThUS$ Discount rate (1,807 ) 2,033 Employee turnover rate (237 ) 265 Sensitivity relates to an increase/decrease of 100 basis points . 17.6 Executive compensation plan The Company currently has a compensation plan with the purpose of motivating the Company’s executives and encouraging them to remain with the Company, by granting payments based on the change in the price of SQM’s shares. There is a partial payment of the share benefit program in the event of termination of the contract for causes other than the resignation and application of Article 160 of the Labor Code. (a) Plan characteristics This compensation plan is related to the Company’s performance through the SQM Series B share price (Santiago Stock Exchange). (b) Plan participants A total of 30 Company executives are entitled to this plan, provided that they continue to work for the Company through to the end of 2020. The payment dates, if applicable, will be during the first quarter of 2021. (c) Compensation The compensation payable to each executive is calculated by multiplying: a) The average price of Series B shares on the Santiago Stock Exchange during the fourth quarter of 2020, at its equivalent amount in dollars (with a maximum amount or limit amount of US$ 54 per share), multiplied b) By a number equal to the quantity of shares that have been individually assigned to each executive included in the plan. This compensation plan was approved by the Company’s Board of Directors and its application started on January 1. 2017. The effect of the plan considers 427,652 shares reflected as a cost of ThUS$ 806 in the results for the period ending December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2018, the effect of the plan was 476,302 shares, equal to ThUS$ 3,754 recognized as a provision reflected against profit or loss for 2018. Executed shares during 2019 were 83,609.

Provisions and other non-financ

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of other provisions [abstract]
Disclosure of provisions [text block]	Note 18 Provisions and other non-financial liabilities 18.1 Types of provisions As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Types of provisions Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Provision for legal complaints (1) 13,472 1,452 14,924 11,862 3,000 14,862 Provision for dismantling, restoration and rehabilitation cost (2) - 33,238 33,238 - 28,822 28,822 Other provisions (3) 97,093 - 97,093 94,335 - 94,335 Total 110,565 34,690 145,255 106,197 31,822 138,019 (1) These provisions correspond to legal processes that are pending resolution or that have not yet been disbursed. These provisions are mainly related to litigation involving the subsidiaries located in Chile, Brazil and the United States (see note 21.1). (2) The provisions related to commitments with Sernageomin have been incorporated through the issuance of a guarantee for the restoration of the place where the production sites are located. (3) See Note 18.2 18.2 Description of other provisions Current provisions, other short-term provisions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Rent under lease contract (1) 90,320 84,826 Provision for additional tax related to foreign loans 543 471 End of agreement bonus 3,641 5,129 Directors’ per diem allowance 1,802 2,881 Miscellaneous provisions 787 1,028 Total 97,093 94,335 (1) Payment obligations for the lease contract with CORFO: These correspond to obligations assumed in the Lease Agreement. Part of these obligations are the quarterly lease payments to Corfo, according to SQM Salar's product sales from leased mining properties. Since 2018, another part are the annual contributions by SQM Salar to research and development, to local communities to the Antofagasta Regional Government and to the municipalities of San Pedro de Atacama, María Elena and Antofagasta . 18.3 Other non-financial liabilities, current Description of other liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Tax withholdings 3,345 4,782 VAT payable 3,465 7,345 Guarantees received 2,641 2,641 Accrual for dividend 68,890 109,670 Monthly tax provisional payments 16,659 21,001 Deferred income 3,033 18,574 Withholdings from employees and salaries payable 4,575 6,052 Accrued vacations (1) 21,686 20,070 Other current liabilities 2,605 4,489 Total 126,899 194,624 (1) Vacation benefit (short-term benefits to employees, current) is in line with the provisions established in Chile’s Labor Code, which indicates that employees with more than a year of service will be entitled to annual vacation for a period of at least fifteen paid business days . The Company provides the benefit of two additional vacation days . 18.4 Changes in provisions Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2019 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 14,862 28,822 94,335 138,019 Changes Additional provisions 4,111 4,416 150,314 158,841 Provision used (4,049 ) - (147,532 ) (151,581 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - (24 ) (24 ) others - - - - Total Increase (decreases) 62 4,416 2,758 7,236 Total 14,924 33,238 97,093 145,255 Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2018 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 19,419 26,954 47,073 93,446 Changes Additional provisions 1,000 1,820 181,244 184,064 Provision used (5,557 ) - (133,949 ) (139,506 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - - - others - 48 (33 ) 15 Total Increase (decreases) (4,557 ) 1,868 47,262 44,573 Total 14,862 28,822 94,335 138,019 Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2017 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 23,867 5,890 21,089 50,846 Changes Additional provisions 6,352 21,064 33,507 60,923 Provision used (10,800 ) - (7,538 ) (18,338 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - 9 9 others - - 6 6 Total Increase (decreases) (4,448 ) 21,064 25,984 42,600 Total 19,419 26,954 47,073 93,446

Disclosures on reserves in Equi

Disclosures on reserves in Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about controls capital management [Abstract]
Disclosure of issued capital [text block]	Note 19 Disclosures on equity The detail and movements in the funds of equity accounts are shown in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. 19.1 Capital management The main object of capital management relative to the administration of the Company’s financial debt and equity is to ensure the regular conduct of operations and business continuity in the long term, with the constant intention of maintaining an adequate level of liquidity and in compliance with the financial safeguards established in the debt contracts in force, Within this framework, decisions are made in order to maximize the value of the company. Capital management must comply with, among others, the limits contemplated in the Financing Policy approved by the Shareholders’ Meeting, which establish a maximum consolidated indebtedness level of 1.5 times the debt to equity ratio. This limit can be exceeded only if the Company’s management has first obtained express approval at an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. In addition, capital management should consider that with respect to Series H and Series O Bonds, if the indebtedness Level (as this term is defined in the respective issuance contracts) exceeds 1.2 times (provided that this does not exceed 1.44 times), the Company must offer bondholders of these series the voluntary and individual option for early redemption of these bonds at par value. As a consequence of the IFRS 16 becoming effective and being implemented in these financial statements, the indebtedness ratio as of December 31, 2019 reached a proportion of 1.19; therefore, the Company did not make the corresponding offer at the reporting date. The Company’s management controls capital management based on the following ratios: Capital Management As of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 As of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 Description (1) Calculation (1) Net Financial Debt (ThUS$) 719,809 471,755 Financial Debt – Financial Resources Other current Financial Liabilities + Other Non-Current Financial Liabilities – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Hedging Assets, non-current Liquidity 3.45 4.32 Current Assets divided by Current Liabilities Total Current Assets / Total Current Liabilities Net Debt / Capitalization 0.25 0.18 Net Financial Debt divided by Total Equity Net financial debt / Total Equity ROE 13.154 % 20.7 % Profit for the year divided by Total Equity LTM (2) Adjusted EBITDA (ThUS$) 645,142 855,652 Adjusted EBITDA Profit for the year + Depreciation and Amortization Expenses + Finance Costs + Income Tax – Other income and Share of profit of associates and joint ventures + Other expenses – Finance income – Currency differences EBITDA (MUS$) 669,831 902,450 EBITDA Profit for the year + Depreciation and Amortization Expenses + Finance Costs + Income Tax ROA 12.76 % 20.31 % Adjusted EBITDA – Depreciation divided by Total Assets net of financial resources less related parties’ investments (LTM Gross Profit – Administrative Expenses)/ (Total Assets – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Other Non-Current Financial Assets – Equity-accounted Investments) Indebtedness 1.19 1.00 Total Liabilities on Equity Total Liabilities / Total Equity The Company’s capital requirements change according to variables such as working capital needs, new investment financing and dividends, among others. The Company manages its capital structure and makes adjustments based on the predominant economic conditions so as to mitigate the risks associated with adverse market conditions and take advantage of the opportunities there may be to improve the liquidity position of the SQM Group. There have been no changes in the capital management objectives or policy within the years reported in this document, no breaches of external requirements of capital imposed have been recorded. 19.2 Disclosures on preferred share capital Issued share capital is divided into 142,819,552 Series "A" shares and 120,376,972 Series “B” shares. All such shares are nominative, have no par value and are fully issued, subscribed and paid. Series B shares may not exceed 50% of the total issued, subscribed and paid-in shares of the Company and have a limited voting right, in that all of them can only elect one director of the Company, regardless of their equity interest and preferences: (a) require the calling of an Ordinary or Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting when so requested by Series B shareholders representing at least 5% of the issued shares thereof; and (b) require the calling of an extraordinary meeting of the board of directors, without the president being able to qualify the need for such a request, when so requested by the director who has been elected by the shareholders of said Series B. The limitation and preferences of Series B shares have a duration of 50 consecutive and continuous years as of June 3, 1993. The Series A shares have the preference of being able to exclude the director elected by the Series B shareholders in the voting process in which the president of the board of directors and of the Company must be elected and which follows the one in which the tie that allows such exclusion resulted. The preference of the Series A shares will have a term of 50 consecutive and continuous years as of June 3, 1993. The form of the titles of the shares, their issuance, exchange, disablement, loss, replacement, assignment and other circumstances thereof shall be governed by the provisions of Law No, 18,046 and its regulations. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company does not hold shares of the Parent Company either directly or through its investees. Detail of capital classes in shares: As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company has not placed any new shares issues on the market As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Type of capital in preferred shares Serie A Serie B Serie A Serie B Description of type of capital in preferred shares Number of authorized shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of fully subscribed and paid shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of subscribed, partially paid shares - - - - Par value of shares in US$ 0.9435 2.8464 0.9435 2.8464 Increase (decrease) in the number of current shares - - - - Number of current shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of shares owned by the entity or its subsidiaries or associates - - - - Number of shares whose issuance is reserved due to the existence of options or agreements to dispose shares - - - - Capital amount in shares ThUS$ 134,750 342,636 134,750 342,636 Amount of premium issuance ThUS$ - - - - Amount of reserves ThUS$ - - - - Total number of subscribed shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 19.3 Disclosures on reserves in Equity As of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, this caption comprises the following: Disclosures on reserves un Equity As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Reserve for currency exchange conversion (25,745 ) (26,307 ) (24,913 ) Reserve for cash flow hedges 7,196 7,971 2,248 Reserve for gains and losses from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (270 ) (1,111 ) 2,937 Reserve for actuarial gains or losses in defined benefit plans (9,490 ) (6,884 ) (5,953 ) Other reserves 14,086 11,332 11,332 Total (14,223 ) (14,999 ) (14,349 ) Reserves for foreign currency translation differences This balance reflects retained earnings for changes in the exchange rate when converting the financial statements of subsidiaries whose functional currency is that of each company’s origin country and the presentation currency is the US dollar. Reserve for cash flow hedges The Company maintains, as hedge instruments, financial derivatives related to obligations with the public issued in UF and Chilean pesos, Changes from the fair value of derivatives designated and classified as hedges are recognized under this classification. Reserve for gains and losses from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income This caption includes investments in shares where the Company has no significant influence, and these have accordingly been measured at fair value through equity. If such equity instruments are fully or partially disposed of, the proportional accumulated effect of accumulated fair value will be transferred to profit or loss. Reserve for actuarial gains or losses in defined benefit plans For domestic subsidiaries the effects of changes in assumptions are considered, mainly changes in the discount rate. The subsidiary SQM North America has established pension plans for its retired employees that are calculated by measuring the projected obligation of staff severance indemnities using a net salary progressive rate net of adjustments to inflation, mortality and turnover assumptions, deducting the resulting amounts at present value using a 4% interest rate for 2019. Movements in other reserves and changes in interest were as follows: Foreign Reserve for cash Reserve for Reserve for gains Other Total reserves Movements Before taxes Before taxes Tax Before taxes Deferred taxes Before taxes Deferred Before taxes Reserves Deferred Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance as of January 1, 2017 (19,463 ) 64 - (5,446 ) 612 4,813 (1,300 ) 7,832 (12,200 ) (688 ) (12,888 ) Increase 1,992 4,068 - 1,092 (308 ) 6,090 - 3,500 16,742 (308 ) 16,434 Decrease (7,442 ) (1,884 ) - (2,493 ) 590 (6,116 ) (550 ) - (17,935 ) 40 (17,895 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2017 (24,913 ) 2,248 - (6,847 ) 894 4,787 (1,850 ) 11,332 (13,393 ) (956 ) (14,349 ) Increase 6,542 14,794 - 674 (133 ) 294 (79 ) - 22,304 (212 ) 22,092 Decrease (7,936 ) (9,071 ) - (2,003 ) 531 (5,841 ) 1,578 - (24,851 ) 2,109 (22,742 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2018 (26,307 ) 7,971 - (8,176 ) 1,292 (760 ) (351 ) 11,332 (15,940 ) 941 (14,999 ) Increase 1,824 8,628 (2,683 ) - - 1,570 (424 ) 3,093 15,115 (3,107 ) 12,008 Decrease (1,262 ) (6,720 ) - (3,306 ) 700 (418 ) 113 (339 ) (12,045 ) 813 (11,232 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2019 (25,745 ) 9,879 (2,683 ) (11,482 ) 1,992 392 (662 ) 14,086 (12,870 ) (1,353 ) (14,223 ) Other reserves This caption corresponds to the legal reserves reported in the individual financial statements of the subsidiaries and Associates that are mentioned below and that have been recognized in SQM’s equity through the application of the equity method. Subsidiary - Associate As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Iberian S.A. (1) 9,464 9,464 9,464 SQM Europe NV 1,957 1,957 1,957 Soquimich European holding B.V. 828 828 828 Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 455 455 455 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 305 305 305 Kore Potash PLC 2,754 - - Total 15,763 13,009 13,009 Corresponds to the acquisition of the subsidiary SQM Iberian S.A., which was already under Company ownership at the acquisition date (IAS 27 R). (1,677 ) (1,677 ) (1,677 ) Total Other reserves 14,086 11,332 11,332 (1) In the case of SQM Iberian S.A., the balance corresponds to the results obtained in the previous financial year which are presented as forming part of other reserves because of local regulations 19.4 Dividend policies As required by Article 79 of the Chilean Companies Act, unless otherwise decided by unanimous vote of the holders of issued and subscribed shares, we must distribute a cash dividend in an amount equal to at least 30% of our consolidated profit for the year ended as of December 31, unless and except to the extent it has a deficit in retained earnings (losses not absorbed in prior years). Dividend policy for year 2019 The Company has defined the following dividend policy: a) Distribute and pay, as a final dividend and in favor of the respective shareholders, a percentage of the net income that shall be determined per the following financial parameters: (I) 100% of the profit for 2019 if all the following financial parameters are met: (a) “all current assets” divided by “all current liabilities” is equal to or greater than 2.5 times, and (b) the sum of “all current liabilities” and “all non-current liabilities”, less “cash equivalents”, less “other current financial assets”, all of the above divided by “total equity” in equal or less than 0.8 times. (II) 80% of the profit for 2019 if all the following financial parameters are met: (a) “all current assets” divided by “all current liabilities” is equal to or greater than 2.0 times, and (b) the sum of “all current liabilities” and “all non-current liabilities”, less “cash equivalents”, less “other current financial assets”, all of the above divided by “total equity” in equal or less than 0.9 times. (III) 60% of the profit for 2019 if all the following financial parameters are met: (a) “all current assets” divided by “all current liabilities” is equal to or greater than 1.5 times, and (b) the sum of “all current liabilities” and “all non-current liabilities”, less “cash equivalents”, less “other current financial assets”, all of the above divided by “total equity” in equal or less than 1.0 times. If none of the foregoing financial parameters are met, the Company shall distribute and pay, as a final dividend, and in favor of the respective shareholders, 50% of the 2019 net income. b) Distribute and pay, if possible and during 2019, three interim dividends that will be charged against the aforementioned final dividend. These interim dividends shall likely be paid during the month following the approval of the March, June, and September 2019 interim financial statements, respectively, Its amounts shall be calculated as follows: (i) For the interim dividends that will be charged to the accumulated net income reflected in the March 2019 interim financial statements, the percentage distributed shall be determined per the financial parameters expressed in letter a) above. (ii) For the interim dividends that will be charged to the accumulated net income reflected in the June 2019 interim financial statements, the percentage distributed shall be determined per the financial parameters expressed in letter a) above, discounting the total amount of interim dividends previously distributed during 2019. (iii) For the interim dividends that will be charged to the accumulated net income reflected in the September 2019 interim financial statements, the percentage distributed shall be determined per the financial parameters expressed in letter a) above, discounting the total amount of interim dividends previously distributed during 2019. c) The amount of the interim dividends mentioned above may vary, pursuant to the information available to the Board of Directors on the date on which it agrees to the distribution of said dividends given that the dividend will not materially or negatively affect SQM’s capacity to impact its investments, fulfill its liabilities, or in general, comply with the investment and finance policy approved at the ordinary shareholders’ meeting. d) At the ordinary shareholders meeting that will be held in 2020, the Board of Directors shall propose a final dividend pursuant to the financial parameters expressed in letter a) above, discounting the total amount of the interim dividends previously distributed during 2019. e) If there is an excess of net income in 2019, this may be retained and assigned or allocated for financing its own operations, to one or more investment projects of the Company, notwithstanding a future distribution of special dividends charged to the accumulated net income previously approved at the shareholders’ meeting, or the possible and future capitalization of all or part of the latter . f) The payment of additional dividends is not considered. The dividend policy described above corresponds to the intention of the Board of Directors, and the compliance of it shall depend on the net income that the Company ultimately obtains, as well as the results of periodic projections that could impact the Company, or to the existence of determined conditions that may affect it, as applicable. If the dividend policy exposed by the Board of Directors suffers a substantial change, the Company must communicate it as an essential fact . 19.5 Interim and provisional dividends The ordinary shareholders’ meeting held on April 25, 2019, agreed to distribute and pay 100% of the distributable net profit obtained by the Company during the 2018 fiscal year, as dividend. Consequently, in May 2019, the Company paid a definitive dividend of US$ 1.67111 per share as distributable net profit obtained during the 2018 fiscal year. An amount of US$ 1.25837 per share was subtracted from this amount, as it had already been paid as interim dividend in 2018. On May 22, 2019, the Board agreed to pay an interim dividend equivalent to US$ 0.30598 per share, charged to the Company's net income for 2019. This amount was paid in Chilean pesos at the official exchange rate to the Dollar published in the Official Gazette on May 29, 2019. On August 21, 2019, the Board paid a provisional dividend equivalent to US$ 0.26669 per share with a charge to Company earnings for 2019. Such amount was paid in its equivalent in Chilean pesos, according to the observed U.S. dollar exchange rate published in the Official Gazette on August 30, 2019. This dividend was paid to shareholders, in person or through their duly authorized representatives, starting at 9.00 a.m. on September 12, 2019. The shareholders who are registered in the Company’s Shareholders’ Registry five business days prior to the date of payment will be entitled to the dividend . On November 20, 2019, the Board of Directors agreed to pay an interim dividend equivalent to US $ 0.22987 per share, to be charged to the Company's 2019 earnings. This amount was paid in its Pesos equivalent according to the value of the Observed Dollar published in the Official Gazette of November 29, 2019. 19.6 Interim and provisional dividends Dividends were the following: Dividends For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Dividends 882 823 55,501 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Interim Dividend 3,936 7,872 - Soquimich Comercial S.A. Payable Dividend 1,999 1,038 3,171 Non-controlling interests 6,817 9,733 58,672 Interim dividend 211,224 331,199 317,243 Additional dividend - 100,000 - Dividends payable 66,891 108,631 107,358 Owners of the Parent 278,115 539,8300 424,601 Dividends discounted from equity for the period 284,932 549,563 483,273 19.7 Non-controlling interest Detail of non-controlling interests Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest Equity, non-controlling interests Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests Subsidiaries % of interests in ‎ the ownership ‎ held ‎ by non-controlling ‎ interest For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the ‎ year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 201 8 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Proinsa Ltda. 0.1 % - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. 0.00001 % - - - - - - - - - Ajay SQM Chile S.A. 49 % 740 1,176 1,023 8,517 8,659 8,306 882 823 989 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 39.3616784 % 1,999 1,375 100 38,103 41,855 49,247 5,935 8,910 1,264 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. 30 % (251 ) (318 ) (403 ) (693 ) (481 ) (184 ) - - - Agrorama S.A. 0.001 % - - - - - - - - Orcoma Estudios SPA 49 % - - - 2,277 2,277 2,277 - - - SQM Indonesia S.A. 20 % - - - 1 1 - - - - Total 2,488 2,233 720 48,205 52,311 59,646 6,817 9,733 2,253

Earnings per share

Earnings per share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Earnings Per Share Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure Of Earnings Per Share Explanatory [Text Block]	Note 20 Earnings per share Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income attributable to the Company’s shareholders by the weighted average of the number of shares in circulation during that period. As expressed, earnings per share are detailed as follows: Basic earnings per share For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Net profit attributable to owners of the parent 278,115 439,830 427,697 Basic earnings per share For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 Units Units Units Number of common shares in circulation 263,196,524 263,196,524 263,196,524 Basic earnings per share (US$ per share) 1.0567 1.6711 1.6250 The Company has not made any operations with a potential dilutive effect that assumes diluted earnings per share are different from the basic earnings per share.

Contingencies and restrictions

Contingencies and restrictions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of contingent liability [Abstract]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [text block]	Note 21 Contingencies and restrictions In accordance with note 18.1, the Company has only registered a provision for those lawsuits in which there is a probability that the judgments will be unfavorable to the Company, The Company is party to the following lawsuits and other relevant legal actions: 21.1 Lawsuits and other relevant events (a) Plaintiff : City of Pomona California, USA Defendants : SQM North America Corporation Date : December 2010 Court : United States District Court Central District of California Reason : Payment of expenses and other amounts related to the treatment of groundwater to allow for its consumption by removing the existing perchlorate in such groundwater that allegedly comes from Chilean fertilizers. Status : On May 17, 2018, district judge Gary Klausner sentenced in favor of SQM NA following the verdict of the jury, On February 6, 2020, the court of appeals of the 9th circuit of United States ordered a retrial before the District Court. Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 32,000 (b) Plaintiff : City of Lindsay, California, USA Defendants : SQM NA and the Company (still not noticed) Date : December 2010 Court : United States District Court Eastern District of California. Reason : Payment of expenses and other amounts related to the treatment of groundwater to allow for its consumption by removing the existing perchlorate in such groundwater that allegedly comes from Chilean fertilizers. Status : Filing of the case, processing suspended . Nominal value : Not possible to determine. (c) Plaintiff : H&V Van Mele N.V. Defendants : NV Euroports, SQM Europe N.V. y and its insurance companies Date : July 2013 Court : Commercial Court Reason : Alleged indirect responsibility for the absence of adequate specifications for the SOP–WS by the Belgian distributor Status : Sentencing against NV Euroports and subsidy SQM Europe N.V., for EUR 206,675.91, Appeal presented in November 2017 Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 430 (d) Plaintiff : Carlos Aravena Carrizo et al. Defendants : SQM Nitratos S.A. and its insurers Date : May 2014 Court : 18th Civil Court Santiago Reason : Lawsuit seeking compensation for damages for alleged civil liability under tort as a result of an explosion that occurred during 2010 near Baquedano, causing the death of 6 employees Status : On May 7, 2019 2019 The 18th Civil Court of Santiago rejected the lawsuit. The case is before the Santiago Court of Appeals, which will hear the plaintiffs' appeal Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 1,235 (e) Plaintiff : SQM Salar S.A. and the Company Defendants : Seguros Generales Suramericana S.A. (formerly - RSA Seguros Chile S.A.) Date : August 29, 2016. Court : Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM Reason : Complaint for forced compliance and collection of indemnification for insurance claim of February 7 and 8, 2013 Status : Evidence stage Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 20,658 (f) Plaintiff : Tyne and Wear Pension Fund represented by the Council of the Borough of South Tyneside acting as Lead Plaintiff Defendants : The Company Date : January 2016 Court : United States District Court – Southern District of New York Reason : Alleged damage to ADS holders of the Company resulting from alleged noncompliance with the securities regulations in the United States by the Company Status : Initial stage of disclosure of background information Nominal value : Not determined (g) Plaintiff : Ernesto Saldaña González et al Defendants : SQM Salar S.A., SQM Industrial S.A. and their insurance companies Date : May 2016 Court : 13 th Reason : Lawsuit seeking compensation for damages for alleged civil liability under tort law arising from the accident that occurred in July 2014 in the María Elena location Status : On March 6, 2019, the ruling in first instance was passed, dismissing the claim. The case is currently before the Santiago Court of Appeals, which will hear the plaintiffs' appeal. Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 515 (h) Plaintiff : Transportes Buen Destino S.A. Defendants : SQM Salar. Date : January 24, 2018 Court : Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM Reason : Discrepancies generated in the implementation of the following contracts entered into between TBD and SQM Salar: (i) lithium brine transportation; and (ii) salt transportation Status : Pending evidentiary stage. Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 3,019 (i) Plaintiff : Atacameña de Peine Indigenous Community, Atacameña de Camar Indigenous Community and the Consejo de Pueblos Atacameños. Defendants : SMA. SQM Salar has intervened as an independent third party. Date : January 30, 2019 Court : 1st Environmental Court Reason : Declare the SMA's decision illegal, which approved the PdC submitted by SQM Salar. Status : On December 26, 2019, the First Environmental Court of Antofagasta partially accepted the claim presented by the indigenous communities, rendering null and void the SMA resolution that approved the PdC and suspended the sanctions process against SQM Salar. On January 16, 2020, motions for cassation on grounds of form and substance, filed by the Company, were declared admissible and these will be addressed and resolved by the Supreme Court. Nominal value : Not determined (j) Plaintiff : Quillagua Aymara Indigenous Community and Quechua de Huatacondo Indigenous Community Defendants : SMA Date : March 22, 2019 Court : First Environmental Court of Santiago Reason : Declare the SMA's decision illegal, which approved the PdC submitted by the Company Status : Pending the case hearing Nominal value : Not determined (k) Plaintiff : Congresspersons Claudia Nathalie Mix Jiménez, Gael Fernanda Yeomans Araya, Camila Ruslay Rojas Valderrama et al. Defendants : CORFO. The entity has intervened as an independent third party Date : September 6,2018 Court : Special Magistrate, Mr. Alejandro Madrid Crohare Reason : To render null and void the contract for the Salar de Atacama Project signed between CORFO and SQM Salar. Status : Discussion stage Nominal value : Not determined (l) Plaintiff : Danilo Andrés Araya Rojas et al. Defendants : FPC Ingeniería y Construcción SpA, SQM S.A. and its insurers Date : May, 2019 Court : 19° Civil Court of Santiago Reason : Claim seeking compensation for damages, for extracontractual liability resulting from the traffic accident occurring on March 5, 2018 on Route 5, kilometer 1713, near Pozo Almonte, involving an overturned pick-up truck owned by FPC resulting in the death of its two occupants, both employees of FPC, one of which was father of the four claimants. At the time the accident occurred, the employees were heading towards their homes on the SQM site in Nueva Victoria (traffic accident). The four children of one of the deceased employees are the claimants in this case, compensation for moral damages Status : Discussion stage Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 1,194. (m) Plaintiff : Servicios Logísticos Integrales Inversol SpA Defendants : SQM Salar Date : June 24, 2019. Court : Arbitration in accordance with the rules established by CAM Reason : Controversies originating in the implementation of the salt transportation contract Status : Discussion stage Nominal value : ~ ThUS$ 7,029 (n) Plaintiff : Fennix Industrial SpA Defendants : SQM Salar Date : April 17, 2019. Court : First Civil Court of Concepción. Reason : Disputes arising from the execution of civil works and electromechanical assembly contracts. Status : Pending ruling on motion to dismiss based on lack of jurisdiction. Nominal value : ~ TH (o) Plaintiff Fennix Industrial SpA Defendants SQM Salar and other Date May 8, 2019. Court Criminal Court of San Pedro de la Paz Reason Alleged misappropriation of funds - controversies originating from contract execution for civil works and electromechanical assembly Status Research stage. Nominal value ~ TH (p) Plaintiff Arrigoni Ingeniería y construcción S.A. Defendants SQM Salar Date November 21, 2019 Court Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM Reason Request to declare the end of Works Contract No. SC 9500002949, named “Expansion of Lithium Carbonate Plant Phase II” dated April 2, 2018 Status Discussion stage Nominal value TH The Company and its subsidiaries have been involved and will probably continue to be involved either as plaintiffs or defendants in certain judicial proceedings that have been and will be heard by the arbitration or ordinary courts of justice that will make the final decision. Those proceedings that are regulated by the appropriate legal regulations are intended to exercise or oppose certain actions or exceptions related to certain mining claims either granted or to be granted and that do not or will not affect in an essential manner the development of the Company and its subsidiaries. Soquimich Comercial S.A. has been involved and will probably continue being involved either as plaintiff or defendant in certain judicial proceedings through which it intends to collect and receive the amounts owed, the total nominal value of which is approximately US$ 1.2 million. The Company and its subsidiaries have made efforts and continues making efforts to obtain payment of certain amounts that are still owed to the Company due to its activities . The Company and its subsidiaries have received no legal notice on lawsuits other than those indicated above, which exceed US$ 0.2 million. 21.2 Restrictions to management or financial limits Contracts that subscribed the issuance of bonds in the local and international market require the Company to comply with the following level of consolidated financial indicators, calculated for the last 12-month period: Maintain a borrowing ratio less than 1.44 for the Series H bond and Series O bond. Furthermore, both bonds establish that if the borrowing ratio (as this term is defined in the respective issuance contracts) exceeds 1.2, (provided that this does not exceed than 1.44 times), the bondholders can voluntarily and individually choose to redeem these bonds early at par value. The indebtedness ratio as of December 31, 2019 reached a proportion of 1.19. As of December 31, 2019, the above-mentioned financial indicator has the following values: Indicator As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Leverage 1.19 1.00 Bond issue agreements issued abroad require the Company to neither merge nor dispose of the whole or a substantial part of its assets, unless all the following conditions are met: (i) the legal successor company is an entity subject to either Chilean or United States law, and assumes SQM S.A.’s obligations under a complimentary contract, (ii) the Issuer does not fail to comply immediately after the merger or disposal, and (iii) the Issuer delivers a legal opinion stating that the merger or disposal and the complimentary contract meet the requirements described in the original contract. In addition, SQM S.A. is committed to disclosing financial information on quarterly basis. The Company and its subsidiaries have complied and are fully complying with all the aforementioned limitations, restrictions and obligations . 21.3 Environmental contingencies On June 6, 2016, the “SMA” filed charges against the Company with respect to the Pampa Hermosa project for possible noncompliance with RCA 890/2010. This relates to charges related to certain variables of the follow-up plan and the implementation of a mitigation measure included in the respective environmental impact assessment. The Company has presented for the approval of SMA a compliance program detailing the actions and commitments it will carry out to address the SMA's objections. On June 29, 2017, the SMA rejected the compliance program presented by the Company, On July 10, 2017, the Company presented its rebuttals to the charges made by the SMA, On August 21, 2018, the Second Environmental Court accepted the Company’s claim, ordering the SMA to take the procedure back to the stage prior to their resolution rejecting the compliance program presented by the Company. The SMA approved SQM’s proposed compliance program in its resolution dated January 26, 2019, and this program is currently being executed. On March 22, 2019, the indigenous communities of Quillagua and Huatacondo filed a complaint against the resolution that approved the compliance program before the First Environmental Court of Antofagasta (R-21-2019). This process was suspended on May 16, 2019. The SMA issued a resolution dated November 28, 2016, rectified by a resolution dated December 23, 2016, which filed charges against SQM Salar for brine extraction in excess of authorized amounts, progressive impairment of the vitality of carob trees, providing incomplete information, amending variables, and other charges. SQM Salar S.A. presented a compliance program that was accepted by the SMA. On December 26, 2019, the Environmental Court of Antofagasta rendered null and void the SMA ruling that approved the program and the SMA and SQM Salar presented motions for cassation against this verdict. These were accepted for processing and submitted to the Supreme Court and are currently pending final ruling. Although the ruling approving the compliance program has been rendered null and void, SQM Salar continues to comply with the measures it agreed to under this program. Once the Supreme Court resolves these issues, approval of the compliance program may be confirmed, a new program may be presented that considers other measures in agreement with the SMA or the sanctions process may be reinstated. This latter event may consider the application of fines up to US$9 million, temporary or permanent closure of facilities and in extreme circumstances, revocation of the respective environmental permit. 21.4 Tax Contingencies On August 26, 2016, SQM Salar filed a tax claim before the Third Tax and Customs Court of the Metropolitan Region against settlements 169, 170, 171 and 172, which extend the application of specific mining tax to lithium exploitation. The disputed amount is approximately US$17.8 million. On November 28, 2018, the Third Tax and Customs Court rejected the claim, and the case was transferred to the Santiago Court of Appeals, following an appeal filed by SQM Salar. On March 24, 2017, SQM Salar filed with the Third Tax and Customs Court of the Metropolitan Region a tax claim against tax assessment No. 207 of 2016 and ruling No. 156 of 2016, both issued by the Chilean IRS, which seek to expand application of the specific tax on mining activities to include lithium exploitation for tax years 2015 and 2016. The amount involved is approximately US$14.4 million. On November 28, 2018, the Third Tax and Customs Court accepted SQM Salar’s claim for US$ 7.0 million corresponding to the overcharge made by the SII and rejected the remainder of the claim, The case is in the Santiago Court of Appeals, based on the appeal filed by SQM Salar. These amounts are classified as current taxes receivable and non-current taxes receivable as of December 31, 2019 and 2018. The amount in dispute is US$ 32.2 million, and approximately US$ 25.2 million of this sum is the potential specific mining tax associated with lithium, whereas US$7.0 million is an excess charge by the SII regarding this latter value, the internal revenue service (SII) has acknowledged the excessive charge of US$5.8 million, and a request has been made on October 17, 2019 for it to be returned , The difference of US$ 1.2 million for the lower first category tax rate plus interests and fines will be reinstated at the end of the trial . The SII has not settled differences with respect to specific mining taxes for 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. the current business year. As of the date of these financial statements, the Company has not made provisions for these potential differences. If the Chilean IRS uses criteria similar to that used in previous years, it may issue an assessment in the future for the 2016, 2017, 2018 y 2019 financial years, It is reasonable to expect that should these assessments for the period 2016 through the fourth quarter of 2019 be issued, the value would be approximately US$ 69 million (without considering potential interest and fines). The Company continues to undertake all legal efforts to actively and decidedly defend its interests . 21.5 Co ntingencies regarding the Changes to the Contracts with Corfo : On September 6, 2018, representatives Claudia Nathalie Mix Jiménez, Gael Fernanda Yeomans Araya and Camila Ruslay Rojas Valderrama and the Poder Ciudadano political party filed an annulment suit against Corfo, which requested that the Contract for the Salar de Atacama Project between Corfo and the Companies be annulled. The Companies have taken part of the process as interested third parties. In the event that the annulment claim is approved for the Salar de Atacama Project Contract, SQM Salar may be prevented from exploit the mining claims in the Salar de Atacama that it has leased from Corfo. 21.6 Contingencies related to the Class Action lawsuit Since October 2015, a consolidated class action lawsuit has been pending against the Company before the District Court for the Southern District of New York of the United States. The consolidated lawsuit alleges that certain statements made by the Company between June 30, 2010, and June 18, 2015, mainly in documents filed with the SEC and in Company press releases, were materially false and this constitutes a violation of Section 10 (b) of the Securities Exchange Act and of the correlative Standard 10b-5. Specifically, the consolidated lawsuit challenges certain statements issued by the Company associated with its compliance with or implementation of the laws and regulations that regulate it, the effectiveness of its internal controls, the adoption of a code of ethics consistent with SEC requirements, of its income or revenue and taxes paid, and of the applicable accounting standards. The primary plaintiff seeks compensation for the class in a yet undetermined amount for economic losses occurring as a result of the questioned statements. On January 10, 2018, the primary plaintiff filed a motion to certify a class composed of all people or entities who purchased ADSs in the Company between June 30, 2010, and March 18, 2015, and this motion is still pending with the court. Although the Company expects to actively and decisively defend its position, the outcome of this litigation cannot be predicted. 21.7 Restricted or pledged cash The subsidiary Isapre Norte Grande Ltda., in compliance with the provisions established by the Chilean Superintendence of Healthcare, which regulates the running of pension-related health institutions, maintains a guarantee in financial instruments delivered in deposits, custody and administration to Banco de Chile. This guarantee, according to the regulations issued by the Chilean Superintendence of Healthcare is equivalent to the total amount owed to its members and medical providers, Banco de Chile reports the present value of the guarantee to the Chilean Superintendence of Healthcare and Isapre Norte Grande Ltda on a daily basis. As of December 31 , 2019, the guarantee amounts to ThUS$ 551. 21.8 Securities obtained from third parties The main security received (exceeding ThUS$ 100) from third parties to guarantee Soquimich Comercial S.A. their compliance with obligations in contracts of commercial mandates for the distribution and sale of fertilizers amounted to ThUS$ 9,611 and ThUS$ 9,423 on December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 respectively; which is detailed as follows: Grantor Relationship As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ Ferosor Agrícola S.A. Unrelated Third party 5,372 3,598 Tattersall Agroinsumos S.A. Unrelated Third party 2,000 2,000 Contador Frutos S.A. Unrelated Third party - 1,587 Covepa SPA Unrelated Third party 671 720 Johannes Epple Davanzo Unrelated Third party 300 321 Hortofrutícola La Serena Unrelated Third party 282 294 Com. Serv Johannes Epple Davanz Unrelated Third party 269 - Juan Luis Gaete Chesta Unrelated Third party 182 195 Arena Fertilizantes y Semillas Unrelated Third party 201 216 Vicente Oyarce Castro Unrelated Third party 213 222 Soc. Agrocom. Julio Polanco Unrelated Third party - 144 Bernardo Guzmán Schmidt Unrelated Third party 121 126 Total 9,611 9,423 21.9 Indirect guarantees Guarantees without pending balance indirectly reflect that the respective guarantees are in force and approved by the Company’s Board of Directors and have not been used by the respective subsidiary. Debtor Outstanding balances as of the closing date Creditor of the guarantee Name Relationship Type of guarantee As of December 31, As of December 31, ThUS$ ThUS$ Australian and New Zealand Bank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Australian and New Zealand Bank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Generale Bank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Generale Bank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Kredietbank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Kredietbank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM México S.A. de C.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Brasil Ltda. Subsidiary Guarantee - - “BNP’’ SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Sociedad Nacional de Minería A.G. SQM Potasio S.A. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bank of America Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Export Development Canada Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - JP Morgan Chase Bank SQM Industrial S.A. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Nova Scotia SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Morgan Stanley Capital Services SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - HSBC SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Deutsche Bank AG SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Credit Suisse International SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - -

Lawsuits and complaints

Lawsuits and complaints	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of lawsuits and complaints [Abstract]
Disclosure of lawsuits and complaints [Text Block]	Note 22 Lawsuits and complaints Investigation by the Department of Justice and the Securities Exchange Commission and Agreements On January 13, 2017, the Company signed agreements with the DOJ and the SEC relating to their investigations into Company payments to suppliers and organizations that may have had links with politically exposed persons during the period from 2008 to 2015. As a result, the Company conducted its own internal investigation through an ad-hoc Board committee. The Company’s securities are traded in the USA, so the Company is subject to US law. The Company has voluntarily submitted the results of its internal investigation and supporting documents to the DOJ, the SEC and the relevant Chilean authorities. In accordance with the terms of the Deferred Prosecution Agreement with the DOJ, denominated DPA the Company has accepted that the DOJ formulates (i) a charge for infractions for the lack of implementation of effective internal accounting systems and internal accounting controls and (ii) a charge for infractions for failure to adequately maintain books, records and accounting sections in relation to the events investigated, Under the DPA, the DOJ has agreed not to pursue such charges against the Company for a period of 3 years and release the Company from liability after such period, inasmuch as within that period the Company complies with the terms of the DPA, These include payment of a fine of US$15,487,500 and acceptance of an external monitor for a period of 24 months that will assess the Company’s compliance program, and continue to report on the Company independently for an additional year. In relation to the agreement with the SEC, the Company has agreed to (i) pay a fine of 15 million dollars and (ii) maintain the Monitor for the aforementioned period. The SEC has issued a Cease and Desist Order that does not identify other breaches of United States regulations. The aforementioned amounted, approximately US$ 30.5 million, were reflected in the Company’s profit and loss during the fourth quarter of 2016 in the “Other Expenses by function” line.

Mineral resource exploration an

Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of exploration and evaluation assets [abstract] [Abstract]
Disclosure of exploration and evaluation assets [text block]	Note 23 Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure Given the nature of operations of the Company and the type of exploration it undertakes, disbursements for exploration can be found in 4 stages: implementation, economically feasible, not economically feasible and in exploitation: (a) Implementation: Disbursements for prospecting under implementation and therefore prior to determination of economic feasibility, are classified in accordance with Note 3.23 as Non-Current Assets, in the line item Construction in progress of Property, Plant and Equipment . - Chile: ThUS$ 12,841 and ThUS$ 10,292 corresponds to exploration relating caliche and brine exploration as of December 31, 2019 and 2018. - For Mt Holland, total disbursements corresponding to construction in progress (which includes exploration disbursements) amount to ThUS$ 30,475 as of December 31, 2019, and ThUS$ 11,298 as of December 31, 2018 . (b) Economically feasible : Prospecting disbursements corresponding to caliche exploration, wherein the study concluded that its economic feasibility is viable, are classified under “Other Non-current Non-Financial Assets”, The balance as of December 31, 2019, is ThUS$ 6,576 and as of December 31, 2018, it is ThUS$ 5,099. At December 31, 2019, ThUS$ 3,433 corresponding to advanced metallic exploration are also presented under the heading "Other Non-Current Non-Financial Assets". As of 31 December 2018, there were no capitalizations for this concept. For the exploration of the Salar de Atacama, the associated assets correspond to wells that can be used both in monitoring and exploitation of the Salar, Therefore, once the studies are concluded, these are classified as “Non-current Assets” in “Properties, Plants and Equipment”, assigning them a technical useful life of 10 years. (c) Not economically feasible : Prospecting disbursements, once finalized and concluded to be not economically feasible, are charged to profit and loss. As of December 31, 2019, there was a total of ThUS$ 165 for this concept, and as of December 31, 2018, there were no disbursements for this concept . (d) In Exploitation: Caliche exploration disbursements that are found in this area are amortized based on the material exploited, the portion that is exploited in the following 12 months is presented as “Current Assets” in the “Process Inventories”, the remaining portion is classified as “Other Non-current Non-Financial Assets”. As of December 31, 2019, the amount in “Current Assets” is ThUS$ 1,367 and the balance as of December 31, 2018 for this concept is

Gains (losses) from operating a

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Profit Loss From Operating Activities Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure Of Profit Loss From Operating Activities Explanatory [Text Block]	Note 24 Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature 24.1 Revenue from operating activities The Group generates revenues from the sale of goods (which are recognized at one point in time) and from the provision of services (which are recognized over time) and are distributed among the following geographical areas and main product and service lines. (a) Geographic areas: For the year ended December 31, 2019 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 109,975 1,064 599 27,371 39,512 33,336 211,857 Latin America and the Caribbean 78,872 7,972 3,593 64,868 6,354 269 161,928 Europe 149,992 123,525 76,250 27,973 15,289 735 393,764 North America 243,399 90,070 45,810 43,312 27,798 883 451,272 Asia and others 141,682 148,389 379,462 48,627 5,922 752 724,834 Total 723,920 371,020 505,714 212,151 94,875 35,975 1,943,655 For the year ended December 31, 2018 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 111,595 1,052 700 25,593 4,575 45,834 189,349 Latin America and the Caribbean 77,737 6,389 3,598 80,192 12,098 177 180,191 Europe 200,229 112,080 103,430 46,068 17,384 473 479,664 North America 240,995 83,587 68,254 50,685 27,347 647 471,515 Asia and others 151,195 121,864 558,819 64,936 46,863 1,407 945,084 Total 781,751 324,972 734,801 267,474 108,267 48,538 2,265,803 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 91,243 1,054 802 20,001 2,522 45,942 161,564 Latin America and the Caribbean 71,335 5,756 3,109 142,610 9,180 155 232,145 Europe 177,997 81,557 88,443 72,405 28,346 305 449,053 North America 235,963 67,491 42,918 69,105 25,824 553 441,854 Asia and others 120,713 96,265 509,301 75,205 69,706 1,517 872,707 Total 697,251 252,123 644,573 379,326 135,578 48,472 2,157,323 (b) Main product and service lines: For the period from January to December of the year Products and Services 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Specialty plant nutrition 723,920 781,751 697,251 - Sodium Nitrates 20,679 17,688 18,555 - Potassium nitrate and sodium potassium nitrate 457,477 527,945 474,451 - Specialty Blends 153,739 145,511 121,263 - Other specialty fertilizers 92,025 90,607 82,982 Iodine and derivatives 371,020 324,972 252,123 Lithium and derivatives 505,714 734,801 644,573 Potassium 212,151 267,474 379,326 Industrial chemicals 94,875 108,267 135,578 Other 35,975 48,538 48,472 - Services 3,410 4,017 3,795 - Income from leasing properties 1,438 1,474 71 - Income from subleases on right-of-use assets 261 - - - Commodities 16,176 18,581 11,822 - Other ordinary income from Commercial Offices 14,690 24,466 32,784 Total 1,943,655 2,265,803 2,157,323 24.2 Cost of sales Cost of sales broken down by nature of expense For the period from January to December of the year Cost of sales 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw materials and consumables used (271,912 ) (260,869 ) (227,617 ) Classes of employee benefit expenses (178,493 ) (203,571 ) (172,158 ) Depreciation expense (188,157 ) (212,641 ) (232,365 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16) (5,450 ) - - Amortization expense (5,102 ) (6,376 ) (7,490 ) Investment plan expenses (18,367 ) (11,860 ) (14,796 ) Provision for site closure (911 ) (2,045 ) (2,960 ) Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies (7,500 ) 1,721 1,746 Contractors (123,096 ) (120,923 ) (118,610 ) Operating leases (47,007 ) (37,245 ) (36,333 ) Mining concessions (7,856 ) (8,168 ) (7,802 ) Operations transport (56,376 ) (64,352 ) (69,051 ) Freight and product transport costs (46,264 ) (51,387 ) (55,383 ) Purchase of products from third parties (189,583 ) (182,695 ) (184,226 ) Insurance (16,968 ) (11,923 ) (10,255 ) CORFO rights (143,861 ) (182,954 ) (46,274 ) Export costs (97,103 ) (107,418 ) (86,831 ) Expenses related to variable payment leases (contracts under IFRS 16) (1,096 ) - - Variation in inventory 52,557 20,597 (76,009 ) Variation in inventory provision 17,107 (8,997 ) (14,989 ) Other expenses, by nature (48,165 ) (34,525 ) (33,419 ) Total (1,383,603 ) (1,485,631 ) (1,394,822 ) 24.3 Other income Other income As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Discounts obtained from suppliers 676 705 345 Fines charged to suppliers 483 698 199 Taxes recovered 457 996 1,278 Amounts recovered from insurance 492 443 154 Overestimate of provisions for third-party obligations 983 375 586 Other operating income 2,422 1,536 4,543 Options on mining claims 5,298 16,095 2,607 Easements, pipelines and roads 7,204 10,806 4,656 Reimbursement mining licenses and notary expenses 203 394 1,196 Shares obtained in junior mining companies through options - - 2,263 Total 18,218 32,048 17,827 24.4 Administrative expenses Administrative expenses As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Remuneration and benefits to employees (60,255 ) (63,880 ) (51,761 ) Marketing costs (3,911 ) (3,078 ) (2,539 ) Amortization expenses (5 ) (15 ) (8 ) Entertainment expenses (5,783 ) (4,805 ) (4,781 ) Advisory services (13,862 ) (12,848 ) (14,348 ) Leases (3,653 ) (4,556 ) (4,097 ) Insurance (2,553 ) (1,758 ) (1,767 ) Office expenses (7,327 ) (8,165 ) (5,357 ) Contractors (4,874 ) (5,730 ) (4,805 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16) (2,501 ) - - Other expenses, by nature (12,456 ) (13,291 ) (11,708 ) Total (117,180 ) (118,126 ) (101,171 ) 24.5 Other expenses by function For the period from January to December of the year Other expenses by function 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation of assets not in use (136 ) (59 ) (90 ) Subtotal (136 ) (59 ) (90 ) Impairment losses (reversals of impairment losses) recognized in profit (loss) for the year Property, plant and equipment (49 ) (1,390 ) - Intangible assets other than goodwill (913 ) (1,736 ) - Goodwill (140 ) (3,254 ) - Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale (607 ) - - Subtotal (1,709 ) (6,380 ) - Other expenses, by nature Legal expenses (9,277 ) (15,139 ) (25,176 ) VAT and other unrecoverable taxes (613 ) (1,187 ) (1,295 ) Fines paid (145 ) (965 ) (1,112 ) Investment plan expenses (1,694 ) (7,555 ) (10,006 ) Non-metallic exploration expenses (5,537 ) (5,864 ) - Donations (5,026 ) (4,502 ) (5,527 ) Reorganization of related businesses - 6,000 (6,000 ) Other operating expenses (1,858 ) (1,256 ) (4,394 ) Subtotal (24,150 ) (30,468 ) (53,510 ) Total (25,995 ) (36,907 ) (53,600 ) 24.6 Other gains (losses) For the period from January to December of the year Other income (expenses) 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Adjustment relating to previous year application of equity method to investments (984 ) (664 ) 500 Impairment of interests in joint ventures (1) 631 (8,802 ) - Sales of investments in associates - (759 ) - Sales of investments in joint ventures - 14,507 - Others (30 ) 2,122 43 Total (383 ) 6,404 543 24.7 Net impairment (losses)gains on reversal of financial assets Net impairment (losses)of gains and on reversal of impairment financial assets ‎ losses As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 As of December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ (Impairment loss)/ gain on reversal of financial assets (1,057 ) 2,967 (8,038 ) Totals (1,057 ) 2,967 (8,038 ) The following summary corresponds to Notes 24.1, 24.4 and 24.5 24.8 Summary of expenses by nature For the period from January to December of the year Expenses by nature 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw materials and consumables (271,912 ) (260,869 ) (227,617 ) Classes of Employee Benefit Expenses (238,748 ) (267,451 ) (223,919 ) Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation expense (188,293 ) (212,700 ) (232,455 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16) (7,951 ) - - Property, plant and equipment (49 ) (1,390 ) - Goodwill (140 ) (3,254 ) - Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale (607 ) - - Amortization expense (6,020 ) (8,127 ) (7,498 ) Legal expenses (9,277 ) (15,139 ) (25,176 ) Investment plan expenses (20,061 ) (19,415 ) (19,480 ) Non-metallic exploration expenses (5,537 ) (5,864 ) (5,322 ) Provision for site closure (911 ) (2,045 ) (2,960 ) Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies (7,500 ) 1,721 1,746 Contractors (127,970 ) (126,653 ) (123,415 ) Leases (50,660 ) (41,801 ) (40,430 ) Mining concessions (7,856 ) (8,168 ) (7,802 ) Operation transport (56,376 ) (64,352 ) (69,051 ) Freight and product transport costs (46,264 ) (51,387 ) (55,383 ) Purchase of products from third parties (189,583 ) (182,695 ) (184,226 ) CORFO rights (143,861 ) (182,954 ) (46,274 ) Export costs (97,103 ) (107,418 ) (86,831 ) Expenses related to Variable Parts Leases (IFRS 16) (1,096 ) - - Insurance (19,521 ) (13,681 ) (12,022 ) Restructuring of joint ventures. - 6,000 (6,000 ) Consultant and advisor services (13,862 ) (12,848 ) (14,348 ) Variation in inventory 52,557 20,597 (76,009 ) Variation in provision on product inventory 17,107 (8,997 ) (14,989 ) Other expenses, by nature (85,284 ) (71,774 ) (70,133 ) Total (1,526,778 ) (1,640,664 ) (1,549,594 ) 24.9 Finance expenses For the period from January to December of the year Financial costs 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Interest expense from bank borrowings and overdrafts (2,133 ) (1,707 ) (1,650 ) Interest expense from bonds (72,983 ) (55,887 ) (49,373 ) Interest expense from loans (2,682 ) (3,093 ) (2,002 ) Capitalized interest expenses 7,841 5,021 4,382 Financial expenses related to rehabilitation provisions (4,417 ) (960 ) - Lease interest (1,535 ) - - Other finance costs (1,030 ) (1,181 ) (1,481 ) Total (76,939 ) (57,807 ) (50,124 )

Reportable segments

Reportable segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of entity's operating segments [Abstract]
Disclosure Of Entitys Reportable Segments Explanatory [Text Block]	Note 25 Reportable segments 25.1 Reportable segments (a) General information: The amount of each item presented in each operating segment is equal to that reported to the highest authority that makes decisions regarding the operation, in order to decide on the allocation of resources to the defined segments and to assess its performance. These operating segments mentioned are consistent with the way the Company is managed and how results will be reported by the Company. These segments reflect separate operating results that are regularly reviewed by the executive responsible for operational decisions in order to make decisions about the resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance (See Note 25.2). The performance of each segment is measured based on net income and revenues. Inter-segment sales are made using terms and conditions at current market rates. (b) Factors used to identify segments on which a report should be presented: The segments covered in the report are strategic business units that offer different products and services. These are managed separately because each business requires different technology and marketing strategies. (c) Description of the types of products and services from which each reportable segment obtains its income from ordinary activities The operating segments, which obtain income from ordinary activities, generate expenses and have its operating results reviewed on a regular basis by the highest authority who makes decisions regarding operations, relate to the following groups of products: 1. Specialty plant nutrients 2. Iodine and its derivatives 3. Lithium and its derivatives 4. Industrial chemicals 5. Potassium 6. Other products and services (d) Description of income sources for all the other segments Information regarding assets, liabilities, profits and expenses that cannot be assigned to the segments indicated above, due to the nature of production processes, is included under the "Unallocated amounts” category of the disclosed information. (e) Basis of accounting for transactions between reportable segments Inter-segment sales are made under the same conditions as sales to third parties and are measured consistently as presented in the statement of income. (f) Description of the nature of the differences between measurements of results of reportable segments and the result of the entity before the expense or income tax expense of incomes and discontinued operations The information reported in the segments is extracted from the Company’s consolidated financial statements and therefore there is no need to prepare reconciliations between the data mentioned above and those reported in the respective segments, according to what is stated in paragraph 28 of IFRS 8, "Operating Segments". For the allocation of inventory valuation costs, we identify the direct expenses (can be directly allocated to products) and the common expenses (belong to coproduction processes, for example common leaching expenses for production of Iodine and Nitrates), Direct costs are directly allocated to the product and the common costs are distributed according to percentages that consider different variables in their determination, such as margins, rotation of inventories, revenue, production and etc . The allocation of other common costs that are not included in the inventory valuation process, but go straight to the cost of sales, use similar criteria: the costs associated with a product or sales in particular are assigned to that particular product or sales, and the common costs associated with different products or business lines are allocated according to the sales. (g) Description of the nature of the differences between measurements of assets of reportable segments and the Company´s assets Assets are not shown classified by segments, as this information is not readily available, Some of these assets are not separable by the type of activity by which they are affected since this information is not used by management in decision-making with respect to resources to be allocated to each defined segment. All assets are disclosed in the "unallocated amounts" category. (h) Description of the nature of the differences between measurements of liabilities of reportable segments and the Company’s liabilities Liabilities are not shown classified by segments, as this information is not readily available, Some of these liabilities are not separable by the type of activity by which they are affected, since this information is not used by management in decision-making regarding resources to be allocated to each defined segment. All liabilities are disclosed in the "unallocated amounts" category. 25.2 Reportable segment disclosures: Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2019 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 1,943,655 1,943,655 - 1,943,655 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 1,943,655 1,943,655 - 1,943,655 Costs of sales (573,808 ) (230,468 ) (306,250 ) (63,590 ) (176,199 ) (33,288 ) (1,383,603 ) (1,383,603 ) - (1,383,603 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (117,180 ) (117,180 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (76,939 ) (76,939 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (68,007 ) (43,533 ) (45,443 ) (6,885 ) (37,862 ) (534 ) (202,264 ) (202,264 ) - (202,264 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 9,786 9,786 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (110,019 ) (110,019 ) Income (loss) before taxes 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 560,052 560,052 (169,430 ) 390,622 Net profit 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 560,052 560,052 (279,449 ) 280,603 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,684,151 4,684,151 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 109,435 109,435 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - 124,569 124,569 Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,549,679 2,549,679 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss - - - - - - - - (1,057 ) (1,057 ) Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 426,971 426,971 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (485,471 ) (485,471 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - 105,896 105,896 Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2018 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 2,265,803 2,265,803 - 2,265,803 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 2,265,803 2,265,803 - 2,265,803 Costs of sales (613,267 ) (217,464 ) (316,875 ) (72,964 ) (217,386 ) (47,675 ) (1,485,631 ) (1,485,631 ) - (1,485,631 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (118,126 ) (118,126 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (57,807 ) (57,807 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (79,061 ) (42,438 ) (42,283 ) (8,454 ) (47,940 ) (651 ) (220,827 ) (220,827 ) - (220,827 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 6,351 6,351 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (178,975 ) (178,975 ) Income (loss) before taxes 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 780,172 780,172 (159,134 ) 621,038 Net income (loss)profit 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 780,172 780,172 (338,109 ) 442,063 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,268,094 4,268,094 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 111,549 111,549 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - (15,028 ) (15,028 ) Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,130,292 2,130,292 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss - - - - - - - - 2,967 2,967 Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 524,839 524,839 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (187,004 ) (187,004 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - (387,313 ) (387,313 ) Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2017 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 697,251 252,123 644,573 135,578 379,326 48,472 2,157,323 2,157,323 - 2,157,323 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 697,251 252,123 644,573 135,578 379,326 48,472 2,157,323 2,157,323 - 2,157,323 Costs of sales (555,356 ) (199,808 ) (189,242 ) (91,753 ) (313,690 ) (44,973 ) (1,394,822 ) (1,394,822 ) - (1,394,822 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (101,171 ) (101,171 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (50,124 ) (50,124 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (73,702 ) (44,252 ) (18,036 ) (16,050 ) (88,130 ) (356 ) (240,526 ) (240,526 ) - (240,526 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 14,452 14,452 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (166,173 ) (166,173 ) Income (loss) before taxes 141,895 52,315 455,331 43,825 65,636 3,499 762,501 762,501 (167,911 ) 594,590 Net income (loss)profit 141,895 52,315 455,331 43,825 65,636 3,499 762,501 762,501 (334,084 ) 428,417 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,296,236 4,296,236 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 152,630 152,630 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - - - Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,048,768 2,048,768 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss (15,025 ) 335 1,112 (3,546 ) (240 ) (219 ) (17,583 ) (17,583 ) (14,316 ) (31,899 ) Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 758,272 758,272 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (248,067 ) (248,067 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - (411,920 ) (411,920 ) 25.3 Statement of comprehensive income classified by reportable segments based on groups of products Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2019 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 - 1,943,655 Cost of sales (573,808 ) (230,468 ) (306,250 ) (63,590 ) (176,199 ) (33,288 ) - (1,383,603 ) Gross profit 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 - 560,052 Other income by function - - - - - - 18,218 18,218 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (117,180 ) (117,180 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (25,995 ) (25,995 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - (1,057 ) (1,057 ) Other gains (losses) - - - - - - (383 ) (383 ) Financial income - - - - - - 26,289 26,289 Financial costs - - - - - - (76,939 ) (76,939 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 9,786 9,786 Exchange differences - - - - - - (2,169 ) (2,169 ) Profit (loss) before taxes 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 (169,430 ) 390,622 Income tax expense - - - - - - (110,019 ) (110,019 ) Net profit (loss) 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 (279,449 ) 280,603 Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2018 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 - 2,265,803 Cost of sales (613,267 ) (217,464 ) (316,875 ) (72,964 ) (217,386 ) (47,675 ) - (1,485,631 ) Gross profit 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 - 780,172 Other incomes by function - - - - - - 32,048 32,048 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (118,126 ) (118,126 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (36,907 ) (36,907 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - 2,967 2,967 Other gains (losses) - - - - - - 6,404 6,404 Financial income - - - - - - 22,533 22,533 Financial costs - - - - - - (57,807 ) (57,807 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 6,351 6,351 Exchange differences - - - - - - (16,597 ) (16,597 ) Profit (loss) before taxes 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 (159,134 ) 621,038 Income tax expense - - - - - - (178,975 ) (178,975 ) Net profit (loss) 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 (338,109 ) 442,063 Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2017 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 623,853 231,144 514,627 104,137 403,323 62,238 - 1,939,322 Cost of sales (478,074 ) (191,298 ) (175,616 ) (67,378 ) (359,477 ) (56,442 ) - (1,328,285 ) Gross profit 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 - 611,037 Other incomes by function - - - - - - 15,202 15,202 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (88,436 ) (88,436 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (82,533 ) (82,533 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - 7,198 7,198 Other gains (losses) - - - - - - 679 679 Financial income - - - - - - 10,129 10,129 Financial costs - - - - - - (57,498 ) (57,498 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 13,047 13,047 Exchange differences - - - - - - 460 460 Net profit (loss) before taxes 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 (181,752 ) 429,285 Income tax expense - - - - - - (132,965 ) (132,965 ) Net profit (loss) 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 (314,717 ) 296,320 25.4 Disclosures on geographical areas As indicated in paragraph 33 of IFRS 8, the entity discloses geographical information on its revenue from operating activities with external customers and from non-current assets that are not financial instruments, deferred income tax assets, assets related to post-employment benefits or rights derived from insurance contracts. 25.5 Disclosures on main customers With respect to the degree of dependency of the Company on its customers, in accordance with paragraph 34 of IFRS 8, the Company has no external customers who individually represent 10% or more of its revenue. Credit risk concentrations with respect to trade and other accounts receivable are limited due to the significant number of entities in the Company’s portfolio and its worldwide distribution. The Company’s policy requires guarantees (such as letters of credit, guarantee clauses and others) and/or to maintain insurance policies for certain accounts as deemed necessary by the Company’s Management. Items as of December 31, 2019 Chile Latin America ‎ and the ‎ Caribbean Europe North America Asia and others Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 211,857 161,928 393,764 451,272 724,834 1,943,655 Investment accounted for under the equity method - (5,175 ) 42,243 14,669 57,698 109,435 Intangible assets other than goodwill 106,910 420 1,397 2,683 76,948 188,358 Goodwill 23,205 - 11,521 - - 34,726 Property, plant and equipment, net 1,559,080 513 6,241 8,333 32,903 1,607,070 Other non-current assets 20,321 28 4 (624 ) - 19,729 Non-current assets 1,709,516 (4,214 ) 61,406 25,061 167,549 1,959,318 Items as of December 31, 2018 Chile Latin America ‎ and the ‎ Caribbean Europe North America Asia and others Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 189,349 180,189 479,664 471,515 945,086 2,265,803 Investment accounted for under the equity method (6,588 ) - 61,256 16,115 40,766 111,549 Intangible assets other than goodwill 110,544 1,215 238 152 77,201 189,350 Goodwill 22,535 86 11,521 724 - 34,866 Property, plant and equipment, net 1,445,349 347 4,451 3,098 1,578 1,454,823 Other non-current assets 17,111 23 - (892 ) 11,297 27,539 Non-current assets 1,588,951 1,671 77,466 19,197 130,842 1,818,127 25.6 Property, plant and equipment classified by geographical areas The company's main production facilities are located near their mines and extraction facilities in northern Chile. The following table presents the main production facilities as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018: Location Products - Pedro de Valdivia : Production of iodine and nitrate salts - María Elena : Production of iodine and nitrate salts - Coya Sur : Production of nitrate salts - Nueva Victoria : Production of iodine and nitrate salts - Salar de Atacama : Potassium chloride, lithium chloride, boric acid and potassium sulfate - Salar del Carmen : Production of lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide - Tocopilla : Port facilities

Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Borrowing costs [abstract]
Disclosure of borrowing costs [text block]	Note 26 Borrowing costs The cost of interest is recognized as an expense in the year in which it is incurred, except for interest that is directly related to the acquisition and construction of tangible property, plant and equipment assets and that complies with the requirements of IAS 23. The Company capitalizes all interest costs directly related to the construction or to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, which require a substantial time to be suitable for use. (a) Costs of capitalized interest, property, plant and equipment The cost of capitalized interest is determined by applying the average or weighted average of all financing costs incurred by the Company to the monthly end balances of works-in-progress meeting the requirements of IAS 23. Financing costs are not activated for periods that exceed the normal term for acquisition, construction or installation of the property; such is the case for delays, interruptions or temporary suspension of the project due to technical, financial or other problems that make it impossible to leave the property in usable conditions. The rates and costs for capitalized interest of property, plant and equipment are detailed as follows: Costs of capitalized interest As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Capitalization rate of costs for capitalized interest 4 % 4 % Amount of interest capitalized in ThUS$ 7,841 5,021

Effect of fluctuations in forei

Effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of effect of changes in foreign exchange rates [Abstract]
Disclosure of effect of changes in foreign exchange rates [text block]	Note 27 Effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates a) Foreign currency exchange differences recognized in profit or loss and other comprehensive income: Exchange rate differences recognized in income and other comprehensive incom e As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Conversion foreign exchange gains (losses) recognized in the result of the year. (2,169 ) (16,597 ) (1,299 ) Reserves for translation differences Conversion foreign exchange reserves attributable to the owners of the controlling entity. 562 (1,394 ) (5,450 ) Conversion foreign exchange reserves attributable to the non-controlling entity. 226 174 4 Total 788 (1,220 ) (5,446 ) b) Reserves for foreign currency exchange differences, Equity: As of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, foreign currency exchange differences are detailed as follows: Detail As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Changes in equity generated by conversion of equity value: Comercial Hydro S.A. 1,004 1,004 1,004 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (9 ) (17 ) (2 ) Proinsa Ltda. (10 ) (11 ) (7 ) Comercial Agrorama Ltda. 33 (21 ) (44 ) Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. (44 ) (1 ) (74 ) Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. 142 113 97 Sacal S.A. (3 ) (3 ) - Sociedad prestadora de servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. (19 ) (10 ) - Agrorama S.A. 231 132 (98 ) Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS (13,811 ) (13,811 ) (14,447 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. (2,267 ) (2,682 ) (1,779 ) Ajay Europe S.A.R.L (1,449 ) (1,270 ) SQM Eastmed Turkey (155 ) (113 ) (92 ) Doctochem Tarim Sanayi LTD 7 - - Coromandel SQM India (431 ) (393 ) (234 ) SQM Italia SRL (236 ) (213 ) (154 ) SQM Oceanía Pty Ltd. (634 ) (634 ) (634 ) SQM Indonesia S.A. (124 ) (124 ) (124 ) Abu Dhabi Fertillizers Industries WWL. 372 (435 ) (435 ) SQM Vitas Holland (197 ) (170 ) (101 ) SQM Thailand Limited (68 ) (68 ) (68 ) SQM Europe N.V. (1,983 ) (1,983 ) (1,550 ) SQM Australia Pty Ltd. (4,035 ) (4,222 ) 154 Pavoni & C. Spa (185 ) 70 - Terra Tarsa BV 116 (82 ) - Plantacote NV (16 ) (34 ) - Doktolab Tarim Arastirma San. (54 ) (29 ) - Kore Potash PLC (a) (1,754 ) (1,206 ) - SQM Colombia SAS (166 ) (94 ) - Minera Exar S.A. - - (5,209 ) Charlee SQM (Thailand) Co. Ltd. - - (285 ) Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. - - (831 ) Total (25,745 ) (26,307 ) (24,913 ) c) Functional and presentation currency The functional currency of these companies corresponds to the currency of the country of origin of each entity, and its presentation currency is the U.S. dollar. d) Reasons to use one presentation currency and a different functional currency - The total revenues of these subsidiaries are associated with the local currency. - The commercialization cost structure of these companies is affected by the local currency.

Disclosures on the effects of f

Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Foreign exchange rates [abstract]
Disclosure of assets and liabilities subject to foreign currency fluctuations [Text Block]	Note 28 Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates Assets held in foreign currency subject to fluctuations in exchange rates are detailed as follows: Class of assets Currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Cash and cash equivalents USD 558,572 353,674 Cash and cash equivalents ARS 3 2 Cash and cash equivalents CLP 8,240 157,500 Cash and cash equivalents CNY 2,484 2,305 Cash and cash equivalents EUR 3,131 4,738 Cash and cash equivalents GBP 3 - Cash and cash equivalents AUD 8,492 29,598 Cash and cash equivalents INR 6 - Cash and cash equivalents MXN 2,103 1,242 Cash and cash equivalents PEN 4 1 Cash and cash equivalents AED - 1 Cash and cash equivalents JPY 1,559 1,786 Cash and cash equivalents ZAR 3,929 5,219 Cash and cash equivalents IDR 3 - Cash and cash equivalents PLN 1 - Subtotal cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066 Other current financial assets USD 127,889 291,790 Other current financial assets CLF 36,896 - Other current financial assets CLP 340,705 20,931 Subtotal other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Other current non-financial assets USD 16,535 19,523 Other current non-financial assets ARS - 2 Other current non-financial assets AUD 285 102 Other current non-financial assets BRL 2 - Other current non-financial assets CLF 31 47 Other current non-financial assets CLP 24,374 20,276 Other current non-financial assets CNY 326 8 Other current non-financial assets EUR 3,055 3,153 Other current non-financial assets MXN 2,629 3,274 Other current non-financial assets THB 22 19 Other current non-financial assets JPY 174 21 Other current non-financial assets ZAR 3,119 1,547 Subtotal other current non-financial assets 50,552 47,972 Trade and other receivables USD 225,554 255,528 Trade and other receivables PEN 6 - Trade and other receivables BRL 19 20 Trade and other receivables CLF 504 453 Trade and other receivables CLP 56,023 71,730 Trade and other receivables CNY 3,340 11,361 Trade and other receivables EUR 24,925 31,426 Trade and other receivables GBP 148 - Trade and other receivables MXN 211 452 Trade and other receivables AED 1,193 15,841 Trade and other receivables THB 1,695 2,970 Trade and other receivables JPY 66,266 76,267 Trade and other receivables AUD 801 - Trade and other receivables ZAR 15,900 571 Trade and other receivables COP 2,557 - Subtotal trade and other receivables 399,142 466,619 Receivables from related parties USD 60,135 42,685 Receivables from related parties EUR 1,092 105 Subtotal receivables from related parties 61,227 42,790 Current inventories USD 983,338 913,674 Subtotal Current inventories 983,338 913,674 Assets held in foreign currency subject to fluctuations in exchange rates are detailed as follows: Class of assets Currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current tax assets USD 87,509 52,033 Current tax assets ARS 1 2 Current tax assets CLP 1,623 601 Current tax assets EUR 61 3,500 Current tax assets MXN 1,806 843 Current tax assets PEN - 131 Current tax assets ZAR 139 - Current tax assets COP 294 - Subtotal current tax assets 91,433 57,110 Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale USD 2,454 1,430 Subtotal Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale 2,454 1,430 Total current assets 2,682,166 2,398,382 Non-current assets Other non-current financial assets USD 8,687 17,039 Other non-current financial assets CLP 20 20 Other non-current financial assets JPY 71 72 Subtotal Other non-current financial assets 8,778 17,131 Other non-current non-financial assets USD 19,101 26,758 Other non-current non-financial assets BRL 22 23 Other non-current non-financial assets COP 6 - Other non-current non-financial assets EUR 4 - Other non-current non-financial assets CLP 596 758 Subtotal Other non-current non-financial assets 19,729 27,539 Other receivables, non-current USD 522 139 Other receivables, non-current CLF 165 329 Other receivables, non-current MXN 43 - Other receivables, non-current CLP 980 1,807 Subtotal Other receivables, non-current 1,710 2,275 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting USD 57,777 41,923 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting TRY 26,624 21,892 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting AED 9,111 31,023 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting EUR 14,315 14,929 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting INR 1,568 1,729 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting THB 40 53 Subtotal Investments classified using the equity method of accounting 109,435 111,549 Intangible assets other than goodwill USD 185,951 189,265 Intangible assets other than goodwill MXN 1,137 - Intangible assets other than goodwill CLP 136 85 Intangible assets other than goodwill EUR 1,134 - Subtotal intangible assets other than goodwill 188,358 189,350 Purchases goodwill, gross USD 34,438 34,866 Purchases goodwill, gross CLP 140 - Purchases goodwill, gross EUR 148 - Subtotal Purchases goodwill, gross 34,726 34,866 Property, plant and equipment USD 1,593,324 1,451,436 Property, plant and equipment CLP 3,294 3,387 Property, plant and equipment EUR 4,756 - Property, plant and equipment MXN 5,588 - Property, plant and equipment COP 108 - Subtotal property, plant and equipment 1,607,070 1,454,823 Current tax assets, non-current USD 32,179 32,179 Subtotal Current tax assets, non-current 32,179 32,179 Total non-current assets 2.001.985 1,869,712 Total assets 4,684,151 4,268,094 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Current liabilities Currency Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current liabilities Other current financial liabilities USD 20,582 258,388 278,970 12,471 4,464 16,935 Other current financial liabilities CLF 19,518 323 19,841 342 6,256 6,598 Other current financial liabilities BRL 11 - 11 52 - 52 Subtotal other current financial liabilities 40,111 258,711 298,822 12,865 10,720 23,585 Trade and other payables USD 44,146 - 44,146 51,489 3 51,492 Trade and other payables ARS - - - 4,082 - 4,082 Trade and other payables BRL 10 - 10 34 - 34 Trade and other payables THB 53 - 53 65 - 65 Trade and other payables CLP 73,703 17,108 90,811 69,789 - 69,789 Trade and other payables EUR 58,538 5 58,543 36,439 - 36,439 Trade and other payables GBP 17 - 17 - - - Trade and other payables INR 1 - 1 1 - 1 Trade and other payables MXN 5,122 - 5,122 7 - 7 Trade and other payables PEN 5 - 5 - - - Trade and other payables AUD 4,442 - 4,442 - - - Trade and other payables ZAR 2,260 - 2,260 1,842 - 1,842 Trade and other payables AED 188 - 188 - - - Trade and other payables COP 192 - 192 - - - Subtotal trade and other payables 188,677 17,113 205,790 163,748 3 163,751 Trade payables due to related parties, current USD 475 - 475 - 9 9 Subtotal Trade payables due to related parties, current 475 - 475 - 9 9 Other current provisions USD 109,650 820 110,470 74,020 31,150 105,170 Other current provisions ARS 7 - 7 - 13 13 Other current provisions BRL - - - 707 - 707 Other current provisions CLP 82 - 82 - 64 64 Other current provisions EUR 6 - 6 243 - 243 Subtotal other current provisions 109,745 820 110,565 74,970 31,227 106,197 Current tax liabilities USD 2,863 14,994 17,857 - 41,612 41,612 Current tax liabilities CLP - 17 17 - 31 31 Current tax liabilities BRL - - - - 3 3 Current tax liabilities CNY - - - - 8 8 Current tax liabilities EUR - - - 4,548 1,000 5,548 Current tax liabilities ZAR - - - - 201 201 Current tax liabilities MXN - - - - 9 9 Subtotal current tax liabilities 2,863 15,011 17,874 4,548 42,864 47,412 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Class of liability Currency Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Provisions for employee benefits, current USD 12,486 3,901 16,387 20,085 - 20,085 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, current 12.486 3,901 16,387 20,085 - 20,085 Other current non-financial liabilities USD 117,136 154 117,290 176,506 2,489 178,995 Other current non-financial liabilities THB 30 - 30 158 - 158 Other current non-financial liabilities BRL 3 - 3 3 - 3 Other current non-financial liabilities CLP 5,969 2,439 8,408 7,703 6,431 14,134 Other current non-financial liabilities CNY - - - 11 40 51 Other current non-financial liabilities EUR 842 - 842 1,053 - 1,053 Other current non-financial liabilities MXN 129 64 193 103 46 149 Other current non-financial liabilities JPY 21 12 33 - - - Other current non-financial liabilities PEN 70 - 70 70 - 70 Other current non-financial liabilities ZAR 10 - 10 11 - 11 Other current non-financial liabilities COP 20 - 20 - - - Subtotal other current non-financial liabilities 124,230 2,669 126,899 185,618 9,006 194,624 Total current liabilities 478,587 298,225 776,812 461,834 93,829 555,663 As of December 31, 2019 Class of liability Currency 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years Over 5 years Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Non-current liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities USD 89,896 42,336 313,749 13,749 647,258 1,106,988 Other non-current financial liabilities CLF - - - - 411,938 411,938 Subtotal Other non-current financial liabilities 89,896 42,336 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,518,926 Other non-current provisions USD 23,014 167 - 1,452 10,057 34,690 Subtotal Other non-current provisions 23,014 167 - 1,452 10,057 34,690 Deferred tax liabilities USD 69,048 - - 114,353 10 183,411 Subtotal Deferred tax liabilities 69,048 - - 114,353 10 183,411 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current USD 34,884 - - - - 34,884 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current CLP 519 - - - - 519 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current MXN 236 - - - - 236 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current JPY 201 - - - - 201 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, non-current 35,840 - - - - 35,840 Total non-current liabilities 217,798 42,503 313,749 129,554 1,069,263 1,772,867 Total liabilities 2,549,679 As of December 31, 2018 Class of liability Currency 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years Over 5 years Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Non-current liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities USD 249,869 80,903 297,994 - 247,798 876,564 Other non-current financial liabilities CLF - - - - 453,818 453,818 Subtotal Other non-current financial liabilities 249,869 80,903 297,994 - 701,616 1,330,382 Other non-current provisions USD 28,822 3.000 - - - 31,822 Subtotal Other non-current provisions 28,822 3.000 - - - 31,822 Deferred tax liabilities USD 63,534 33.355 56,040 - 22,432 175,361 Subtotal Deferred tax liabilities 63,534 33,355 56,040 - 22,432 175,361 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current USD - 9,081 - - 27,116 36,197 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current CLP - - - - 521 521 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current MXN - - - - 175 175 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current YEN - - - - 171 171 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, non-current - 9,081 - - 27,983 37,064 Total non-current liabilities 342,225 126,339 354,034 - 752,031 1,574,629 Total liabilities 2,130,292

Income tax and deferred taxes

Income tax and deferred taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of income tax [Abstract]
Disclosure of income tax [text block]	Note 29 Income tax and deferred taxes Accounts receivable from taxes as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, are as follows: 29.1 Current and non-current tax assets a) Current tax assets Current tax assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Monthly provisional income tax payments, Chilean companies 47,283 21,172 Monthly provisional income tax payments, foreign companies 124 5,199 Corporate tax credits (1) 1,262 1,858 1st category tax absorbed by tax loss (2) 916 - Taxes in recovery process 41,848 28,881 Total 91,433 57,110 b) Non-current tax assets Non-current tax assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Monthly provisional income tax payments, Chilean companies compensated by the specific tax on mining activity (Lithium) 6,398 6,398 Specific tax on mining activities (IEAM) paid by Lithium (on consignment) 25,781 25,781 Total 32,179 32,179 (1) These credits are available for Companies and are related to corporate tax payments in April of the following year. These credits include, among others, credits for training expenses (SENCE), credits for acquisition of fixed assets, donations and credits in Chile for taxes paid abroad. (2) This concept corresponds to the absorption of the tax losses determined by the company at the end of the year, which must be attributed to the dividends received during the year. 29.2 Current tax liabilities Current tax liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ 1st Category income tax 7,863 25,163 Foreign company income tax 9,944 21,097 Article 21 single tax 67 1,152 Total 17,874 47,412 Income tax is calculated based on the profit or loss for tax purposes that is applied to the effective tax rate applicable in Chile. As established by Law No. 20,780, a progressive income tax rate has been established, which is 27% from 2018. The royalty is determined by applying the taxable rate to the net operating income obtained, According to the chart in force, the Company currently provisioned 5% for mining royalties that involve operations in the Salar de Atacama and 5.24% for caliche extraction operations. The income tax rate for the main countries where the Company operates is presented below: Income tax Income tax Country 2019 2018 Spain 25 % 25 % Belgium 29.58 % 29.58 % Mexico 30 % 30 % United States 21% % 21% % South Africa 28 % 28 % 29.3 Income tax and deferred taxes Assets and liabilities recognized in the statement of financial position are offset if and only if: 1 The Company has recognized legally the right to offset the amounts recognized in these entries; and (b) Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are derived from income tax related to the same tax authority on: (i) the same entity or tax subject; or (ii) different entities or tax subjects who intend either to settle current fiscal assets and liabilities for their net amount, or to exercise tax assets and pay liabilities simultaneously in each of the future periods in which the Company expects to settle or recover significant amounts of deferred tax assets or liabilities. Recognized deferred income tax assets are the income taxes that are to be recovered in future periods, related to: a) deductible temporary differences. b) the offsetting of losses obtained in prior periods and not yet subject to tax deduction; and c) the offsetting of unused credits from prior periods. The Company recognizes a deferred tax asset when there is certainty that these can be offset with tax income from subsequent periods, losses or fiscal credits not yet used, but solely as long as it is more likely than not that there will be tax earnings in the future against which to charge these losses or unused fiscal credits. Recognized deferred tax liabilities refer to the amounts of income taxes payable in future periods related to taxable temporary differences. (a) Income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 are detailed as follows: Net liability position Description of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 Assets Liabilities ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses 82,075 - Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest - (197,167 ) Provision of restoration and rehabilitation 7,313 - Manufacturing expenses - (106,420 ) Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance - (6,000 ) Vacation accrual 5,591 - Inventory provision 23,885 - Materials provision 7,982 - Forward - - Employee benefits 2,689 - Research and development expenses - (3,533 ) Bad debt provisions 3,542 - Provision for legal complaints and expenses 2,546 - Loan approval expenses - (3,856 ) Financial instruments recorded at market value - (1,287 ) specific tax on mining activity - (1,357 ) Tax loss benefit 2,296 - Other - (2,021 ) Foreign items (other) 311 - Balances to date 138,230 (321,641 ) Net balance (183,411 ) (b) Income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows Net liability position Description of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 Assets Liabilities ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses 75,832 - Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest - (196,843 ) Provision of restoration and rehabilitation 4,280 - Manufacturing expenses - (103,760 ) Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance - (5,679 ) Vacation accrual 5,155 - Inventory provision 28,155 - Materials provision 6,239 - Forward 2,169 - Employee benefits 3,309 - Research and development expenses - (2,216 ) Bad debt provisions 4,188 - Provision for legal complaints and expenses 4,013 - Loan approval expenses - (2,337 ) Financial instruments recorded at market value - (976 ) specific tax on mining activity - (3,278 ) Tax loss benefit 1,124 - Other 5,005 - Foreign items (other) 259 - Balances at the reporting date 139,728 (315,089 ) Net balance (175,361 ) (c) Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) as of December 31, 2019 Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) Deferred tax Deferred tax Deferred taxes Total increases Deferred tax ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses (75,832 ) (6,243 ) - (6,243 ) (82,075 ) Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest 196,843 324 - 324 197,167 Provision of restoration and rehabilitation (4,280 ) (3,033 ) - (3,033 ) (7,313 ) Manufacturing expenses 103,760 2,660 - 2,660 106,420 Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance 5,679 1,007 (686 ) 321 6,000 Vacation accrual (5,155 ) (436 ) - (436 ) (5,591 ) Inventory provision (28,155 ) 4,270 - 4,270 (23,885 ) Materials provision (6,239 ) (1,743 ) - (1,743 ) (7,982 ) Forward (2,169 ) (514 ) 2,683 2,169 - Employee benefits (3,309 ) 620 - 620 (2,689 ) Research and development expenses 2,216 1,317 - 1,317 3,533 Bad debt provisions (4,188 ) 646 - 646 (3,542 ) Provision for legal complaints and expenses (4,013 ) 1,467 - 1,467 (2,546 ) Loan approval expenses 2,337 1,519 - 1,519 3,856 Financial instruments recorded at market value 976 - 311 311 1,287 specific tax on mining activity 3,278 (1,905 ) (16 ) (1,921 ) 1,357 Tax loss benefit (1,124 ) (1,172 ) - (1,172 ) (2,296 ) Other (5,005 ) 7,026 - 7,026 2,021 Foreign items (other) (259 ) (52 ) - (52 ) (311 ) Total temporary differences, unused losses and unused tax credits 175,361 5,758 2,292 8,050 183,411 (d) Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) as of December 31, 2018 Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) ‎ for the year ended December 31, 2018 Deferred tax ‎ liability (asset) at ‎ beginning of ‎ period Deferred tax ‎ expense ‎ (benefit) ‎ recognized in ‎ profit (loss) for ‎ the year Deferred taxes ‎ related to items ‎ credited ‎ (charged) ‎ directly to ‎ equity Total increases ‎ (decreases) in ‎ deferred tax ‎ liabilities ‎ (assets) Deferred tax ‎ liability (asset) ‎ at end of ‎ period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses (68,544 ) (7,288 ) - (7,288 ) (75,832 ) Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest 211,374 (14,531 ) - (14,531 ) 196,843 Provision of restoration and rehabilitation (3,469 ) (811 ) - (811 ) (4,280 ) Manufacturing expenses 102,748 1,012 - 1,012 103,760 Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance 6,792 (667 ) (446 ) (1,113 ) 5,679 Vacation accrual (4,887 ) (268 ) - (268 ) (5,155 ) Inventory provision (25,172 ) (2,983 ) - (2,983 ) (28,155 ) Materials provision (7,107 ) 868 - 868 (6,239 ) Forward (624 ) (1,545 ) - (1,545 ) (2,169 ) Employee benefits (2,317 ) (992 ) - (992 ) (3,309 ) Research and development expenses 3,501 (1,285 ) - (1,285 ) 2,216 Bad debt provisions (4,253 ) 686 (621 ) ¹ 65 (4,188 ) Provision for legal complaints and expenses (5,243 ) 1,230 - 1,230 (4,013 ) Loan approval expenses 2,670 (333 ) - (333 ) 2,337 Financial instruments recorded at market value 2,474 - (1,498 ) (1,498 ) 976 specific tax on mining activity 4,084 (795 ) (11 ) (806 ) 3,278 Tax loss benefit (1,437 ) 313 - 313 (1,124 ) Other (5,002 ) (64 ) 61 (3 ) (5,005 ) Foreign items (other) (305 ) 46 - 46 (259 ) Total temporary differences, unused losses and unused tax credits 205,283 (27,407 ) (2,515 ) (29,922 ) 175,361 (1) This corresponds to the adjustment to the beginning balance of the impairment provision for receivables against other reserves. (e) Deferred taxes related to benefits for tax losses The Company’s tax loss carryforwards were mainly generated by losses in Chile, which in accordance with current Chilean tax regulations have no expiration date. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, tax loss carryforwards are detailed as follows: Deferred taxes related to benefits for tax losses As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Chile 2,296 1,124 Total 2,296 1,124 The tax losses as of December 31, 2019 that form the basis of these deferred taxes correspond mainly to SIT S.A., Exploraciones Mineras S.A., Comercial Agrorama Ltda. and Orcoma Estudio SpA. (f) Movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities Movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance (175,361 ) (205,283 ) Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in profit or loss (5,758 ) 27,407 Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in equity (2,292 ) 2,515 Total (183,411 ) (175,361 ) (g) Disclosures on income tax expense (income) The Company recognizes current and deferred taxes as income or expenses, and they are included in profit or loss, unless they arise from: (a) a transaction or event recognized in the same period or in a different period, outside profit or loss either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity; or (ii) a business combination Current and deferred tax (expense) benefit are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Disclosures on income tax expense (benefit) For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current income tax expense Current tax expense (116,483 ) (207,959 ) (182,567 ) Adjustments to prior year current income tax 12,222 1,577 15,954 Current income tax expense, net, total (104,261 ) (206,382 ) (166,613 ) Deferred tax expense Deferred tax expense (income) relating to the creation and reversal of temporary differences 2,551 26,434 440 Tax adjustments related to the creation and reversal of temporary differences from the previous year (8,309 ) 973 - Deferred tax expense, net, total (5,758 ) 27,407 440 Tax expense (benefit) (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) Tax (expense) benefit for foreign and domestic parties are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Income tax (expense) benefit For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current income tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net Current income tax expense, foreign parties, net (1) (7,394 ) (7,516 ) (14,396 ) Current income tax expense, domestic, net (96,867 ) (198,866 ) (152,217 ) Current income tax expense, net, total (104,261 ) (206,382 ) (166,613 ) Deferred tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net Current income tax benefit (expense), foreign parties, net 2,370 (1,885 ) (154 ) Current income tax expense, domestic, net (8,128 ) 29,292 594 Deferred tax expense, net, total (5,758 ) 27,407 440 Income tax expense (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) (1) As a result of a tax audit over the 2017 transfer prices of our subsidiary SQM Europe N.V., an additional provision was recognized amounting ThUS$ 1,068. (h) Equity interest in taxation attributable to equity-accounted investees The Company does not recognize any deferred tax liability in all cases of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and associated companies or interest in joint ventures, because as indicated in the standard, the following two conditions are jointly met: (i) the parent, investor or interest holder is able to control the time for reversal of the temporary difference; and (ii) It is more likely than not that the temporary difference will not be reversed in the foreseeable future. In addition, the Company does not recognize deferred income tax assets for all deductible temporary differences from investments in subsidiaries, branches and associated companies or interests in joint ventures because it is unlikely that they will meet the following requirements: (i) Temporary differences are reversed in a foreseeable future; and (ii) The Company has tax earnings, against which temporary differences can be used. (i) Disclosures on the tax effects of other comprehensive income components: For the year ended December 31, 2019 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (3,310 ) 702 (2,608 ) Cash flow hedge 1,907 (2,683 ) (776 ) Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income 1,152 (311 ) 841 Total (251 ) (2,292 ) (2,543 ) For the year ended December 31, 2018 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (1,327 ) 396 (931 ) Cash flow hedge 5,723 - 5,723 Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (5,546 ) 1,498 (4,048 ) Total (1,150 ) 1,894 744 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (1,401 ) 282 (1,119 ) Cash flow hedge 2,184 - 2,184 Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (26 ) (550 ) (576 ) Total 757 (268 ) 489 (j) Explanation of the relationship between expense (income) for tax purposes and accounting income. Based on IAS 12, paragraph 81, letter “c”, the company has estimated that the method that reveals the most significant information for users of the financial statements is the numeric reconciliation between the tax expense (income) and the result of multiplying the accounting profit by the current rate in Chile. The aforementioned choice is based on the fact that the Company and subsidiaries established in Chile generate a large part of the Company’s tax expense (income). The amounts provided by subsidiaries established outside Chile have no relative importance in the overall context. Reconciliation between the tax (expense) benefit and the result of multipl y Expense (Benefits) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) As of December As of December ‎ 2018 As of December ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Consolidated income before taxes 390,622 621,038 594,590 Income tax rate in force in Chile 27 % 27 % 25,5 % Tax expense using the legal rate (105,468 ) (167,680 ) (151,620 ) Effect of royalty tax payments (4,314 ) (4,919 ) (3,372 ) Tax effect of revenue from regular activities exempt from taxation 2,376 1,446 2,886 Tax rate effect of non-tax-deductible expenses for determining taxable profit (loss) (2,128 ) (2,327 ) (4,764 ) Tax effect of tax rates supported abroad (252 ) 3,517 (8,061 ) IRS provision surplus (*) - (3,724 ) - Other tax effects from reconciliation between accounting gains and tax expenses (233 ) (5,288 ) (1,242 ) Tax expense using the effective rate (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) (*) Internal revenue service (k) Tax periods potentially subject to verification: The Group’s Companies are potentially subject to income tax audits by tax authorities in each country. These audits are limited to a number of interim tax periods, which, in general, when they elapse, give rise to the expiration of these inspections. Tax audits, due to their nature, are often complex and may require several years. Below, we provide a summary of tax periods that are potentially subject to verification, in accordance with the tax regulations in force in the country of origin: (i) Chile According to article 200 of Decree Law No 830, the taxes will be reviewed for any deficiencies in terms of payment and to generate any taxes that might arise. There is a 3-year prescriptive period for such review, dating from the expiration of the legal deadline when payment should have been made. This prescriptive period can be extended to 6 years for the revision of taxes subject to declaration, when such declaration has not been filed or has been presented with maliciously false information. (ii) United States In the United States, the tax authority may review tax returns for up to 3 years from the expiration date of the tax return. In the event that an omission or error is detected in the tax return of sales or cost of sales, the review can be extended for a period of up to 6 years. As a result of the audit performed by the tax authority, SQM North America Corp., a subsidiary of the Company, paid in November 2018, for income tax and interest between 2013 and 2015, approximately US$3.8 million. On top of this, SQM North America Corp would have to pay an additional US$0.4 million in state taxes for the same period. These charges are already provisioned in the financial statements. (iii) Mexico: In Mexico, the tax authority can review tax returns up to 5 years from the expiration date of the tax return. (iv) Spain: In Spain, the tax authority can review tax returns up to 4 years from the expiration date of the tax return. (v) Belgium: In Belgium, the tax authority may review tax returns for up to 3 years from the expiration date of the tax return if no tax losses exist. In the event of detecting an omission or error in the tax return, the review can be extended for a period of up to 5 years. (vi) South Africa: In South Africa, the tax authority may review tax returns for up to 3 years from the expiration date of the tax return. In the event that an omission or error in the tax return is detected, the review can be extended for a period of up to 5 years.

Assets held for sale and detail

Assets held for sale and detail of assets sold	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale or as held for distribution to owners [abstract]
Disclosure of non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations [text block]	Note 30 Assets held for sale and detail of assets sold The non-current assets held for sale and the components of the disposal groups classified as held for sale are presented in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position under the item “Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale”. The following table shows the movements in assets held for sale: Assets held for sale As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Land owned by Soquimich Comercial S.A. 2,454 1,430 Total assets held for sale 2,454 1,430

Events occurred after the repor

Events occurred after the reporting date	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Events After Reporting Period Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of events after reporting period [text block]	Note 31 Events occurred after the reporting date 31.1 Authorization of the financial statements The consolidated financial statements of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and subsidiaries, prepared in accordance with IFRS for the period ended December 31, 2019, were approved and authorized for issuance by the Company´s Board of Directors on March 2, 2020. 31.2 Disclosures on events occurring after the reporting date On January 22, 2020, the Company placed an unsecured bond in the international markets for US$ 400 million at an annual interest rate of 4.250% with maturity in 2050, pursuant to Rule 144 -A and Regulation S of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company hopes to use net income from this placement for general corporate purposes, including financing its capital expense program and reduction of its pending debt, considering the ´payment of bonds for US$ 250 million with 5.50% interest and maturity on April 21, 2020. The bond has been sold to qualified institutional buyers in the United States and no security laws from other states or jurisdictions have been registered in accordance with SEC regulations. On February 26, 2020, the Company reported that its Board of Directors had agreed to call an Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting for 10:00 am on Thursday, April 23, 2020. In January 2020 the World Health Organization deemed COVID-19 a global pandemic. In March 2020, the Chilean Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud) declared a nationwide State of Emergency. As a precaution, our management has implemented several measures to help reduce the speed at which the coronavirus spreads, including measures to mitigate the spread in the workplace, significant reductions in employee travel and a mandatory quarantine for people who have arrived from high risk destinations, in consultation with governmental and international health organization guidelines, and will continue to implement measures consistent with evolving coronavirus situation. The full financial impact of COVID-19 cannot be reasonably estimated at this time due to uncertainty as to its severity and duration. It is anticipated that sales volumes and average prices will depend on the duration of the coronavirus in different markets, the efficiency of the measures implemented to contain the spread of the coronavirus in each country and fiscal incentives that may be implemented in different jurisdictions to promote economic recovery. The Company continues to monitor and assess the spread of the coronavirus and its impact on our operations, business, financial condition and results of operations. On March 16, the Company reported on various points in relation to the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and its being declared to be a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. 1. Regarding the financial and operational effects that this situation could mean for the Company, it is worth noting that the Company sells its products worldwide, with Asia, Europe and North America being its main markets. Border closures, decrease in commercial activity and difficulties and disruptions in the supply chains in the markets in which we sell have impacted our ability to fulfill our previous sales volume estimates for the first quarter, with the main impact so far being a reduction of approximately 2,000 metric tons of lithium sales volumes in China. For the rest of the year, the impact on our sales volumes and average prices will depend on the duration of the Virus in different markets, the efficiency of the measures implemented to contain the spread of the Virus in each country and fiscal incentives that may be implemented in different jurisdictions to promote economic recovery. For now, our operations have not seen any material impacts related to the outbreak of COVID-19 virus. We have taken measures to mitigate the impacts of this health emergency on our employees and limit the impact it could have on our operations (described below in point 2). As of today, we do not expect this impact to be significant. 2. Regarding the measures that management has adopted or intends to adopt to mitigate possible financial and/or operational effects, we inform that the Company has implemented a series of measures in its operations in Chile and abroad that seek to protect its workers and reduce the speed at which the Virus spreads. The measures adopted by the Company are: a. The flexibility of the working day, arrival and departure times, together with the incentive to work from home in those cases where this is possible. b. Avoidance of crowds, seminars and large meetings in the Company´s offices and operating facilities. c. Strengthening of personal hygiene protocols (use of alcohol gel, masks, etc.) and sanitation in plants, cafeterias and offices. d. Significant reduction in domestic and international travel, along with obligatory quarantine for people who have arrived from high risk destinations 3. Regarding the existence of committed insurance and its level of coverage, we inform that as of today, we have not identified any events which would trigger coverage from the insurance policies that the Company has contracted. 4. Finally, we hereby inform that we do not currently have any other information that management believes is relevant to provide. On March 27, 2020 the Company informed that the SQM management had become aware of an amendment to the agreement, which SQM informed about in its press release from April 11, 2019, signed between Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A., Potasios de Chile S.A. and Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada on one hand, and Inversiones TLC SpA, a subsidiary of Tianqi Lithium Corp., on the other, (the "Agreement"). The amendment of the Agreement was disclosed by Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. to the Chilean market through an essential fact (hecho esencial) according to the Chilean regulation. 31.3 Details of dividends declared after the reporting date On March 25, 2020, the Company announced that in accordance with Article 9 and 10 of the Chilean Securities Market Act that the Company’s Board of Directors unanimously agreed to recommend a final dividend payment of 100% of the Company’s 2019 net income to the Company’s shareholders at the next Annual General Shareholders Meeting which is to be held on April 23, 2020. The final dividend will be calculated on a distributable net income of US$278,114,994, which corresponds to US$1.05668 per share. Nevertheless, the amount of US$0.80254 per share which corresponds to interim dividends that were already paid, must be deducted from the final dividend, leaving a balance due of US$0.25414 per share. This balance due of the final dividend shall be paid in the equivalent in Chilean pesos according to the value of the “Observed Dollar” or “US Dollar” that appears published in the Official Gazette on April 23, 2020. The payment of this dividend shall be made in favor of the Company´s shareholders, in person or through their duty authorized representatives starting at 9:00 am on May 7, 2020, who are registered with the respective registry on the fifth business day before the day on which the payment shall be made

Significant accounting polici_2

Significant accounting policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Changes In Accounting Policies Accounting Estimates And Errors Explanatory [Abstract]
Description of accounting policy for classification of balances as current and non-current [Text Block]	3.1 Classification of balances as current and non-current In the attached consolidated statement of financial position, balances are classified in consideration of their recovery (maturity) dates; i.e., those maturing within a period equal to or less than 12 months are classified as current counted from the closing date of the consolidated financial statements and those with maturity dates exceeding the aforementioned period are classified as non-current. The exception to the foregoing relates to deferred taxes, which are classified as non-current, regardless of the maturity they have.
Description of accounting policy for functional currency [text block]	3.2 Functional and presentation currency The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars, which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency and is the currency of the main economic environment in which it operates. Consequently, the term foreign currency is defined as any currency other than the U.S. dollar. The consolidated financial statements are presented in thousands of United States dollars without decimals.
Description of accounting policy for foreign currency translation [text block]	3.3 Foreign currency translation (a) SQM group entities: The revenue, expenses, assets and liabilities of all entities that have a functional currency other than the presentation currency are converted to the presentation currency as follows: - Assets and liabilities are converted at the closing exchange rate prevailing on the reporting date. - Revenues and expenses of each profit or loss account are converted at monthly average exchange rates. - All resulting foreign currency translation gains and losses are recognized as a separate component in translation reserves. In consolidation, foreign currency differences arising from the translation of a net investment in foreign entities are recorded in equity “other reserves”, At the date of disposal, such foreign currency translation differences are recognized in the statement of income as part of the gain or loss from the sale. The main exchange rates and UF used to translate monetary assets and liabilities, expressed in foreign currency at the end of each period in respect to U.S. dollars, are as follows: Currencies As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 US$ US$ Brazilian real 4.02 3.87 New Peruvian sol 3.31 3.37 Argentine peso 59.83 37.74 Japanese yen 108.9 110.38 Euro 0.89 0.87 Mexican peso 18.89 19.68 Australian dollar 1.43 1.42 Pound Sterling 0.76 0.79 South African rand 14.06 14.35 Ecuadorian dollar 1.00 1.00 Chilean peso 748.74 694.77 Chinese yuan 6.98 6.88 Indian rupee 71.31 69.93 Thai Baht 29.97 32.53 Turkish lira 5.94 5.27 Polish Z l ty 3.79 - UF (*) 37.81 39.68 (*) US$ por UF (b) Transactions and balances Non-monetary transactions in currencies other than the functional currency (Dollar) are translated to the respective functional currencies of Group entities at the exchange rate on the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are retranslated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at that date. All differences are recorded in the statement of income except for all monetary items that provide an effective hedge for a net investment in a foreign operation. These items are recognized in other comprehensive income on the divestment, when they are recognized in the statement of income. Charges and credits attributable to foreign currency translation differences on those hedge monetary items are also recognized in other comprehensive income. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historical cost in a foreign currency are translated to the functional currency at the historical exchange rate of the transaction. Non-monetary items that are measured based on fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date on which the fair value is determined.
Description of accounting policy for cash flows [text block]	3.4 Consolidated statement of cash flows Cash equivalents correspond to highly liquid short-term investments that are easily convertible into known amounts of cash and subject to insignificant risk of changes in their value and mature in less than three months from the date of acquisition of the instrument. For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and cash equivalents as defined above. The statements of cash flows present cash transactions performed during the year, determined using the direct method.
Description of accounting policy for financial assets [text block]	3.5 Financial assets Management determines the classification of its financial assets in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 9, at fair value (either through other comprehensive income, or through profits or losses), and at amortized cost. The classification depends on the business model of the entity to manage the financial assets and the contractual terms of the cash flows. In the initial recognition, the Company measures its financial assets at fair value more or less, in the case of a financial asset that is not accounted for at fair value through profit or loss, the transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset. In the case of accounts receivables and other accounts receivables, the transaction price at the initial recognition is measured in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 15. After initial recognition, the Company measures its financial assets according to the Company's business model for managing its financial assets and the contractual terms of its cash flows: i) Financial instruments measured at amortized cost, Financial assets that meet the following conditions are included in this category (i) the business model that supports it aims to maintain the financial assets to obtain the contractual cash flows and (ii) the Contractual conditions of the financial asset give place, on specified dates, to cash flows that are only payments of the principal and interest on the outstanding principal amount. The Company’s financial assets that meet these conditions are: (iii) cash equivalents; (iv) related entity receivables; (v) trade debtors; (vi) other receivables. ii) Financial instruments at fair value. A financial asset should be measured at fair value through profit or loss or fair value through other comprehensive income, depending on the following: (i) "Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income": Assets held to collect contractual cash flows and to be sold, where the asset cash flows are only capital and interest payments, are measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. Changes in book values are through other comprehensive income, except for the recognition of impairment losses, interest income and exchange gains and losses, which are recognized in the income statement. When a financial asset is derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in other comprehensive income is reclassified from equity to the income statement. Interest income from these financial assets is included in financial income using the effective interest method. Exchange gains and losses are presented in the income statement and impairment losses are separately presented in the income statement. (ii) "Fair Value Through Profit and Loss": Assets that do not meet the amortized cost or "Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income" criteria are valued at "Fair Value Through Profit and Loss". iii) Financial equity assets at fair value through other comprehensive income. Equity instruments that are not classified as held for trading and which the Group has irrevocably chosen to recognize in this category. Prior to 2018, the Company evaluated at the date of each report, whether there was objective evidence that any asset or group of financial assets presented any impairment. An asset or group of financial assets presented a deterioration, if and only if, there was objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset or group of these. In order to recognize impairment, the loss event must have an impact on the estimation of future flows of the asset or groups of financial assets. Beginning 2018, the Company evaluates expected credit losses associated with its debt instruments carried at amortized cost and fair value through other comprehensive income. The impairment method used depends on whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. The Company applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measure expected credit losses using the lifetime expected loss on all trade receivables. Expected credit losses are measured by grouping receivables by their shared credit risk characteristics and days overdue. Therefore, the Company has concluded that the expected loss rates for trade receivables are a reasonable approximation of the loss rates for these assets. Expected loss rates are based on sales payment profiles and historical credit losses within this period. Historical loss rates are adjusted to reflect current and expected information regarding macroeconomic factors that affect the ability of customers to meet their commitments.
Description of accounting policy for financial liabilities [text block]	3.6 Accounting policy for financial liabilities Management determines the classification of its financial liabilities in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 9, at fair value or at amortized cost. The classification depends on the business model of the entity to manage the financial assets and the contractual terms of the cash flows. At the initial recognition, the Company measures its financial liabilities by their fair value more or less, in the case of a financial liability that is not accounted for at fair value through profit or loss, the transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial liability. After initial recognition, the Company measures its financial liabilities at amortized cost unless the Company, at the initial moment, irrevocably designates the financial liability as measured at fair value through profit or loss. Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost are commercial accounts payable and other accounts payable and other financial liabilities. Valuation at amortized cost is made using the effective interest rate method. Amortized cost is calculated by considering any premium or discount on the acquisition and includes transaction costs that are an integral part of the effective interest rate. Financial liabilities are recorded as not current when they mature in more than 12 months and as current when they mature in less than 12 months. Interest expenses are recorded in the period in which they are accrued, according to a financial criterion.
Description of accounting policy for reclassification of financial instruments [text block]	3.7 Re classification of financial instruments When the Company changes its business model for managing financial assets, it will reclassify all its financial assets affected by the new business model. Financial liabilities cannot be reclassified.
Description of accounting policy for derecognition of financial instruments [text block]	3.8 Financial instrument derecognition The Company derecognizes a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred; and the control of the financial assets has not been retained. The Company derecognizes a financial liability when its contractual obligations or a part of these are discharged, paid to the creditor or legally extinguished.
Description of accounting policy for derivative financial instruments and hedging [text block]	3.9 Derivative and hedging financial instruments Derivatives are recognized initially at fair value as of the date on which the derivatives contract is signed and, they are subsequently assessed at fair value. The method for recognizing the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative has been designated as an accounting hedge instrument and, if so, it depends on the type of hedging, which may be as follows: a) Fair value hedge of assets and liabilities recognized (fair value hedges); b) Hedging of a single risk associated with an asset or liability recognized or a highly probable forecast transaction (cash flow hedge). At the beginning of the transaction, the Company documents the relationship that exists between hedging instruments and those items hedged, as well as their objectives for risk management purposes and the strategy to conduct different hedging operations. The Company also documents its evaluation both at the beginning and at the end of each period if the derivatives used in hedging transactions are highly effective to offset changes in the fair value or in cash flows of hedged items. The fair value of derivative instruments used for hedging purposes is shown in Note 13.3. Changes in the cash flow hedge reserve are classified as a non-current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the hedged item is more than 12 months, and as a current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the entry is less than 12 months. Derivatives that are not designated or do not qualify as hedging derivatives are classified as current assets or liabilities, and changes in the fair value are directly recognized through profit or loss. a) Fair value hedge Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss, together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of interest rate swaps that hedge fixed rate borrowings is recognized in profit or loss within finance costs, together with changes in the fair value of the hedged fixed rate borrowings attributable to interest rate risk. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized in profit or loss within other income or other expenses. If the hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the adjustment to the carrying amount of a hedged item for which the effective interest method is used is amortized to profit or loss over the period to maturity using a recalculated effective interest rate. b) Cash flow hedges The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is initially recognized with a debit or credit to other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is immediately recognized with a debit or credit to income, as appropriate. When a hedging instrument expires, or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative deferred gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging in equity at that time remains in equity until the forecast transaction occurs, resulting in the recognition of a non-financial asset such as inventory. When the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging that were reported in equity are immediately reclassified to profit or loss.
Description of accounting policy for derivative financial instruments not considered as hedges [text block]	3.1 0 Derivative financial instruments not considered as hedges Derivative financial instruments not considered as hedges are recognized at fair value with the effect in the results of the year. The Company has derivative financial instruments to hedge foreign currency risk exposure. The Company continually evaluates the existence of embedded derivatives in both its contracts and in its financial instruments. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company does not have any embedded derivatives.
Description of accounting policy for deferred acquisition costs arising from insurance contracts [text block]	3.11 Deferred acquisition costs from insurance contracts Acquisition costs from insurance contracts are classified as prepayments and correspond to insurance contracts in force, recognized using the straight-line method and on an accrual basis independent of payment date. These are recognized under other non-financial assets . 3.12 Classification Leases Below are accounting policies applied by the Company prior to the adoption of IFRS 16: (a) Lease - Finance lease Leases are classified as finance leases when the Company substantially owns all the risks and rewards inherent in the ownership of the asset. Finance leases are capitalized at the commencement of the lease term at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Each finance lease payment is apportioned between the liability and the finance charges so as to obtain the constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. The respective lease obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other non-current liabilities. The interest part of the finance cost is charged to the consolidated financial statements for the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each year. (b) Lease - Operating lease Leases where the lessor retains a significant part of the risks and benefits derived from the property are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments (net of any incentive received by the lessor) should be recognized as an expense in the income statement or capitalized (as appropriate) over the lease term on a straight-line basis. Below are the Company’s new accounting policies after the adoption of IFRS 16 on January 1, 2019. These have been applied since the initial date of application: (i) Right-of-use assets The Company recognizes right-of-use assets on the initial lease date (i.e., the date on which the underlying asset is available for use). Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, adjusted by any new measurement of the lease liability. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of recognized lease liabilities, direct initial costs incurred and lease payments made on the start date or sooner, less the lease incentives received. Unless the Company is reasonably sure it will take ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease period, the assets recognized through right-of-use are depreciated in a straight line during the shortest period of their estimated useful life and lease period. Right-of-use assets are subject to impairment as per “IAS 36 Impairment of Assets”. (ii) Lease liabilities On the lease start date, the Company recognizes lease liabilities measured at present value of lease payments that will be made during the lease period (which haven’t been paid by that date). Lease payments include fixed payments, less incentives for lease receivables, variable lease payments that are dependent on an index or rate and amounts that are expected to be paid as guaranteed residual value. Lease payments also include the exercise price of a purchase option if the Company is reasonably sure it will exercise this and penalty payments for terminating a lease, if the lease period reflects that the Company will exercise the option to terminate. Variable lease payments that are not dependent on an index or rate are recognized as expenses in the period that produces the event or condition that triggers payment. When calculating the present value of lease payments, the Company uses the incremental borrowing rate on the initial lease date if the interest rate implicit in the lease cannot be determined easily. After the start date, the lease liability balance will increase to reflect the accumulation of interest and will diminish as lease payments are made. Furthermore, the book value of lease liabilities is remeasured in the event of an amendment, a change in the lease period, a change in the fixed lease payments in substance or a change in the assessment to buy the underlying asset. (iii) Short-term leases and low-value asset leases The Company applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to leases with a lease term of 12 months or less starting on the start date and that don’t have a purchase option. It also applies the low-value asset lease recognition exemptions (i.e., when the underlying asset is below USD$ 5,000). Lease payments in short-term leases and low-value asset leases are recognized as lineal expenses during the lease term. (iv) Significant judgments in the determination of the lease term for contracts with renewal options The Company determines the lease term as the non-cancellable period of the lease, together with periods covered by an option to extend the lease if it is reasonably certain that this will be exercised, or any period covered by an option to terminate the lease, if it is reasonably certain that this will not be exercised. The Company has the option, under some of its leases, to lease assets for additional terms. The Company applies its judgment when assessing whether it is reasonably certain that it will exercise the option to renovate. In other words, it considers all the relevant factors that create an economic incentive for it to exercise the option to renovate. After the start date, the Company reevaluates the lease term if there is a significant event or change in the circumstances that are under its control and affect its capacity to exercise (or not exercise) the option to renovate.
Description of accounting policy for inventory measurement [text block] [Text Block]	3.13 Inventory measurement The method used to determine the cost of inventories is the weighted average monthly cost of warehouse storage. In determining production costs for own products, the company includes the costs of labor, raw materials, materials and supplies used in production, depreciation and maintenance of the goods that participate in the production process, the costs of product movement necessary to maintain stock on location and in the condition in which they are found, and also includes the indirect costs of each task such as laboratories, process and planning areas, and personnel expenses related to production, among others. For finished and in-process products, the company has four types of provisions, which are reviewed quarterly: 1. Provision associated with the lower value of stock : This provision is directly identified with the product that generates it and involves three types: (i) provision of lower realizable value, which corresponds to the difference between the inventory cost of intermediary or finished products and the sale price minus the necessary costs to bring them to the same conditions and location as the product with which they are compared; (ii) provision for future uncertain use that corresponds to the value of those products in process that are likely not going to be used in sales based on the company’s long-term plans; and (iii) reprocessing costs of products that are unfeasible for sale due to current specifications. 2. Provision associated with physical differences in inventory 3. Potential errors in the determination of stock 4. Provisions undertaken by commercial offices Inventories of raw materials, materials and supplies for production are recorded at acquisition cost. Cyclical inventories are performed in warehouses, as well as general inventories every three years, Differences are recognized at the moment they are detected. The company has a provision that makes quarterly calculations from percentages associated with each type of material (classification by warehouse and rotation), these percentages use the lower value resulting from deterioration or obsolescence as well as potential losses. This provision is reviewed at least annually, and considers the historical profit and loss obtained in the inventory processes.
Description of accounting policy for transactions with non-controlling interests [text block]	3.14 Transactions with non-controlling interests Non-controlling interests are recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position within equity but separate from equity attributable to the owners of the Parent.
Description of accounting policy for transactions with related parties [text block]	3.15 Related party transactions Transactions between the Company and its joint ventures, associates and other related parties are part of the Company’s normal operations within its scope of business activities. Conditions for such transactions are those normally effective for those types of operations with regard to terms and market prices. The maturity conditions vary according to the originating transaction.
Description of accounting policy for property, plant and equipment [text block]	3.16 Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment assets are stated at acquisition cost, net of the related accumulated depreciation, amortization and impairment losses that they might have experienced. In addition to the price paid for the acquisition of tangible property, plant and equipment, the Company has considered the following concepts as part of the acquisition cost, as applicable: (a) Accrued interest expenses during the construction period that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are those that require a substantial period prior to being ready for use. The interest rate used is that related to the project’s specific financing or, should this not exist, the average financing rate of the investor company. (b) The future costs that the Company will have to experience, related to the closure of its facilities at the end of their useful life, are included at the present value of disbursements expected to be required to settle the and its subsequent variation is recorded directly in results. Having initially recognized provisions for closure and refurbishment, the corresponding cost is capitalized as an asset in “Property, plant and equipment” and amortized in line with the amortization criteria for the associated assets. Construction-in-progress is transferred to property, plant and equipment in operation once the assets are available for use and the related depreciation and amortization begins on that date. Extension, modernization or improvement costs that represent an increase in productivity, ability or efficiency or an extension of the useful lives of property, plant and equipment are capitalized as a higher cost of the related assets. All the remaining maintenance, preservation and repair expenses are charged to expense as they are incurred. The replacement of assets, which increase the asset’s useful life or its economic capacity, are recorded as a higher value of property, plant and equipment with the related derecognition of replaced or renewed elements. Gains or losses which are generated from the sale or disposal of property, plant and equipment are recognized as income (or loss) in the period and calculated as the difference between the asset’s sales value and its net carrying value. Costs derived from the daily maintenance of property, plant and equipment are recognized when incurred. Right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) are recognized in the “property, plant and equipment” line item and are classified within this based on the underlying asset class.
Description of accounting policy for depreciation of property, plant and equipment [Text Block]	3.17 Depreciation of property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment are depreciated through the straight-line distribution of cost over the estimated technical useful life of the asset, which is the period in which the Company expects to use the asset. When components of one item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are recorded as separate assets. Useful lives are reviewed on an annual basis. Fixed assets associated with the Salar de Atacama consider useful life to be the lesser value between the technical useful life and the years remaining until 2030. In the case of certain mobile equipment, depreciation is performed depending on the hours of operation. The useful lives used for the depreciation and amortization of assets included in property, plant and equipment in years are presented below : Classes of property, plant and equipment Minimum life or rate ‎ (years) Maximum life or rate ‎ (years) life or average rate ‎ in years Mining assets 3 10 5 Energy generating assets 5 10 6 Buildings 3 15 8 Supplies and accessories 2 10 3 Office equipment 5 5 5 Transport equipment 2 2 2 Network and communication equipment 2 10 5 IT equipment 2 8 5 Machinery, plant and equipment 1 15 7 Other property, plant and equipment 1 10 5
Description of accounting policy for goodwill [text block]	3.18 Goodwill Goodwill acquired represents the excess in acquisition cost on the fair value of the Company's ownership of the net identifiable assets of the subsidiary on the acquisition date. Goodwill acquired related to the acquisition of subsidiaries is included in goodwill, which is subject to impairment tests annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired and is stated at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses related to the sale of an entity include the carrying value of goodwill related to the entity sold. This intangible asset is assigned to cash-generating units with the purpose of testing impairment losses, it is allocated based on cash-generating units expected to obtain benefits from the business combination from which the aforementioned goodwill acquired arose.
Description of accounting policy for intangible assets other than goodwill [text block]	3.19 Intangible assets other than goodwill Intangible assets other than goodwill mainly relate to water rights, emission rights, commercial brands, costs for rights of way for electricity lines, license costs and the development of computer software and mining property and concession rights, client portfolio and commercial agent. (a) Water rights Water rights acquired by the Company relate to water from natural sources and are recorded at acquisition cost. Given that these assets represent legal rights granted in perpetuity to the Company, they are not amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. (b) Rights of way for electric lines As required for the operation of industrial plants, the Company has paid rights of way in order to install wires for the different electric lines on third party land. These rights are presented under intangible asset. Amounts paid are capitalized at the date of the agreement and amortized in the statement of income according to the life of the right of way. (c) Computer software Licenses for IT programs acquired are capitalized based on their acquisition and customization costs. These costs are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Expenses related to the development or maintenance of IT programs are recognized as an expense as and when incurred. Costs directly related to the production of unique and identifiable IT programs controlled by the Group, and which will probably generate economic benefits that are higher than its costs during more than a year, are recognized as intangible assets. Direct costs include the expenses of employees who develop information technology software and general expenses in accordance with corporate charges received. The costs of development for IT programs are recognized as assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives. (d) Mining property and concession rights The Company holds mining property and concession rights from the Chilean and Australian Governments. Property rights are usually obtained at no initial cost (other than the payment of mining patents and minor recording expenses) and once the rights on these concessions have been obtained, they are retained by the Company while annual patents are paid. Such patents, which are paid annually, are recorded as prepaid assets and amortized over the following twelve months. Amounts attributable to mining concessions acquired from third parties that are not from the Chilean Government are recorded at acquisition cost within intangible assets. (e) Client portfolio The period for exploiting these portfolios is limited so they are considered assets with a definite useful life and are therefore subject to amortization.
Description of accounting policy for research and development expense [text block]	3.20 Research and development expenses Research and development expenses are charged to profit or loss in the period in which the expenditure was incurred.
Description of accounting policy for exploration and evaluation expenses [text block]	3.21 Exploration and evaluation expenses The Company holds mining concessions for exploration and exploitation of ore, the Company gives the following treatment to expenses associated with exploration and assessment of these resources: (a) Caliche Once the rights have been obtained, the Company records the disbursements directly associated with the exploration and assessment of the deposit as an at cost asset. These disbursements include the following items: Geological surveys, drilling, borehole extraction and sampling, activities related to the technical assessment and commercial viability of the extraction, and in general, any disbursement directly related to specific projects where the objective is to find ore resources. If the technical studies determine that the ore grade is not economically viable, the asset is directly charged to profit and loss. If determined otherwise, the asset described above is associated with the extractable ore tonnage which is amortized as it is used. These assets are presented in the “other non-current assets category”, reclassifying the portion related to the area to by extracted that year as inventories. (b) Metal exploration Expenses related to metal exploration are charged to profit or loss in the period in which they are recognized if the project assessed doesn't qualify for consideration as advanced exploration. Otherwise, these are amortized during the development stage. (c) Salar de Atacama exploration Salar de Atacama exploration expenses are presented as non-current assets in the property, plant and equipment category and correspond mainly to wells that can also be used in the extraction of the deposit and/or monitoring. These are amortized over 10 years , otherwise, they are amortized during the development stage . (d) Mount Holland exploration Mount Holland exploration expenses are presented as of December 31, 2018 as non-current assets under "Other Non-Financial Non-Current Assets". As of January 1, 2019, they have been incorporated into Property, Plant and Equipment, specifically in Constructions in progress and primarily consider exploration boreholes and complementary studies for the lithium ore study of the area. These expenses will begin to be amortized in the development stage.
Description of accounting policy for impairment of non-financial assets [text block]	3.22 Impairment of non-financial assets Assets subject to depreciation and amortization are also subject to impairment testing, provided that an event or change in the circumstances indicates that the amounts in the accounting records may not be recoverable, An impairment loss is recognized for the excess of the book value of the asset over its recoverable amount. For assets other than purchased goodwill, the Group annually assesses whether there is any indication that a previously recognized impairment loss may no longer exist or may have decreased. Should such indications exist, the recoverable amount is estimated. The recoverable amount of an asset is the higher between the fair value of an asset or cash generating unit (“CGU”) less costs of sales and its value in use, and is determined for an individual asset unless the asset does not generate any cash inflows that are clearly independent from other assets or groups of assets In evaluating value in use, estimated future cash flows are discounted using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessment, the value of money over time and the specific asset risks. To determine the fair value less costs to sell, an appropriate valuation model is used. Impairment losses from continuing operations are recognized with a debit to profit or loss in the categories of expenses associated with the impaired asset function, except for properties reevaluated previously where the revaluation was taken to equity. For assets other than acquired goodwill, an annual evaluation is carried out to determine whether any previously recognized impairment losses have already decreased or ceased to exist. If this should be the case, the recoverable amount is estimated. A previously recognized impairment loss is only reversed if there have been changes in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last time an impairment loss was recognized. If this is the case, the carrying value of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount. This increased amount cannot exceed the carrying value that would have been determined, net of depreciation, if an asset impairment loss had not been recognized in prior years. This reversal is recognized with a credit to profit or loss. Assets with indefinite lives are assessed for impairment annually.
Description of accounting policy for dividends [text block]	3.23 Minimum dividend As required by Chilean law and regulations, our dividend policy is decided upon from time to time by our Board of Directors and is announced at the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting, which is generally held in April of each year. Shareholder approval of the dividend policy is not required. However, each year the Board must submit the declaration of the final dividend or dividends in respect of the preceding year, consistent with the then-established dividend policy, to the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting for approval. As required by the Chilean Companies Act, unless otherwise decided by unanimous vote of the holders of issued shares, we must distribute a cash dividend in an amount equal to at least 30% of our consolidated net income for that year (determined in accordance with CMF regulations), unless and to the extent the Company has a deficit in retained earnings . (See Note 19.4)
Description of accounting policy for earnings per share [text block]	3.24 The basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the profit for the year attributable to the ordinary owners of the parent by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year. (See Note 21) The Company has not conducted any type of operation of potential dilutive effect that would entail the disclosure of diluted earnings per share.
Description of accounting policy for borrowings [text block]	3.25 Borrowing cost The cost of interest is recognized as an expense in the year in which it is incurred, except for interest that is directly related to the acquisition and construction of tangible property, plant and equipment assets and that complies with the requirements of IAS 23. The Company capitalizes all interest costs directly related to the construction or to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, which require a substantial time to be suitable for use.
Description of accounting policy for provisions [text block]	3.26 Other provisions Provisions are recognized when: · The Company has a present, legal or constructive obligation as the result of a past event. · It is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. · A reliable estimate of the obligation amount can be made. In the event that the provision or a portion of it is reimbursed, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset solely if there is certainty of income. In the consolidated statement of income, the expense for any provision is presented net of any reimbursement. Should the effect of the value of money over time be significant, provisions are discounted using a discount rate before tax that reflects the liability’s specific risks. When a discount rate is used, the increase in the provision over time is recognized as a finance cost. The Company’s policy is to maintain provisions to cover risks and expenses based on a better estimate to deal with possible or certain and quantifiable responsibilities from current litigation, compensations or obligations, pending expenses for which the amount has not yet been determined, collaterals and other similar guarantees for which the Company is responsible. These are recorded at the time the responsibility or the obligation that determines the compensation or payment is generated.
Description of accounting policy for employee benefits [text block]	3.27 Obligations related to employee termination benefits and pension commitments Obligations towards the Company’s employees comply with the provisions of the collective bargaining agreements in force, which are formalized through collective employment agreements and individual employment contracts, except for the United States, which is regulated in accordance with employment plans in force up to 2002. (See more details in Note 17.4). These obligations are valued using actuarial calculations, according to the projected unit credit method which considers such assumptions as the mortality rate, employee turnover, interest rates, retirement dates, effects related to increases in employees’ salaries, as well as the effects on variations in services derived from variations in the inflation rate. The criteria in force contained in the revised IAS 19 are also considered. Actuarial gains and losses that may be generated by variations in defined pre-established obligations are directly recorded in other comprehensive income. Actuarial losses and gains have their origin in deviations between the estimate and the actual behavior of actuarial assumptions or in the reformulation of established actuarial assumptions. The discount rate used by the Company for calculating the obligation was 3.680% and 4.642% for the periods ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The Company’s subsidiary SQM North America has established pension plans for its retired employees that are calculated by measuring the projected obligation using a net salary progressive rate net of adjustments for inflation, mortality and turnover assumptions, deducting the resulting amounts at present value using a 4% interest rate for 2019 and 3.75% for 2018. The net balance of this obligation is presented under the non-current provisions for employee benefits (refer to Note 17.4).
Description of accounting policy for share-based payment transactions [text block]	3.28 Compensation plans Compensation plans implemented through benefits provided in share-based payments settled in cash are recognized in the financial statements at their fair value, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards No. 2 "Share-based Payments”. Changes in the fair value of options granted are recognized with a charge to payroll on a straight-line basis during the period between the date on which these options are granted and the payment date (see Note 17.6).
Description of accounting policy for recognition of revenue [text block]	3.29 Revenue recognition Revenue includes the fair value of considerations received or receivable for the sale of goods and services during the performance of the Company's activities. Revenue is presented net of value added tax, estimated returns, rebates and discounts and after the elimination of sales among subsidiaries. Revenues are recognized when the specific conditions for each income stream are met, as follow s: (a) Sale of goods The sale of goods is recognized when the Company has delivered products to the customer, and there is no obligation pending compliance that could affect the acceptance of products by the customer. The delivery does not occur until products have been shipped to the customer or confirmed as received by the customer, and the related risks of obsolescence and loss have been transferred to the customer and the customer has accepted the products in accordance with the conditions established in the sale, when the acceptance period has ended, or when there is objective evidence that those criteria required for acceptance have been met. Sales are recognized in consideration of the price set in the sales agreement, net of volume discounts and estimated returns at the date of the sale. Volume discounts are evaluated in consideration of annual foreseen purchases and in accordance with the criteria defined in agreements. (b) Sale of services Revenue associated with the rendering of services is recognized considering the degree of completion of the service as of the date of presentation of the consolidated classified statement of financial position, provided that the result from the transaction can be estimated reliably. (c) Income from dividends Income from dividends is recognized when the right to receive the payment is established.
Description of accounting policy for finance income and costs [text block]	3.30 Finance income and finance costs Finance income is mainly composed of interest income from financial instruments such as term deposits and mutual fund deposits. Interest income is recognized in profit or loss at amortized cost, using the effective interest rate method. Finance costs are mainly composed of interest on bank borrowing expenses, interest on bonds issued and interest capitalized for borrowing costs for the acquisition, construction or production or qualifying assets. Borrowing costs and bonds issued are also recognized in profit or loss using the effective interest rate method. For finance costs accrued during the construction period that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, the effective interest rate related to the project’s specific financing is used. If none exists, the average financing rate of the subsidiary making the investment is used. Borrowing and financing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset are capitalized as part of that asset’s cost.
Description of accounting policy for income tax and deferred taxes [Text Block]	3.31 Current income tax and deferred Corporate income tax for the year is determined as the sum of current taxes from the different consolidated companies. Current taxes are based on the application of the various types of taxes attributable to taxable income for the year. Differences between the book value of assets and liabilities and their tax basis generate the balance of deferred tax assets or liabilities, which are calculated using the tax rates expected to be applicable when the assets and liabilities are realized. In conformity with current tax regulations, the provision for corporate income tax and taxes on mining activity is recognized on an accrual basis, presenting the net balances of accumulated monthly tax provisional payments for the fiscal period and associated credits. The balances of these accounts are presented in current income taxes recoverable or current taxes payable, as applicable. Tax on companies and variations in deferred tax assets or liabilities that are not the result of business combinations are recorded in the statement of income accounts or equity accounts in the consolidated statement of financial position, considering the origin of the gains or losses which have generated them. At each reporting period, the carrying amount of deferred tax assets has been reviewed and reduced to the extent where there will not be sufficient taxable income to allow the recovery of all or a portion of the deferred tax assets. Likewise, as of the date of the consolidated financial statements, deferred tax assets that are not recognized were evaluated and not recognized as it was more likely than not that future taxable income will allow for recovery of the deferred tax asset. With respect to deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associated companies and interest in joint ventures, deferred tax assets are recognized solely provided that it is more likely than not that the temporary differences will be reversed in the near future and that there will be taxable income with which they may be used. The deferred income tax related to entries directly recognized in equity is recognized with an effect on equity and not with an effect on profit or loss. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally receivable right of offsetting tax assets against tax liabilities and the deferred tax is related to the same tax entity and authority.
Description of accounting policy for segment reporting [text block]	3.32 Segment reporting IFRS 8 requires that companies adopt a management approach to disclose information on the operations generated by its operating segments. In general, this is the information that management uses internally for the evaluation of segment performance and making the decision on how to allocate resources for this purpose. An operating segment is a group of assets and operations responsible for providing products or services subject to risks and performance that are different from those of other business segments. A geographical segment is responsible for providing products or services in a given economic environment subject to risks and performance that are different from those of other segments operating in other economic environments. Allocation of assets and liabilities to each segment is not possible given that these are associated with more than one segment, except for depreciation, amortization and impairment of assets, which are directly allocated in accordance with the criteria established in the costing process for product inventories to the corresponding segments,. The following operating segments have been identified by the Company: - Specialty plant nutrients - Industrial chemicals - Iodine and derivatives - Lithium and derivatives - Potassium - Other products and services
Description of accounting policy for responsibility for information and estimates made [Text Block]	3.33 Primary accounting criteria, estimates and assumptions Management is responsible for the information contained in these consolidated financial statements, which expressly indicate that all the principles and criteria included in IFRS, as issued by the IASB, have been applied in full. In preparing the consolidated financial statements of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and its subsidiaries, Management has made si gnificant - Estimated useful lives are determined based on current facts and past experience and take into consideration the expected physical life of the asset, the potential for technological obsolescence, and regulations. (See Notes 3.22, 14 and 15). - Impairment losses of certain assets - Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortization and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. Other assets, including property, plant and equipment, exploration assets, are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. If an impairment assessment is required, the assessment of value in use often requires estimates and assumptions such as discount rates, exchange rates, commodity prices, future capital requirements and future operating performance. Changes in such estimates could impact the recoverable values of these assets. Estimates are reviewed regularly by management (See Notes 15 and 16). - Assumptions used in calculating the actuarial amount of pension-related and severance indemnity payment benefit commitments (See Note 17). - Contingencies – The amount recognized as a provision, including legal, contractual, constructive and other exposures or obligations, is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the related liability, including any related interest charges, considering the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. In addition, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Therefore, the assessment of contingencies inherently involves the exercise of significant judgment and estimates of the outcome of future events. The Company assesses its liabilities and contingencies based upon the best information available, relevant tax laws and other appropriate requirements (See Notes 18 and 21). If the Company is unable to rationally estimate the obligation or concluded no loss is probable but it is reasonably possible that a loss may be incurred, no provision is recorded but disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. - Determination of volume for certain product in progress and finished product is based on topography measures and technical studies that cover the different variables (density for bulk inventories and density and porosity for the remaining stock, among others), as well as the related allowances. - Inventory valuation requires judgment to determine obsolescence and estimates of provisions for value to ensure that the carrying value of inventory is not in excess of the net realizable (See Note 11). Despite the fact that these estimates have been made on the basis of the best information available on the date of preparation of these consolidated financial statements, certain events may occur in the future and oblige their amendment (upwards or downwards) over the next years, which would be made prospectively.

Identification and Activities_2

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Abstract]
Summary of Progressive Rates Based on the Final Sale Price	Regarding lithium carbonate, the former rate of 6.8% on FOB sales was changed to the following structure of progressive rates based on the final sale price: Price US$/MT Li2CO3 Lease payment rate $0 - $4,000 6.80 % $4,000 - $5,000 8.00 % $5,000 - $6,000 10.00 % $6,000 - $7,000 17.00 % $7,000 - $10,000 25.00 % > $10,000 40.00 % Regarding potassium chloride, the former rate of 1.8% on FOB sales was changed to the following structure of progressive rates based on the final sale price: Price US$/MT Li2CO3 Lease payment rate $0 - $300 3.0 % $300 - $400 7.0 % $400 - $500 10.0 % $500 - $600 15.0 % > $600 20.0 %
Disclosure of information about employees [text block]	As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the workforce was as follows: As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Employees S.Q.M S.A. Other ‎ subsidiaries Total S.Q.M S.A. Other ‎ subsidiaries Total Executives 30 91 121 33 89 122 Professionals 110 1,170 1,280 115 1,078 1,193 Technicians and operators 282 3,481 3,763 260 3,287 3,547 Foreign employees 17 560 577 11 417 428 Overall total 439 5,302 5,741 419 4,871 5,290
Schedule of Shareholders stock and Ownership Percentage [Text Block]	The following information is derived from our registry and reports managed by the DCV and informed to the CMF and the Chilean Stock Exchanges. whose main shareholders are the following: Shareholders as of December 31, 2019 No. of Series A % of Serie A ‎ shares No. of Series B % of Serie B ‎ shares % of total ‎ shares Inversiones TLC SpA (1) 62,556,568 43.80 % - - 23.77 % Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. 44,894,152 31.43 % 3,793,154 3.15 % 18.50 % The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs - - 38,311,788 31.83 % 14.56 % Potasios de Chile S.A. 18,179,147 12.73 % - - 6.91 % Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada 8,798,539 6.16 % - - 3.34 % Banco Itau via foreign investor accounts - - 7,373,216 6.13 % 2.80 % Banco de Chile non-resident third party accounts 109 - 6,842,746 5.68 % 2.60 % Banco Santander via foreign investor accounts - - 6,618,416 5.50 % 2.51 % Euroamerica C de B S.A. 3,056 - 4,863,467 4.04 % 1.85 % Banchile C de B S.A. 491,729 0.34 % 4,285,696 3.56 % 1.82 % Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada 4,147,263 2.90 % 46,500 0.04 % 1.59 % Santiago stock exchanges 30,590 0.02 % 3,077,930 2.56 % 1.18 % (1) As reported by DCV, which records the Company's shareholders' register as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, Inversiones TLC SpA, a subsidiary of Tianqi Lithium Corporation ("Tianqi"), is the direct owner of 62,556,568 shares of SQM equivalent to 23.77% of SQM’s shares'' According to information provided to the CMF by Inversiones TLC SpA dated December 5, 2018, Inversiones TLC SpA owns 25.86% of SQM’s shares Shareholders as of December 31, 2018 No. of Series A % of Serie A ‎ shares No. of Series B % of Serie B ‎ shares % of total ‎ shares Inversiones TLC SpA (1) 62,556,568 43.80 % - - 23.77 % Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. 44,894,152 31.43 % 10,093,154 8.38 % 20.89 % The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs - - 35,254,267 29.29 % 13.39 % Potasios de Chile S.A. 18,179,147 12.73 % - - 6.91 % Banco de Chile via non-resident third party accounts 15,687 0.01 % 10,703,812 8.89 % 4.07 % Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada 8,798,539 6.16 % - - 3.34 % Banco Itau via foreign investor accounts - - 8,085,730 6.72 % 3.07 % Banco Santander via foreign investor accounts - - 7,138,685 5.93 % 2.71 % Banchile C de B S. A. 528,092 0.37 % 4,028,611 3.35 % 1.73 % Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada 3,711,598 2.60 % 46,500 0.04 % 1.43 %

Basis of presentation for the_2

Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [Abstract]
Disclosure Of Reclassification Of Assets [Text Block]	These revisions were not considered material to the previously issued financial statements. Items Original balances ‎ reported as of ‎ December 31, 2018 Reclassification Balances reclassified ‎ as of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Trade and other receivables, current 464,855 1,764 466,619 Trade receivables due from related parties, current 44,554 (1,764 ) 42,790 Other non-financial assets, current 49,186 (1,214 ) 47,972 Intangible assets other than goodwill 188,283 1,067 189,350 Goodwill 34,718 148 34,866 Cost of sales (1,483,524 ) (2,107 ) (1,485,631 ) Finance costs (59,914 ) 2,107 (57,807 )
Disclosure of subsidiaries [text block]	Companies included in consolidation: Ownership interest Functional As of December 31, 2019 As of TAX ID No. Foreign subsidiaries Country of origin Currency Direct Indirect Total Total Foreign Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. Brazil US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. United Kingdom US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM North America Corp. USA US$ 40.0000 60.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Europe N.V. Belgium US$ 0.5800 99.4200 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina Argentina US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Soquimich European Holding B.V. Netherlands US$ 0.0000 100,0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 0.0002 99.99980 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQI Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 0.0159 99.98413 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Comercial De México S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0100 99.9900 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign North American Trading Company USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Administración Y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Perú S.A. Peru US$ 0.0091 99.99093 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Ecuador S.A. Ecuador US$ 0.0040 99.9960 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V. Mexico US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. USA US$ 0.1000 99.9000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Investment Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil US$ 0.8400 99.1600 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM France S.A. France US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Japan Co. Ltd. Japan US$ 0.1597 99.84030 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ 1.6700 98.3300 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Oceania Pty Limited Australia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Rs Agro-Chemical Trading A.V.V. Aruba US$ 98.3333 1.666700 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Colombia SAS Colombia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Australia PTY Australia US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SACAL S.A. (1) Argentina ARS 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Indonesia S.A. Indonesia US$ 0.0000 80.0000 80.0000 80.0000 Foreign SQM Virginia L.L.C. USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Italia SRL Italy US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign Comercial Caimán Internacional S.A. Panama US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Africa Pty. South Africa US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Lithium Specialties LLC USA US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Iberian S.A. Spain US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. China US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM Thailand Limited. Thailand US$ 0.0000 99.99600 99.9960 99.9960 Foreign SQM International N.V. Belgium US$ 0.5800 99.4200 100.0000 100.0000 Foreign SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. China US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 96.801.610-5 Comercial Hydro S.A. Chile US$ 0.0000 60.6383 60.6383 60.6383 96.651.060-9 SQM Potasio S.A. Chile US$ 99.9999 0.0000 99.9999 99.9999 96.592.190-7 SQM Nitratos S.A. Chile US$ 99.9999 0.0001 100.0000 100.0000 96.592.180-K Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Chile US$ 51.0000 0.0000 51.0000 51.0000 86.630.200-6 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (2) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 60.6381 79.947.100-0 SQM Industrial S.A. Chile US$ 99.0470 0.9530 100.0000 100.0000 79.906.120-1 Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. Chile Ch$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 79.876.080-7 Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. Chile Ch$ 1.0000 99.0000 100.0000 100.0000 79.770.780-5 Servicios Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A. Chile US$ 0.0003 99.9997 100.0000 100.0000 79.768.170-9 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Chile US$ 0.0000 60.6383 60.6383 60.6383 79.626.800-K SQM Salar S.A. Chile US$ 18.1800 81.8200 100.0000 100.0000 78.053.910-0 Proinsa Ltda. (3) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 60.5800 76.534.490-5 Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. Chile Ch$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 76.425.380-9 Exploraciones Mineras S.A. Chile US$ 0.2691 99.7309 100.0000 100.0000 76.064.419-6 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. (4) Chile Ch$ 0.0000 42.4468 42.4468 42.4468 76.145.229-0 Agrorama S.A. Chile Ch$ 0.0000 60.6387 60.6387 60.6387 76.359.919-1 Orcoma Estudios SPA Chile US$ 51.0000 0.0000 51.0000 51.0000 76.360.575-2 Orcoma SPA Chile US$ 100.0000 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 76.686.311-9 SQM MaG SpA Chile US$ 0.0000 100.0000 100.0000 100.0000 1) On June 26, 2019, SACAL was liquidated. 2) On March 01, 2019, SQMC Internacional merged with Soquimich Comercial S.A. 3) On April 01, 2019, Proinsa Ltda was liquidated. 4) Comercial Agrorama Ltda was consolidated as it is controlled through the subsidiary Soquimich Comercial S.A.

Significant accounting polici_3

Significant accounting policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Significant accounting policies [Abstract]
Disclosure of foreign exchange rates used o translate monetary items [Text Block]	The main exchange rates and UF used to translate monetary assets and liabilities, expressed in foreign currency at the end of each period in respect to U.S. dollars, are as follows: Currencies As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 US$ US$ Brazilian real 4.02 3.87 New Peruvian sol 3.31 3.37 Argentine peso 59.83 37.74 Japanese yen 108.9 110.38 Euro 0.89 0.87 Mexican peso 18.89 19.68 Australian dollar 1.43 1.42 Pound Sterling 0.76 0.79 South African rand 14.06 14.35 Ecuadorian dollar 1.00 1.00 Chilean peso 748.74 694.77 Chinese yuan 6.98 6.88 Indian rupee 71.31 69.93 Thai Baht 29.97 32.53 Turkish lira 5.94 5.27 Polish Z l ty 3.79 - UF (*) 37.81 39.68 (*) US$ por UF
Disclosure of useful lives of property, plant and equipment [Text Block]	The useful lives used for the depreciation and amortization of assets included in property, plant and equipment in years are presented below : Classes of property, plant and equipment Minimum life or rate ‎ (years) Maximum life or rate ‎ (years) life or average rate ‎ in years Mining assets 3 10 5 Energy generating assets 5 10 6 Buildings 3 15 8 Supplies and accessories 2 10 3 Office equipment 5 5 5 Transport equipment 2 2 2 Network and communication equipment 2 10 5 IT equipment 2 8 5 Machinery, plant and equipment 1 15 7 Other property, plant and equipment 1 10 5

Financial risk management (Tabl

Financial risk management (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Financial Risk Management Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [text block]	The credit quality of financial assets that are not past due or impaired can be evaluated by reference to external credit ratings (if available) or historical information on counterparty late payment rates: Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco de Chile Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 50,221 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 42,096 Banco Itau Corpbanca Time deposits P-2 A-2 - 39,093 Banco Santander Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 2,708 Scotiabank Sud Americano Time deposits - - F1+ 14,428 Banco Estado Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 500 BBVA Banco Francés Time deposits - - - 53 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional Investment fund deposits Aaa-mf AAAm AAAmmf 181,155 Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional cash reserves Investment fund deposits - AAAm AAAmmf 146,078 Total 476, 332 Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco Scotiabank Sud Americano 90 days to 1 year P-2 - - 54,180 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones (*) 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 178,448 Banco Santander 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 74,365 Banco Itau Corpbanca 90 days to 1 year P-2 A-2 - 127,579 Banco Security 90 days to 1 year - A-2 F2 17,965 Banco de Chile 90 days to 1 year - - - 18,026 Banco Estado 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 15,126 Total 485,689 (*) This includes ThUS$ 1,870 associated with collateral in guarantee used to reduce the liquidity risk. The following table presents comparative information as of December 2018: Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco de Chile Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 7,305 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones Time deposits P-1 A-1 - 27,428 Banco Itau Corpbanca Time deposits P-2 A-2 - 61,946 Banco Santander Time deposits - - - 432 Banco Estado Time deposits - - - 3,602 BBVA Banco Francés Time deposits - - - 84 Nedbank Time deposits P-3 B - 647 Scotiabank Sud Americano Time deposits - - - 86,222 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional Investment fund deposits Aaa-mf AAAm AAAmmf 133,809 Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional cash reserves Investment fund deposits - AAAm AAAmmf 132,108 Total 453,583 Financial institution Financial assets Rating Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Moody´s S&P Fitch ThUS$ Banco Scotiabank 90 days to 1 year - - - 24,898 Banco de Crédito e Inversiones 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 145,834 Banco Santander 90 days to 1 year P-1 A-1 - 23,124 Banco Itau Corpbanca 90 days to 1 year P-2 A-2 - 70,719 Banco Security 90 days to 1 year - - - 27,215 Total 291,790
Disclosure of cash and cash equivalents of cashflows [Text Block]	The position in other cash and cash equivalents is invested in highly liquid mutual funds with an AAA risk rating. Nature of undiscounted cash flows As of December 31, 2019 (in millions of US$) Carrying ‎ amount Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total Bank borrowings 70.19 2.17 74.87 - 77.04 Unsecured obligations (1) 1,697.11 326.34 614.29 1,184.38 2,125.01 Sub total 1,767.30 328.51 689.16 1,184.38 2,202.05 Hedging liabilities 23.66 6.57 24.33 32.37 63.27 Derivative financial instruments 3.17 3.17 - - 3.17 Sub total 26.83 9.74 24.33 32.37 66.44 Current and non-current lease liabilities 42.632 8.903 22.983 10.746 42.632 Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable 205.7 205.7 - - 205.70 Total 2,042.462 552.853 736.473 1,227.496 2,516.822 (1) Unsecured obligations are presented on a contractual basis and have no effects related to anticipated redemptions. Nature of undiscounted cash flows As of December 31, 2018 (in millions of US$) Carrying ‎ amount Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years Over 5 years Total Bank borrowings 70.25 4.10 79.66 - 83.76 Unsecured obligations 1,273.07 61.37 823.76 713.60 1,598.73 Sub total 1,343.32 65.47 903.42 713.60 1,682.49 Hedging liabilities 17.32 5.52 15.64 29.27 50.43 Derivative financial instruments 2.86 2.86 - - 2.86 Sub total 20.18 8.38 15.64 29.27 53.29 Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable 163.75 163.17 0.58 - 163.75 Total 1,527.25 237.02 919.64 742.87 1,899.53

Background of companies inclu_2

Background of companies included in consolidation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of Background of companies included in consolidation [Abstract]
Disclosure of Parent's stand-alone assets and liabilities [Text Block]	6.1 Parent’s stand-alone assets and liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Assets 4,069,649 3,737,892 Liabilities (1,983,382 ) (1,652,401 ) Equity 2,086,267 2,085,491

Board of Directors, Senior Ma_2

Board of Directors, Senior Management and Key management personnel (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of information about Board of Directors Senior Management and Key management personnel [Abstract]
Disclosure of information about key management personnel [text block]	As of December 31, 2019, there are 124 people occupying key management positions and 123 as of December 31, 2018. Key management personnel compensation For the ‎ year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Key management personnel compensation 22,598 27,907 27,367

Equity-accounted investees (Tab

Equity-accounted investees (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Equity-accounted investees [Abstract]
Disclosure of associates [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, in accordance with criteria established in Note 2: Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates accounted for using the ‎ equity method Share in other comprehensive ‎ income of associates accounted for ‎ using the equity method, net of tax Share in total other comprehensive income of associates ‎ accounted for using the equity method Associates As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 11,609 10,821 634 596 1,483 1 - 635 596 1,483 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 26,001 21,582 3,912 241 6,427 198 489 4,110 730 6,427 Ajay North America 14,669 14,951 2,871 3,728 3,677 - - 2,871 3,728 3,677 Ajay Europe SARL 7,451 7,845 1,165 1,373 1,049 (179 ) (439 ) 986 934 1,075 Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd - - - 316 393 - - - 316 393 SQM Eastmed Turkey 623 310 354 370 (25 ) (42 ) (21 ) 312 349 (25 ) Kore Potash PLC 24,739 20,467 (534 ) (1,543 ) - (549 ) (1,206 ) (1,083 ) (2,749 ) - Total 85,092 75,976 8,402 5,081 13,004 (571 ) (1,177 ) 7,831 3,904 13,030
Disclosure of interests in associates [text block]	Dividends received Associate Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of ‎ incorporation Share of ‎ ownership in ‎ associates For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in the Middle East. PO Box 71871, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates 37% - 6,632 - Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in Turkey. Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya Turkey 50% - - - Ajay North America Production and distribution of iodine derivatives. 1400 Industry RD Power Springs GA 30129 United States of America 49% 2,796 2,807 1,123 Ajay Europe SARL Production and distribution of iodine derivatives. Z.I. du Grand Verger BP 227 53602 Evron Cedex France 50% 1,055 811 968 Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients. 31 Soi 138 (Meesuk) LLapdrawrd, Bangkapi, 10240 Bangkok Thailand 40% - 362 - SQM Eastmed Turkey Production and commercialization of specialty products. Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya Turkey 50% - - - Kore Potash Ltd Prospection, exploration and mining development. L 3 88 William ST Perth, was 6000 Australia 19.67% - - - Total 3,851 10,612 2,091 The companies described in the table below are related parties of the following associates: (1) Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS (2) Terra Tarsa B.V. (3) Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Dividends received Associate Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of ‎ incorporation Share of ‎ ownership in ‎ associates (*) For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC (2) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients. 74800 Ukraine, Kakhovka, 4 Yuzhnaya Str. Ukraine 100% - - - Terra Tarsa BV (1) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients. Herikerbergweg 238, Luna Arena, 1101CM Amsterdam PO Box 23393, 1100DW Amsterdam Zuidoost Holland 50% - - - Plantacote NV (1) Sale of CRF and production and sales of WSNPK. Houtdok-Noordkaai 25a, 2030 Antwerpen, Belgium Belgium 100% - - - Doctochem Tarim Sanayai Ticaret LTD (1) Production, distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrition. . Eski Büyükdere Cad No: 7 GIZ 2000 Plaza K:17 D:67-68 Maslak Sariyer Ístambul. Turkey 100% - - - Terra Tarsa Don LLC Distribution and sale of specialty fertilizers Zorge Street, house 17, 344090, Rostov-on-Don Russian Federation 100% - - - Doktolab Tarim Arastirma San. (1) Laboratory services. 27. Cd. No:2, 07190 Aosb 2. Kısım/Döşemealtı, Antalya, Turkey Turkey 100% - - - International Technical and Trading Agencies Co WLL (3) Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients, in the Middle East. P.O Box: 950918 Amman 11195 Jordan 50% - - - Total - - - (*) This percentage does not consider the shareholdings of the holders of these subsidiaries.
Disclosure of Detailed Informatin on Summarized Financial Information of Associates Explanatory [Text Block]	As of and for the year ended December 31, 2019 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 28,543 9,971 7,133 - 31,588 1,713 4 1,717 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 97,797 15,196 22,420 38,522 93,768 7,824 396 8,220 Ajay North America 19,748 13,250 3,061 - 38,833 5,860 - - Ajay Europe SARL 19,589 1,456 6,144 - 35,709 2,329 (358 ) 1,971 SQM Eastmed Turkey 2,718 1,833 2,600 704 3,086 709 (84 ) 625 Kore Potash PLC 7,938 119,362 2,214 - - (2,716 ) (2,791 ) (5,507 ) Total 176,333 161,068 43,572 39,226 202,984 15,719 (2,833 ) 7,026 As of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 23,496 11,444 5,695 - 33,098 1,611 (1 ) 1,610 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 66,498 12,242 27,067 8,509 74,144 481 978 1,459 Ajay North America 21,644 12,409 3,542 - 40,290 7,608 - 7,608 Ajay Europe SARL 21,219 1,214 6,743 - 36,337 2,747 (878 ) 1,869 SQM Eastmed Turkey 1,724 2,160 1,829 1,434 3,192 740 (42 ) 698 Kore Potash PLC 6,659 148,426 2,180 - - (8,198 ) (6,882 ) (15,080 ) Total 141,240 187,895 47,056 9,943 187,061 4,989 (6,825 ) (1,836 ) As of and for the year ended December 31, 2017 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Associate Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income income ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 44,801 2,032 3,764 - 35,131 4,008 (4 ) 4,004 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 81,057 10,731 36,990 11,251 75,269 12,854 (4,367 ) 8,487 Ajay North America 19,426 12,498 2,470 - 36,185 7,505 - 7,505 Ajay Europe SARL 23,555 1,266 8,534 - 32,310 2,098 2,208 4,306 SQM Eastmed Turkey 8,585 712 3,292 255 13,618 981 414 1,395 Kore Potash PLC 3,981 2,671 4,487 2,260 2,389 (49 ) (12 ) (61 ) Total 181,405 29,910 59,507 13,766 194,902 27,397 (1,761 ) 25,636

Joint Ventures (Tables)

Joint Ventures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Joint Ventures Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about investments in joint ventures [Text Block]	9.3 Investment in joint ventures accounted for under the equity method of accounting Dividends received For the year For the year For the year Description of the nature Country of Share of interest ended December ended December ended December Joint venture of the relationship Domicile incorporation in ownership 31, 2019 31, 2018 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. Production and distribution of soluble fertilizers. Huangjing Road, Dawan Town, Qingbaijiang District, Chengdu Municipality, Sichuan Province China 50% - - - Coromandel SQM India Production and distribution of potassium nitrate. 1-2-10, Sardar Patel Road, Secunderabad – 500003 Andhra Pradesh India 50% - - - SQM Vitas Fzco. Production and commercialization of specialty plant and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene. Jebel ALI Free Zone P.O. Box 18222, Dubai United Arab Emirates 50% 10,598 - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Production and distribution of nutrient plant solutions with specialties NPK soluble. Longquan Town, Jimo City, Qingdao Municipality, Shangdong Province China 50% - - - SQM Vitas Holland Without information production of specialized fertilizers and other products for distribution in Italy and other countries. Herikerbergweg 238, 1101 CM Amsterdam Zuidoost Holland 50% - - - Pavoni & C. Spa products for distribution in Italy and other countries. Corso Italia 172, 95129 Catania (CT), Sicilia Italy 50% - - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. Development and operation of the Mt Holland Lithium project, which will include the construction of a lithium extraction and refining mine L18, 109 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000 |PO Box Z5200 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6831 Australia 50% - - - Total 10,598 - - The companies described in the following table are related to the following joint ventures: (1) SQM Vitas Fzco. (2) Pavoni & C Spa Dividends received Joint venture Description of the nature of the relationship Domicile Country of incorporation Share of interest in ownership (*) For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene. Via Cndeias, Km. 01 Sem Numero, Lote 4, Bairro Cia Norte, Candeias, Bahia. Brazil 49.99% - - - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene Av. Juan de Arona 187, Torre B, Oficina 301-II, San Isidro, Lima Perú 50% - - - Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) Production of specialty fertilizers and others for distribution in Italy and other countries. Mantova (MN) Via Cremona 27 Int. 25 Italy 50.48% - - - Total - - - (*) The percentages presented correspond to the ownership used in the consolidation of the company.
Disclosure of reconciliation of summarised financial information of joint venture accounted for using equity method to carrying amount of interest in joint venture [text block]	Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures ‎ accounted for using the equity method Joint Venture As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 1,992 1,992 11,444 (632 ) (650 ) (535 ) Coromandel SQM India 1,568 1,729 1,633 (98 ) 174 165 SQM Vitas Fzco. 9,111 20,202 19,478 1,797 1,781 1,502 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 3,464 3,168 2,980 296 188 361 SQM Vitas Holland 1,304 1,345 1,429 (15 ) (14 ) (18 ) Minera Exar S.A. (1) - - 33,065 - (206 ) (27 ) Pavoni & C. Spa 6,864 7,084 - 36 (39 ) - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 40 53 - - 36 - Total 24,343 35,573 70,029 1,384 1,270 1,448 Share on other comprehensive income of associates ‎ and joint ventures accounted for using the equity ‎ method, net of tax Share on total other comprehensive income of ‎ associates and joint ventures accounted for using ‎ the equity method Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. - - - (631 ) (650 ) (535 ) Coromandel SQM India (38 ) (159 ) - (136 ) 15 165 SQM Vitas Fzco. 437 (903 ) (5 ) 2,234 878 1,497 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. - - - 296 188 361 SQM Vitas Holland (27 ) (70 ) - (42 ) (84 ) (18 ) Minera Exar S.A. (1) - - - - (206 ) (27 ) Pavoni & C. Spa (255 ) 70 - (219 ) 31 - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. (13 ) - - (13 ) 36 - Total 104 (1,062 ) (5 ) 1,489 208 1,443 (1) Minera Exar S.A. was sold in December 2018, The amounts described in the following box represent numbers used in the consolidation of the company: Equity-accounted investees Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures ‎ accounted for using the equity method Joint Venture As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) 5,347 5,915 11,003 564 1,439 1,753 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) 1,955 2,671 5,961 211 (275 ) (216 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. (2) - - 669 - - (1 ) Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) 92 62 - 31 (44 ) - Total 7,394 8,648 17,633 806 1,120 1,536 Share on other comprehensive income of associates ‎ and joint ventures accounted for using the equity ‎ method, net of tax Share on total other comprehensive income of ‎ associates and joint ventures accounted for using ‎ the equity method Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (1) (225 ) (792 ) (51 ) 338 647 826 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (1) 661 (112 ) - 872 (387 ) (108 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. (2) - - - - - (1 ) Arpa Speciali S.R.L. (2) (1 ) - - 30 (44 ) - Total 435 (904 ) (51 ) 1.240 216 717
Disclosure of assets,liabilities,revenue and expenses from joint venure explanatory [Text Block]	9.4 Assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses from joint ventures: As of and for the year ended December 31, 2019 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Joint Venture Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 28,668 5,129 13,472 - 7 (1,262 ) - (1,262 ) Coromandel SQM India 4,504 633 1,704 - 8,197 (197 ) (77 ) (274 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. 9,695 20,014 1,136 - 36 3,595 (876 ) 2,719 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 7,534 26 632 - 12,003 592 - 592 SQM Vitas Holland 2,609 - 2 - - (30 ) (53 ) (83 ) SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 46,118 7,299 40,334 - 87,901 1,128 (451 ) 677 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 29,452 8,378 24,855 6,044 28,590 421 1,322 1,743 Pavoni & C. Spa 9,444 7,074 8,466 735 14,296 71 (510 ) (439 ) Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 1,616 958 2,111 383 - - (25 ) (25 ) Total 139,640 49,511 92,712 7,162 151,030 4,318 (670 ) 3,648 As of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 Gain (loss) from Other Assets Liabilities continuing comprehensive Comprehensive Joint Venture Current Non-current Current Non-current Revenue operations income ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 28,577 5,913 12,902 - 16 (1,301 ) - (1,301 ) Coromandel SQM India 5,905 852 3,050 - 11,605 348 (318 ) 30 SQM Vitas Fzco. 30,430 17,592 2,678 - 16,583 3,561 (1,806 ) 1,755 SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 7,754 114 1,533 - 13,004 377 - 377 SQM Vitas Holland 2,692 - 1 - - (28 ) (139 ) (167 ) SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 36,648 7,566 31,808 - 82,625 2,879 (1,585 ) 1,294 SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 22,365 7,785 18,996 5,966 28,619 (550 ) (223 ) (773 ) Pavoni & C. Spa 10,062 6,490 8,098 698 15,461 (79 ) 140 61 Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 239 100 233 - - 106 - 106 Total 144,672 46,412 79,299 6,664 167,913 5,313 (3,931 ) 1,382
Disclosure of detailed information about other joint venture information explanatory [Text Block]	9.5 Other Joint Venture disclosures: Cash and cash equivalents Other current financial liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities Joint Venture As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. 33 106 - - - - Coromandel SQM India 2,240 308 - - - - SQM Vitas Fzco. 3,071 19,312 - - - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. 4,640 4,543 - - - - SQM Vitas Holland 2,609 2,692 - - - - SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria 2,101 1,869 9,106 13,380 - - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. 225 371 258 3,819 895 801 Pavoni & C. Spa 314 407 5,509 5,464 - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. 693 156 472 - - - Total 15,926 29,764 15,345 22,663 895 801 Depreciation and amortization expense Interest expense Income tax benefit (expense) from ‎ continuing operations Joint Venture For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd. (743 ) (948 ) (691 ) - (1 ) (433 ) 153 97 200 Coromandel SQM India (291 ) 445 - (4 ) (9 ) (49 ) (27 ) (38 ) (44 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. - (509 ) (717 ) (7 ) (8 ) (16 ) - - - SQM Qingdao Star Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. (62 ) (67 ) (64 ) - - (1 ) (241 ) (187 ) (195 ) SQM Vitas Holland - - - (1 ) - - - - (337 ) SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V. - - - - - (1 ) - - - SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (33 ) (408 ) (438 ) (1,176 ) (886 ) (2,127 ) 181 (117 ) - SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (287 ) (347 ) (82 ) (435 ) (425 ) (323 ) (316 ) (230 ) (362 ) Pavoni & C. Spa (149 ) (542 ) - - (335 ) - (214 ) - - Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. (126 ) (16 ) - (32 ) (5 ) - - (46 ) - Total (1,691 ) (2,392 ) (1,992 ) (1,655 ) (1,669 ) (2,950 ) (464 ) (521 ) (738 )

Cash And Cash Equivalents (Tabl

Cash And Cash Equivalents (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
DisclosureOfCashAndCashEquivalentsExplanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about cash and cash equivalents [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, cash and cash equivalents are detailed as follows: Cash As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Cash on hand 71 75 Cash in banks 105,141 101,662 Other demand deposits 6,986 746 Total cash 112,198 102,483 Cash equivalents As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents 149,099 187,666 Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents 327,233 265,917 Total cash equivalents 476, 332 453,583 Total cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066
Disclosure of detailed information about short term investments [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the short-term investments classified as cash and cash equivalents relate to mutual funds (investment liquidity funds) for investments in: Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional Cash Reserves 181,155 132,108 JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional 146,078 133,809 Total 327,233 265,917
Disclosure of cash and cash equivalents by currency [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, information on cash and cash equivalents by currency is detailed as follows: Original currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Chilean Peso (*) 8,240 157,500 US Dollar 558,572 353,674 Euro 3,131 4,738 Mexican Peso 2,103 1,242 South African Rand 3,929 5,219 Japanese Yen 1,559 1,786 Peruvian Sol 4 1 Indian rupee 6 - Chinese Yuan 2,484 2,305 D i - 1 Indonesian rupee 3 - Argentine Peso 3 2 Pound Sterling 3 - Australian dollar 8,492 29,598 Polish Z l ty 1 - Total 588,530 556,066 (*) The Company maintains financial derivative instruments policies which allow Management to convert term deposits denominated in pesos and UF to US dollars.
Disclosure of restricted cash and cash equivalents [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, pledged assets are as follows Restricted cash balances As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. 551 712 Total 551 712
Disclosure of detailed information about short term deposits [Text Block]	The detail at the end of each period is as follows: Receiver of the deposit Type of deposit Original currency Interest rate Placement date Maturity Principal Interest accrued As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-18-2019 02-13-2020 18,000 74 18,074 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.85 % 12-26-2019 02-20-2020 20,000 8 20,008 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-15-2019 01-23-2020 14,000 62 14,062 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.50 % 11-15-2019 01-09-2020 18,000 80 18,080 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-15-2019 01-16-2020 18,000 79 18,079 Banco Itau Chile Fixed term US$ 2.90 % 12-26-2019 02-20-2020 33,000 13 33,013 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term CLP$ 2.16 % 12-30-2019 08-08-2020 6,812 - 6,812 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.51 % 11-21-2019 01-28-2020 1,000 4 1,004 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.75 % 12-02-2019 02-27-2020 2,000 6 2,006 Banco crédito e inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.60 % 11-25-2019 01-28-2020 1,000 4 1,004 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 2.15 % 16-12-2019 01-06-2020 500 - 500 Banco Santander - Santiago Fixed term US$ 2.55 % 12-09-2019 02-04-2020 1,700 3 1,703 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 2.55 % 12-16-2019 01-06-2020 2,500 3 2,503 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.64 % 11-29-2019 02-13-2020 1,500 5 1,505 Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 2.80 % 11-12-2019 01-28-2020 2,000 8 2,008 Banco Santander - Santiago Fixed term US$ 2.33 % 10-16-2019 01-12-2020 1,000 5 1,005 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 2.45 % 12-17-2019 01-13-2020 3,600 3 3,603 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.20 % 11-13-2019 01-30-2020 500 2 502 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.40 % 12-02-2019 02-27-2020 2,000 5 2,005 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 3.45 % 11-18-2019 01-30-2020 1,500 6 1,506 BBVA Banco Francés Fixed term US$ 39 % 12-26-2019 01-27-2020 52 1 53 Banco Itaú S.A. On demand US$ 8 % 10-17-2019 12-31-2019 64 - 64 148,728 371 149,099 Receiver of the deposit Type of deposit Original currency Interest rate Placement date Maturity date Principal Interest accrued As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 10-18-2018 01-16-2019 14,606 90 14,696 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 11-06-2018 01-09-2019 19,632 92 19,724 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 11-30-2018 01-03-2019 14,393 38 14,431 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.55 % 12-03-2018 01-03-2019 11,515 27 11,542 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-03-2018 01-03-2019 14,393 34 14,427 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-07-2018 01-09-2019 14,393 29 14,422 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-10-2018 01-09-2019 12,954 23 12,977 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.35 % 12-10-2018 01-09-2019 12,954 21 12,975 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.06 % 12-11-2018 01-11-2019 1,300 2 1,302 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 2.75 % 12-12-2018 01-15-2019 1,000 1 1,001 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term Ch$ 2.50 % 12-14-2018 01-09-2019 14,392 20 14,412 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.65 % 12-17-2018 01-17-2019 14,393 18 14,411 Scotiabank Fixed term Ch$ 2.60 % 12-17-2018 01-17-2019 10,892 13 10,905 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.93 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,400 2 1,402 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.30 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,400 2 1,402 Itau-Corpbanca Fixed term US$ 3.40 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 3,000 4 3,004 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.06 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,700 2 1,702 Scotiabank Sud Americano Fixed term US$ 2.95 % 12-17-2018 01-31-2019 1,500 2 1,502 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.26 % 12-19-2018 01-31-2019 800 1 801 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.42 % 12-26-2018 02-26-2019 2,800 1 2,801 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.26 % 12-26-2018 02-26-2019 2,800 1 2,801 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-07-2019 1,439 1 1,440 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-14-2019 2,879 1 2,880 Scotiabank Sud Americano (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.26 % 12-27-2018 01-21-2019 1,439 1 1,440 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 3.15 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,000 1 2,001 Banco Estado Fixed term US$ 3.15 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 600 - 600 Banco de Chile Fixed term US$ 3.16 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,000 1 2,001 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 2.53 % 12-28-2018 01-08-2019 1,000 - 1,000 Banco Crédito e Inversiones Fixed term US$ 3.08 % 12-28-2018 01-28-2019 2,500 1 2,501 Banco Santander- Santiago (*) Fixed term Ch$ 0.20 % 12-28-2018 01-04-2019 432 - 432 BBVA Banco Francés Fixed term US$ - 12-31-2018 01-21-2019 81 3 84 Nedbank On demand US$ - 12-31-2018 01-01-2019 647 - 647 Total 187,234 432 187,666 (*) Corresponds to a monthly rate.
Disclosure of reconciliation of liabilities arising from financing activities [text block]	This section sets out an analysis of net debt and the movements in net debt for each of the periods presented. The definition of net debt is disclosed in Note 19.1. Net debt As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066 Other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Other non-current financial hedge assets 3,918 13,425 Other current financial liabilities (298,822 ) (23,585 ) Other non-current financial liabilities (1,518,926 ) (1,330,382 ) Total (719,810 ) (471,755 ) Adjustment to Monetary Non-monetary initial balances Hedging and As of December by adoption of Amounts from Amounts from Other cash non-hedging Exchange rate As of December Cash and cash equivalents 31, 2018 IFRS 16 loans interest income/expenses instruments differences Other 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Obligations with the public and bank loans (1,333,793 ) - (442,465 ) 65,754 6,816 - 20,839 (70,179 ) (1,753,028 ) Current and non-current lease liabilities - (45,115 ) 7,221 1,537 - - - (1,540 ) (37,897 ) Financial instruments derived from hedging (17,318 ) - (439 ) 5,209 - (12,014 ) - 907 (23,655 ) Financial instruments derived from non-hedging (2,856 ) - - - - (313 ) - - (3,169 ) Subtotal (1,353,967 ) (45,115 ) (435,683 ) 72,500 6,816 (12,327 ) 20,839 (70,812 ) (1,817,749 ) Cash and cash equivalents 556,066 - - - 47,396 - (14,932 ) - 588,530 Deposits that do not qualify as cash and cash equivalents 291,790 - - (25,809 ) 224,499 - (31,080 ) 26,289 485,689 Derivatives from hedge assets 31,663 - - - (34,434 ) 23,034 - 925 21,188 Derivatives from other financial non-hedge assets 2,693 - - - (1,403 ) 1,242 - - 2,532 Total (471,755 ) (45,115 ) (435,683 ) 46,691 242,874 11,949 (25,173 ) (43,598 ) (719,810 )

Inventories (Table)

Inventories (Table)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Inventories Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about inventories [Text Block]	The composition of inventory at each period-end is as follows: Type of inventory As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw material 7,287 6,764 Supplies for production 26,064 26,840 Products-in-progress 457,563 423,621 Finished product 492,424 456,449 Total 983,338 913,674
Disclosure of information about inventory reserves [Text Block]	The breakdown of inventory allowances is detailed as follows: Type of inventory As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw material and supplies for production 2,488 1,838 Products-in-progress 71,468 82,673 Finished product 14,218 20,771 Total 88,174 105,282
Disclosure of movements in provisions for inventories [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, movements in provisions are detailed as follows: Conciliation As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 As of December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Beginning balance 105,282 96,284 81,295 Increase (decrease) in lower value provision (1) (6,987 ) 7,845 19,515 Increase (decrease) in provision relating to differences of inventory (2) (123 ) 3,176 573 Increase / decrease in provision relating to eventual differences and others (3) (6,262 ) 2,436 (178 ) Provision used (3,736 ) (4,459 ) (4,921 ) Total changes (17,108 ) 8,998 14,989 Final balance 88,174 105,282 96,284 (1) There are three types of Lower Value Provisions: (a) Economic Realizable Lower Value, (b) Potential Inventory with Uncertain Future Use and (c) Reprocessing Costs of Off-Specification Products. (2) Provisions for Inventory Differences generated when physical differences are detected when taking inventory, which exceed the tolerance levels for this process, At least two annual inventories are taken in the production sites and in the port in Chile (“zero sum” systems have immediate potential adjustments). (3) This algorithm corresponds to the provision of diverse percentages based on the complexity in the measurement and rotation of stock, as well as standard differences based on previous results, as is the case with provisions relating to Commercial Offices.

Related party disclosures (Tabl

Related party disclosures (Table)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Related Party Explanatory [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about related parties [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail of entities that are identified as subsidiaries or related parties of the Company is as follows: Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Nature Foreign Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. Brazil US$ Subsidiary Foreign Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. United Kingdom US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM North America Corp. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Europe N.V. Belgium US$ Subsidiary Foreign Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina Argentina US$ Subsidiary Foreign Soquimich European Holding B.V. Holland US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQI Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Comercial De México S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign North American Trading Company United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign Administración y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Perú S.A. Perú US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Ecuador S.A. Ecuador US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V. México US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Investment Corporation N.V. Curacao US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM France S.A. France US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Japan Co. Ltd. Japan US$ Subsidiary Foreign Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Oceania Pty Limited Australia US$ Subsidiary Foreign Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. Aruba US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Indonesia S.A. Indonesia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Virginia L.L.C. United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Italia SRL Italy US$ Subsidiary Foreign Comercial Caimán Internacional S.A. Panama US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM África Pty. Ltd. South Africa US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Colombia SAS Colombia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Internacional N.V. Belgium US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. China US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Lithium Specialties LLC United States of America US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Iberian S.A. Spain US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. China US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Thailand Limited Thailand US$ Subsidiary Foreign SQM Australia PTY Australia US$ Subsidiary Foreign SACAL S.A. (1) Argentina Ars Subsidiary 96.801.610-5 Comercial Hydro S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.651.060-9 SQM Potasio S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.592.190-7 SQM Nitratos S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 96.592.180-K Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 86.630.200-6 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (2) Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.947.100-0 SQM Industrial S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.906.120-1 Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 79.876.080-7 Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 79.770.780-5 Servicios Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.768.170-9 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 79.626.800-K SQM Salar S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 78.053.910-0 Proinsa Ltda. (3) Chile Ch$ Subsidiary Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Nature 76.534.490-5 Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. Chile Ch$ Subsidiary 76.425.380-9 Exploraciones Mineras S.A. Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.064.419-6 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. Chile Peso Subsidiary 76.145.229-0 Agrorama S.A. Chile Peso Subsidiary 76.359.919-1 Orcoma Estudios SPA Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.360.575-2 Orcoma SPA Chile US$ Subsidiary 76.686.311-9 SQM MaG SpA Chile US$ Subsidiary Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates dirham Associate Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Turkey US$ Associate Foreign Ajay North America United States of America US$ Associate Foreign Ajay Europe SARL France Euro Associate Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Turkey Euro Associate Foreign Kore Potash PLC United Kingdom US$ Associate Foreign Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. China US$ Joint venture Foreign Coromandel SQM India India Indian rupee Joint venture Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco. United Arab Emirates dirham United Arab Emirates dirham Joint venture Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. China US$ Joint venture Foreign SQM Vitas Holland B.V. Holland Euro Joint venture Foreign Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd. Australia Australian dollar Joint venture Foreign Pavoni & C. SPA Italy Euro Joint venture 96.511.530-7 Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera Chile US$ Other related parties 96.529.340-K Norte Grande S.A. Chile Peso Other related parties 79.049.778-9 Callegari Agrícola S.A. Chile Peso Other related parties Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria (4) Brazil Brazilian Real Other related parties Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. (4) Peru US$ Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa B.V. (5) Holland Euro Other related parties Foreign Plantacote N.V. (5) Belgium Euro Other related parties Foreign Doktolab Tarim Arastima San. Tic As (5) Turkey Turkish Lira Other related parties Foreign Doctochem Tarim Sanayai Ticaret LTD (5) Turkey Turkish Lira Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC (5) Ukraine Ukrainian Grivna Other related parties Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC (5) Russian Federation Russian Ruble Other related parties Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL (6) Oman Arab Emirates dirham Other related parties Foreign International Technical and Trading Agencies CO WLL (6) Jordan Arab Emirates dirham Other related parties Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L (7) Italy Euro Other related parties (1) On 06/26/2019, SACAL S.A. was liquidated. (2) On March 1, 2019, Soquimich Comercial S.A. has obtained ownership of 100% of corporate rights in SQMC International Ltda. (3) On 04/01/2019 the company Proinsa Ltda was liquidated. (4) These entities are subsidiaries of the joint venture SQM Vitas Fzco. (5) These entities are subsidiaries of the associate Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS. (6) These entities are subsidiaries of the joint venture Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL (7) These Companies are subsidiaries of the joint venture Pavoni & C. SPA. The following other related parties correspond to mining contractual corporations. Tax ID No. Name Country of origin Functional currency Relationship N/A Ara Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Tres Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Cuatro Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ara Cinco Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Curicó Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Curicó Tres Primera del Sector de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Evelyn Veinticuatro Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Filomena Tres Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Filomena Cuatro Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Primera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Tercera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Cuarta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Cuatro Quinta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Francis Tercera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Décima Segunda de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Ivon Sexta de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Julia Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Lorena Trigésimo Quinta de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Perseverancia Primera de Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara 40 Primera del Sector S.E. OF. Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara Tercera de Oficina Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties N/A Tamara 40 Segunda del Sector S.E. OF Concepción, Sierra Gorda Chile Ch$ Other related parties
Disclosure of transactions between related parties [text block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the detail of significant transactions with related parties is as follows Tax ID No. Company Nature Country of origin Transaction For the year For the year For the year ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Associate Turkey Sale of products 14,767 16,726 17,538 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France Sale of products 21,348 19,470 15,706 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France Dividends 1,055 811 969 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America Sale of products 16,932 16,810 13,206 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America Dividends 2,796 2,807 1,123 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate Arab Emirates Sale of products 3,749 5,811 4,351 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate Arab Emirates Dividends - 6,632 Foreign Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd. (1) Associate Thailand Sale of products - 4,960 5,102 Foreign Charlee SQM Thailand Co Ltd. (1) Associate Thailand Dividends - 362 Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria Other related parties Brazil Sale of products 46,876 44,827 31,137 Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. Other related parties Perú Sale of products 24,138 17,204 23,058 Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco Joint venture Arab Emirates Dividends 10,598 - 85 Foreign Coromandel SQM India Joint venture India Sale of products 3,955 7,696 8,011 Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Joint venture China Sale of products 1,929 - 200 Foreign Minera Exar S.A. (2) Joint venture Argentina Loans - - 11,000 Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC Other related parties Ukraine Sale of products 1,280 1,674 1,218 Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC Other related parties Russian Federation Sale of products 40 187 423 Foreign Plantacote NV Other related parties Belgium Sale of products 4,096 4,554 2,108 Foreign Pavoni & C. SpA Joint venture Italy Sale of products 3,152 201 - Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Associate Turkey Sale of products 47 30 - Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L. Other related parties Italy Sale of products 2,359 207 - Foreign Kowa Compay Ltd. Other related parties Japan Sale of products - - 132,495 Foreign Fertilizers Co Ltd. Joint venture China Sale of services - - 252 79.049.778-9 Callegari Agricola S.A. Other related parties Chile Sale of products - - 210 77.557.430-5 Sales de Magnesio Ltda. Associate Chile Sale of products - - 45 Total 159,117 150,969 268,237 (1) During November 2018, shares held in Charlee SQM Thailand were sold. (2) During December 2018, shares held in Minera Exar S.A. were sold. (3) From December 31, 2018 then on, Kowa Company Ltd. is not considered a related party.
Disclosure of amounts receivable from related parties [Text Block]	12.5 Trade receivables due from related parties, current: Tax ID No Company Nature Country of origin As of December As of December ThUS$ ThUS$ Foreign Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS Associate Turkey 110 6,497 Foreign Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. Associate France 3,712 3,756 Foreign Ajay North America LL.C. Associate United States of America 2,290 2,080 Foreign Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL Associate United Arab Emirates 803 857 96.511.530-7 Soc. de Inversiones Pampa Calichera Other related parties Chile 6 6 Foreign SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria Other related parties Brazil 27,275 15,818 Foreign SQM Vitas Perú S.A.C. Other related parties Peru 23,475 12,767 Foreign Coromandel SQM India Joint venture India 1,792 2,025 Foreign SQM Vitas Fzco Joint venture United Arab Emirates 234 105 Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co. Ltd. Joint venture China - 248 Foreign Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC Other related parties Ukraine 7 - Foreign Terra Tarsa Don LLC Other related parties Russian Federation 13 41 Foreign Plantacote NV Other related parties Belgium 657 312 Foreign SQM Eastmed Turkey Associate Turkey 47 30 Foreign Pavoni & C. SpA Joint venture Italy 1,028 12 Foreign Arpa Speciali S.R.L. Other related parties Italy 134 - Allowance (356) (1,764) Total 61,227 42,790
Disclosure of amounts payable to related parties [Text Block]	12.6 Trade payables due to related parties, current: Tax ID No Company Nature Country of origin Currency As of December As of December ThUS $ ThUS $ Foreign SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. Joint venture China USD 243 - Foreign Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd Joint venture Australia Australian dollar 232 9 Total 475 9

Financial instruments (Tables)

Financial instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Financials instruments [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about other financial assets [Text Block]	13.1 Types of other financial assets Description of other financial assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Financial assets at amortized cost (1) 485,689 291,790 Derivative financial instruments - For hedging 17,270 18,238 - Non-hedging (2) 2,531 2,693 Total other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income 4,785 3,631 Derivative financial instruments - For hedging 3,918 13,425 Financial assets at amortized cost 75 75 Total other non-current financial assets 8,778 17,131
Disclosure of detailed information about other non current financial assets [Text Block]	Institution As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS $ ThUS $ Banco de Crédito e Inversiones 185,400 145,834 Banco Santander (3) 74,365 23,124 Banco Itaú CorpBanca 120,628 70,719 Banco Security 17,964 27,215 Banco de Chile 18,026 - Banco Estado 15,126 - Scotiabank Sud Americano 54,180 24,898 Total 485,689 291,790 (1) Corresponds to term deposits whose maturity date is greater than 90 days and less than 360 days from the investment date constituted in the aforementioned financial institutions. (2) Correspond to forwards and options that were not classified as hedging instruments (See detail in Note 14.3). (3) This balance includes ThUS$ 1,870 corresponding to margin calls, which are considered as collateral guarantees.
Disclosure of trade and other receivables [text block]	13.2 Trade and other receivables As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Trade and other receivables Currents Non-current Total Currents Non-current Total ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Trade receivables, current 367,583 - 367,583 430,914 - 430,914 Prepayments, current 20,309 - 20,309 16,147 - 16,147 Other receivables, current 11,250 1,710 12,960 19,558 2,275 21,833 Total trade and other receivables 399,142 1,710 400,852 466,619 2,275 468,894 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Trade and other receivablaes Assets before ‎ allowances Allowance for ‎ doubtful trade ‎ receivables Assets for trade ‎ receivables, net Assets before ‎ allowances Allowance for ‎ doubtful trade ‎ receivables Assets for trade ‎ receivables, net ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ ThUS $ Receivables related to credit operations. current 383,775 (16,192 ) 367,583 445,670 (14,756 ) 430,914 Trade receivables, current 383,775 (16,192 ) 367,583 445,670 (14,756 ) 430,914 Prepayments, current 21,092 (783 ) 20,309 16,990 (843 ) 16,147 Other receivables, current 15,659 (4,409 ) 11,250 23,863 (4,305 ) 19,558 Current other receivables 36,751 (5,192 ) 31,559 40,853 (5,148 ) 35,705 Other receivables. non-current 1,710 - 1,710 2,275 - 2,275 Non-current receivables 1,710 - 1,710 2,275 - 2,275 Total trade and other receivables 422,236 (21,384 ) 400,852 488,798 (19,904 ) 468,894
Disclosure of financial assets that are either past due or impaired [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 the detail of the uncollateralized portfolio is as follows: As of December 31, 2019 Total uncollateralized portfolio Past due segments Number of customers with non- ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross non-renegotiated portfolio ThUS$ Number of customers with ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross renegotiated portfolio ‎ ThUS$ Current 1,486 351,931 69 892 1 - 30 days 166 20,195 72 526 31 - 60 days 26 1,279 4 10 61 - 90 days 12 519 3 54 91 - 120 days 5 1,026 2 66 121 - 150 days 5 361 7 49 151 - 180 days 7 190 2 33 181 - 210 days 4 51 - - 211 - 250 days 6 48 8 11 >250 days 144 5,449 137 1,085 Total 1,861 381,049 304 2,726 As of December 31, 2018 Total uncollateralized portfolio Past due segments Number of customers with non-renegotiated portfolio Gross non-renegotiated ‎ portfolio ThUS$ Number of customers with ‎ renegotiated portfolio Gross renegotiated portfolio ‎ ThUS$ Current 1,390 404,670 136 668 1 - 30 days 1,229 19,422 390 596 31 - 60 days 801 5,705 154 118 61 - 90 days 648 2,279 41 75 91 - 120 days 489 1,220 27 47 121 - 150 days 80 423 16 29 151 - 180 days 43 186 21 176 181 - 210 days 7 1,291 41 231 211 - 250 days 7 108 101 242 >250 days 140 7,036 305 1,148 Total 4,834 442,340 1,232 3,330
Disclosure of detailed information about expected credit exposure of accounts receivable based on aging analysis [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 Trade receivables due Trade accounts receivable days past due from related Trade and other receivables Current 1 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days Over 90 days Trade parties ThUS $ ThUS $ Expected loss rate 1 % 18 % 34 % 44 % 78 % - - Total gross carrying amount 352,823 20,721 1,288 573 8,370 383,775 72,859 Impairment estimate 5,285 3,664 440 251 6,552 16,192 11,323 As of December 31, 2018 Trade receivables due Trade accounts receivable days past due from related Trade and other receivables Current 1 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days Over 90 days Trade parties ThUS $ ThUS $ Expected loss rate 1 % 9 % 5 % 4 % 65 % - - Total gross carrying amount 408,300 20,018 2,861 2,354 12,137 445,670 55,520 Allowance for doubtful accounts 4,811 1,858 146 89 7,852 14,756 12,730
Disclosure of detailed information about movement in provision of trade receivables [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the reconciliation of the allowance is as follows : Provisions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS $ ThUS $ Allowance for doubtful accounts at the beginning of the Period 32,634 34,936 Adjustment to initial balance derived from the adoption of IFRS 9 - 2,301 Increase / (decrease) of impairment provision 1,057 (2,967 ) Provision used (984 ) (1,636 ) Allowance for doubtful accounts at the end of the year 32,707 32,634 (1) Trade and Other Receivables allowance current 16,192 14,756 (2) Other receivables allowance current 5,192 5,148 (3) Related party receivables allowance current 11,323 12,730 Recovery of Insurance 320 827 Total allowance for doubtful accounts 32,707 32,634 Renegotiated allowance 1,905 2,056 Non-renegotiated allowance 30,802 30,578
Disclosure of allowance for credit losses [text block]	ThUS$ Assets / (Liabilities) ‎ Derivative financial ‎ instruments Total Realized Hedging Reserve in Gross ‎ Equity Hedging of underlying debt at December 31, 2019 Hedging Assets 3,918 (4,194 ) 8,112 Hedging Liabilities (22,771 ) (25,363 ) 2,592 Hedge of underlying Debt (18,853 ) (29,557 ) 10,704 Hedge of underlying investment at December 31, 2019 Hedging Assets 17,270 17,857 (587 ) Hedging Liabilities (889 ) (711 ) (178 ) Hedge of underlying investments 16,381 17,146 (765 ) ThUS$ Assets / (Liabilities) ‎ Derivative financial ‎ instruments Total Realized Hedging Reserve in Gross ‎ Equity Hedge of underlying debt at December 31, 2018 Hedging Assets 13,425 5,244 8,181 Hedging Liabilities (17,318 ) (18,859 ) 1,541 Hedge of underlying debt (3,893 ) (13,615 ) 9,722 Hedge of underlying investment at December 31, 2018 Hedging Assets 18,146 19,911 (1,765 ) Hedge of Underlying Investments 18,146 19,911 (1,765 ) Hedging effect in profit and loss and equity for the year ended Total variation Profit and loss Hedging reserve due to Analysis effect by type of hedging Hedge of underlying debt (14,960 ) (15,942 ) 982 Hedge of underlying investments (1,765 ) (2,765 ) 1,000 Total hedging effect on profit or loss and equity for the year (16,725 ) (18,707 ) 1,982 Analysis Effect by type of asset Hedging in Current and Non-Current Assets (10,383 ) (11,492 ) 1,109 Hedging in Current and Non-Current Liabilities (6,342 ) (7,215 ) 873 Total hedging effect in Profit or Loss and Shareholders' Equity for the year (16,725 ) (18,707 ) 1,982
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [text block]	Hedging derivative contract maturities are detailed as follows: Series Contract amount Currency Maturity date ThUS$ H 148,159 UF 01-04-2023 O 58,748 UF 02-01-2022 P 134,228 UF 01-15-2028
Disclosure of financial liabilities [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail is as follows: As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Other current and non-current financial ‎ liabilities Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Liabilities at amortized cost Bank borrowings 199 69,138 69,337 300 68,870 69,170 Unsecured obligations 280,578 1,403,108 1,683,686 15,145 1,249,479 1,264,624 Derivative financial instruments For hedging 7,183 16,477 23,660 5,285 12,033 17,318 Non-hedging liabilities 3,168 - 3,168 2,855 - 2,855 Lease liabilities 7,694 30,203 37,897 - - - Total 298,822 1,518,926 1,817,748 23,585 1,330,382 1,353,967
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail is as follows: Current and non-current bank borrowings As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current bank borrowings 199 300 Non-current bank borrowings 69,138 68,870 Current and non-current bank 69,337 69,170
Disclosure of detailed information about short term borrowings [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the detail of this caption is as follows: Currency or Debtor Creditor adjustment Tax ID No Company Country Tax ID No Financial institution Country index Repayment maturity Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA US$ Upon maturity 05-29-2023 2.11 % 3.01 % Foreign Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim. Brazil Foreign Banco Itau Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 12-31-2019 13.57 % 4.25 % Debtor Creditor Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2019 Current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Financial institution Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Borrowing ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - - - 187 187 - 187 Nitratos Naturais do Chile Banco Itau Brasil - - - 12 - 12 - 12 Total - - - 12 187 199 - 199 Currency or Debtor Creditor adjustment Tax ID No Company Country Tax ID No Financial institution Country index Repayment maturity Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA US$ Upon maturity 05-29-2023 3.60 % 3.98 % Foreign Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim Brazil Foreign Banco ITAU Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 01-31-2019 5.17 % 5.17 % Foreign SQM Brasil Limitada Brazil Foreign Banco ITAU Brasil Brazil BRL Upon maturity 01-31-2019 5.5 % 5.5 % Debtor Creditor Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2018 Current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Company Financial institution Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 90 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Borrowing ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - - - 248 248 - 248 Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim Banco ITAU Brasil - - - 11 - 11 - 11 SQM Brasil Limitada Banco ITAU Brasil - - - 41 - 41 - 41 Total - - - 52 248 300 - 300
Disclosure of detailed information about current maturities of unsecured obligations [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the detail of current unsecured interest-bearing obligations is composed of promissory notes and bonds is as follows: Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 0.43 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 2.35 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 1.42 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$450 05-07-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.07 % 4.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2020 UF Semiannual Semiannual 1.36 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.41 % 3.80 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.71 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2020 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.11 % 3.45 % Nominal amounts as of December 31, 2019 Current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Country Series Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 - 252,674 252,674 - 252,674 252,674 (386 ) 252,288 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 4,648 - 4,648 4,648 - 4,648 (433 ) 4,215 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$300 - 2,658 2,658 - 2,658 2,658 (614 ) 2,044 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$450 - 2,869 2,869 - 2,869 2,869 (679 ) 2,190 SQM S.A. Chile H 17,166 - 17,166 17,166 - 17,166 (139 ) 17,027 SQM S.A. Chile O 890 - 890 890 - 890 (67 ) 823 SQM S.A. Chile P 1,686 - 1,686 1,686 - 1,686 (12 ) 1,674 SQM S.A. Chile Q - 323 323 - 323 323 (6 ) 317 Total 24,390 258,524 282,914 24,390 258,524 282,914 (2,336 ) 280,578 Effective rates of bonds in Chilean pesos and UF are expressed and calculated in U.S. dollars based on the flows agreed in Cross Currency Swap Agreements. Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 0.95 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 2.75 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2019 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 1.77 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2019 UF Semiannual Semiannual 1.90 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 2.60 % 3.80 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.07 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2019 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.34 % 3.45 % Nominal maturities as of December 31, 2018 Current maturities as of December 31, 2018 Company Country Series Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Total Up to 90 days 91 days to ‎ 1 year Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 2,674 - 2,674 2,674 - 2,674 (386 ) 2,288 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$250 - 4,648 4,648 - 4,648 4,648 (433 ) 4,215 SQM S.A. Chile MUS$300 2,658 - 2,658 2,658 - 2,658 (614 ) 2,044 SQM S.A. Chile H - 3,756 3,756 - 3,756 3,756 (139 ) 3,617 SQM S.A. Chile O - 934 934 - 934 934 (67 ) 867 SQM S.A. Chile P - 1,784 1,784 - 1,784 1,784 (12 ) 1,772 SQM S.A. Chile Q 342 - 342 342 - 342 - 342 Total 5,674 11,122 16,796 5,674 11,122 16,796 (1,651 ) 15,145
Disclosure of detailed information about non current maturities of unsecured obligations [Text Block]	The following table shows the details of bank loans that accrue non-current interest as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Debtor Creditor Currency or Type of Tax ID No. Company Country Tax ID No. Financial institution Country adjustment index amortization Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA USD Maturity 2.84 % 3.01 % Debtor Creditor Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Company Financial institution Between ‎ 1 and 2 Between ‎ 2 and 3 Between ‎ 3 and 4 Total Between ‎ 1 and 2 Between ‎ 2 and 3 Between ‎ 3 and 4 Subtotal Costs of ‎ obtaining ‎ loans Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (862 ) 69,138 Total - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (862 ) 69,138 Debtor Creditor Currency or Type of Tax ID No. Company Country Tax ID No. Financial institution Country adjustment index amortization Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A Chile Foreign Scotiabank Cayman USA USD Maturity 3.98 % 3.98 % Debtor Creditor Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Company Financial institution Between Between Between Total Between Between Between Subtotal Costs of Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM S.A. Scotiabank Cayman - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (1,130 ) 68,870 Total - - 70,000 70,000 - - 70,000 70,000 (1,130 ) 68,870 The following table shows the details of bank loans that accrue non-current interest as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repayment Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2025 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.08 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2023 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 3.43 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$450 05-07-2029 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.19 % 4.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2030 UF Semiannual Semiannual 4.78 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2033 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.70 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2028 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.24 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2038 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.45 % 3.45 % Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2019 Series Over 1 Over 2 Over 3 Over 4 Over 5 Total Over 1 Over 2 Over 3 Over 4 Over 5 Subtotal Bond Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ MUS$250 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 (1,514 ) 248,486 MUS$300 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 (1,393 ) 298,607 MUS$450 - - - 450,000 450,000 - - - - 450,000 450,000 (5,923 ) 444,077 H 13,749 13,749 13,749 13,749 75,621 130,617 13,749 13,749 13,749 13,749 75,621 130,617 (1,253 ) 129,364 O - - - - 56,715 56,715 - - - - 56,715 56,715 (811 ) 55,904 P - - - - 113,430 113,430 - - - - 113,430 113,430 (89 ) 113,341 Q - - - - 113,430 113,430 - - - - 113,430 113,430 (101 ) 113,329 Total 13,749 13,749 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,414,192 13,749 13,749 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,414,192 (11,084 ) 1,403,108 Debtor Number of Periodicity registration or ID of Currency or Payment of Tax ID No. Company Country the instrument Series Maturity date adjustment index interest Repaymen Effective rate Nominal rate 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 04-21-2020 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 5.50 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$250 01-28-2025 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 4.38 % 4.38 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile - MUS$300 04-03-2023 US$ Semiannual Upon maturity 3.63 % 3.63 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 564 H 01-05-2030 UF Semiannual Semiannual 4.90 % 4.90 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 699 O 02-01-2033 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.80 % 5.50 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 563 P 01-15-2028 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.25 % 3.25 % 93.007.000-9 SQM S.A. Chile 700 Q 06-01-2038 UF Semiannual Upon maturity 3.45 % 3.45 % Nominal non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Non-current amounts as of December 31, 2018 Series Over 1 ‎ year to 2 Over 2 ‎ years to 3 Over 3 ‎ Years to 4 Over 4 ‎ Years to 5 Over 5 ‎ years Total Over 1 ‎ year to 2 Over 2 ‎ years to 3 Over 3 ‎ Years to 4 Over 4 ‎ Years to 5 Over 5 ‎ years Subtotal Bond ‎ issuance ‎ costs Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ MUS$250 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 (131 ) 249,869 MUS$250 - - - - 250,000 250,000 - - - - 250,000 250,000 (2,202 ) 247,798 MUS$300 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 - - 300,000 (2,006 ) 297,994 H 14,428 14,428 14,428 14,428 100,992 158,704 14,428 14,428 14,428 14,428 100,992 158,704 (1,392 ) 157,312 O - - - - 59,514 59,514 - - - - 59,514 59,514 (878 ) 58,636 P - - - - 119,028 119,028 - - - - 119,028 119,028 (101 ) 118,927 Q - - - - 119,028 119,028 - - - - 119,028 119,028 (85 ) 118,943 Total 264,428 14,428 314,428 14,428 648,562 1,256,274 264,428 14,428 314,428 14,428 648,562 1,256,274 (6,795 ) 1,249,479
Disclosure of information about issue of series H bonds [Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 , the Company made the following payments relating to the Series H bonds: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payments of interest, Series H bonds 7,868 8,325 7,691 Hedge 1,952 495 -
Disclosure of information about second issue of single series bonds [Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the detail of payments charged to this line of single series bonds, second issue is as follows: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Interest payment 13,750 13,750 13,750
Disclosure of information about third issue of single series bonds [Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the following payments have been made with a debit to the line of single-series bonds, third issue: Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 10,875 10,875 10,875
Disclosure of information about fourth issue of single series bonds [Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, the following payments have been made. Payments made For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 10,938 10,938 10,938
Disclosure of information about issue of series P bonds [Table Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the following payments and their associated CCS have been made: Payments made For the year ended ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 3,960 1,085 - CCS Coverage 2,995 1,421 -
Disclosure of information about issue of series Q bonds [Table Text Block]	For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, the following payments have been made: Payments made For the year ended ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Payment of interest 3,791 319 -
Disclosure of trade and other payables [text block]	13.5 Trade and other payables a) Details trade and other payables As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Details trade and Other payables Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Accounts payable 205,414 - 205,414 163,373 - 163,373 Other accounts payable 376 - 376 378 - 378 Total 205,790 - 205,790 163,751 - 163,751
Disclosure of detailed information about the current and past due suppliers [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the balance of current and past due suppliers is as follows: Suppliers current on all payments Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2019 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 126,577 4,655 128 116 2,019 - 133,495 Services 51,785 168 - - 87 - 52,040 Others 8,741 146 - - - 8,887 Total 187,103 4,969 128 116 2,106 - 194,422 Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2018 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 - 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 48,969 1,919 912 25 280 - 52,105 Services 37,376 314 157 107 54 - 38,008 Others 54,978 161 20 - 3 - 55,162 Total 141,323 2,394 1,089 132 337 - 145,275 Suppliers past due on payments Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2019 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more ‎ days Total ThUS$ Goods 2,086 264 35 65 1,060 - 3,510 Services 3,073 329 116 387 580 - 4,485 Others 1,918 45 311 215 508 - 2,997 Total 7,077 638 462 667 2,148 - 10,992 Amounts according to payment periods as of December 31, 2018 Type of Supplier Up to 30 days 31-60 days 61-90 days 91 - 120 days 121 – 365 ‎ days 366 and more days Total ThUS$ Goods 1,533 209 210 255 462 - 2,669 Services 12,229 838 109 111 450 - 13,737 Others 1,039 385 92 6 170 - 1,692 Total 14,801 1,432 411 372 1,082 - 18,098
Disclosure of information about derivative instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss [Text Block]	The detail of this type of instrument is as follows: Financial liabilities at fair value with an impact ‎ on profit or loss As of December 31, ‎ 2019 Effect on profit or loss ‎ for the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 Effect on profit or loss ‎ for the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current Derivative financial instruments (IRS) - (16 ) 91 16 Total - (16 ) 91 16
Disclosure of detailed information about categories of financial assets [Text Block]	a) Financial Assets As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Description of financial assets Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Cash and cash equivalents 588,530 - 588,530 556,066 - 556,066 Trade receivables due from related parties 61,227 - 61,227 42,790 - 42,790 Financial assets measured at amortized cost 485,689 75 485,764 291,790 75 291,865 Loans and receivables measured at amortized cost 399,142 1,710 400,852 466,619 2,275 468,894 Total financial assets measured at amortized cost 1,534,588 1,785 1,536,373 1,357,265 2,350 1,359,615 Derivative financial instruments for hedging purposes 17,270 3,918 21,188 18,238 13,425 31,663 Derivative financial instruments held for trading 2,531 - 2,531 2,693 - 2,693 Financial assets at fair value through equity - 4,785 4,785 - 3,631 3,631 Total financial assets at fair value 19,801 8,703 28,504 20,931 17,056 37,987 Total financial assets 1,554,389 10,488 1,564,877 1,378,196 19,406 1,397,602
Disclosure of detailed information about categories of financial liabilities [Text Block]	b) Financial Liabilities As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Description of financial liabilities Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Derivative financial instruments for hedging purposes 7,183 16,477 23,660 5,285 12,033 17,318 Derivative financial instruments held for trading 3,168 - 3,168 2,855 - 2,855 Financial liabilities at fair value 10,351 16,477 26,828 8,140 12,033 20,173 Bank loans 199 69,138 69,337 300 68,870 69,170 Obligations to the public 280,578 1,403,108 1,683,686 15,145 1,249,479 1,264,624 Lease liabilities 7,694 30,203 37,897 - - - Trade and other payables) 205,790 - 205,790 163,751 - 163,751 Trade payables due to related parties 475 - 475 9 - 9 Total financial liabilities at amortized cost 494,736 1,502,449 1,997,185 179,205 1,318,349 1,497,554 Total financial liabilities 505,087 1,518,926 2,024,013 187,345 1,330,382 1,517,727
Disclosure of fair value measurement [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 Measurement Methodology Fair value measurement of assets and liabilities Carrying Amount at ‎ Amortized Fair value ‎ (disclosure) Fair value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Financial Assets Cash and cash equivalents 588,530 588,530 - - 588,530 - Other current financial assets: - Time deposits 485,689 485,689 - - 485,689 - - Derivative instruments - - - - - - - Forwards - - 2,420 - 2,420 - - Options - - 111 - 111 - - Hedging assets - - - - - - - Investment hedge swaps - - 17,270 - 17,270 - Non-current accounts receivable 1,710 1,710 - - - - Other non-current financial assets: - Other 94 94 - - 94 - - Options - - 4,785 4,785 - - - Hedging assets – Swaps - - 3,918 - 3,918 - Other current financial liabilities - Bank loans 199 199 - - 199 - - Derivative instruments - - - - - - - Forwards - - 2,837 - 2,837 - - O ptions - - 289 - 289 - - Hedging liabilities - - 7,183 - 7,183 - - Unsecured obligations 280,578 280,578 - - 280,578 - - Current lease liabilities 7,694 7,694 - - 7,694 - Other non-current financial liabilities: - Bank loans 69,138 71,033 - - 71,033 - - Unsecured obligations 1,403,108 1,658,506 - - 1,658,506 - - Non-current hedging liabilities - - 16,477 - 16,477 - - Non-current lease liabilities 30,203 33,187 - - 33,187 - As of December 31, 2018 Measurement Methodology Fair value measurement of assets and liabilities Carrying Amount at ‎ Amortized Fair value ‎ (informative) Fair value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Financial Assets Cash and cash equivalents 556,066 556,066 - - 556,066 - Other current financial assets: - Time deposits 291,790 291,790 - - 291,790 - - Forwards - - 2,637 - 2,637 - - Options - - 56 - 56 - - Hedging assets - - - - - - - Investment hedge swaps - - 18,238 - 18,238 - Non-current accounts receivable 2,275 2,275 - - - - Other non-current financial assets: - Other 75 75 - - 75 - - Options - - 3,631 - - - - Hedging assets – Swaps - - 13,425 - 13,425 - Other current financial liabilities - Bank loans 300 300 - - 300 - - Forwards - - 2,723 - 2,723 - - Options - - 132 - 132 - - Hedging liabilities - Swaps - - 5,285 - 5,285 - - Unsecured obligations 15,145 15,145 - - 15,145 - Other non-current financial liabilities: - Bank loans 68,870 71,826 - - 71,826 - - Unsecured obligations 1,249,479 1,357,640 - - 1,357,640 - - Non-current hedging liabilities - - 12,033 - 12,033 -

Intangible assets and goodwill

Intangible assets and goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [text block]	14.1 Balances Balances As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Intangible assets other than goodwill 188,358 189,350 Goodwill 34,726 34,866 Total 223,084 224,216
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets and goodwill explanatory [Text Block]	Balances and movements in the main classes of intangible assets as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows: As of December 31, 2019 Intangible assets and goodwill Useful life Gross Value Accumulated ‎ amortization Accumulated ‎ impairment Net value ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ IT programs Finite 34,471 (28,460 ) - 6,011 Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service. Finite 1,259 (1,131 ) (7 ) 121 Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite 182,260 - (2,642 ) 179,618 Mining property Finite 1,500 (206 ) - 1,294 Customer-related intangible assets Finite 1,778 (505 ) - 1,273 Other intangible assets. Finite 929 (888 ) - 41 Intangible assets other than goodwill 222,197 (31,190 ) (2,649 ) 188,358 Goodwill Indefinite 38,120 - (3,394 ) 34,726 Total Intangible Assets 260,317 (31,190 ) (6,043 ) 223,084 As of December 31, 2018 Intangible assets and goodwill Useful life Gross Value Accumulated ‎ amortization Accumulated ‎ impairment Net value ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ IT programs Finite 29,137 (24,569 ) - 4,568 Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service. Finite 1,254 (1,096 ) (7 ) 151 Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite 183,349 - (1,729 ) 181,620 Mining property Finite 1,500 (88 ) - 1,412 Customer-related intangible assets Finite 1,778 (205 ) - 1,573 Other intangible assets Finite 911 (885 ) - 26 Intangible assets other than goodwill 217,929 (26,843 ) (1,736 ) 189,350 Goodwill Indefinite 38,120 - (3,254 ) 34,866 Total Intangible Assets 256,049 (26,843 ) (4,990 ) 224,216
Description of detailed information about estimated usefull life of intangible assets other than goodwill [Text Block]	c) Minimum and maximum amortization life or rates of intangible assets: Estimated useful life or amortization rate Minimum Life or ‎ Rate Maximum Life or ‎ Rate Mining property, water rights and rights of way Indefinite Indefinite Mining property 1 year 11 years Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service 1 year 16 years Commercial trademarks 1 year 5 years IT programs 2 years 6 years
Disclosure Of Movement Of Goodwill Table Text Block	The following table shows the movements in goodwill as of December 31, 2019 : Company Gross value ‎ As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Accumulated ‎ impairment ‎ losses Net value ‎ As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - (3,214 ) - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - (180 ) 140 Soquimich European Holding 11,373 - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - 724 Total 38,120 - (3,394 ) 34,726
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [text block]	e) Reconciliation of identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2019: Gross Value Movements in identifiable intangible ‎ assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining ‎ property finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 29,137 1,254 183,349 1,500 1,778 911 38,120 256,049 Additions 2,606 5 227 - - 18 - 2,856 Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (7 ) - (2 ) - - - - (9 ) Decreases through sale - - (1,314 ) - - - - (1,314 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,735 - - - - - - 2,735 Total increases (decreases) 5,334 5 (1,089 ) - - 18 - 4,268 Closing balance 34,471 1,259 182,260 1,500 1,778 929 38,120 260,317 Accumulated amortization and impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance (24,569 ) (1,103 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (31,833 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency 3 - - - - - - 3 Other increases (decreases) (256 ) - - - - - - (256 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - - (913 ) - - - (140 ) (1,053 ) Amortization (3,638 ) (35 ) - (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) - (4,094 ) Total increases (decreases) (3,891 ) (35 ) (913 ) (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) (140 ) (5,400 ) Closing balance (28,460 ) (1,138 ) (2,642 ) (206 ) (505 ) (888 ) (3,394 ) (37,233 ) Net value ‎ Movements in Identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 4,568 151 181,620 1,412 1,573 26 34,866 224,216 Additions 2,606 5 227 - - 18 - 2,856 Amortization (3,638 ) (35 ) - (118 ) (300 ) (3 ) - (4,094 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - - (913 ) - - - (140 ) (1,053 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (4 ) - (2 ) - - - - (6 ) Decreases through sale - - (1,314 ) - - - - (1,314 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,479 - - - - - - 2,479 Total increases (decreases) 1,443 (30 ) (2,002 ) (118 ) (300 ) 15 (140 ) (1,132 ) Closing balance 6,011 121 179,618 1,294 1,273 41 34,726 223,084 Reconciliation of identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2018: Gross Value Movements in identifiable intangible ‎ assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 25,060 1,250 104,858 1,500 1,778 171 37,972 172,589 Additions 1,159 5 77,201 - - 11 - 78,376 Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (5 ) (1 ) (4 ) - - - - (10 ) Other increases (decreases) 2,923 - 1,294 - - 729 148 5,094 Total increases (decreases) 4,077 4 78,491 - - 740 148 83,460 Closing balance 29,137 1,254 183,349 1,500 1,778 911 38,120 256,049 Accumulated amortization and impairment Movements in identifiable IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance (19,769 ) (1,061 ) - - - - - (20,830 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency 4 - - - - - - 4 Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - (7 ) (1,729 ) - - - (3,254 ) (4,990 ) Amortization (2,880 ) (35 ) - (88 ) (205 ) - - (3,208 ) Other increases (decreases) (1,924 ) - - - - (885 ) - (2,809 ) Total increases (decreases) (4,800 ) (42 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (11,003 ) Closing balance (24,569 ) (1,103 ) (1,729 ) (88 ) (205 ) (885 ) (3,254 ) (31,833 ) Net value ‎ Movements in Identifiable intangible assets IT programs Intellectual ‎ property rights, ‎ patents and other ‎ industrial ‎ property rights, ‎ service, Finite Mining property, ‎ water rights, and ‎ rights of way, ‎ Indefinite Mining property ‎ finite Customer-related ‎ intangible assets Other intangible ‎ assets Goodwill Identifiable ‎ intangible assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening Balance 5,291 189 104,858 1,500 1,778 171 37,972 151,759 Additions 1,159 5 77,201 - - 11 - 78,376 Amortization (2,880 ) (35 ) - (88 ) (205 ) - - (3,208 ) Impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the year - (7 ) (1,729 ) - - - (3,254 ) (4,990 ) Other increases / decreases of foreign currency (1 ) (1 ) (4 ) - - - - (6 ) Other increases (decreases) 999 - 1,294 - - (156 ) 148 2,285 Total increases (decreases) (723 ) (38 ) 76,762 (88 ) (205 ) (145 ) (3,106 ) 72,457 Closing balance 4,568 151 181,620 1,412 1,573 26 34,866 224,216
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill	g) Reconciliation of identifiable goodwill as of December 31, 2019 : Gross Value Movements in identifiable ‎ goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - - - 3,214 SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - - - - - - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - - - 320 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 38,120 - - - - - - - - 38,120 Closing balance 38,120 - - - - - - - - 38,120 Accumulated impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. (3,214 ) - - - - - - - - (3,214 ) SQM S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Investment Corporation - - - - - - - - - - Soquimich Comercial S.A. (40 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (180 ) Soquimich European Holding B.V. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. - - - - - - - - - - Total increases (decreases) (3,254 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (3,394 ) Closing balance (3,254 ) - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) (3,394 ) Net Value Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2019 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. 148 - - - - - - - - 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 280 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 140 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 34,866 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 34,726 Closing balance 34,866 - - - - (140 ) - - (140 ) 34,726 h) Reconciliation of identifiable goodwill as of December 31, 2018: Gross Value ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - - - 3,214 SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - 148 148 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - - - 320 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 37,972 - - - - - - 148 148 38,120 Closing balance 37,972 - - - - - - 148 148 38,120 Accumulated impairment ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. - - - - - - - (3,214 ) (3,214 ) (3,214 ) SQM S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Investment Corporation - - - - - - - - - - Soquimich Comercial S.A. - - - - - - - (40 ) (40 ) (40 ) Soquimich European Holding B.V. - - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. - - - - - - - - - - Total increases (decreases) - - - - - - - (3,254 ) (3,254 ) (3,254 ) Closing balance - - - - - - - (3,254 ) (3,254 ) (3,254 ) Net Value ‎ Movements in identifiable goodwill Goodwill at ‎ the start of ‎ the period ‎ January 01, 2018 Additional ‎ recognition Recognition ‎ subsequent to ‎ deferred tax ‎ assets (-) Decreases for ‎ classification ‎ as held for ‎ sale (-) Goodwill write-off ‎ without having been ‎ included previously in ‎ disposal groups ‎ classified as held for ‎ sale (-) Impairment ‎ losses ‎ recognized in ‎ profit or loss for ‎ the year (-) Increase ‎ (decrease) for ‎ net exchange ‎ differences Increase ‎ (decrease) ‎ due to other ‎ changes Total increase ‎ (decrease) Goodwill at ‎ end of period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Industrial S.A. 3,214 - - - - - - (3,214 ) (3,214 ) - SQM S.A. 22,255 - - - - - - - - 22,255 SQM Iberian S.A. - - - - - - - 148 148 148 SQM Investment Corporation 86 - - - - - - - - 86 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 320 - - - - - - (40 ) (40 ) 280 Soquimich European Holding B.V. 11,373 - - - - - - - - 11,373 SQM Potasio S.A. 724 - - - - - - - - 724 Total increases (decreases) 37,972 - - - - - - (3,106 ) (3,106 ) 34,866 Closing balance 37,972 - - - - - - (3,106 ) (3,106 ) 34,866

Property, plant and equipment (

Property, plant and equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [text block]	15.1 Types of property, plant and equipment Description of types of property, plant and equipment As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Property, plant and equipment, net Land 23,620 24,695 Buildings (1) 252,969 238,808 Other property, plant and equipment 32,604 28,175 Transport equipment (2) 6,042 2,892 Supplies and accessories 4,579 4,722 Office equipment 420 513 Network and communication equipment 663 692 Mining assets 23,174 11,501 IT equipment 4,359 4,980 Energy generating assets 5,998 6,117 Constructions in progress 375,316 207,830 Machinery, plant and equipment (3) 877,326 923,898 Total 1,607,070 1,454,823 (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ 25,742 corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (2) The line item “Transport equipment” I ncludes Th US$ 3,356. corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) the property, plant and equipment line item includes ThUS$ 8,066 corresponding to right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US$ 37,164. corresponding to right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) Property, plant and equipment, gross Land 23,620 24,695 Buildings (1) 695,316 648,719 Other property, plant and equipment 257,206 245,731 Transport equipment (2) 16,036 11,668 Supplies and accessories 25,531 24,456 Office equipment 11,441 11,377 Network and communication equipment 8,009 7,505 Mining assets 161,619 132,309 IT equipment 28,693 29,955 Energy generating assets 38,495 36,930 Constructions in progress 375,316 207,830 Machinery, plant and equipment (3) 3,154,435 3,068,862 Total 4,795,717 4,450,037 (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ 29,289 corresponding to right-of-use assets; (2) The line item “Transport equipment” I ncludes ThUS$ 3,893 corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) the property, plant and equipment line item includes Th US$ 11,933 corresponding to right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US $45,115 corresponding to right-of-use assets (IFRS 16) Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of property, plant and equipment, total Accumulated depreciation and impairment of buildings (1) (442,347 ) (409,911 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of other property, plant and equipment (224,602 ) (217,556 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of transport equipment (2) (9,994 ) (8,776 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of supplies and accessories (20,952 ) (19,734 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of office equipment (11,021 ) (10,864 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of network and communication equipment (7,346 ) (6,813 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of mining assets (138,445 ) (120,808 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of IT equipment (24,334 ) (24,975 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of energy generating assets (32,497 ) (30,813 ) Accumulated depreciation and impairment of machinery, plant and equipment (3) (2,277,109 ) (2,144,964 ) Total (3,188,647 ) (2,995,214 ) (1) The buildings line item includes Th US$ (3,547) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets ; (2) The line item “Transport equipment”. I ncludes Th US$ (537) corresponding to right-of-use assets ; (3) The property, plant and equipment line item includes Th US$ (3,867) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets; the total includes Th US$ (7,951) corresponding to depreciation of right-of-use assets (IFRS 16). Description of Machinery, plant and equipment As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Machinery, plant and equipment, net Pumps 32,525 34,145 Conveyor Belt 21,911 22,082 Crystallizer 24,102 27,112 Plant Equipment 170,263 188,934 Tanks 14,159 14,876 Filter 27,080 29,300 Electrical equipment/facilities 92,090 96,179 Other Property, Plant & Equipment 53,396 58,997 Site Closure 12,056 12,967 Right-of-use assets 8,066 - Piping 96,402 98,498 Well 238,670 250,045 Pond 41,319 42,903 Spare Parts 45,287 47,860 Total 877,326 923,898
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [Text Block]	15.2 Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by type: Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by class as of December 31, 2019 and 2018: Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,695 648,719 245,731 11,668 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,068,862 4,450,037 Initial recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Balance with recognition of IFRS 16 24,695 678,008 245,731 15,561 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,080,795 4,495,152 Additions - 290 332 - 37 43 159 - 492 - 314,236 6,077 321,666 Disposals - - (858 ) - - - - - (3 ) - - (17 ) (878 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (35 ) (72 ) (4 ) (2 ) (9 ) (3 ) - - (6 ) - - (72 ) (203 ) Reclassifications 132 18,526 12,456 477 745 - 89 16,901 1,289 1,565 (140,104 ) 88,088 164 Other increases (decreases) - - (451 ) - 302 24 256 12,409 (3,034 ) - (6,646 ) (20,436 ) (17,576 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (1,172 ) (1,436 ) - - - - - - - - - - (2,608 ) Total changes (1,075 ) 17,308 11,475 475 1,075 64 504 29,310 (1,262 ) 1,565 167,486 73,640 300,565 Closing balance 23,620 695,316 257,206 16,036 25,531 11,441 8,009 161,619 28,693 38,495 375,316 3,154,435 4,795,717 Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies and Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance - (409,911 ) (217,556 ) (8,776 ) (19,734 ) (10,864 ) (6,813 ) (120,808 ) (24,975 ) (30,813 ) - (2,144,964 ) (2,995,214 ) Changes Disposals - - 858 - - - - - 1 - - - 859 Depreciation expense - (32,547 ) (8,013 ) (1,220 ) (1,144 ) (161 ) (426 ) (7,033 ) (1,158 ) (1,676 ) - (142,866 ) (196,244 ) Impairment - (49 ) - - - - - - - - - - (49 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference - 28 3 1 7 1 - - 5 - - 34 79 Reclassifications - 7 (6 ) 1 6 - 1 - (5 ) - - (207 ) (203 ) Other increases (decreases) (*) - (155 ) 112 - (87 ) 3 (108 ) (10,604 ) 1,798 (8 ) - 10,894 1,845 Decreases for classification as held for sale - 280 - - - - - - - - - - 280 Total changes - (32,436 ) (7,046 ) (1,218 ) (1,218 ) (157 ) (533 ) (17,637 ) 641 (1,684 ) - (132,145 ) (193,433 ) Closing balance - (442,347 ) (224,602 ) (9,994 ) (20,952 ) (11,021 ) (7,346 ) (138,445 ) (24,334 ) (32,497 ) - (2,277,109 ) (3,188,647 ) Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,695 238,808 28,175 2,892 4,722 513 692 11,501 4,980 6,117 207,830 923,898 1,454,823 Initial recognition of IFRS 16 - 29,289 - 3,893 - - - - - - - 11,933 45,115 Balance with recognition of IFRS 16 24,695 268,097 28,175 6,785 4,722 513 692 11,501 4,980 6,117 207,830 935,831 1,499,938 Additions - 290 332 - 37 43 159 - 492 - 314,236 6,077 321,666 Disposals - - - - - - - - (2 ) - - (17 ) (19 ) Depreciation expense - (32,547 ) (8,013 ) (1,220 ) (1,144 ) (161 ) (426 ) (7,033 ) (1,158 ) (1,676 ) - (142,866 ) (196,244 ) Impairment - (49 ) - - - - - - - - - - (49 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (35 ) (44 ) (1 ) (1 ) (2 ) (2 ) - - (1 ) - - (38 ) (124 ) Reclassifications 132 18,533 12,450 478 751 - 90 16,901 1,284 1,565 (140,104 ) 87,881 (39 ) Other increases (decreases ) (1) - (155 ) (339 ) - 215 27 148 1,805 (1,236 ) (8 ) (6,646 ) (9,542 ) (15,731 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (2) (1,172 ) (1,156 ) - - - - - - - - - - (2,328 ) Total changes (1,075 ) (15,128 ) 4,429 (743 ) (143 ) (93 ) (29 ) 11,673 (621 ) (119 ) 167,486 (58,505 ) 107,132 Closing balance 23,620 252,969 32,604 6,042 4,579 420 663 23,174 4,359 5,998 375,316 877,326 1,607,070 (1) The net balance of “Other Increases (Decreases)” corresponds to all those items that are reclassified to or from “Property, Plant and Equipment”, They can have the following origin: (i) work in progress which is expensed to profit or loss, forming part of operating costs or other expenses per function, as appropriate; (ii) the variation representing the purchase and use of materials and spare parts; (iii) projects corresponding mainly to exploration expenditures and ground studies that are reclassified to the item other non-current financial assets; (iv) software that is reclassified to “Intangibles”. (2) The Company classifies as non-current held for sale property, plant and equipment (disposal group) that, at the closing date of the financial statements, is subject to a commitment for sale or where the sales process has been initiated and where the sale is expected to occur within twelve months of that date, is classified by the Company as non-current assets held for sale. These assets or disposal groups are valued at the lower of carrying amount or the estimated sales value less the costs to sell and stop being amortized from the moment they are classified as non-current assets held for sale. Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 24,900 610,264 244,831 11,195 19,498 11,105 7,356 129,028 27,038 36,643 165,054 2,938,287 4,225,199 Additions - 28 833 - 41 15 - - 489 - 263,290 1,448 266,144 Disposals - (38 ) (7,811 ) (51 ) - - - - (10 ) - (6,582 ) (1,666 ) (16,158 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference (64 ) (134 ) (8 ) (3 ) (19 ) (6 ) - - (11 ) - - (153 ) (398 ) Reclassifications - 38,746 10,330 529 4,889 268 150 3,281 2,100 75 (184,095 ) 123,726 (1 ) Other increases (decreases) - (147 ) (2,444 ) (2 ) 47 (5 ) (1 ) - 349 212 (29,837 ) 7,220 (24,608 ) Decreases for classification as held for sale (141 ) - - - - - - - - - - - (141 ) Total changes (205 ) 38,455 900 473 4,958 272 149 3,281 2,917 287 42,776 130,575 224,838 Closing balance 24,695 648,719 245,731 11,668 24,456 11,377 7,505 132,309 29,955 36,930 207,830 3,068,862 4,450,037 Reconciliation of changes in Land Buildings Other Transport Supplies and Equipment Network and Mining IT Energy Assets under Machinery, Property, ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance - (379,945 ) (219,969 ) (7,938 ) (17,626 ) (10,618 ) (6,306 ) (112,791 ) (23,637 ) (28,782 ) - (1,988,233 ) (2,795,845 ) Disposals - 38 7,737 8 - - - - 10 - - 1,722 9,515 Depreciation expense - (29,829 ) (7,415 ) (880 ) (2,056 ) (271 ) (483 ) (8,017 ) (1,374 ) (2,026 ) - (158,900 ) (211,251 ) Impairment - (437 ) - - - - - - - (12 ) - (941 ) (1,390 ) Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference - 41 4 1 12 3 - - (1 ) - - 61 121 Reclassifications - 106 (483 ) - (87 ) (17 ) (28 ) - 90 1 - 419 1 Other increases (decreases) - 115 2,570 33 23 39 4 - (63 ) 6 - 908 3,635 Total changes - (29,966 ) 2,413 (838 ) (2,108 ) (246 ) (507 ) (8,017 ) (1,338 ) (2,031 ) - (156,731 ) (199,369 ) Closing balance - (409,911 ) (217,556 ) (8,776 ) (19,734 ) (10,864 ) (6,813 ) (120,808 ) (24,975 ) (30,813 ) - (2,144,964 ) (2,995,214 )

Other current and non-current_2

Other current and non-current non-financial assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about other current and non-current non-financial assets [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the detail of other current and non-current assets is as follows: Other non-financial assets, current As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Domestic value added tax 17,807 20,209 Foreign value added tax 8,566 7,211 Prepaid mining property 1,244 1,329 Prepaid insurance 7,135 1,763 Other prepayments 1,423 1,774 Refund of value added tax to exporters 10,560 12,545 Other taxes 3,213 2,800 Other assets 604 341 Total 50,552 47,972 Other non-financial assets, non-current As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Stain development expenses and prospecting expenses (1) 18,654 26,189 Guarantee deposits 551 712 Other assets 524 638 Total 19,729 27,539 1) Reconciliation of changes in assets for exploration and mineral resource evaluation, by type.
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in assets for exploration and mineral resource evaluation [Text Block]	Movements in assets relating to the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017: Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance 26,189 17,721 23,008 Change in assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources Additions - 11,298 - Short-term reclassifications (1,311 ) 1,987 595 Increase (decrease) due to transfers and other charges (6,224 ) (4,817 ) (5,882 ) Total changes (7,535 ) 8,468 (5,287 ) Final balance 18,654 26,189 17,721

Employee benefits (Tables)

Employee benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about provision for employee benefits [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about provision for employee benefits [Text Block]	Classes of benefits and expenses by employee As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current Profit sharing and bonuses 16,387 20,085 Total 16 ,387 20,085 Non-current Profit sharing and bonuses 8,026 8,831 Severance indemnity payments 27,814 28,233 Total 35, 840 37,064
Disclosure of detailed information about post employment benefit obligations [Text Block]	Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Changes in the benefit obligation ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year 8,657 8,755 8,185 Service cost - - 2 Interest cost 336 319 359 Actuarial loss 984 63 556 Benefits paid (391 ) (480 ) (347 ) Total 9,586 8,657 8,755 Reconciliation As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Changes in the plan assets ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Fair value of plan assets at the beginning of the year 8,404 8,751 7,404 Actual return (loss) in plan assets 741 133 1,694 Benefits paid (391 ) (480 ) (347 ) Fair value of plan assets at the end of the year 8,754 8,404 8,751 Financing status (832 ) (253 ) (4 ) Items not yet recognized as net periodic pension cost components: Net actuarial loss at the beginning of the year (2,614 ) (2,614 ) (3,432 ) Amortization during the year 242 160 219 Net estimated gain or loss occurred during the year (854 ) (568 ) 599 Adjustment to recognize the minimum pension obligation (3,226 ) (3,022 ) (2,614 ) Service cost or benefits received during the year As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Service cost or benefits received during the year - - 2 Interest cost in benefit obligation 336 319 359 Actual return in plan assets 741 133 1,694 Amortization of prior year losses 242 160 219 Net gain during the year (854 ) (568 ) 599 Net periodic pension expense (33 ) (159 ) 41
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [text block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, severance indemnities calculated at the actuarial value are as follows: Classes of benefits and expenses by employee As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance (28,233 ) (27,445 ) (22,532 ) Current cost of service (2,880 ) (1,529 ) (934 ) Interest cost (1,661 ) (1,658 ) (1,488 ) Actuarial gain/loss (2,514 ) (1,617 ) (1,144 ) Exchange rate difference 2,475 2,710 (2,284 ) Benefits paid during the year 4,999 1,306 937 Total (27,814 ) (28,233 ) (27,445 )
Disclosure of detailed information about employee Actuarial assumption rate [Text Block]	The liability recorded for staff severance indemnity is valued at the actuarial value method, using the following actuarial assumptions: Actuarial assumptions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 Annual/Years Mortality rate RV - 2014 RV - 2014 RV - 2014 Actual annual interest rate 3.68 % 4.64 % 5.114 % Voluntary retirement rate: Men 6.49 % 6.49 % 6.49 % Annual Women 6.49 % 6.49 % 6.49 % Annual Salary increase 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % Annual Retirement age: Men 65 65 65 Years Women 60 60 60 Years
Disclosure Of Sensitivity Analysis For Actuarial Assumptions Explanatory [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company has conducted a sensitivity analysis of the main assumptions of the actuarial calculation, determining the following: Sensitivity analysis as of December 31, 2019 Effect + 100 basis ‎ points Effect + 100 basis ‎ points ThUS$ ThUS$ Discount rate (1,796 ) 2,021 Employee turnover rate (236 ) 263 Sensitivity analysis as of December 31, 2018 Effect + 100 basis ‎ points Effect + 100 basis ‎ points ThUS$ ThUS$ Discount rate (1,807 ) 2,033 Employee turnover rate (237 ) 265

Provisions and other non-fina_2

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of other provisions [abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about provisions [Text Block]	18.1 Types of provisions As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Types of provisions Current Non-current Total Current Non-current Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Provision for legal complaints (1) 13,472 1,452 14,924 11,862 3,000 14,862 Provision for dismantling, restoration and rehabilitation cost (2) - 33,238 33,238 - 28,822 28,822 Other provisions (3) 97,093 - 97,093 94,335 - 94,335 Total 110,565 34,690 145,255 106,197 31,822 138,019 (1) These provisions correspond to legal processes that are pending resolution or that have not yet been disbursed. These provisions are mainly related to litigation involving the subsidiaries located in Chile, Brazil and the United States (see note 21.1). (2) The provisions related to commitments with Sernageomin have been incorporated through the issuance of a guarantee for the restoration of the place where the production sites are located. (3) See Note 18.2
Description of detailed information about other current and noncurrent provision [Text Block]	18.2 Description of other provisions Current provisions, other short-term provisions As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Rent under lease contract (1) 90,320 84,826 Provision for additional tax related to foreign loans 543 471 End of agreement bonus 3,641 5,129 Directors’ per diem allowance 1,802 2,881 Miscellaneous provisions 787 1,028 Total 97,093 94,335 (1) Payment obligations for the lease contract with CORFO: These correspond to obligations assumed in the Lease Agreement. Part of these obligations are the quarterly lease payments to Corfo, according to SQM Salar's product sales from leased mining properties. Since 2018, another part are the annual contributions by SQM Salar to research and development, to local communities to the Antofagasta Regional Government and to the municipalities of San Pedro de Atacama, María Elena and Antofagasta .
Disclosure of other current liabilities [text block]	18.3 Other non-financial liabilities, current Description of other liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Tax withholdings 3,345 4,782 VAT payable 3,465 7,345 Guarantees received 2,641 2,641 Accrual for dividend 68,890 109,670 Monthly tax provisional payments 16,659 21,001 Deferred income 3,033 18,574 Withholdings from employees and salaries payable 4,575 6,052 Accrued vacations (1) 21,686 20,070 Other current liabilities 2,605 4,489 Total 126,899 194,624 (1) Vacation benefit (short-term benefits to employees, current) is in line with the provisions established in Chile’s Labor Code, which indicates that employees with more than a year of service will be entitled to annual vacation for a period of at least fifteen paid business days . The Company provides the benefit of two additional vacation days .
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in other provisions [Text Block]	18.4 Changes in provisions Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2019 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 14,862 28,822 94,335 138,019 Changes Additional provisions 4,111 4,416 150,314 158,841 Provision used (4,049 ) - (147,532 ) (151,581 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - (24 ) (24 ) others - - - - Total Increase (decreases) 62 4,416 2,758 7,236 Total 14,924 33,238 97,093 145,255 Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2018 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 19,419 26,954 47,073 93,446 Changes Additional provisions 1,000 1,820 181,244 184,064 Provision used (5,557 ) - (133,949 ) (139,506 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - - - others - 48 (33 ) 15 Total Increase (decreases) (4,557 ) 1,868 47,262 44,573 Total 14,862 28,822 94,335 138,019 Description of items that gave rise to variations as of December ‎ 31, 2017 Legal complaints Provision for ‎ dismantling, ‎ restoration and ‎ rehabilitation cost Other provisions Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Total provisions, initial balance 23,867 5,890 21,089 50,846 Changes Additional provisions 6,352 21,064 33,507 60,923 Provision used (10,800 ) - (7,538 ) (18,338 ) Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange - - 9 9 others - - 6 6 Total Increase (decreases) (4,448 ) 21,064 25,984 42,600 Total 19,419 26,954 47,073 93,446

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_2

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about controls capital management [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about controls capital management [Text Block]	The Company’s management controls capital management based on the following ratios: Capital Management As of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 As of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 Description (1) Calculation (1) Net Financial Debt (ThUS$) 719,809 471,755 Financial Debt – Financial Resources Other current Financial Liabilities + Other Non-Current Financial Liabilities – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Hedging Assets, non-current Liquidity 3.45 4.32 Current Assets divided by Current Liabilities Total Current Assets / Total Current Liabilities Net Debt / Capitalization 0.25 0.18 Net Financial Debt divided by Total Equity Net financial debt / Total Equity ROE 13.154 % 20.7 % Profit for the year divided by Total Equity LTM (2) Adjusted EBITDA (ThUS$) 645,142 855,652 Adjusted EBITDA Profit for the year + Depreciation and Amortization Expenses + Finance Costs + Income Tax – Other income and Share of profit of associates and joint ventures + Other expenses – Finance income – Currency differences EBITDA (MUS$) 669,831 902,450 EBITDA Profit for the year + Depreciation and Amortization Expenses + Finance Costs + Income Tax ROA 12.76 % 20.31 % Adjusted EBITDA – Depreciation divided by Total Assets net of financial resources less related parties’ investments (LTM Gross Profit – Administrative Expenses)/ (Total Assets – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Other Non-Current Financial Assets – Equity-accounted Investments) Indebtedness 1.19 1.00 Total Liabilities on Equity Total Liabilities / Total Equity
Disclosure of classes of share capital [text block]	Detail of capital classes in shares: As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company has not placed any new shares issues on the market As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Type of capital in preferred shares Serie A Serie B Serie A Serie B Description of type of capital in preferred shares Number of authorized shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of fully subscribed and paid shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of subscribed, partially paid shares - - - - Par value of shares in US$ 0.9435 2.8464 0.9435 2.8464 Increase (decrease) in the number of current shares - - - - Number of current shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 Number of shares owned by the entity or its subsidiaries or associates - - - - Number of shares whose issuance is reserved due to the existence of options or agreements to dispose shares - - - - Capital amount in shares ThUS$ 134,750 342,636 134,750 342,636 Amount of premium issuance ThUS$ - - - - Amount of reserves ThUS$ - - - - Total number of subscribed shares 142,819,552 120,376,972 142,819,552 120,376,972 19.3 Disclosures on reserves in Equity As of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, this caption comprises the following: Disclosures on reserves un Equity As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Reserve for currency exchange conversion (25,745 ) (26,307 ) (24,913 ) Reserve for cash flow hedges 7,196 7,971 2,248 Reserve for gains and losses from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (270 ) (1,111 ) 2,937 Reserve for actuarial gains or losses in defined benefit plans (9,490 ) (6,884 ) (5,953 ) Other reserves 14,086 11,332 11,332 Total (14,223 ) (14,999 ) (14,349 )
Disclosure of detailed information about movement in other reserves [Text Block]	Movements in other reserves and changes in interest were as follows: Foreign Reserve for cash Reserve for Reserve for gains Other Total reserves Movements Before taxes Before taxes Tax Before taxes Deferred taxes Before taxes Deferred Before taxes Reserves Deferred Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Opening balance as of January 1, 2017 (19,463 ) 64 - (5,446 ) 612 4,813 (1,300 ) 7,832 (12,200 ) (688 ) (12,888 ) Increase 1,992 4,068 - 1,092 (308 ) 6,090 - 3,500 16,742 (308 ) 16,434 Decrease (7,442 ) (1,884 ) - (2,493 ) 590 (6,116 ) (550 ) - (17,935 ) 40 (17,895 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2017 (24,913 ) 2,248 - (6,847 ) 894 4,787 (1,850 ) 11,332 (13,393 ) (956 ) (14,349 ) Increase 6,542 14,794 - 674 (133 ) 294 (79 ) - 22,304 (212 ) 22,092 Decrease (7,936 ) (9,071 ) - (2,003 ) 531 (5,841 ) 1,578 - (24,851 ) 2,109 (22,742 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2018 (26,307 ) 7,971 - (8,176 ) 1,292 (760 ) (351 ) 11,332 (15,940 ) 941 (14,999 ) Increase 1,824 8,628 (2,683 ) - - 1,570 (424 ) 3,093 15,115 (3,107 ) 12,008 Decrease (1,262 ) (6,720 ) - (3,306 ) 700 (418 ) 113 (339 ) (12,045 ) 813 (11,232 ) Closing balance as of December 31, 2019 (25,745 ) 9,879 (2,683 ) (11,482 ) 1,992 392 (662 ) 14,086 (12,870 ) (1,353 ) (14,223 )
Disclosure of detailed information about legal reserves reported in the individual financial statements of the subsidiaries [Text Block]	Subsidiary - Associate As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ SQM Iberian S.A. (1) 9,464 9,464 9,464 SQM Europe NV 1,957 1,957 1,957 Soquimich European holding B.V. 828 828 828 Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL 455 455 455 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS 305 305 305 Kore Potash PLC 2,754 - - Total 15,763 13,009 13,009 Corresponds to the acquisition of the subsidiary SQM Iberian S.A., which was already under Company ownership at the acquisition date (IAS 27 R). (1,677 ) (1,677 ) (1,677 ) Total Other reserves 14,086 11,332 11,332 (1) In the case of SQM Iberian S.A., the balance corresponds to the results obtained in the previous financial year which are presented as forming part of other reserves because of local regulations
Disclosure of dividends [text block]	Dividends were the following: Dividends For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Dividends 882 823 55,501 Soquimich Comercial S.A. Interim Dividend 3,936 7,872 - Soquimich Comercial S.A. Payable Dividend 1,999 1,038 3,171 Non-controlling interests 6,817 9,733 58,672 Interim dividend 211,224 331,199 317,243 Additional dividend - 100,000 - Dividends payable 66,891 108,631 107,358 Owners of the Parent 278,115 539,8300 424,601 Dividends discounted from equity for the period 284,932 549,563 483,273
Disclosure of Information attributable to non-controlling interests [Text Block]	Detail of non-controlling interests Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest Equity, non-controlling interests Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests Subsidiaries % of interests in ‎ the ownership ‎ held ‎ by non-controlling ‎ interest For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 For the ‎ year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2019 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 201 8 For the year ‎ ended ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Proinsa Ltda. 0.1 % - - - - - - - - - SQM Potasio S.A. 0.00001 % - - - - - - - - - Ajay SQM Chile S.A. 49 % 740 1,176 1,023 8,517 8,659 8,306 882 823 989 Soquimich Comercial S.A. 39.3616784 % 1,999 1,375 100 38,103 41,855 49,247 5,935 8,910 1,264 Comercial Agrorama Ltda. 30 % (251 ) (318 ) (403 ) (693 ) (481 ) (184 ) - - - Agrorama S.A. 0.001 % - - - - - - - - Orcoma Estudios SPA 49 % - - - 2,277 2,277 2,277 - - - SQM Indonesia S.A. 20 % - - - 1 1 - - - - Total 2,488 2,233 720 48,205 52,311 59,646 6,817 9,733 2,253

Earnings per share (Tables)

Earnings per share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Earnings Per Share Explanatory [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share Explanatory [Text Block]	As expressed, earnings per share are detailed as follows: Basic earnings per share For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Net profit attributable to owners of the parent 278,115 439,830 427,697 Basic earnings per share For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 Units Units Units Number of common shares in circulation 263,196,524 263,196,524 263,196,524 Basic earnings per share (US$ per share) 1.0567 1.6711 1.6250

Contingencies and restrictions

Contingencies and restrictions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of contingent liability [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about financial indicators [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019, the above-mentioned financial indicator has the following values: Indicator As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 Leverage 1.19 1.00
Disclosure of detailed information about grantor obligations [Text Block]	Grantor Relationship As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ Ferosor Agrícola S.A. Unrelated Third party 5,372 3,598 Tattersall Agroinsumos S.A. Unrelated Third party 2,000 2,000 Contador Frutos S.A. Unrelated Third party - 1,587 Covepa SPA Unrelated Third party 671 720 Johannes Epple Davanzo Unrelated Third party 300 321 Hortofrutícola La Serena Unrelated Third party 282 294 Com. Serv Johannes Epple Davanz Unrelated Third party 269 - Juan Luis Gaete Chesta Unrelated Third party 182 195 Arena Fertilizantes y Semillas Unrelated Third party 201 216 Vicente Oyarce Castro Unrelated Third party 213 222 Soc. Agrocom. Julio Polanco Unrelated Third party - 144 Bernardo Guzmán Schmidt Unrelated Third party 121 126 Total 9,611 9,423
Disclosure of detailed information about guarantees in which there is no pending balance [Text Block]	Guarantees without pending balance indirectly reflect that the respective guarantees are in force and approved by the Company’s Board of Directors and have not been used by the respective subsidiary. Debtor Outstanding balances as of the closing date Creditor of the guarantee Name Relationship Type of guarantee As of December 31, As of December 31, ThUS$ ThUS$ Australian and New Zealand Bank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Australian and New Zealand Bank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Generale Bank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Generale Bank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Kredietbank SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Kredietbank SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Europe N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM North America Corp Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM México S.A. de C.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bancos e Instituciones Financieras SQM Brasil Ltda. Subsidiary Guarantee - - “BNP’’ SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Sociedad Nacional de Minería A.G. SQM Potasio S.A. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Bank of America Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Export Development Canada Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd. Royal Seed Trading A.V.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - JP Morgan Chase Bank SQM Industrial S.A. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Nova Scotia SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Morgan Stanley Capital Services SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - HSBC SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Deutsche Bank AG SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - - Credit Suisse International SQM Investment Corp. N.V. Subsidiary Guarantee - -

Gains (losses) from operating_2

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Of Revenue From Products and Services [Abstract]
Disclosure of disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers [text block]	The Group generates revenues from the sale of goods (which are recognized at one point in time) and from the provision of services (which are recognized over time) and are distributed among the following geographical areas and main product and service lines. (a) Geographic areas: For the year ended December 31, 2019 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 109,975 1,064 599 27,371 39,512 33,336 211,857 Latin America and the Caribbean 78,872 7,972 3,593 64,868 6,354 269 161,928 Europe 149,992 123,525 76,250 27,973 15,289 735 393,764 North America 243,399 90,070 45,810 43,312 27,798 883 451,272 Asia and others 141,682 148,389 379,462 48,627 5,922 752 724,834 Total 723,920 371,020 505,714 212,151 94,875 35,975 1,943,655 For the year ended December 31, 2018 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 111,595 1,052 700 25,593 4,575 45,834 189,349 Latin America and the Caribbean 77,737 6,389 3,598 80,192 12,098 177 180,191 Europe 200,229 112,080 103,430 46,068 17,384 473 479,664 North America 240,995 83,587 68,254 50,685 27,347 647 471,515 Asia and others 151,195 121,864 558,819 64,936 46,863 1,407 945,084 Total 781,751 324,972 734,801 267,474 108,267 48,538 2,265,803 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Geographic areas Specialty plant ‎ nutrition Iodine and ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ derivatives Potassium Industrial ‎ chemicals Other Total ThUS$ Chile 91,243 1,054 802 20,001 2,522 45,942 161,564 Latin America and the Caribbean 71,335 5,756 3,109 142,610 9,180 155 232,145 Europe 177,997 81,557 88,443 72,405 28,346 305 449,053 North America 235,963 67,491 42,918 69,105 25,824 553 441,854 Asia and others 120,713 96,265 509,301 75,205 69,706 1,517 872,707 Total 697,251 252,123 644,573 379,326 135,578 48,472 2,157,323
Disclosure Of Revenue By Products Text Block [Text Block]	(b) Main product and service lines: For the period from January to December of the year Products and Services 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Specialty plant nutrition 723,920 781,751 697,251 - Sodium Nitrates 20,679 17,688 18,555 - Potassium nitrate and sodium potassium nitrate 457,477 527,945 474,451 - Specialty Blends 153,739 145,511 121,263 - Other specialty fertilizers 92,025 90,607 82,982 Iodine and derivatives 371,020 324,972 252,123 Lithium and derivatives 505,714 734,801 644,573 Potassium 212,151 267,474 379,326 Industrial chemicals 94,875 108,267 135,578 Other 35,975 48,538 48,472 - Services 3,410 4,017 3,795 - Income from leasing properties 1,438 1,474 71 - Income from subleases on right-of-use assets 261 - - - Commodities 16,176 18,581 11,822 - Other ordinary income from Commercial Offices 14,690 24,466 32,784 Total 1,943,655 2,265,803 2,157,323
Disclosure of cost of sales [text block]	24.2 Cost of sales Cost of sales broken down by nature of expense For the period from January to December of the year Cost of sales 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw materials and consumables used (271,912 ) (260,869 ) (227,617 ) Classes of employee benefit expenses (178,493 ) (203,571 ) (172,158 ) Depreciation expense (188,157 ) (212,641 ) (232,365 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16) (5,450 ) - - Amortization expense (5,102 ) (6,376 ) (7,490 ) Investment plan expenses (18,367 ) (11,860 ) (14,796 ) Provision for site closure (911 ) (2,045 ) (2,960 ) Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies (7,500 ) 1,721 1,746 Contractors (123,096 ) (120,923 ) (118,610 ) Operating leases (47,007 ) (37,245 ) (36,333 ) Mining concessions (7,856 ) (8,168 ) (7,802 ) Operations transport (56,376 ) (64,352 ) (69,051 ) Freight and product transport costs (46,264 ) (51,387 ) (55,383 ) Purchase of products from third parties (189,583 ) (182,695 ) (184,226 ) Insurance (16,968 ) (11,923 ) (10,255 ) CORFO rights (143,861 ) (182,954 ) (46,274 ) Export costs (97,103 ) (107,418 ) (86,831 ) Expenses related to variable payment leases (contracts under IFRS 16) (1,096 ) - - Variation in inventory 52,557 20,597 (76,009 ) Variation in inventory provision 17,107 (8,997 ) (14,989 ) Other expenses, by nature (48,165 ) (34,525 ) (33,419 ) Total (1,383,603 ) (1,485,631 ) (1,394,822 )
Disclosure of detailed information about other income [Text Block]	24.3 Other income Other income As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Discounts obtained from suppliers 676 705 345 Fines charged to suppliers 483 698 199 Taxes recovered 457 996 1,278 Amounts recovered from insurance 492 443 154 Overestimate of provisions for third-party obligations 983 375 586 Other operating income 2,422 1,536 4,543 Options on mining claims 5,298 16,095 2,607 Easements, pipelines and roads 7,204 10,806 4,656 Reimbursement mining licenses and notary expenses 203 394 1,196 Shares obtained in junior mining companies through options - - 2,263 Total 18,218 32,048 17,827
Description of detailed information about employee benefits by nature of expenses [Text Block]	24.4 Administrative expenses Administrative expenses As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Remuneration and benefits to employees (60,255 ) (63,880 ) (51,761 ) Marketing costs (3,911 ) (3,078 ) (2,539 ) Amortization expenses (5 ) (15 ) (8 ) Entertainment expenses (5,783 ) (4,805 ) (4,781 ) Advisory services (13,862 ) (12,848 ) (14,348 ) Leases (3,653 ) (4,556 ) (4,097 ) Insurance (2,553 ) (1,758 ) (1,767 ) Office expenses (7,327 ) (8,165 ) (5,357 ) Contractors (4,874 ) (5,730 ) (4,805 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16) (2,501 ) - - Other expenses, by nature (12,456 ) (13,291 ) (11,708 ) Total (117,180 ) (118,126 ) (101,171 )
Disclosure of detailed information about expenses by function [Text Block]	24.5 Other expenses by function For the period from January to December of the year Other expenses by function 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation of assets not in use (136 ) (59 ) (90 ) Subtotal (136 ) (59 ) (90 ) Impairment losses (reversals of impairment losses) recognized in profit (loss) for the year Property, plant and equipment (49 ) (1,390 ) - Intangible assets other than goodwill (913 ) (1,736 ) - Goodwill (140 ) (3,254 ) - Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale (607 ) - - Subtotal (1,709 ) (6,380 ) - Other expenses, by nature Legal expenses (9,277 ) (15,139 ) (25,176 ) VAT and other unrecoverable taxes (613 ) (1,187 ) (1,295 ) Fines paid (145 ) (965 ) (1,112 ) Investment plan expenses (1,694 ) (7,555 ) (10,006 ) Non-metallic exploration expenses (5,537 ) (5,864 ) - Donations (5,026 ) (4,502 ) (5,527 ) Reorganization of related businesses - 6,000 (6,000 ) Other operating expenses (1,858 ) (1,256 ) (4,394 ) Subtotal (24,150 ) (30,468 ) (53,510 ) Total (25,995 ) (36,907 ) (53,600 )
Disclosure of detailed information about other income expenses [Text Block]	24.6 Other gains (losses) For the period from January to December of the year Other income (expenses) 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Adjustment relating to previous year application of equity method to investments (984 ) (664 ) 500 Impairment of interests in joint ventures (1) 631 (8,802 ) - Sales of investments in associates - (759 ) - Sales of investments in joint ventures - 14,507 - Others (30 ) 2,122 43 Total (383 ) 6,404 543
Disclosure Of Impairment Losses And Reversal Of Impairment Losses [Table Text Block]	24.7 Net impairment (losses)gains on reversal of financial assets Net impairment (losses)of gains and on reversal of impairment financial assets ‎ losses As of December 31, ‎ 2019 As of December 31, ‎ 2018 As of December 31, ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ (Impairment loss)/ gain on reversal of financial assets (1,057 ) 2,967 (8,038 ) Totals (1,057 ) 2,967 (8,038 )
Disclosure of detailed information about expenses by nature [Text Block]	24.8 Summary of expenses by nature For the period from January to December of the year Expenses by nature 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Raw materials and consumables (271,912 ) (260,869 ) (227,617 ) Classes of Employee Benefit Expenses (238,748 ) (267,451 ) (223,919 ) Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation expense (188,293 ) (212,700 ) (232,455 ) Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16) (7,951 ) - - Property, plant and equipment (49 ) (1,390 ) - Goodwill (140 ) (3,254 ) - Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale (607 ) - - Amortization expense (6,020 ) (8,127 ) (7,498 ) Legal expenses (9,277 ) (15,139 ) (25,176 ) Investment plan expenses (20,061 ) (19,415 ) (19,480 ) Non-metallic exploration expenses (5,537 ) (5,864 ) (5,322 ) Provision for site closure (911 ) (2,045 ) (2,960 ) Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies (7,500 ) 1,721 1,746 Contractors (127,970 ) (126,653 ) (123,415 ) Leases (50,660 ) (41,801 ) (40,430 ) Mining concessions (7,856 ) (8,168 ) (7,802 ) Operation transport (56,376 ) (64,352 ) (69,051 ) Freight and product transport costs (46,264 ) (51,387 ) (55,383 ) Purchase of products from third parties (189,583 ) (182,695 ) (184,226 ) CORFO rights (143,861 ) (182,954 ) (46,274 ) Export costs (97,103 ) (107,418 ) (86,831 ) Expenses related to Variable Parts Leases (IFRS 16) (1,096 ) - - Insurance (19,521 ) (13,681 ) (12,022 ) Restructuring of joint ventures. - 6,000 (6,000 ) Consultant and advisor services (13,862 ) (12,848 ) (14,348 ) Variation in inventory 52,557 20,597 (76,009 ) Variation in provision on product inventory 17,107 (8,997 ) (14,989 ) Other expenses, by nature (85,284 ) (71,774 ) (70,133 ) Total (1,526,778 ) (1,640,664 ) (1,549,594 )
Disclosure of interest expense [text block]	24.9 Finance expenses For the period from January to December of the year Financial costs 2019 2018 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Interest expense from bank borrowings and overdrafts (2,133 ) (1,707 ) (1,650 ) Interest expense from bonds (72,983 ) (55,887 ) (49,373 ) Interest expense from loans (2,682 ) (3,093 ) (2,002 ) Capitalized interest expenses 7,841 5,021 4,382 Financial expenses related to rehabilitation provisions (4,417 ) (960 ) - Lease interest (1,535 ) - - Other finance costs (1,030 ) (1,181 ) (1,481 ) Total (76,939 ) (57,807 ) (50,124 )

Reportable segments (Tables)

Reportable segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of entity's operating segments [Abstract]
Disclosure of entity's operating segments [text block]	Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2019 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2019 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 1,943,655 1,943,655 - 1,943,655 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 1,943,655 1,943,655 - 1,943,655 Costs of sales (573,808 ) (230,468 ) (306,250 ) (63,590 ) (176,199 ) (33,288 ) (1,383,603 ) (1,383,603 ) - (1,383,603 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (117,180 ) (117,180 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (76,939 ) (76,939 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (68,007 ) (43,533 ) (45,443 ) (6,885 ) (37,862 ) (534 ) (202,264 ) (202,264 ) - (202,264 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 9,786 9,786 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (110,019 ) (110,019 ) Income (loss) before taxes 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 560,052 560,052 (169,430 ) 390,622 Net profit 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 560,052 560,052 (279,449 ) 280,603 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,684,151 4,684,151 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 109,435 109,435 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - 124,569 124,569 Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,549,679 2,549,679 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss - - - - - - - - (1,057 ) (1,057 ) Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 426,971 426,971 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (485,471 ) (485,471 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - 105,896 105,896 Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2018 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December 31, ‎ 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 2,265,803 2,265,803 - 2,265,803 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 2,265,803 2,265,803 - 2,265,803 Costs of sales (613,267 ) (217,464 ) (316,875 ) (72,964 ) (217,386 ) (47,675 ) (1,485,631 ) (1,485,631 ) - (1,485,631 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (118,126 ) (118,126 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (57,807 ) (57,807 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (79,061 ) (42,438 ) (42,283 ) (8,454 ) (47,940 ) (651 ) (220,827 ) (220,827 ) - (220,827 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 6,351 6,351 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (178,975 ) (178,975 ) Income (loss) before taxes 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 780,172 780,172 (159,134 ) 621,038 Net income (loss)profit 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 780,172 780,172 (338,109 ) 442,063 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,268,094 4,268,094 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 111,549 111,549 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - (15,028 ) (15,028 ) Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,130,292 2,130,292 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss - - - - - - - - 2,967 2,967 Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 524,839 524,839 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (187,004 ) (187,004 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - (387,313 ) (387,313 ) Operating segments for the year ended December ‎ 31, 2017 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Reportable ‎ segments Operating ‎ segments Unallocated ‎ amounts Total as of ‎ December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 697,251 252,123 644,573 135,578 379,326 48,472 2,157,323 2,157,323 - 2,157,323 Revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity - - - - - - - - - - Revenues 697,251 252,123 644,573 135,578 379,326 48,472 2,157,323 2,157,323 - 2,157,323 Costs of sales (555,356 ) (199,808 ) (189,242 ) (91,753 ) (313,690 ) (44,973 ) (1,394,822 ) (1,394,822 ) - (1,394,822 ) Administrative expenses - - - - - - - - (101,171 ) (101,171 ) Interest expense - - - - - - - - (50,124 ) (50,124 ) Depreciation and amortization expense (73,702 ) (44,252 ) (18,036 ) (16,050 ) (88,130 ) (356 ) (240,526 ) (240,526 ) - (240,526 ) The entity’s interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - - - 14,452 14,452 Income tax expense, continuing operations - - - - - - - - (166,173 ) (166,173 ) Income (loss) before taxes 141,895 52,315 455,331 43,825 65,636 3,499 762,501 762,501 (167,911 ) 594,590 Net income (loss)profit 141,895 52,315 455,331 43,825 65,636 3,499 762,501 762,501 (334,084 ) 428,417 Assets - - - - - - - - 4,296,236 4,296,236 Equity-accounted investees - - - - - - - - 152,630 152,630 Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts - - - - - - - - - - Increase of non-current assets - - - - - - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - - - - 2,048,768 2,048,768 Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss (15,025 ) 335 1,112 (3,546 ) (240 ) (219 ) (17,583 ) (17,583 ) (14,316 ) (31,899 ) Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period - - - - - - - - - - Cash flows from (used in) operating activities - - - - - - - - 758,272 758,272 Cash flows from (used in) investing activities - - - - - - - - (248,067 ) (248,067 ) Cash flows from (used in) financing activities - - - - - - - - (411,920 ) (411,920 ) Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2019 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 723,920 371,020 505,714 94,875 212,151 35,975 - 1,943,655 Cost of sales (573,808 ) (230,468 ) (306,250 ) (63,590 ) (176,199 ) (33,288 ) - (1,383,603 ) Gross profit 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 - 560,052 Other income by function - - - - - - 18,218 18,218 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (117,180 ) (117,180 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (25,995 ) (25,995 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - (1,057 ) (1,057 ) Other gains (losses) - - - - - - (383 ) (383 ) Financial income - - - - - - 26,289 26,289 Financial costs - - - - - - (76,939 ) (76,939 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 9,786 9,786 Exchange differences - - - - - - (2,169 ) (2,169 ) Profit (loss) before taxes 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 (169,430 ) 390,622 Income tax expense - - - - - - (110,019 ) (110,019 ) Net profit (loss) 150,112 140,552 199,464 31,285 35,952 2,687 (279,449 ) 280,603 Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2018 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 781,751 324,972 734,801 108,267 267,474 48,538 - 2,265,803 Cost of sales (613,267 ) (217,464 ) (316,875 ) (72,964 ) (217,386 ) (47,675 ) - (1,485,631 ) Gross profit 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 - 780,172 Other incomes by function - - - - - - 32,048 32,048 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (118,126 ) (118,126 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (36,907 ) (36,907 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - 2,967 2,967 Other gains (losses) - - - - - - 6,404 6,404 Financial income - - - - - - 22,533 22,533 Financial costs - - - - - - (57,807 ) (57,807 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 6,351 6,351 Exchange differences - - - - - - (16,597 ) (16,597 ) Profit (loss) before taxes 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 (159,134 ) 621,038 Income tax expense - - - - - - (178,975 ) (178,975 ) Net profit (loss) 168,484 107,508 417,926 35,303 50,088 863 (338,109 ) 442,063 Items in the statement of comprehensive ‎ income as of December 31, 2017 Specialty ‎ plant ‎ nutrients Iodine and its ‎ derivatives Lithium and ‎ its ‎ derivatives Industrial ‎ chemicals Potassium Other ‎ products and ‎ services Corporate ‎ Unit Total ‎ segments and ‎ Corporate unit ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 623,853 231,144 514,627 104,137 403,323 62,238 - 1,939,322 Cost of sales (478,074 ) (191,298 ) (175,616 ) (67,378 ) (359,477 ) (56,442 ) - (1,328,285 ) Gross profit 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 - 611,037 Other incomes by function - - - - - - 15,202 15,202 Administrative expenses - - - - - - (88,436 ) (88,436 ) Other expenses by function - - - - - - (82,533 ) (82,533 ) Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9 - - - - - - 7,198 7,198 Other gains (losses) - - - - - - 679 679 Financial income - - - - - - 10,129 10,129 Financial costs - - - - - - (57,498 ) (57,498 ) interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - - - 13,047 13,047 Exchange differences - - - - - - 460 460 Net profit (loss) before taxes 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 (181,752 ) 429,285 Income tax expense - - - - - - (132,965 ) (132,965 ) Net profit (loss) 145,779 39,846 339,011 36,759 43,846 5,796 (314,717 ) 296,320
Disclosure of geographical areas [text block]	The Company’s policy requires guarantees (such as letters of credit, guarantee clauses and others) and/or to maintain insurance policies for certain accounts as deemed necessary by the Company’s Management.​​​​​​​ Items as of December 31, 2019 Chile Latin America ‎ and the ‎ Caribbean Europe North America Asia and others Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 211,857 161,928 393,764 451,272 724,834 1,943,655 Investment accounted for under the equity method - (5,175 ) 42,243 14,669 57,698 109,435 Intangible assets other than goodwill 106,910 420 1,397 2,683 76,948 188,358 Goodwill 23,205 - 11,521 - - 34,726 Property, plant and equipment, net 1,559,080 513 6,241 8,333 32,903 1,607,070 Other non-current assets 20,321 28 4 (624 ) - 19,729 Non-current assets 1,709,516 (4,214 ) 61,406 25,061 167,549 1,959,318 Items as of December 31, 2018 Chile Latin America ‎ and the ‎ Caribbean Europe North America Asia and others Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Revenue 189,349 180,189 479,664 471,515 945,086 2,265,803 Investment accounted for under the equity method (6,588 ) - 61,256 16,115 40,766 111,549 Intangible assets other than goodwill 110,544 1,215 238 152 77,201 189,350 Goodwill 22,535 86 11,521 724 - 34,866 Property, plant and equipment, net 1,445,349 347 4,451 3,098 1,578 1,454,823 Other non-current assets 17,111 23 - (892 ) 11,297 27,539 Non-current assets 1,588,951 1,671 77,466 19,197 130,842 1,818,127

Borrowing costs (Tables)

Borrowing costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Borrowing costs [abstract]
Disclosure of rates and costs for capitalized interest of property, plant and equipment [Text Block]	The rates and costs for capitalized interest of property, plant and equipment are detailed as follows: Costs of capitalized interest As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Capitalization rate of costs for capitalized interest 4 % 4 % Amount of interest capitalized in ThUS$ 7,841 5,021

Effect of fluctuations in for_2

Effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of effect of changes in foreign exchange rates [Abstract]
Disclosure of foreign currency exchange differences recognized in profit or loss except for financial instruments measured at fair value through profit or loss [Text Block]	a) Foreign currency exchange differences recognized in profit or loss and other comprehensive income: Exchange rate differences recognized in income and other comprehensive incom e As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Conversion foreign exchange gains (losses) recognized in the result of the year. (2,169 ) (16,597 ) (1,299 ) Reserves for translation differences Conversion foreign exchange reserves attributable to the owners of the controlling entity. 562 (1,394 ) (5,450 ) Conversion foreign exchange reserves attributable to the non-controlling entity. 226 174 4 Total 788 (1,220 ) (5,446 )
Disclosure of reserve of exchange differences on translation [Text Block]	b) Reserves for foreign currency exchange differences, Equity: As of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, foreign currency exchange differences are detailed as follows: Detail As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 As of December ‎ 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Changes in equity generated by conversion of equity value: Comercial Hydro S.A. 1,004 1,004 1,004 SQMC Internacional Ltda. (9 ) (17 ) (2 ) Proinsa Ltda. (10 ) (11 ) (7 ) Comercial Agrorama Ltda. 33 (21 ) (44 ) Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. (44 ) (1 ) (74 ) Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda. 142 113 97 Sacal S.A. (3 ) (3 ) - Sociedad prestadora de servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. (19 ) (10 ) - Agrorama S.A. 231 132 (98 ) Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS (13,811 ) (13,811 ) (14,447 ) SQM Vitas Fzco. (2,267 ) (2,682 ) (1,779 ) Ajay Europe S.A.R.L (1,449 ) (1,270 ) SQM Eastmed Turkey (155 ) (113 ) (92 ) Doctochem Tarim Sanayi LTD 7 - - Coromandel SQM India (431 ) (393 ) (234 ) SQM Italia SRL (236 ) (213 ) (154 ) SQM Oceanía Pty Ltd. (634 ) (634 ) (634 ) SQM Indonesia S.A. (124 ) (124 ) (124 ) Abu Dhabi Fertillizers Industries WWL. 372 (435 ) (435 ) SQM Vitas Holland (197 ) (170 ) (101 ) SQM Thailand Limited (68 ) (68 ) (68 ) SQM Europe N.V. (1,983 ) (1,983 ) (1,550 ) SQM Australia Pty Ltd. (4,035 ) (4,222 ) 154 Pavoni & C. Spa (185 ) 70 - Terra Tarsa BV 116 (82 ) - Plantacote NV (16 ) (34 ) - Doktolab Tarim Arastirma San. (54 ) (29 ) - Kore Potash PLC (a) (1,754 ) (1,206 ) - SQM Colombia SAS (166 ) (94 ) - Minera Exar S.A. - - (5,209 ) Charlee SQM (Thailand) Co. Ltd. - - (285 ) Ajay Europe S.A.R.L. - - (831 ) Total (25,745 ) (26,307 ) (24,913 )

Disclosures on the effects of_2

Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Foreign exchange rates [abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about assets held in foreign currency subject to fluctuations in exchange rates [Text Block]	Assets held in foreign currency subject to fluctuations in exchange rates are detailed as follows: Class of assets Currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Cash and cash equivalents USD 558,572 353,674 Cash and cash equivalents ARS 3 2 Cash and cash equivalents CLP 8,240 157,500 Cash and cash equivalents CNY 2,484 2,305 Cash and cash equivalents EUR 3,131 4,738 Cash and cash equivalents GBP 3 - Cash and cash equivalents AUD 8,492 29,598 Cash and cash equivalents INR 6 - Cash and cash equivalents MXN 2,103 1,242 Cash and cash equivalents PEN 4 1 Cash and cash equivalents AED - 1 Cash and cash equivalents JPY 1,559 1,786 Cash and cash equivalents ZAR 3,929 5,219 Cash and cash equivalents IDR 3 - Cash and cash equivalents PLN 1 - Subtotal cash and cash equivalents 588,530 556,066 Other current financial assets USD 127,889 291,790 Other current financial assets CLF 36,896 - Other current financial assets CLP 340,705 20,931 Subtotal other current financial assets 505,490 312,721 Other current non-financial assets USD 16,535 19,523 Other current non-financial assets ARS - 2 Other current non-financial assets AUD 285 102 Other current non-financial assets BRL 2 - Other current non-financial assets CLF 31 47 Other current non-financial assets CLP 24,374 20,276 Other current non-financial assets CNY 326 8 Other current non-financial assets EUR 3,055 3,153 Other current non-financial assets MXN 2,629 3,274 Other current non-financial assets THB 22 19 Other current non-financial assets JPY 174 21 Other current non-financial assets ZAR 3,119 1,547 Subtotal other current non-financial assets 50,552 47,972 Trade and other receivables USD 225,554 255,528 Trade and other receivables PEN 6 - Trade and other receivables BRL 19 20 Trade and other receivables CLF 504 453 Trade and other receivables CLP 56,023 71,730 Trade and other receivables CNY 3,340 11,361 Trade and other receivables EUR 24,925 31,426 Trade and other receivables GBP 148 - Trade and other receivables MXN 211 452 Trade and other receivables AED 1,193 15,841 Trade and other receivables THB 1,695 2,970 Trade and other receivables JPY 66,266 76,267 Trade and other receivables AUD 801 - Trade and other receivables ZAR 15,900 571 Trade and other receivables COP 2,557 - Subtotal trade and other receivables 399,142 466,619 Receivables from related parties USD 60,135 42,685 Receivables from related parties EUR 1,092 105 Subtotal receivables from related parties 61,227 42,790 Current inventories USD 983,338 913,674 Subtotal Current inventories 983,338 913,674 Assets held in foreign currency subject to fluctuations in exchange rates are detailed as follows: Class of assets Currency As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Current tax assets USD 87,509 52,033 Current tax assets ARS 1 2 Current tax assets CLP 1,623 601 Current tax assets EUR 61 3,500 Current tax assets MXN 1,806 843 Current tax assets PEN - 131 Current tax assets ZAR 139 - Current tax assets COP 294 - Subtotal current tax assets 91,433 57,110 Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale USD 2,454 1,430 Subtotal Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale 2,454 1,430 Total current assets 2,682,166 2,398,382 Non-current assets Other non-current financial assets USD 8,687 17,039 Other non-current financial assets CLP 20 20 Other non-current financial assets JPY 71 72 Subtotal Other non-current financial assets 8,778 17,131 Other non-current non-financial assets USD 19,101 26,758 Other non-current non-financial assets BRL 22 23 Other non-current non-financial assets COP 6 - Other non-current non-financial assets EUR 4 - Other non-current non-financial assets CLP 596 758 Subtotal Other non-current non-financial assets 19,729 27,539 Other receivables, non-current USD 522 139 Other receivables, non-current CLF 165 329 Other receivables, non-current MXN 43 - Other receivables, non-current CLP 980 1,807 Subtotal Other receivables, non-current 1,710 2,275 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting USD 57,777 41,923 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting TRY 26,624 21,892 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting AED 9,111 31,023 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting EUR 14,315 14,929 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting INR 1,568 1,729 Investments classified using the equity method of accounting THB 40 53 Subtotal Investments classified using the equity method of accounting 109,435 111,549 Intangible assets other than goodwill USD 185,951 189,265 Intangible assets other than goodwill MXN 1,137 - Intangible assets other than goodwill CLP 136 85 Intangible assets other than goodwill EUR 1,134 - Subtotal intangible assets other than goodwill 188,358 189,350 Purchases goodwill, gross USD 34,438 34,866 Purchases goodwill, gross CLP 140 - Purchases goodwill, gross EUR 148 - Subtotal Purchases goodwill, gross 34,726 34,866 Property, plant and equipment USD 1,593,324 1,451,436 Property, plant and equipment CLP 3,294 3,387 Property, plant and equipment EUR 4,756 - Property, plant and equipment MXN 5,588 - Property, plant and equipment COP 108 - Subtotal property, plant and equipment 1,607,070 1,454,823 Current tax assets, non-current USD 32,179 32,179 Subtotal Current tax assets, non-current 32,179 32,179 Total non-current assets 2.001.985 1,869,712 Total assets 4,684,151 4,268,094
Disclosure of detailed information about liabilities held in foreign currencies [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Current liabilities Currency Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current liabilities Other current financial liabilities USD 20,582 258,388 278,970 12,471 4,464 16,935 Other current financial liabilities CLF 19,518 323 19,841 342 6,256 6,598 Other current financial liabilities BRL 11 - 11 52 - 52 Subtotal other current financial liabilities 40,111 258,711 298,822 12,865 10,720 23,585 Trade and other payables USD 44,146 - 44,146 51,489 3 51,492 Trade and other payables ARS - - - 4,082 - 4,082 Trade and other payables BRL 10 - 10 34 - 34 Trade and other payables THB 53 - 53 65 - 65 Trade and other payables CLP 73,703 17,108 90,811 69,789 - 69,789 Trade and other payables EUR 58,538 5 58,543 36,439 - 36,439 Trade and other payables GBP 17 - 17 - - - Trade and other payables INR 1 - 1 1 - 1 Trade and other payables MXN 5,122 - 5,122 7 - 7 Trade and other payables PEN 5 - 5 - - - Trade and other payables AUD 4,442 - 4,442 - - - Trade and other payables ZAR 2,260 - 2,260 1,842 - 1,842 Trade and other payables AED 188 - 188 - - - Trade and other payables COP 192 - 192 - - - Subtotal trade and other payables 188,677 17,113 205,790 163,748 3 163,751 Trade payables due to related parties, current USD 475 - 475 - 9 9 Subtotal Trade payables due to related parties, current 475 - 475 - 9 9 Other current provisions USD 109,650 820 110,470 74,020 31,150 105,170 Other current provisions ARS 7 - 7 - 13 13 Other current provisions BRL - - - 707 - 707 Other current provisions CLP 82 - 82 - 64 64 Other current provisions EUR 6 - 6 243 - 243 Subtotal other current provisions 109,745 820 110,565 74,970 31,227 106,197 Current tax liabilities USD 2,863 14,994 17,857 - 41,612 41,612 Current tax liabilities CLP - 17 17 - 31 31 Current tax liabilities BRL - - - - 3 3 Current tax liabilities CNY - - - - 8 8 Current tax liabilities EUR - - - 4,548 1,000 5,548 Current tax liabilities ZAR - - - - 201 201 Current tax liabilities MXN - - - - 9 9 Subtotal current tax liabilities 2,863 15,011 17,874 4,548 42,864 47,412 As of December 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Class of liability Currency Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total Up to90 days 91 days to 1 year Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Provisions for employee benefits, current USD 12,486 3,901 16,387 20,085 - 20,085 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, current 12.486 3,901 16,387 20,085 - 20,085 Other current non-financial liabilities USD 117,136 154 117,290 176,506 2,489 178,995 Other current non-financial liabilities THB 30 - 30 158 - 158 Other current non-financial liabilities BRL 3 - 3 3 - 3 Other current non-financial liabilities CLP 5,969 2,439 8,408 7,703 6,431 14,134 Other current non-financial liabilities CNY - - - 11 40 51 Other current non-financial liabilities EUR 842 - 842 1,053 - 1,053 Other current non-financial liabilities MXN 129 64 193 103 46 149 Other current non-financial liabilities JPY 21 12 33 - - - Other current non-financial liabilities PEN 70 - 70 70 - 70 Other current non-financial liabilities ZAR 10 - 10 11 - 11 Other current non-financial liabilities COP 20 - 20 - - - Subtotal other current non-financial liabilities 124,230 2,669 126,899 185,618 9,006 194,624 Total current liabilities 478,587 298,225 776,812 461,834 93,829 555,663 As of December 31, 2019 Class of liability Currency 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years Over 5 years Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Non-current liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities USD 89,896 42,336 313,749 13,749 647,258 1,106,988 Other non-current financial liabilities CLF - - - - 411,938 411,938 Subtotal Other non-current financial liabilities 89,896 42,336 313,749 13,749 1,059,196 1,518,926 Other non-current provisions USD 23,014 167 - 1,452 10,057 34,690 Subtotal Other non-current provisions 23,014 167 - 1,452 10,057 34,690 Deferred tax liabilities USD 69,048 - - 114,353 10 183,411 Subtotal Deferred tax liabilities 69,048 - - 114,353 10 183,411 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current USD 34,884 - - - - 34,884 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current CLP 519 - - - - 519 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current MXN 236 - - - - 236 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current JPY 201 - - - - 201 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, non-current 35,840 - - - - 35,840 Total non-current liabilities 217,798 42,503 313,749 129,554 1,069,263 1,772,867 Total liabilities 2,549,679 As of December 31, 2018 Class of liability Currency 1 to 2 years 2 to 3 years 3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years Over 5 years Total ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Non-current liabilities Other non-current financial liabilities USD 249,869 80,903 297,994 - 247,798 876,564 Other non-current financial liabilities CLF - - - - 453,818 453,818 Subtotal Other non-current financial liabilities 249,869 80,903 297,994 - 701,616 1,330,382 Other non-current provisions USD 28,822 3.000 - - - 31,822 Subtotal Other non-current provisions 28,822 3.000 - - - 31,822 Deferred tax liabilities USD 63,534 33.355 56,040 - 22,432 175,361 Subtotal Deferred tax liabilities 63,534 33,355 56,040 - 22,432 175,361 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current USD - 9,081 - - 27,116 36,197 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current CLP - - - - 521 521 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current MXN - - - - 175 175 Provisions for employee benefits, non-current YEN - - - - 171 171 Subtotal Provisions for employee benefits, non-current - 9,081 - - 27,983 37,064 Total non-current liabilities 342,225 126,339 354,034 - 752,031 1,574,629 Total liabilities 2,130,292

Income tax and deferred taxes (

Income tax and deferred taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of income tax [Abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about current and non-current tax assets [Text Block]	a) Current tax assets Current tax assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Monthly provisional income tax payments, Chilean companies 47,283 21,172 Monthly provisional income tax payments, foreign companies 124 5,199 Corporate tax credits (1) 1,262 1,858 1st category tax absorbed by tax loss (2) 916 - Taxes in recovery process 41,848 28,881 Total 91,433 57,110 b) Non-current tax assets Non-current tax assets As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Monthly provisional income tax payments, Chilean companies compensated by the specific tax on mining activity (Lithium) 6,398 6,398 Specific tax on mining activities (IEAM) paid by Lithium (on consignment) 25,781 25,781 Total 32,179 32,179 (1) These credits are available for Companies and are related to corporate tax payments in April of the following year. These credits include, among others, credits for training expenses (SENCE), credits for acquisition of fixed assets, donations and credits in Chile for taxes paid abroad. (2) This concept corresponds to the absorption of the tax losses determined by the company at the end of the year, which must be attributed to the dividends received during the year.
Disclosure of detailed information about current tax liabilities [Text Block]	Current tax liabilities Current tax liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ 1st Category income tax 7,863 25,163 Foreign company income tax 9,944 21,097 Article 21 single tax 67 1,152 Total 17,874 47,412
Description of detailed information regarding income tax rates applicable for various countries [Text Block]	The income tax rate for the main countries where the Company operates is presented below: Income tax Income tax Country 2019 2018 Spain 25 % 25 % Belgium 29.58 % 29.58 % Mexico 30 % 30 % United States 21% % 21% % South Africa 28 % 28 %
Disclosure of deferred taxes [text block]	(a) Income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 are detailed as follows: Net liability position Description of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 Assets Liabilities ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses 82,075 - Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest - (197,167 ) Provision of restoration and rehabilitation 7,313 - Manufacturing expenses - (106,420 ) Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance - (6,000 ) Vacation accrual 5,591 - Inventory provision 23,885 - Materials provision 7,982 - Forward - - Employee benefits 2,689 - Research and development expenses - (3,533 ) Bad debt provisions 3,542 - Provision for legal complaints and expenses 2,546 - Loan approval expenses - (3,856 ) Financial instruments recorded at market value - (1,287 ) specific tax on mining activity - (1,357 ) Tax loss benefit 2,296 - Other - (2,021 ) Foreign items (other) 311 - Balances to date 138,230 (321,641 ) Net balance (183,411 ) (b) Income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows Net liability position Description of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 Assets Liabilities ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses 75,832 - Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest - (196,843 ) Provision of restoration and rehabilitation 4,280 - Manufacturing expenses - (103,760 ) Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance - (5,679 ) Vacation accrual 5,155 - Inventory provision 28,155 - Materials provision 6,239 - Forward 2,169 - Employee benefits 3,309 - Research and development expenses - (2,216 ) Bad debt provisions 4,188 - Provision for legal complaints and expenses 4,013 - Loan approval expenses - (2,337 ) Financial instruments recorded at market value - (976 ) specific tax on mining activity - (3,278 ) Tax loss benefit 1,124 - Other 5,005 - Foreign items (other) 259 - Balances at the reporting date 139,728 (315,089 ) Net balance (175,361 )
Disclosure of detailed information about reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities assets [Text Block]	(c) Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) as of December 31, 2019 Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) Deferred tax Deferred tax Deferred taxes Total increases Deferred tax ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses (75,832 ) (6,243 ) - (6,243 ) (82,075 ) Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest 196,843 324 - 324 197,167 Provision of restoration and rehabilitation (4,280 ) (3,033 ) - (3,033 ) (7,313 ) Manufacturing expenses 103,760 2,660 - 2,660 106,420 Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance 5,679 1,007 (686 ) 321 6,000 Vacation accrual (5,155 ) (436 ) - (436 ) (5,591 ) Inventory provision (28,155 ) 4,270 - 4,270 (23,885 ) Materials provision (6,239 ) (1,743 ) - (1,743 ) (7,982 ) Forward (2,169 ) (514 ) 2,683 2,169 - Employee benefits (3,309 ) 620 - 620 (2,689 ) Research and development expenses 2,216 1,317 - 1,317 3,533 Bad debt provisions (4,188 ) 646 - 646 (3,542 ) Provision for legal complaints and expenses (4,013 ) 1,467 - 1,467 (2,546 ) Loan approval expenses 2,337 1,519 - 1,519 3,856 Financial instruments recorded at market value 976 - 311 311 1,287 specific tax on mining activity 3,278 (1,905 ) (16 ) (1,921 ) 1,357 Tax loss benefit (1,124 ) (1,172 ) - (1,172 ) (2,296 ) Other (5,005 ) 7,026 - 7,026 2,021 Foreign items (other) (259 ) (52 ) - (52 ) (311 ) Total temporary differences, unused losses and unused tax credits 175,361 5,758 2,292 8,050 183,411 (d) Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) as of December 31, 2018 Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liabilities (assets) ‎ for the year ended December 31, 2018 Deferred tax ‎ liability (asset) at ‎ beginning of ‎ period Deferred tax ‎ expense ‎ (benefit) ‎ recognized in ‎ profit (loss) for ‎ the year Deferred taxes ‎ related to items ‎ credited ‎ (charged) ‎ directly to ‎ equity Total increases ‎ (decreases) in ‎ deferred tax ‎ liabilities ‎ (assets) Deferred tax ‎ liability (asset) ‎ at end of ‎ period ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Unrealized losses (68,544 ) (7,288 ) - (7,288 ) (75,832 ) Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest 211,374 (14,531 ) - (14,531 ) 196,843 Provision of restoration and rehabilitation (3,469 ) (811 ) - (811 ) (4,280 ) Manufacturing expenses 102,748 1,012 - 1,012 103,760 Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance 6,792 (667 ) (446 ) (1,113 ) 5,679 Vacation accrual (4,887 ) (268 ) - (268 ) (5,155 ) Inventory provision (25,172 ) (2,983 ) - (2,983 ) (28,155 ) Materials provision (7,107 ) 868 - 868 (6,239 ) Forward (624 ) (1,545 ) - (1,545 ) (2,169 ) Employee benefits (2,317 ) (992 ) - (992 ) (3,309 ) Research and development expenses 3,501 (1,285 ) - (1,285 ) 2,216 Bad debt provisions (4,253 ) 686 (621 ) ¹ 65 (4,188 ) Provision for legal complaints and expenses (5,243 ) 1,230 - 1,230 (4,013 ) Loan approval expenses 2,670 (333 ) - (333 ) 2,337 Financial instruments recorded at market value 2,474 - (1,498 ) (1,498 ) 976 specific tax on mining activity 4,084 (795 ) (11 ) (806 ) 3,278 Tax loss benefit (1,437 ) 313 - 313 (1,124 ) Other (5,002 ) (64 ) 61 (3 ) (5,005 ) Foreign items (other) (305 ) 46 - 46 (259 ) Total temporary differences, unused losses and unused tax credits 205,283 (27,407 ) (2,515 ) (29,922 ) 175,361 (1) This corresponds to the adjustment to the beginning balance of the impairment provision for receivables against other reserves.
Disclosure of detailed information about net operating loss carryforwards [Text Block]	As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, tax loss carryforwards are detailed as follows: Deferred taxes related to benefits for tax losses As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Chile 2,296 1,124 Total 2,296 1,124
Disclosure of detailed information about movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities [Text Block]	Movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Movements in deferred tax assets and liabilities As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance (175,361 ) (205,283 ) Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in profit or loss (5,758 ) 27,407 Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in equity (2,292 ) 2,515 Total (183,411 ) (175,361 )
Disclosure of detailed information about current and deferred tax expenses income [Text Block]	Current and deferred tax (expense) benefit are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Disclosures on income tax expense (benefit) For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current income tax expense Current tax expense (116,483 ) (207,959 ) (182,567 ) Adjustments to prior year current income tax 12,222 1,577 15,954 Current income tax expense, net, total (104,261 ) (206,382 ) (166,613 ) Deferred tax expense Deferred tax expense (income) relating to the creation and reversal of temporary differences 2,551 26,434 440 Tax adjustments related to the creation and reversal of temporary differences from the previous year (8,309 ) 973 - Deferred tax expense, net, total (5,758 ) 27,407 440 Tax expense (benefit) (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) Tax (expense) benefit for foreign and domestic parties are detailed as follows: Assets (liabilities) Income tax (expense) benefit For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2019 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2018 For the year ended ‎ December 31, 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Current income tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net Current income tax expense, foreign parties, net (1) (7,394 ) (7,516 ) (14,396 ) Current income tax expense, domestic, net (96,867 ) (198,866 ) (152,217 ) Current income tax expense, net, total (104,261 ) (206,382 ) (166,613 ) Deferred tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net Current income tax benefit (expense), foreign parties, net 2,370 (1,885 ) (154 ) Current income tax expense, domestic, net (8,128 ) 29,292 594 Deferred tax expense, net, total (5,758 ) 27,407 440 Income tax expense (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) (1) As a result of a tax audit over the 2017 transfer prices of our subsidiary SQM Europe N.V., an additional provision was recognized amounting ThUS$ 1,068.
Disclosure of detailed information about tax effects of other comprehensive income components [Text Block]	(i) Disclosures on the tax effects of other comprehensive income components: For the year ended December 31, 2019 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (3,310 ) 702 (2,608 ) Cash flow hedge 1,907 (2,683 ) (776 ) Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income 1,152 (311 ) 841 Total (251 ) (2,292 ) (2,543 ) For the year ended December 31, 2018 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (1,327 ) 396 (931 ) Cash flow hedge 5,723 - 5,723 Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (5,546 ) 1,498 (4,048 ) Total (1,150 ) 1,894 744 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or ‎ credit to net equity Amount before taxes ‎ (expense) gain (Expense) income for ‎ income taxes Amount after taxes ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans (1,401 ) 282 (1,119 ) Cash flow hedge 2,184 - 2,184 Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (26 ) (550 ) (576 ) Total 757 (268 ) 489
Disclosure of reconciliation of accounting profit multiplied by applicable tax rates [Text Block]	Reconciliation between the tax (expense) benefit and the result of multipl y Expense (Benefits) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) As of December As of December ‎ 2018 As of December ‎ 2017 ThUS$ ThUS$ ThUS$ Consolidated income before taxes 390,622 621,038 594,590 Income tax rate in force in Chile 27 % 27 % 25,5 % Tax expense using the legal rate (105,468 ) (167,680 ) (151,620 ) Effect of royalty tax payments (4,314 ) (4,919 ) (3,372 ) Tax effect of revenue from regular activities exempt from taxation 2,376 1,446 2,886 Tax rate effect of non-tax-deductible expenses for determining taxable profit (loss) (2,128 ) (2,327 ) (4,764 ) Tax effect of tax rates supported abroad (252 ) 3,517 (8,061 ) IRS provision surplus (*) - (3,724 ) - Other tax effects from reconciliation between accounting gains and tax expenses (233 ) (5,288 ) (1,242 ) Tax expense using the effective rate (110,019 ) (178,975 ) (166,173 ) (*) Internal revenue service

Assets held for sale and deta_2

Assets held for sale and detail of assets sold (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale or as held for distribution to owners [abstract]
Disclosure of detailed information about available for sale noncurrent assets [Text Block]	The following table shows the movements in assets held for sale: Assets held for sale As of December ‎ 31, 2019 As of December ‎ 31, 2018 ThUS$ ThUS$ Land owned by Soquimich Comercial S.A. 2,454 1,430 Total assets held for sale 2,454 1,430

Identification and Activities_3

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	10.00%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	40.00%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	8.00%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	25.00%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Five [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	6.80%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Six [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 10,000
Percentage of lease payment rate	17.00%
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 0
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	4,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	5,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	6,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Five [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	7,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	4,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	5,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	6,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	7,000
Lithium carbonate [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Five [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 10,000
Potassium chloride [Member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	7.00%
Potassium chloride [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	10.00%
Potassium chloride [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	20.00%
Potassium chloride [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of lease payment rate	3.00%
Potassium chloride [Member] | MT Li2CO3 Five [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 600
Percentage of lease payment rate	15.00%
Potassium chloride [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 0
Potassium chloride [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	300
Potassium chloride [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	400
Potassium chloride [Member] | Bottom of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	500
Potassium chloride [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 One [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	300
Potassium chloride [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	400
Potassium chloride [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	500
Potassium chloride [Member] | Top of range [member] | MT Li2CO3 Four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Lease Payments	$ 600

Identification and Activities_4

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries (Details 1)	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019Employees	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018Employees
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees	124	5,741	123	5,290
Executives [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		121		122
Professionals [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		1,280		1,193
Technicians and operators [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		3,763		3,547
Foreign employees [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		577		428
SQM S.A [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		439		419
SQM S.A [Member] | Executives [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		30		33
SQM S.A [Member] | Professionals [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		110		115
SQM S.A [Member] | Technicians and operators [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		282		260
SQM S.A [Member] | Foreign employees [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		17		11
Other Subsidiaries [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		5,302		4,871
Other Subsidiaries [Member] | Executives [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		91		89
Other Subsidiaries [Member] | Professionals [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		1,170		1,078
Other Subsidiaries [Member] | Technicians and operators [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		3,481		3,287
Other Subsidiaries [Member] | Foreign employees [Member]
Disclosure Of Information About Employees Explanatory [Line Items]
Number of employees		560		417

Identification and Activities_5

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries (Details 2) - shares	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding		7,138,685
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage		2.71%
The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	14.56%	13.39%
Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	18.50%	20.89%
Potasios de Chile S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	6.91%	6.91%
Inversiones Global Mining Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	3.34%	3.34%
Banco de Chile Non Resident Third Party Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	2.60%	4.07%
Banco Itau via Foreign Investor Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	2.80%	3.07%
Banco Santander via Foreign Investor [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding		0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	2.51%	0.00%
Euroamerica C de B SA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	1.85%
Banchile C de B S A [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	1.82%	1.73%
Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	1.59%	1.43%
Inversiones TLC SPA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	23.77%	23.77%
Santiago stock exchanges [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	1.18%
Series A Stock [Member] | The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.00%
Series A Stock [Member] | Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	44,894,152	44,894,152
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	31.43%	31.43%
Series A Stock [Member] | Potasios de Chile S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	18,179,147	18,179,147
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	12.73%	12.73%
Series A Stock [Member] | Inversiones Global Mining Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	8,798,539	8,798,539
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	6.16%	6.16%
Series A Stock [Member] | Banco de Chile Non Resident Third Party Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	109	15,687
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.01%
Series A Stock [Member] | Banco Itau via Foreign Investor Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.00%
Series A Stock [Member] | Banco Santander via Foreign Investor [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%
Series A Stock [Member] | Euroamerica C de B SA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	3,056
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%
Series A Stock [Member] | Banchile C de B S A [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	491,729	528,092
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.34%	0.37%
Series A Stock [Member] | Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	4,147,263	3,711,598
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	2.90%	2.60%
Series A Stock [Member] | Inversiones TLC SPA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	62,556,568	62,556,568
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	43.80%	43.80%
Series A Stock [Member] | Santiago stock exchanges [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	30,590
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.02%
Series B Stock [Member] | The Bank of New York Mellon, ADRs [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	38,311,788	35,254,267
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	31.83%	29.29%
Series B Stock [Member] | Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	3,793,154	10,093,154
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	3.15%	8.38%
Series B Stock [Member] | Potasios de Chile S.A. [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.00%
Series B Stock [Member] | Inversiones Global Mining Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.00%
Series B Stock [Member] | Banco de Chile Non Resident Third Party Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	6,842,746	10,703,812
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	5.68%	8.89%
Series B Stock [Member] | Banco Itau via Foreign Investor Accounts [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	7,373,216	8,085,730
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	6.13%	6.72%
Series B Stock [Member] | Banco Santander via Foreign Investor [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	6,618,416
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	5.50%	5.93%
Series B Stock [Member] | Euroamerica C de B SA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	4,863,467
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	4.04%
Series B Stock [Member] | Banchile C de B S A [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	4,285,696	4,028,611
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	3.56%	3.35%
Series B Stock [Member] | Inversiones la Esperanza de Chile Limitada [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	46,500	46,500
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.04%	0.04%
Series B Stock [Member] | Inversiones TLC SPA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	0	0
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	0.00%	0.00%
Series B Stock [Member] | Santiago stock exchanges [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding	3,077,930
Number of Shares Outstanding, Ownership Percentage	2.56%

Identification and Activities_6

Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries (Details Textual) - USD ($)	Dec. 05, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Percentage of shareholder Outstanding shares interest in excess		5.00%
Number of shareholders		1,413
Research and development expense		$ 1.7
MT KCL [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Percentage of entity's revenue		1.80%
Bottom of range [member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Research and development expense		$ 10
Top of range [member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Research and development expense		15
SQM member [Member] | Bottom of range [member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Research and development expense		10.8
SQM member [Member] | Top of range [member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Research and development expense		$ 18.9
Sales channels [member] | MT Li2CO3 [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Percentage of entity's revenue		6.80%
Inversiones TLC SPA [Member]
Identification and Activities of the Company and Subsidiaries [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity held by entity or by its subsidiaries	25.86%	23.77%
Number of shares in entity held by entity or by its subsidiaries or associates	62,556,568
Number of shares reserved for issue under options and contracts for sale of shares		62,556,568

Basis of presentation for the_3

Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 01, 2019
Disclosure Of Basis Of Presentation For Consolidated Financial Statement [Line Items]
Trade and other receivables, current	$ 399,142	$ 466,619
Trade receivables due from related parties, current	61,227	42,790		$ 61,227
Other non-financial assets, current	50,552	47,972
Intangible assets other than goodwill	188,358	189,350
Goodwill	34,726	34,866	$ 37,972
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Finance costs	$ (76,939)	(57,807)	$ (50,124)
Balances originally reported [Member]
Disclosure Of Basis Of Presentation For Consolidated Financial Statement [Line Items]
Trade and other receivables, current		464,855
Trade receivables due from related parties, current		44,554
Other non-financial assets, current		49,186
Intangible assets other than goodwill		188,283
Goodwill		34,718
Cost of sales		(1,483,524)
Finance costs		(59,914)
Reclassification balances [Member]
Disclosure Of Basis Of Presentation For Consolidated Financial Statement [Line Items]
Trade and other receivables, current		1,764
Trade receivables due from related parties, current		(1,764)
Other non-financial assets, current		(1,214)
Intangible assets other than goodwill		1,067
Goodwill		148
Cost of sales		(2,107)
Finance costs		2,107
Reclassified balances [member]
Disclosure Of Basis Of Presentation For Consolidated Financial Statement [Line Items]
Trade and other receivables, current		466,619
Trade receivables due from related parties, current		42,790
Other non-financial assets, current		47,972
Intangible assets other than goodwill		189,350
Goodwill		34,866
Cost of sales		(1,485,631)
Finance costs		$ (57,807)

Basis of presentation for the_4

Basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements (Details 2)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Total	Foreign
Description of functional currency			US$
Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Brazil
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		United Kingdom
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM North America Corp. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		USA
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Belgium
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Argentina
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Netherlands
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Curacao
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQI Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Curacao
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Comercial De Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Mexico
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
North American Trading Company [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		USA
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Administracion y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Mexico
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Peru S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Peru
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Ecuador S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Ecuador
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Nitratos Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Mexico
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		USA
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Curacao
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Brasil Limitada [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Brazil
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM France S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		France
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Japan Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Japan
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Aruba
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Oceania Pty Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Australia
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Aruba
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Colombia SAS [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Colombia
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Australia Pty [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Australia
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SACAL S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID	[1]	Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary	[1]	Argentina
Description of functional currency	[1]	ARS
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	0.00%	100.00%
SQM Indonesia S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Indonesia
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		80.00%	80.00%
SQM Virginia L.L.C. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		USA
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Italia SRL [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Italy
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Panama
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Africa Pty. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		South Africa
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Lithium Specialties LLC [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		USA
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Spain
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		China
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM Thailand Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Thailand
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.996%	99.996%
SQM Internacional N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Belgium
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		Foreign
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		China
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Comercial Hydro S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		96.801.610-5
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6383%	60.6383%
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		96.651.060-9
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.9999%	99.9999%
SQM Nitratos S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		96.592.190-7
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Ajay SQM Chile S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		96.592.180-K
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		51.00%	51.00%
SQMC Internacional Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID	[2]	86.630.200-6
Country of incorporation of subsidiary	[2]	Chile
Description of functional currency	[2]	Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[2]	0.00%	60.6381%
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.947.100-0
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.906.120-1
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Almacenes y Depositos Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.876.080-7
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Servicios Integrales de Transitos y Transferencias S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.770.780-5
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.768.170-9
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6383%	60.6383%
SQM Salar S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		79.626.800-K
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Proinsa Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID	[3]	78.053.910-0
Country of incorporation of subsidiary	[3]	Chile
Description of functional currency	[3]	Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[3]	0.00%	60.58%
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.534.490-5
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Exploraciones Mineras S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.425.380-9
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Comercial Agrorama Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID	[1]	76.064.419-6
Country of incorporation of subsidiary	[1]	Chile
Description of functional currency	[1]	Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	42.4468%	42.4468%
Agrorama S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.145.229-0
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		Ch$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6387%	60.6387%
Orcoma Estudios SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.359.919-1
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		51.00%	51.00%
Orcoma SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.360.575-2
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
SQM MaG SpA. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Description Of Tax ID		76.686.311-9
Country of incorporation of subsidiary		Chile
Description of functional currency		US$
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%	100.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM North America Corp. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		40.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.58%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.0002%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQI Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.0159%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Comercial De Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.01%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | North American Trading Company [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Administracion y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Peru S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.0091%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Ecuador S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.004%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Nitratos Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.10%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Brasil Limitada [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.84%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM France S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Japan Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.1597%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1.67%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Oceania Pty Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		98.3333%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Colombia SAS [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Australia Pty [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SACAL S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Indonesia S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Virginia L.L.C. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Italia SRL [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Africa Pty. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Lithium Specialties LLC [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Thailand Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Internacional N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.58%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Hydro S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.9999%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Nitratos S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.9999%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Ajay SQM Chile S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		51.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQMC Internacional Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[2]	0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.047%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Almacenes y Depositos Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Servicios Integrales de Transitos y Transferencias S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.0003%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM Salar S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		18.18%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Proinsa Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[3]	0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Exploraciones Mineras S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.2691%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Agrorama Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Agrorama S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Orcoma Estudios SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		51.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | Orcoma SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Direct ownership interest [Member] | SQM MaG SpA. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM North America Corp. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.42%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1000000.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.9998%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQI Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.98413%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Comercial De Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.99%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | North American Trading Company [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Administracion y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Peru S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.99093%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Ecuador S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.996%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Nitratos Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.90%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Brasil Limitada [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.16%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM France S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Japan Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.8403%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		98.33%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Oceania Pty Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		1.6667%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Colombia SAS [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Australia Pty [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SACAL S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Indonesia S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		80.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Virginia L.L.C. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Italia SRL [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Africa Pty. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Lithium Specialties LLC [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Thailand Limited [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.996%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Internacional N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.42%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM (Shanghai) Chemicals Co. Ltd. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Hydro S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6383%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Nitratos S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.0001%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Ajay SQM Chile S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQMC Internacional Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[2]	0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.953%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Almacenes y Depositos Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Servicios Integrales de Transitos y Transferencias S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.9997%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6383%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM Salar S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		81.82%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Proinsa Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[3]	0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Exploraciones Mineras S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		99.7309%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Comercial Agrorama Ltda. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	[1]	42.4468%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Agrorama S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		60.6387%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Orcoma Estudios SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | Orcoma SPA [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		0.00%
Indirect ownership interest [Member] | SQM MaG SpA. [Member]
Disclosure of basis of presentation for the consolidated financial statements [LineItems]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		100.00%
[1]	On June 26, 2019, SACAL was liquidated.
[2]	On March 01, 2019, SQMC Internacional merged with Soquimich Comercial S.A.
[3]	On April 01, 2019, Proinsa Ltda was liquidated.

Significant accounting polici_4

Significant accounting policies (Details)		Dec. 31, 2019Employees	Dec. 31, 2018Employees
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate | Pure		748.74	694.77
Brazilian real [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		4.02	3.87
New Peruvian Sol [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		3.31	3.37
Argentine peso [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		59.83	37.74
Japanese yen [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		108.9	110.38
Euro [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		0.89	0.87
Mexican peso [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		18.89	19.68
Australian dollar [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		1.43	1.42
Pound Sterling [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		0.76	0.79
South African rand [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		14.06	14.35
Ecuadorian Dollar [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		1	1
Chilean peso [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		748.74	694.77
Chinese yuan [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		6.98	6.88
Indian rupee [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		71.31	69.93
Thai baht [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		29.97	32.53
Turkish Lira Member [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate		5.94	5.27
Polish Ztoly [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate | Employees		3.79	0
Uf [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate	[1]	37.81	39.68
[1]	US$ por UF

Significant accounting polici_5

Significant accounting policies (Details 1)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Bottom of range [member] | Mining assets [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	3 years
Bottom of range [member] | Energy generating assets [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Bottom of range [member] | Buildings [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	3 years
Bottom of range [member] | Supplies and accessories [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Bottom of range [member] | Office Equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Bottom of range [member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Bottom of range [member] | Network and communication equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Bottom of range [member] | IT equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Bottom of range [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	1 year
Bottom of range [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	1 year
Top of range [member] | Mining assets [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Top of range [member] | Energy generating assets [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Top of range [member] | Buildings [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	15 years
Top of range [member] | Supplies and accessories [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Top of range [member] | Office Equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Top of range [member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Top of range [member] | Network and communication equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Top of range [member] | IT equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	8 years
Top of range [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	15 years
Top of range [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Mining assets [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Energy generating assets [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	6 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Buildings [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	8 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Supplies and accessories [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	3 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Office Equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	2 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Network and communication equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Weighted Average [Member] | IT equipment [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	7 years
Weighted Average [Member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	5 years

Significant accounting polici_6

Significant accounting policies (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Discount Rate For Pension Obligations	3.68%	4.642%
Amortization Period	10 years
Bottom of range [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Cash dividend rate	30.00%
Top of range [member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Exemption From Lease As Low Value Asset	$ 5,000
SQM North America [Member]
Significant accounting policies [Line Items]
Discount Rate For Pension Obligations	4.00%	3.75%

Changes in accounting estimat_2

Changes in accounting estimates and policies (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019
Disclosure Of Changes In Accounting Estimates Explanatory [Abstract]
Adjustments Through IFRS	$ 2,301
Deferred Taxes	1,680
Right of use asset		$ 8,066	$ 45,115
Lease liability	$ 0	$ 37,897	$ 45,115
Weighted average incremental lease loan rate		8.08%	8.08%

Financial risk management (Deta

Financial risk management (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	$ 485,689	$ 1,397,602
Financial Assets Neither Past Due Nor Impaired Total [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	476,332	453,583
Moody´s P-1 SPA-1 [Member] | Banco Credito e Inversiones [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	178,448
Moody´s P-1 SPA-1 [Member] | Banco Santander - Santiago [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	74,365
Moody´s P-1 SPA-1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Credito e Inversiones [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	42,096	27,428
Moody´s P-1 SPA-1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco de Chile [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	50,221	7,305
Moody´s P-1 SPA-1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Itau-Corpbanca [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	39,093	61,946
No Rating [Member] | Banco Security [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	17,965
No Rating [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Santander - Santiago [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	2,708	432
No Rating [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | BBVA Banco Frances [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	53	84
No Rating [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Scotiabank Sud Americano [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		86,222
No Rating [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Estado [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	500	3,602
No Rating [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Santander [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		432
No Rating [Member] | Investment Fund Deposits [Member] | JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	181,155	133,809
No Rating [Member] | Investment Fund Deposits [Member] | Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional Cash Reserves [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	146,078	132,108
No Rating [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco de Chile [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	18,026
No Rating [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Security [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		27,215
No Rating [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Scotiabank [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		24,898
Moody´s P-2 SPA-2 [Member] | Itau-Corpbanca [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	127,579
Moody´s P-1 SPB [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Nedbank [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		647
Fitch F1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Scotiabank Sud Americano [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	14,428
Moody's P-2 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Scotiabank Sud Americano [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	54,180
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Credito e Inversiones [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		27,428
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco de Chile [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		7,305
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Estado [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	15,126
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco de Crdito e Inversiones [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	178,448
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco de Crdito e Inversiones [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		145,834
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Santander [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	74,365
Moody's P-1 S&P A-1 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Santander [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		23,124
Moody's P-2 S&P A-2 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Banco Itau Corpbanca [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		61,946
Moody's P-2 S&P A-2 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Itau Corpbanca [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	127,579
Moody's P-2 S&P A-2 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Itau Corpbanca [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		70,719
S&P A-2 Fitch F2 [Member] | 90 days to 1 year [Member] | Banco Security [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets	$ 17,965
Moody's P3 S&P B [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Nedbank [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		647
Moodys Aaamf SP AAAm Fitch AAAmmf [Member] | Investment Fund Deposits [Member] | JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		133,809
SP AAAm Fitch AAAmmf [Member] | Investment Fund Deposits [Member] | Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional Cash Reserves [Member] | Financial assets neither past due nor impaired [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets		$ 132,108

Financial risk management (De_2

Financial risk management (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Bank borrowings	$ 77,040	$ 83,760
Unsecured obligations	2,125,010	1,598,730
Subtotal	2,202,050	1,682,490
Hedging liabilities	63,270	50,430
Derivative financial instruments	3,170	2,860
Subtotal	66,440	53,290
Current and non-current lease liabilities	22,983
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable	205,790	163,751
Total	1,518,926	1,517,727
Less than 1 year [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Bank borrowings	2,170	4,100
Unsecured obligations	326,340	61,370
Subtotal	328,510	65,470
Hedging liabilities	6,570	5,520
Derivative financial instruments	3,170	2,860
Subtotal	9,740	8,380
Current and non-current lease liabilities	8,903
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable	205,700	163,170
Total	552,853	237,020
1 to 5 years [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Bank borrowings	74,870	79,660
Unsecured obligations	614,290	823,760
Subtotal	689,160	903,420
Hedging liabilities	24,330	15,640
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Subtotal	24,330	15,640
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable	0	580
Total	736,473	919,640
Over 5 years [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Bank borrowings	0	0
Unsecured obligations	1,184,380	713,600
Subtotal	1,184,380	713,600
Hedging liabilities	32,370	29,270
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Subtotal	32,370	29,270
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable	0	0
Total	1,227,496	742,870
Carrying amount [Member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Bank borrowings	70,190	70,250
Unsecured obligations	1,697,110	1,273,070
Subtotal	1,767,300	1,343,320
Hedging liabilities	23,660	17,320
Derivative financial instruments	3,170	2,860
Subtotal	26,830	20,180
Current and non-current lease liabilities	42,632
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable	205,700	163,750
Total	$ 2,042,462	$ 1,527,250

Financial risk management (De_3

Financial risk management (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Closing foreign exchange rate | Pure	748.74	694.77
Percentage of Financial Liabilities Maturing in Next 12 Months	4.00%
Undrawn borrowing facilities	$ 477,000,000
Finance income (cost)	$ 0.06
CHILE
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Average foreign exchange rate	7,300
Derivatives [member]
Financial risk management [Line Items]
Financial assets, at fair value	$ 18,900,000	$ 3,900,000
Adjustments for unrealised foreign exchange losses (gains)	$ 424,000,000

Background of companies inclu_3

Background of companies included in consolidation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
Assets	$ 4,684,151	$ 4,268,094	$ 4,296,236
Liabilities	(2,549,679)	(2,130,292)	(2,048,768)
Equity	2,134,472	2,137,802	$ 2,247,468	$ 2,307,272
Parent [Member]
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
Assets	4,069,649	3,737,892
Liabilities	(1,983,382)	(1,652,401)
Equity	$ 2,086,267	$ 2,085,491

Board of Directors, Senior Ma_3

Board of Directors, Senior Management and Key management personnel (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 22,598	$ 27,907	$ 27,367

Board of Directors, Senior Ma_4

Board of Directors, Senior Management and Key management personnel (Details Textual) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019Employees	Dec. 31, 2018Employees
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 22,598	$ 27,907	$ 27,367
Number of employees	124	123		5,741	5,290
Chairman [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 800	$ 400
Chairman [Member] | Variable compensation [Member] | National currency [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation, Percentage		0.12%
Chairman [Member] | Variable compensation [Member] | Local currency [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation, Percentage	0.06%
Vice-president [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation		$ 350
Directors [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 700	350
Directors [Member] | Variable compensation [Member] | National currency [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation, Percentage	0.12%
Directors [Member] | Variable compensation [Member] | Local currency [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation, Percentage	0.06%
Directors committee [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 4,527	3,791	$ 3,231
Directors committee [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 200	$ 113
Directors committee [Member] | Variable compensation [Member] | Local currency [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation, Percentage	0.02%	0.02%
Health, Safety and Environmental Matters Committee [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 100	$ 50
Corporate Governance Committee [Member] | Fixed compensation [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 100	$ 50

Equity-accounted investees (Det

Equity-accounted investees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		$ 109,435	$ 111,549	$ 152,630
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method	[1]	0	(206)	(27)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax				13,030
Investments accounted for using equity method [member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		85,092	75,976
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		8,402	5,081	13,004
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(571)	(1,177)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		7,831	3,904
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		11,609	10,821
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		634	596	1,483
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		1	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		635	596	1,483
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		26,001	21,582
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		3,912	241	6,427
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		198	489
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		4,110	730	6,427
Ajay North America
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		14,669	14,951
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		2,871	3,728	3,677
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		0	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		2,871	3,728	3,677
Ajay Europe SARL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		7,451	7,845
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		1,165	1,373	1,049
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(179)	(439)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		986	934	1,075
Charlee SQM Thailand Co, Ltd,
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		0	0
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		0	316	393
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		0	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		0	316	393
SQM Eastmed Turkey,
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		623	310
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		354	370	(25)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(42)	(21)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		312	349	(25)
Kore Potash Ltd
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		24,739	20,467
Share in profit (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method		(534)	(1,543)	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(549)	(1,206)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, before tax		$ (1,083)	$ (2,749)	$ 0
[1]	Minera Exar S.A. was sold in December 2018.

Equity-accounted investees (D_2

Equity-accounted investees (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Dividends received		$ 3,851	$ 10,612	$ 2,091
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in the Middle East.
Domicile		PO Box 71871, Abu Dhabi
Country of incorporation		United Arab Emirates
Share of ownership in associates		37.00%
Dividends received		$ 0	6,632	0
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in Turkey.
Domicile		Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya
Country of incorporation		Turkey
Share of ownership in associates		50.00%
Dividends received		$ 0	0	0
Ajay North America
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Production and distribution of iodine derivatives.
Domicile		1400 Industry RD Power Springs GA 30129
Country of incorporation		United States of America
Share of ownership in associates		49.00%
Dividends received		$ 2,796	2,807	1,123
Ajay Europe SARL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Production and distribution of iodine derivatives.
Domicile		Z.I. du Grand Verger BP 227 53602 Evron Cedex
Country of incorporation		France
Share of ownership in associates		50.00%
Dividends received		$ 1,055	811	968
SQM Eastmed Turkey,
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Production and commercialization of specialty products.
Domicile		Organize Sanayi Bolgesi, Ikinci Kisim, 22 cadde TR07100 Antalya
Country of incorporation		Turkey
Share of ownership in associates		50.00%
Dividends received		$ 0	0	0
Charlee SQM Thailand Co, Ltd,
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients.
Domicile		31 Soi 138 (Meesuk) LLapdrawrd, Bangkapi, 10240 Bangkok
Country of incorporation		Thailand
Share of ownership in associates		40.00%
Dividends received		$ 0	362	0
Kore Potash Ltd.
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Prospection, exploration and mining development.
Domicile		L 3 88 William ST Perth, was 6000
Country of incorporation		Australia
Share of ownership in associates		19.67%
Dividends received		$ 0	0	0
Terra Tarsa B.V | Related Party of Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]	Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients.
Domicile	[1]	Herikerbergweg 238, Luna Arena, 1101CM Amsterdam PO Box 23393, 1100DW Amsterdam Zuidoost
Country of incorporation	[1]	Holland
Share of ownership in associates	[1]	50.00%
Dividends received	[1]	$ 0	0	0
Plantacote N.V. | Related Party of Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]	Sale of CRF and production and sales of WSNPK.
Domicile	[1]	Houtdok-Noordkaai 25a, 2030 Antwerpen, Belgium
Country of incorporation	[1]	Belgium
Share of ownership in associates	[1]	100.00%
Dividends received	[1]	$ 0	0	0
Doktolab Tarim Arastima San, Tic As | Related Party of Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]	Laboratory services.
Domicile	[1]	27. Cd. No:2, 07190 Aosb 2. Kısım/Döşemealtı, Antalya, Turkey
Country of incorporation	[1]	Turkey
Share of ownership in associates	[1]	100.00%
Dividends received	[1]	$ 0	0	0
Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC | Related Party of Terra Tarsa B.V [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[2]	Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients.
Domicile	[2]	74800 Ukraine, Kakhovka, 4 Yuzhnaya Str.
Country of incorporation	[2]	Ukraine
Share of ownership in associates	[2]	100.00%
Dividends received	[2]	$ 0	0	0
Terra Tarsa Don LLC | Related Party of Terra Tarsa B.V [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship		Distribution and sale of specialty fertilizers
Domicile		Zorge Street, house 17, 344090, Rostov-on-Don
Country of incorporation		Russian Federation
Share of ownership in associates		100.00%
Dividends received		$ 0	0	0
Internacional Technical and Trading Agenies Co. WLL | Related Party of Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[3]	Distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrients, in the Middle East.
Domicile	[3]	P.O Box: 950918 Amman 11195
Country of incorporation	[3]	Jordan
Share of ownership in associates	[3]	50.00%
Dividends received	[3]	$ 0	0	0
Doctochem Tarim Sanayai Ticaret LTD | Related Party of Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]	Production, distribution and trading of specialty plant nutrition. .
Domicile	[1]	Eski Büyükdere Cad No: 7 GIZ 2000 Plaza K:17 D:67-68 Maslak Sariyer Ístambul.
Country of incorporation	[1]	Turkey
Share of ownership in associates	[1]	100.00%
Dividends received	[1]	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
[2]	Terra Tarsa B.V.
[3]	Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL

Equity-accounted investees (D_3

Equity-accounted investees (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 2,682,166	$ 2,398,382
Non-current Assets	2,001,985	1,869,712
Current liabilities	776,812	555,663
Non-current liabilities	1,772,867	1,574,629
Revenue	1,943,655	2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Other comprehensive income	(1,755)	(486)	(4,948)
Comprehensive income	278,848	441,577	423,469
Associates [member]
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	176,333	141,240	181,405
Non-current Assets	161,068	187,895	29,910
Current liabilities	43,572	47,056	59,507
Non-current liabilities	39,226	9,943	13,766
Revenue	202,984	187,061	194,902
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	15,719	4,989	27,397
Other comprehensive income	(2,833)	(6,825)	(1,761)
Comprehensive income	7,026	(1,836)	25,636
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	28,543	23,496	44,801
Non-current Assets	9,971	11,444	2,032
Current liabilities	7,133	5,695	3,764
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	31,588	33,098	35,131
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	1,713	1,611	4,008
Other comprehensive income	4	(1)	(4)
Comprehensive income	1,717	1,610	4,004
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	97,797	66,498	81,057
Non-current Assets	15,196	12,242	10,731
Current liabilities	22,420	27,067	36,990
Non-current liabilities	38,522	8,509	11,251
Revenue	93,768	74,144	75,269
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	7,824	481	12,854
Other comprehensive income	396	978	(4,367)
Comprehensive income	8,220	1,459	8,487
Ajay North America
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	19,748	21,644	19,426
Non-current Assets	13,250	12,409	12,498
Current liabilities	3,061	3,542	2,470
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	38,833	40,290	36,185
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	5,860	7,608	7,505
Other comprehensive income	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	0	7,608	7,505
Ajay Europe SARL
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	19,589	21,219	23,555
Non-current Assets	1,456	1,214	1,266
Current liabilities	6,144	6,743	8,534
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	35,709	36,337	32,310
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	2,329	2,747	2,098
Other comprehensive income	(358)	(878)	2,208
Comprehensive income	1,971	1,869	4,306
SQM Eastmed Turkey
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	2,718	1,724	8,585
Non-current Assets	1,833	2,160	712
Current liabilities	2,600	1,829	3,292
Non-current liabilities	704	1,434	255
Revenue	3,086	3,192	13,618
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	709	740	981
Other comprehensive income	(84)	(42)	414
Comprehensive income	625	698	1,395
Kore Potash Ltd.
Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]
Current assets	7,938	6,659	3,981
Non-current Assets	119,362	148,426	2,671
Current liabilities	2,214	2,180	4,487
Non-current liabilities	0	0	2,260
Revenue	0	0	2,389
Gain (loss) from continuing operations	(2,716)	(8,198)	(49)
Other comprehensive income	(2,791)	(6,882)	(12)
Comprehensive income	$ (5,507)	$ (15,080)	$ (61)

Equity-accounted investees (D_4

Equity-accounted investees (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Nov. 14, 2018

Jul. 31, 2019

Jun. 30, 2018

Mar. 31, 2018

Dec. 31, 2019

Mar. 31, 2019

Dec. 31, 2019

Dec. 31, 2018

Dec. 31, 2017

Dec. 11, 2019

May 15, 2018

Dec. 01, 2017

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Investments accounted for using equity method

$ 109,435

$ 109,435

$ 111,549

$ 152,630

Percentage of voting equity interests acquired

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

Dividends paid, classified as financing activities

$ 329,787

550,352

$ 373,933

Description of Dividend Distribution

50% of the distributed dividend was charged to retained earnings generated subsequent to 2014, in line with the Company’s statutes that establish that 37% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM. The remaining 50% was charged to retained earnings generated between 2004 and 2014, in line with the entity’s statutes that establish that 50% of the distributed dividend corresponds to SQM.

Kore Potash Ltd. [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Proportion of ownership interest in associate

19.67%

Doctochem Tarim Sanayi Ticaret LTD [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Percentage of voting equity interests acquired

100.00%

Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WLL

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Dividends paid, classified as financing activities

$ 7,034

$ 10,890

Description of Dividend Distribution

50

Ajay North America

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Dividends paid, classified as financing activities

1,432

$ 5,706

$ 5,728

Ajay North Europe SARL [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Dividends paid, classified as financing activities

1,622

$ 2,107

SQM Thailand Co Ltd [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Dividends paid, classified as financing activities

$ 759

$ 906

Kore Potash PLC [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Investments accounted for using equity method

$ 2,600

$ 3,000

Doktor Tarsa Tarim [Member] | Plantacote N.V [Member]

Equity-accounted investees [Line Items]

Investments accounted for using equity method

$ 4,208

Proportion of ownership interest in associate

100.00%

Joint Ventures (Details)

Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Dividends received			$ 3,851	$ 10,612	$ 2,091
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Production and distribution of soluble fertilizers.
Principal place of business of joint venture			Huangjing Road, Dawan Town, Qingbaijiang District, Chengdu Municipality, Sichuan Province
Country of incorporation of joint venture			China
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Production and distribution of potassium nitrate.
Principal place of business of joint venture			1-2-10, Sardar Patel Road, Secunderabad – 500003 Andhra Pradesh
Country of incorporation of joint venture			India
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Production and commercialization of specialty plant and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene.
Principal place of business of joint venture			Jebel ALI Free Zone P.O. Box 18222, Dubai
Country of incorporation of joint venture			United Arab Emirates
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received		$ 21,196	$ 10,598	0	0
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Production and distribution of nutrient plant solutions with specialties NPK soluble.
Principal place of business of joint venture			Longquan Town, Jimo City, Qingdao Municipality, Shangdong Province
Country of incorporation of joint venture			China
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
SQM Vitas Holland B.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Without information production of specialized fertilizers and other products for distribution in Italy and other countries.
Principal place of business of joint venture			Herikerbergweg 238, 1101 CM Amsterdam Zuidoost
Country of incorporation of joint venture			Holland
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]		Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene.
Principal place of business of joint venture	[1]		Via Cndeias, Km. 01 Sem Numero, Lote 4, Bairro Cia Norte, Candeias, Bahia.
Country of incorporation of joint venture	[1]		Brazil
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture	[1],[2]		49.99%
Dividends received	[1]		$ 0	0	0
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[1]		Production and trading of specialty vegetable and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene
Principal place of business of joint venture	[1]		Av. Juan de Arona 187, Torre B, Oficina 301-II, San Isidro, Lima
Country of incorporation of joint venture	[1]		Peru
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture	[1],[2]		50.00%
Dividends received	[1]		$ 0	0	0
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			products for distribution in Italy and other countries.
Principal place of business of joint venture			Corso Italia 172, 95129 Catania (CT), Sicilia
Country of incorporation of joint venture			Italy
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship			Development and operation of the Mt Holland Lithium project, which will include the construction of a lithium extraction and refining mine
Principal place of business of joint venture			L18, 109 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6000 |PO Box Z5200 St Georges Tce Perth WA 6831
Country of incorporation of joint venture			Australia
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture			50.00%
Dividends received			$ 0	0	0
Arpa Speciali SRL [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Description of the nature of the relationship	[3]		Production of specialty fertilizers and others for distribution in Italy and other countries.
Principal place of business of joint venture	[3]		Mantova (MN) Via Cremona 27 Int. 25
Country of incorporation of joint venture	[3]		Italy
Proportion of ownership interest in joint venture	[2],[3]		50.48%
Dividends received	[3]		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	SQM Vitas Fzco.
[2]	The percentages presented correspond to the ownership used in the consolidation of the company.
[3]	Pavoni & C Spa

Joint Ventures (Details 1)

Joint Ventures (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		$ 109,435	$ 111,549	$ 152,630
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[1]	0	(206)	(27)
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltd [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		1,992	1,992	11,444
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(632)	(650)	(535)
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(631)	(650)	(535)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		0	0	0
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		1,568	1,729	1,633
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(98)	174	165
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(136)	15	165
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(38)	(159)	0
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		9,111	20,202	19,478
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		1,797	1,781	1,502
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		2,234	878	1,497
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		437	(903)	(5)
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		3,464	3,168	2,980
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		296	188	361
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		296	188	361
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		0	0	0
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method	[2]	5,347	5,915	11,003
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[2]	564	1,439	1,753
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[2]	338	647	826
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax	[2]	(225)	(792)	(51)
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method	[2]	1,955	2,671	5,961
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[2]	211	(275)	(216)
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[2]	872	(387)	(108)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax	[2]	661	(112)	0
SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method	[3]	0	0	669
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[3]	0	0	(1)
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[3]	0	0	(1)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax	[3]	0	0	0
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[1]	0	(206)	(27)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax	[1]	0	0	0
SQM Vitas Holland [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		1,304	1,345	1,429
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(15)	(14)	(18)
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(42)	(84)	(18)
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(27)	(70)	0
Joint ventures [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		7,394	8,648	17,633
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		1,384	1,270	1,448
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		1,489	208	1,443
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		435	(1,062)	(51)
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		6,864	7,084	0
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		36	(39)	0
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(219)	31	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(255)	70	0
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method		40	53	0
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		0	36	0
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method		(13)	36	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax		(13)	0	0
Arpa Speciali SRL [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Investments accounted for using equity method	[3]	92	62	0
Share of profit (loss) from continuing operations of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[3]	31	(44)	0
Share of total comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method	[3]	30	(44)	0
Share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for using equity method, net of tax	[3]	$ (1)	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	Minera Exar S.A. was sold in December 2018.
[2]	SQM Vitas Fzco.
[3]	Pavoni & C Spa

Joint Ventures (Details 2)

Joint Ventures (Details 2) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 2,682,166,000	$ 2,398,382,000
Long-Lived Assets	2,001,985,000	1,869,712,000
Current liabilities	776,812,000	555,663,000
Non-current liabilities	1,772,867,000	1,574,629,000
Revenue	1,943,655,000	2,265,803,000	$ 2,157,323,000
Other comprehensive income	(1,755,000)	(486,000)	(4,948,000)
Comprehensive income	278,848,000	441,577,000	423,469,000
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	28,668,000	28,577,000	31,461,000
Long-Lived Assets	5,129,000	5,913,000	6,656,000
Current liabilities	13,472	12,902	15,228,000
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	7,000	16,000	13,326,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	(1,262,000)	(1,301,000)	(1,070,000)
Other comprehensive income	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	(1,262,000)	(1,301,000)	(1,070,000)
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	4,504,000	5,905,000	6,659,000
Long-Lived Assets	633,000	852,000	862,000
Current liabilities	1,704,000	3,050,000	4,205,000
Non-current liabilities	0	0	53,000
Revenue	8,197,000	11,605,000	10,381,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	(197,000)	348,000	332,000
Other comprehensive income	(77,000)	(318,000)	0
Comprehensive income	(274,000)	30,000	332,000
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	9,695,000	30,430,000	23,699,000
Long-Lived Assets	20,014,000	17,592,000	17,479,000
Current liabilities	1,136,000	2,678,000	2,221,000
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	36,000	16,583,000	15,518,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	3,595,000	3,561,000	3,003,000
Other comprehensive income	(876,000)	(1,806,000)	(9,000)
Comprehensive income	2,719,000	1,755,000	2,994,000
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	7,534,000	7,754,000	6,941,000
Long-Lived Assets	26,000	114,000	171,000
Current liabilities	632,000	1,533,000	1,152,000
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	12,003,000	13,004,000	12,631,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	592,000	377,000	721,000
Other comprehensive income	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	592,000	377,000	721,000
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	2,609,000	2,692,000	2,190,000
Long-Lived Assets	0	0	669,000
Current liabilities	2,000	1,000	0
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	0	0	0
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	(30,000)	(28,000)	(36,000)
Other comprehensive income	(53,000)	(139,000)	0
Comprehensive income	(83,000)	(167,000)	(36,000)
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	46,118,000	36,648,000	30,303,000
Long-Lived Assets	7,299,000	7,566,000	8,453,000
Current liabilities	40,334,000	31,808,000	27,752,000
Non-current liabilities	0	0	0
Revenue	87,901,000	82,625,000	60,131,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	1,128,000	2,879,000	1,753,000
Other comprehensive income	(451,000)	(1,585,000)	(101,000)
Comprehensive income	677,000	1,294,000	1,652,000
SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets			679,000
Long-Lived Assets			0
Current liabilities			10,000
Non-current liabilities			0
Revenue			0
Profit (loss) from continuing operations			(1,000)
Other comprehensive income			0
Comprehensive income			(1,000)
SQM Vitas Holland B.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	29,452,000	22,365,000	20,933,000
Long-Lived Assets	8,378,000	7,785,000	8,534,000
Current liabilities	24,855,000	18,996,000	17,380,000
Non-current liabilities	6,044,000	5,966,000	6,156,000
Revenue	28,590,000	28,619,000	35,299,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	421,000	(550,000)	(216,000)
Other comprehensive income	1,322,000	(223,000)	0
Comprehensive income	1,743,000	(773,000)	(216,000)
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets			19,277,000
Long-Lived Assets			73,114,000
Current liabilities			38,670
Non-current liabilities			0
Revenue			0
Profit (loss) from continuing operations			(53,000)
Other comprehensive income			0
Comprehensive income			(53,000)
Joint ventures [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	139,640,000	144,672,000	142,672,000
Long-Lived Assets	49,511,000	46,412,000	115,938,000
Current liabilities	92,712,000	79,299,000	106,618,000
Non-current liabilities	7,162,000	6,664,000	6,209,000
Revenue	151,030,000	167,913,000	147,286,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	4,318,000	5,313,000	4,433,000
Other comprehensive income	(670,000)	(3,931,000)	(110,000)
Comprehensive income	3,648,000	1,382,000	$ 4,323,000
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	9,444,000	10,062,000
Long-Lived Assets	7,074,000	6,490,000
Current liabilities	8,466	8,098
Non-current liabilities	735,000	698,000
Revenue	14,296,000	15,461,000
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	71,000	(79,000)
Other comprehensive income	(510,000)	140,000
Comprehensive income	(439,000)	61,000
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current assets	1,616,000	239,000
Long-Lived Assets	958,000	100,000
Current liabilities	2,111	233
Non-current liabilities	383,000	0
Revenue	0	0
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	0	106,000
Other comprehensive income	(25,000)	0
Comprehensive income	$ (25,000)	$ 106,000

Joint Ventures (Details 3)

Joint Ventures (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 588,530	$ 556,066	$ 630,438	$ 514,669
Other current financial liabilities	298,822	23,585
Other non-current financial liabilities	1,518,926	1,330,382
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(202,264)	(220,827)	(240,526)
Interest Expense	(76,939)	(57,807)	(50,124)
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	33	106
Other current financial liabilities	0	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(743)	(948)	(691)
Interest Expense	0	(1)	(433)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	153	97	200
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	2,240	308
Other current financial liabilities	0	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense		(445)	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(291)
Interest Expense	(4)	(9)	(49)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(27)	(38)	(44)
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3,071	19,312
Other current financial liabilities	0	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	0	(509)	(717)
Interest Expense	(7)	(8)	(16)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	0	0	0
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	4,640	4,543
Other current financial liabilities	0	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(62)	(67)	(64)
Interest Expense	0	0	(1)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(241)	(187)	(195)
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	2,101	1,869
Other current financial liabilities	9,106	13,380
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(33)	(408)	(438)
Interest Expense	(1,176)	(886)	(2,127)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	181	(117)	0
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	225	371
Other current financial liabilities	258	3,819
Other non-current financial liabilities	895	801
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(287)	(347)	(82)
Interest Expense	(435)	(425)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(316)	(230)	(362)
SQM Vitas Plantacote B.V [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortisation expense	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	0	0	0
SQM Vitas Holland B.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	2,609	2,692
Other current financial liabilities	0	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	0	0	0
Interest Expense	(1)	0	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	0	0	(337)
Joint ventures [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	15,926	29,764
Other current financial liabilities	15,345	22,663
Other non-current financial liabilities	895	801
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(1,691)	(2,392)	(1,992)
Interest Expense	(1,655)	(1,669)	(2,950)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(464)	(521)	(738)
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	314	407
Other current financial liabilities	5,509	5,464
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(149)	(542)	0
Interest Expense	0	(335)	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(214)	0	0
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	693	156
Other current financial liabilities	472	0
Other non-current financial liabilities	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(126)	(16)	0
Interest Expense	(32)	(5)	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 0	$ (46)	$ 0

Joint Ventures (Details Textual

Joint Ventures (Details Textual) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	May 15, 2018EUR (€)	Dec. 01, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)MT	Apr. 30, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Feb. 14, 2018USD ($)	Jan. 25, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 06, 2017USD ($)
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired	50.00%	50.00%				50.00%
Other cash payments to acquire interests in joint ventures, classified as investing activities				$ 2,600	$ 19,989	$ 38,088
Capital contributions made by related entities											$ 13,300
Volume of lithium metallic equivalent authorised to process and sell | MT						45,000
Contingent Consideration Initial Payment						$ 15,000
Payments Of Deferrred Contingent Consideration						30,000
Amounts recognised for transaction recognised separately from acquisition of assets and assumption of liabilities in business combination						10,000
Contingent Consideration Deferred Payment						55,000
Proportion of voting rights held in joint venture				50.00%
Dividends received				$ 3,851	10,612	2,091
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired											50.00%
Other cash payments to acquire interests in joint ventures, classified as investing activities		$ 6,205
Gain (loss) that relates to identifiable assets acquired or liabilities assumed in business combination and is of such size, nature or incidence that disclosure is relevant to understanding combined entity's financial statements					14,507
Capital contributions made by related entities							$ 7,000	$ 13,000
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Impairment loss					8,802
Joint venture contributions										$ 6,000
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Acquisitions through business combinations, intangible assets and goodwill					3,206
Other cash payments to acquire interests in joint ventures, classified as investing activities | €	€ 2.6
Dividends received				0	0	0
SQM Australia Pty [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Consideration transferred, acquisition-date fair value						70,000
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Other cash payments to acquire interests in joint ventures, classified as investing activities | €	€ 5.5
Lithium Americas Corporation [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Joint venture contributions									$ 7,000
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Dividends received			$ 21,196	$ 10,598	$ 0	$ 0

Cash and cash equivalents (Deta

Cash and cash equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash on hand	$ 71	$ 75
Cash in banks	105,141	101,662
Other demand deposits	6,986	746
Total cash	112,198	102,483
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	149,099	187,666
Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents	327,233	265,917
Total cash equivalents	476,332	453,583
Total cash and cash equivalents	$ 588,530	$ 556,066	$ 630,438	$ 514,669

Cash and cash equivalents (De_2

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents	$ 327,233	$ 265,917
Legg Mason - Western Asset Institutional Cash Reserves [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents	181,155	132,108
JP Morgan US dollar Liquidity Fund Institutional [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Short-term investments, classified as cash equivalents	$ 146,078	$ 133,809

Cash and cash equivalents (De_3

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 588,530	$ 556,066	$ 630,438	$ 514,669
Chilean Peso [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	8,240	157,500
US Dollar [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	558,572	353,674
Euro [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3,131	4,738
Australian dollar [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	8,492	29,598
Mexican Peso [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	2,103	1,242
South African Rand [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3,929	5,219
Japanese Yen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	1,559	1,786
Peruvian Sol [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	4	1
Chinese Yuan [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	2,484	2,305
Indian Rupee [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	6	0
UAE dirham [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	1
Argentine Peso [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3	2
Pound Sterling [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3	0
Indonesian Rupee [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	3	0
Polish Ztoly [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 1	$ 0

Cash and cash equivalents (De_4

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash balances	$ 551	$ 712
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash balances	$ 551	$ 712

Cash and cash equivalents (De_5

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Scotiabank Sud Americano	 
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	 
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	 
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.20%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 13, 2019
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 30, 2020
Notional amount	$ 148,728	$ 16,796
Accrued income	371	432
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 149,099	$ 187,666
Short term deposit One [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco crédito e inversiones	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.45%	2.50%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 18, 2019	Oct. 18, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 13, 2020	Jan. 16, 2019
Notional amount	$ 18,000	$ 14,606
Accrued income	74	90
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 18,074	$ 14,696
Short term deposit Two [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco crédito e inversiones	Banco Crédito e Inversiones
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.85%	2.55%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 26, 2019	Nov. 6, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 20, 2020	Jan. 9, 2019
Notional amount	$ 20,000	$ 19,632
Accrued income	8	92
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 20,008	$ 19,724
Short term deposit Three [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco de Chile	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.45%	2.55%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 15, 2019	Nov. 30, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 23, 2020	Jan. 3, 2019
Notional amount	$ 14,000	$ 14,393
Accrued income	62	38
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 14,062	$ 14,431
Short term deposit Four [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco de Chile	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.50%	2.55%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 15, 2019	Dec. 3, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 9, 2020	Jan. 3, 2019
Notional amount	$ 18,000	$ 11,515
Accrued income	80	27
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 18,080	$ 11,542
Short term deposit Five [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco de Chile	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.45%	2.50%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 15, 2019	Dec. 3, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 16, 2020	Jan. 3, 2019
Notional amount	$ 18,000	$ 14,393
Accrued income	79	34
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 18,079	$ 14,427
Short term deposit Six [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco Itau Chile	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.90%	2.50%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 26, 2019	Dec. 7, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 20, 2020	Jan. 9, 2019
Notional amount	$ 33,000	$ 14,393
Accrued income	13	29
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 33,013	$ 14,422
Short term deposit Seven [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Scotiabank Sud Americano	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	CLP$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.16%	2.50%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 30, 2019	Dec. 10, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Aug. 8, 2020	Jan. 9, 2019
Notional amount	$ 6,812	$ 12,954
Accrued income	0	23
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 6,812	$ 12,977
Short term deposit Eight [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco crédito e inversiones	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.51%	2.35%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 21, 2019	Dec. 10, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 28, 2020	Jan. 9, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,000	$ 12,954
Accrued income	4	21
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,004	$ 12,975
Short term deposit Nine [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco crédito e inversiones	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.75%	3.06%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 2, 2019	Dec. 11, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 27, 2020	Jan. 11, 2019
Notional amount	$ 2,000	$ 1,300
Accrued income	6	2
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 2,006	$ 1,302
Short term deposit Ten [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco crédito e inversiones	Banco Estado
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.60%	2.75%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 25, 2019	Dec. 12, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 28, 2020	Jan. 15, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,000	$ 1,000
Accrued income	4	1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,004	$ 1,001
Short term deposit Eleven [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco Estado	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.15%	2.50%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 16, 2019	Dec. 14, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 6, 2020	Jan. 9, 2019
Notional amount	$ 500	$ 14,392
Accrued income	0	20
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 500	$ 14,412
Short term deposit Twelve [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco Santander - Santiago	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.55%	2.65%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 9, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 4, 2020	Jan. 17, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,700	$ 14,393
Accrued income	3	18
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,703	$ 14,411
Short term deposit Thirteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Corpbanca	Scotiabank
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.55%	2.60%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 16, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 6, 2020	Jan. 17, 2019
Notional amount	$ 2,500	$ 10,892
Accrued income	3	13
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 2,503	$ 10,905
Short term deposit Fourteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Corpbanca	Banco Crédito e Inversiones
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.64%	2.93%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 29, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 13, 2020	Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,500	$ 1,400
Accrued income	5	2
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,505	$ 1,402
Short term deposit Fifteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Corpbanca	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.80%	3.30%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 12, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 28, 2020	Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	$ 2,000	$ 1,400
Accrued income	8	2
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 2,008	$ 1,402
Short term deposit Sixteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco Santander - Santiago	Itau-Corpbanca
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.33%	3.40%
Date of short term deposit	Oct. 16, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 12, 2020	Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,000	$ 3,000
Accrued income	5	4
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,005	$ 3,004
Short term deposit Seventeen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Scotiabank Sud Americano	Banco de Chile
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	2.45%	3.06%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 17, 2019	Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 13, 2020	Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	$ 3,600	$ 1,700
Accrued income	3	2
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	3,603	$ 1,702
Short term deposit Eighteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Scotiabank Sud Americano
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		2.95%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 17, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	500	$ 1,500
Accrued income	2	2
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 502	$ 1,502
Short term deposit Nineteen [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Scotiabank Sud Americano	Banco de Chile
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.40%	3.26%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 2, 2019	Dec. 19, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Feb. 27, 2020	Jan. 31, 2019
Notional amount	$ 2,000	$ 800
Accrued income	5	1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 2,005	$ 801
Short term deposit Twenty [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Scotiabank Sud Americano	Banco Crédito e Inversiones
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	3.45%	3.42%
Date of short term deposit	Nov. 18, 2019	Dec. 26, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 30, 2020	Feb. 26, 2019
Notional amount	$ 1,500	$ 2,800
Accrued income	6	1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 1,506	$ 2,801
Short term deposit Twenty One [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	BBVA Banco Francés	Banco de Chile
Description of type of deposit	Fixed term	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	39.00%	3.26%
Date of short term deposit	Dec. 26, 2019	Dec. 26, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Jan. 27, 2020	Feb. 26, 2019
Notional amount	$ 52	$ 2,800
Accrued income	1	1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 53	$ 2,801
Short term deposit Twenty Two [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit	Banco Itaú S.A.	Scotiabank Sud Americano (*)
Description of type of deposit	On demand	Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency	US$	Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate	8.00%	0.26%
Date of short term deposit	Oct. 17, 2019	Dec. 27, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 7, 2019
Notional amount	$ 64	$ 1,439
Accrued income	0	1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents	$ 64	$ 1,440
Short term deposit Twenty Three [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Scotiabank Sud Americano (*)
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		0.26%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 27, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 14, 2019
Notional amount		$ 2,879
Accrued income		1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 2,880
Short term deposit Twenty Four [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Scotiabank Sud Americano (*)
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		0.26%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 27, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 21, 2019
Notional amount		$ 1,439
Accrued income		1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 1,440
Short term deposit Twenty Five [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco Estado
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		3.15%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 28, 2019
Notional amount		$ 2,000
Accrued income		1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 2,001
Short term deposit Twenty Six [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco Estado
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		3.15%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 28, 2019
Notional amount		$ 600
Accrued income		0
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 600
Short term deposit Twenty Seven [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco de Chile
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		3.16%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 28, 2019
Notional amount		$ 2,000
Accrued income		1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 2,001
Short term deposit Twenty Eight [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco Crédito e Inversiones
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		2.53%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 8, 2019
Notional amount		$ 1,000
Accrued income		0
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 1,000
Short term deposit Twenty Nine [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco Crédito e Inversiones
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		3.08%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 28, 2019
Notional amount		$ 2,500
Accrued income		1
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 2,501
Short term deposit Thirty [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Banco Santander- Santiago (*)
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		Ch$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		0.20%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 28, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 4, 2019
Notional amount		$ 432
Accrued income		0
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 432
Short term deposit Thirty One [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		BBVA Banco Francés
Description of type of deposit		Fixed term
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		0.00%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 31, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 21, 2019
Notional amount		$ 81
Accrued income		3
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 84
Short term deposit Thirty Two [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Line Items]
Name of the receiver of deposit		Nedbank
Description of type of deposit		On demand
Short term deposits, original currency		US$
Short term deposits, Interest rate		0.00%
Date of short term deposit		Dec. 31, 2018
Short term deposits, Maturity		Jan. 1, 2019
Notional amount		$ 647
Accrued income		0
Short-term deposits, classified as cash equivalents		$ 647

Cash and cash equivalents (De_6

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 588,530	$ 556,066	$ 630,438	$ 514,669
Other current financial assets	505,490	312,721
Other non-current financial hedge assets	8,778	17,131	$ 0
Other current financial liabilities	(298,822)	(23,585)
Other non-current financial liabilities	(1,518,926)	(1,330,382)
Total	(719,809)	471,755
Net Debt [Member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	588,530	556,066
Other current financial assets	505,490	312,721
Other non-current financial hedge assets	3,918	13,425
Other current financial liabilities	(298,822)	(23,585)
Other non-current financial liabilities	(1,518,926)	(1,330,382)
Total	$ (719,810)	$ (471,755)

Cash and cash equivalents (De_7

Cash and cash equivalents (Details 6) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	$ (471,755)
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	(45,115)
Amounts from loans	(435,683)
Amounts from interest	46,691
Other cash income/expenses	242,874
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	11,949
Exchange rate differences	(25,173)
Other	(43,598)
Net debt, ending of year	719,809
Obligations with the public and bank loans [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	(1,333,793)
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	(442,465)
Amounts from interest	65,754
Other cash income/expenses	6,816
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	0
Exchange rate differences	20,839
Other	(70,179)
Net debt, ending of year	(1,753,028)
Current and noncurrent lease liabilities [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	0
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	(45,115)
Amounts from loans	7,221
Amounts from interest	1,537
Other cash income/expenses	0
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	0
Exchange rate differences	0
Other	(1,540)
Net debt, ending of year	(37,897)
Financial instruments derived from hedging [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	(17,318)
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	(439)
Amounts from interest	5,209
Other cash income/expenses	0
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	(12,014)
Exchange rate differences	0
Other	907
Net debt, ending of year	(23,655)
Financial instruments derived from non-hedging member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	(2,856)
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	0
Amounts from interest	0
Other cash income/expenses	0
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	(313)
Exchange rate differences	0
Other	0
Net debt, ending of year	(3,169)
Financial Liability [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	(1,353,967)
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	(45,115)
Amounts from loans	(435,683)
Amounts from interest	72,500
Other cash income/expenses	6,816
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	(12,327)
Exchange rate differences	20,839
Other	(70,812)
Net debt, ending of year	(1,817,749)
Cash and cash equivalents [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	556,066
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	0
Amounts from interest	0
Other cash income/expenses	47,396
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	0
Exchange rate differences	(14,932)
Other	0
Net debt, ending of year	588,530
Deposits that do not qualify as cash and cash equivalents [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	291,790
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	0
Amounts from interest	25,809
Other cash income/expenses	224,499
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	0
Exchange rate differences	(31,080)
Other	26,289
Net debt, ending of year	485,689
Derivatives from hedge assets [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	31,663
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	0
Amounts from interest	0
Other cash income/expenses	(34,434)
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	23,034
Exchange rate differences	0
Other	925
Net debt, ending of year	21,188
Derivatives from other financial nonhedge assets [member]
Cash And Cash Equivalent [Line Items]
Net debt, beginning of year	2,693
Adjustment to initial balances by adoption of IFRS 16	0
Amounts from loans	0
Amounts from interest	0
Other cash income/expenses	(1,403)
Hedging and non-hedging instruments	1,242
Exchange rate differences	0
Other	0
Net debt, ending of year	$ 2,532

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Inventories [Abstract]
Raw material reserves	$ 7,287	$ 6,764
Supplies for production reserves	26,064	26,840
Products-in-progress reserves	457,563	423,621
Finished product reserves	492,424	456,449
Total	$ 983,338	$ 913,674

Inventories (Details 1)

Inventories (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventories [Abstract]
Raw material reserves	$ 2,488	$ 1,838
Products-in-progress reserves	71,468	82,673
Finished product reserves	14,218	20,771
Total	$ 88,174	$ 105,282	$ 96,284	$ 81,295

Inventories (Details 2)

Inventories (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Inventories [Abstract]
Opening balance	$ 105,282	$ 96,284	$ 81,295
Increase in lower value	(6,987)	7,845	19,515
Additional provisions	(123)	3,176	573
Increase (decrease) in existing provisions	(6,262)	2,436	(178)
Provision used, other provisions	(3,736)	(139,506)	(4,921)
Total changes	(17,108)	8,998	14,989
Final Balance	$ 88,174	$ 105,282	$ 96,284

Inventories (Details Textual)

Inventories (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Inventories [Abstract]
Current materials and supplies to be consumed in production process or rendering services	$ 393,600	$ 347,100
Cost of inventories recognised as expense during period	88,174	$ 105,282
Products In Progress	104,295
Finished product	$ 204,686

Related party disclosures (Deta

Related party disclosures (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Total	Foreign
Functional currency		US$
Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Brazil
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Nitrate Corporation Of Chile Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United Kingdom
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM North America Corp. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United States of America
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Belgium
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Soquimich S.R.L. Argentina [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Argentina
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Holland
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Corporation N.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Curacao
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQI Corporation N.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Curacao
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Comercial De Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	México
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
North American Trading Company [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United States of America
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Administracion y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	México
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Peru S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Perú
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Ecuador S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Ecuador
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Nitratos Mexico S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	México
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United States of America
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Curacao
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Brasil Limitada [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Brazil
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM France S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	France
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Japan Co. Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Japan
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Aruba
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Oceania Pty Limited [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Australia
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Rs Agro-Chemical Trading Corporation A.V.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Aruba
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Indonesia S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Indonesia
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Virginia L.L.C. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United States of America
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Italia SRL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Italy
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Panama
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Africa Pty Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	South Africa
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Colombia SAS [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Colombia
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Internacional NV Member [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Belgium
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Lithium Specialties LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	United States of America
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Spain
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Beijing Commercial Co. Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	China
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Thailand Limited [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Thailand
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Australia Pty [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Australia
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SACAL S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Argentina
Functional currency	Ars
Nature	Subsidiary
Comercial Hydro S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	96.801.610-5
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	96.651.060-9
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Nitratos S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	96.592.190-7
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Ajay SQM Chile S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	96.592.180-K
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQMC Internacional Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	86.630.200-6
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.947.100-0
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.906.120-1
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	Ch$
Nature	Subsidiary
Almacenes y Depositos Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.876.080-7
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	Ch$
Nature	Subsidiary
Servicios Integrales de Transitos y Transferencias S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.770.780-5
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.768.170-9
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
SQM Salar S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.626.800-K
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Proinsa Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	78.053.910-0
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	Ch$
Nature	Subsidiary
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.534.490-5
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Subsidiary
Exploraciones Mineras S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.425.380-9
Country of origin	Chile
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Comercial Agrorama Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.064.419-6
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Peso
Nature		Subsidiary
Agrorama S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.145.229-0
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Peso
Nature		Subsidiary
Orcoma Estudios SPA [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.359.919-1
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Subsidiary
Orcoma SPA [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.360.575-2
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Subsidiary
SQM MaG SpA. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		76.686.311-9
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Subsidiary
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates
Functional currency		United Arab Emirates dirham
Nature	Associate	Associate
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Functional currency		US$
Nature	Associate	Associate
Ajay North America [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		United States of America
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Associate
Ajay Europe SARL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	France	France
Functional currency		Euro
Nature	Associate	Associate
SQM Eastmed Turkey [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Functional currency		Euro
Nature	Associate	Associate
Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Thailand
Functional currency		US$
Nature	Associate	Associate
Kore Potash Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		United Kingdom
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		China
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Joint venture
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	India	India
Functional currency		Indian rupee
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates dirham
Functional currency		United Arab Emirates dirham
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	China	China
Functional currency		US$
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
SQM Vitas Holland B.V. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		Holland
Functional currency		Euro
Nature		Joint venture
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Argentina
Functional currency		Euro
Nature	Joint venture
Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		96.511.530-7
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		US$
Nature		Other related parties
Norte Grande S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		96.529.340-K
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Peso
Nature		Other related parties
Callegari Agricola S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.049.778-9	79.049.778-9
Country of origin	Chile	Chile
Functional currency		Peso
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Brazil	Brazil
Functional currency		Brazilian Real
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Peru	Peru
Functional currency		US$
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Terra Tarsa B.V.. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		Holland
Functional currency		Euro
Nature		Other related parties
Plantacote N.V [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Belgium	Belgium
Functional currency		Euro
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Doktolab Tarim Arastima San [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		Turkey
Functional currency		Turkish Lira
Nature		Other related parties
Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Ukraine	Ukraine
Functional currency		Ukrainian Grivna
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Terra Tarsa Don LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Russian Federation	Russian Federation
Functional currency		Russian Ruble
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
SQM Shanghai Chemicals Co Ltd [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	China
Functional currency	US$
Nature	Subsidiary
Arpa Speciali S.R.L [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Italy	Italy
Functional currency		Euro
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Ara Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ara Tres Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ara Cuatro Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ara Cinco Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Curicó Dos Primera del Salar de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Curicó Tres Primera del Sector de Pampa Alta, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Evelyn Veinticuatro Primera de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Filomena Tres Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Filomena Cuatro Primera de Oficina Filomena, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Cuatro Primera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Country of origin	Australia	Australia
Functional currency	Australian dollar	Australian dollar
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Pavoni & C, SPA [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Country of origin	Italy	Italy
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Internacional Technical and Trading Agenies Co WLL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Country of origin		Jordan
Nature		Other related parties
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WLL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		Oman
Functional currency		Arab Emirates dirham
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Cuatro Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Cuatro Tercera de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Cuatro Cuarta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Cuatro Quinta de Pampa Blanca, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Primera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Segunda del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Francis Tercera del Salar de Pampa Blanca de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ivon Primera de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ivon Décima Segunda de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Ivon Sexta de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Julia Primera de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Lorena Trigésimo Quinta de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Perseverancia Primera de Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Tamara 40 Primera del Sector S.E. OF. Concepción, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Tamara Tercera de Oficina Concepción, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
Tamara 40 Segunda del Sector S.E. OF Concepción, Sierra Gorda [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	N/A
Country of origin		Chile
Functional currency		Ch$
Nature		Other related parties
International Technical And Trading Agencies Co WLL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Functional currency		Arab Emirates dirham
Doctochem Tarim Sanayi LTD [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID		Foreign
Country of origin		Turkey
Functional currency		Turkish Lira
Nature		Other related parties

Related party disclosures (De_2

Related party disclosures (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Total	Foreign
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 159,117	$ 150,969	$ 268,237
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 14,767	$ 16,726	17,538
Ajay Europe S.A.R.L [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	France	France
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 21,348	$ 19,470	15,706
Ajay Europe S,A.R.L. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	France
Transaction	Dividends
Dividend income	$ 1,055	811	969
Ajay North America LLC. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	United States of America
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 16,932	$ 16,810	13,206
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 3,749		4,351
Dividend income	$ 0
Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Thailand
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 0	$ 4,960	5,102
Sales de Magnesio Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	77.557.430-5
SQM Vitas Brasil Agroindustria [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties
Country of origin	Brazil
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 46,876	$ 44,827	31,137
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Peru	Peru
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 24,138	$ 17,204	23,058
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates dirham
Transaction	Dividends
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 10,598	$ 0	85
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	India	India
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 3,955	$ 7,696	8,011
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	China	China
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 1,929	$ 0	200
Callegari Agricola S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	79.049.778-9	79.049.778-9
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Chile	Chile
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 0	$ 0	210
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture
Country of origin	Argentina
Transaction	Loans
Revenue from rendering of services, related party transactions	$ 0	$ 0	11,000
Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Ukraine	Ukraine
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 1,280	$ 1,674	1,218
Terra Tarsa Don LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Russian Federation	Russian Federation
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 40	$ 187	423
Plantacote N.V [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Belgium	Belgium
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 4,096	$ 4,554	2,108
Ajay North America LLC. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	United States of America
Transaction	Dividends
Dividend income	$ 2,796	2,807	1,123
Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	Thailand
Transaction	Dividends
Dividend income	$ 0	362
Sales de Magnesio Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	Chile
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 0	0	45
Kowa Company Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties
Country of origin	Japan
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from rendering of services, related party transactions	$ 0	0	132,495
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	Arab Emirates
Transaction	Dividends
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions		5,811
Dividend income		$ 6,632
SQM Eastmed Turkey [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 47	$ 30	0
Pavoni & C, SPA [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	Italy	Italy
Transaction	Sale of products
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 3,152	$ 201	0
Arpa Speciali SRL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Italy	Italy
Transaction	Sale of products
Amounts receivable, related party transactions	$ 2,359	$ 207	0
Fertilizers Co Ltd [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture
Country of origin	China
Transaction	Sale of services
Revenue from sale of goods, related party transactions	$ 0	$ 0	$ 252

Related party disclosures (De_3

Related party disclosures (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2019
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Total	Foreign
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 61,227	$ 42,790	$ 61,227
Ajay Europe SARL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	France	France
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 3,712	$ 3,756
Ajay North America LLC. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Associate
Country of origin	United States of America
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 2,290	$ 2,080
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 803	$ 857
Soc.de Inversiones Pampa Calichera [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	96.511.530-7
Nature	Other related parties
Country of origin	Chile
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 6	$ 6
SQM Vitas Brazil Agroindustria [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Brazil	Brazil
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 27,275	$ 15,818
SQM Vitas Peru S.A.C. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Peru	Peru
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 23,475	$ 12,767
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	India	India
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 1,792	$ 2,025
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	Arab Emirates	United Arab Emirates dirham
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 234	$ 105
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	China	China
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 0	$ 248
Plantacote N.V [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Belgium	Belgium
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 657	$ 312
Terra Tarsa Ukraine LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Ukraine	Ukraine
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 7	$ 0
Terra Tarsa Don LLC [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Russian Federation	Russian Federation
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 13	$ 41
SQM Eastmed Turkey [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 47	$ 30
Pavoni And C Spa [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture
Country of origin	Italy
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 1,028	$ 12
Arpa Speciali SRL [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Other related parties	Other related parties
Country of origin	Italy	Italy
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 134	$ 0
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Associate	Associate
Country of origin	Turkey	Turkey
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 110	$ 6,497
Allowance [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 356	$ 1,764

Related party disclosures (De_4

Related party disclosures (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Total	Foreign
Currency		US$
Current payables to related parties	$ 475	$ 9
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	China	China
Currency		US$
Covalent Lithium Pty Ltd [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Tax ID	Foreign
Nature	Joint venture	Joint venture
Country of origin	Australia	Australia
Currency	Australian dollar	Australian dollar
Current payables to related parties	$ 232	$ 9
SQM Star Qingdao Corp Nutrition Co., Ltd. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Nature	Joint venture
Country of origin	China
Currency	USD
Current payables to related parties	$ 243	$ 0

Related party disclosures (De_5

Related party disclosures (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 61,227	$ 61,227	$ 42,790
Sichuan SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda. [Member]
Related party disclosures [Line Items]
Current receivables due from related parties	$ 10,965		$ 10,965

Financial instruments (Details)

Financial instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other non-current financial assets	$ 8,778	$ 17,131	$ 0
Other current financial assets	505,490	312,721
Hedging assets [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other non-current financial assets	3,918	13,425
Other current financial assets	17,270	18,238
Financial assets at amortised cost, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other non-current financial assets	75	75
Other current financial assets	485,689	291,790
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	2,531	2,693
Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other non-current financial assets	$ 4,785	$ 3,631

Financial instruments (Details

Financial instruments (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	$ 505,490	$ 312,721
Financial assets at amortised cost [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	485,689	291,790
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco de Credito e Inversiones [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	185,400	145,834
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco Santander [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	74,365	23,124
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco Itau - Corpbanca [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	120,628	70,719
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco Security [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	17,964	27,215
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco de Chile [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	18,026
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Banco Estado [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	15,126
Financial assets at amortised cost [member] | Scotiabank Sud Americano [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Other current financial assets	$ 54,180	$ 24,898

Financial instruments (Parenthe

Financial instruments (Parenthetical) (Details 1) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Term deposit One [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets Pledged as Collateral	$ 1,870

Financial instruments (Detail_2

Financial instruments (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade and other current receivables	$ 399,142	$ 466,619
Non-current trade receivables	1,710	2,275
Trade and other receivables	400,852	468,894
Trade and other receivables [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current trade receivables	367,583	430,914
Current prepayments	20,309	16,147
Other current receivables	11,250	19,558
Trade and other current receivables	399,142	466,619
Non-current trade receivables	0	0
Non-current prepayments	0	0
Other non-current receivables	1,710	2,275
Trade and other non-current receivables	1,710	2,275
Trade receivables	367,583	430,914
Prepayments	20,309	16,147
Other Receivables	12,960	21,833
Trade and other receivables	$ 400,852	$ 468,894

Financial instruments (Detail_3

Financial instruments (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	$ 422,236	$ 488,798
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(21,384)	(19,904)
Assets for trade receivables, net	400,852	468,894
Receivables related to credit operations, current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	383,775	445,670
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(16,192)	(14,756)
Assets for trade receivables, net	367,583	430,914
Trade receivables, current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	383,775	445,670
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(16,192)	(14,756)
Assets for trade receivables, net	367,583	430,914
Prepayments, current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	21,092	16,990
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(783)	(843)
Assets for trade receivables, net	20,309	16,147
Other receivables, current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	15,659	23,863
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(4,409)	(4,305)
Assets for trade receivables, net	11,250	19,558
Current trade and other receivables [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	36,751	40,853
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	(5,192)	(5,148)
Assets for trade receivables, net	31,559	35,705
Other receivables, non-current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	1,710	2,275
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	0	0
Assets for trade receivables, net	1,710	2,275
Non-current receivables [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Assets before allowances	1,710	2,275
Allowance for doubtful trade receivables	0	0
Assets for trade receivables, net	$ 1,710	$ 2,275

Financial instruments (Detail_4

Financial instruments (Details 4)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)Numbers	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)Numbers
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Total Gross Book Value	$ 399,142,000	$ 466,619,000
Credit exposure	16,192	14,756
Financial assets	$ 485,689,000	$ 1,397,602,000
Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	1,861	4,834
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 381,049,000	$ 442,340,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	304	1,232
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 2,726,000	$ 3,330,000
Receivables due from related parties, current [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	$ 11,323,000	$ 55,520,000
Between 1 and 30 days [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Expected credit loss rate	18.00%	9.00%
Total Gross Book Value	$ 20,721,000	$ 20,018,000
Credit exposure	$ 3,664	$ 1,858
Between 1 and 30 days [Member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	166	1,229
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 20,195,000	$ 19,422,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	72	390
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 526,000	$ 596,000
Between 31 and 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Expected credit loss rate	34.00%	5.00%
Total Gross Book Value	$ 1,288,000	$ 2,861,000
Credit exposure	$ 440	$ 146
Between 31 and 60 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	26	801
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 1,279,000	$ 5,705,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	4	154
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 10,000	$ 118,000
Between 61 and 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Expected credit loss rate	44.00%	4.00%
Total Gross Book Value	$ 573,000	$ 2,354,000
Credit exposure	$ 251	$ 89
Between 61 and 90 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	12	648
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 519,000	$ 2,279,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	3	41
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 54,000	$ 75,000
More than 91 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Expected credit loss rate	78.00%	65.00%
Total Gross Book Value	$ 8,370,000	$ 12,137,000
Credit exposure	$ 6,552	$ 7,852
Between 121 and 150 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	5	80
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 361,000	$ 423,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	7	16
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 49,000	$ 29,000
Between 151 and 180 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	7	43
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 190,000	$ 186,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	2	21
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 33,000	$ 176,000
Between 181 and 210 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	4	7
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 51,000	$ 1,291,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	0	41
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 0	$ 231,000
Between 211 and 250 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	6	7
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 48,000	$ 108,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	8	101
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 11,000	$ 242,000
More than 250 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	144	140
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 5,449,000	$ 7,036,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	137	305
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 1,085,000	$ 1,148,000
Current [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Expected credit loss rate	1.00%	1.00%
Total Gross Book Value	$ 352,823,000	$ 408,300,000
Credit exposure	$ 5,285	$ 4,811
Current [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	1,486	1,390
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 351,931,000	$ 404,670,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	69	136
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 892,000	$ 668,000
Between 91 and 120 days [member] | Uncollateralized Portfolio [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Number of customers under no renegotiated terms | Numbers	5	489
Portfolio under no renegotiated terms	$ 1,026,000	$ 1,220,000
Number of customers under renegotiated terms | Numbers	2	27
Portfolio under renegotiated terms, gross	$ 66,000	$ 47,000

Financial instruments (Detail_5

Financial instruments (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 01, 2019
Financial instruments [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts at the beginning of the Period	$ 32,634	$ 34,936
Adjustment to initial balance derived from the adoption of IFRS 9	1,057	(2,967)	$ 8,038
Increase / (decrease) of impairment provision	1,057	(2,967)
Provision used	(984)	(1,636)
Allowance for doubtful accounts at the end of the year	32,707	32,634	$ 34,936
Trade and Other Receivables allowance current	16,192	14,756
Other receivables allowance current	5,192	5,148
Related party receivables allowance current	61,227	42,790		$ 61,227
Recovery of Insurance	320	827
Impairment of Accounts Receivable Provision	32,707	32,634
Renegotiated allowance	1,905	2,056
Non-renegotiated allowance	$ 30,802	$ 30,578

Financial instruments (Detail_6

Financial instruments (Details 6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	$ (18,707)	$ 16
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	1,982
Debt [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging liabilities	(18,853)	(3,893)
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	(29,557)	(13,615)
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	10,704	9,722
Debt [Member] | Cross currency swap contracts [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging liabilities	(22,771)	(17,318)
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	(25,363)	(18,859)
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	2,592	1,541
Debt [Member] | Forward contract [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging assets	3,918	13,425
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	(4,194)	5,244
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	8,112	8,181
Investment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging assets	16,381	18,146
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	17,146	19,911
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	(765)	(1,765)
Investment [Member] | Cross currency swap contracts [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging liabilities	(889)
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	(711)
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	(178)
Investment [Member] | Forward contract [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedging assets	17,270	18,146
Effect on profit or loss for the period Derivative instruments	17,857	19,911
Hedging reserve in equity before tax	$ (587)	$ (1,765)

Financial instruments (Detail_7

Financial instruments (Details 7) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Net Variation Of Hedging	$ (16,725)
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(18,707)	$ 16
Hedging Reserve In Equity Before Tax	1,982
Debt Hedging [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Net Variation Of Hedging	(14,960)
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(15,942)
Hedging Reserve In Equity Before Tax	982
Investment Hedging [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Net Variation Of Hedging	(1,765)
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(2,765)
Hedging Reserve In Equity Before Tax	1,000
Assets Hedging [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Net Variation Of Hedging	(10,383)
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(11,492)
Hedging Reserve In Equity Before Tax	1,109
Liabilities Hedging [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Net Variation Of Hedging	(6,342)
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(7,215)
Hedging Reserve In Equity Before Tax	$ 873

Financial instruments (Detail_8

Financial instruments (Details 8) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	$ 7,694
Non-current lease liabilities	30,203
Lease liabilities	37,897	$ 45,115	$ 0
Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	2,887
Non-current lease liabilities	23,299
Lease liabilities	26,186		0
Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	852
Non-current lease liabilities	2,530
Lease liabilities	3,382		0
Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	3,955
Non-current lease liabilities	4,374
Lease liabilities	8,329		$ 0
Not later than one month [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	659
Not later than one month [member] | Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	262
Not later than one month [member] | Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	70
Not later than one month [member] | Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	327
Later than one month and not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	1,999
Later than one month and not later than three months [member] | Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	795
Later than one month and not later than three months [member] | Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	211
Later than one month and not later than three months [member] | Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	993
Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	5,036
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	1,830
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	571
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current lease liabilities	2,635
Less than 1 year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	20,030
Less than 1 year [member] | Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	13,507
Less than 1 year [member] | Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	2,530
Less than 1 year [member] | Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	3,993
Later than five years [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	10,173
Later than five years [member] | Buildings [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	9,792
Later than five years [member] | Vehicles [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	0
Later than five years [member] | Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Non-current lease liabilities	$ 381

Financial instruments (Detail_9

Financial instruments (Details 9) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Currency		US$
Series H bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Contract amount	$ 148,159
Currency	UF
Derivative contracts, Maturity	Jan. 4, 2023
Series O bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Contract amount	$ 58,748
Currency	UF
Derivative contracts, Maturity	Feb. 1, 2022
Series P Bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Contract amount	$ 134,228
Currency	UF
Derivative contracts, Maturity	Jan. 15, 2028

Financial instruments (Detai_10

Financial instruments (Details 10) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	$ 298,822	$ 23,585
Non-current	1,518,926	1,330,382
Total	1,817,748	1,353,967
Bank borrowings [Member] | Financial liabilities at amortised cost, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	199	300
Non-current	69,138	68,870
Total	69,337	69,170
Unsecured obligations [Member] | Financial liabilities at amortised cost, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	280,578	15,145
Non-current	1,403,108	1,249,479
Total	1,683,686	1,264,624
For hedging [Member] | Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	7,183	5,285
Non-current	16,477	12,033
Total	23,660	17,318
Non-hedging liabilities [Member] | Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	3,168	2,855
Total	3,168	$ 2,855
Lease Liability [Member] | Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current	7,694
Non-current	30,203
Total	$ 37,897

Financial instruments (Detai_11

Financial instruments (Details 11) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current bank borrowings	$ 199	$ 300
Non-current  bank borrowings	69,138	68,870
Total bank borrowings	$ 2,202,050	$ 1,682,490

Financial instruments (Detai_12

Financial instruments (Details 12) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 15, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	Total	Foreign
Company		SQM S.A.
Financial institution		Scotiabank Cayman
Effective rate			3.25%
Notional amounts	$ 148,728	$ 16,796
Current amounts	199
Borrowing costs	0	(1,651)
Total	199
Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts	0
Current amounts	12
Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts	0
Current amounts	$ 187
Bank borrowings [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current amounts		300
Borrowing costs		0
Total		300
Bank borrowings [Member] | Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		52
Bank borrowings [Member] | Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		248
Bank borrowing One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile
Tax ID No.	Foreign
Financial institution	Scotiabank Cayman
Country	USA
Currency or adjustment index	US$
Repayment	Upon maturity
Borrowings Expiration Date	May 29, 2023
Effective rate	2.11%
Nominal rate	3.01%
Current amounts		248
Borrowing costs		0
Total		248
Bank borrowing One [Member] | Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		0
Bank borrowing One [Member] | Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		$ 248
Bank borrowing Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Company		Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim
Financial institution		Banco ITAU Brasil
Current amounts		$ 11
Borrowing costs		0
Total		11
Bank borrowing Two [Member] | Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		11
Bank borrowing Two [Member] | Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts		$ 0
Bank borrowing Three [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	SQM S.A.	93.007.000-9
Company		SQM Brasil Limitada
Country		Chile
Tax ID No.		Foreign
Financial institution	Scotiabank Cayman	Banco ITAU Brasil
Country		USA
Currency or adjustment index		US$
Repayment		Upon maturity
Borrowings Expiration Date		May 29, 2023
Effective rate		3.60%
Nominal rate		3.98%
Notional amounts	$ 0
Current amounts	187	$ 41
Borrowing costs	0	0
Total	187	41
Bank borrowing Three [Member] | Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts	0	41
Current amounts	0
Bank borrowing Three [Member] | Later than three months and not later than one year [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts	0	$ 0
Current amounts	$ 187
Foreign Bank Borrowings One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	Nitratos Naturais do Chile	Foreign
Company	Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim.	Nitratos Naturais do Chile Lim
Country	Brazil	Brazil
Tax ID No.	Foreign	Foreign
Financial institution	Banco Itau Brasil	Banco ITAU Brasil
Country	Brazil	Brazil
Currency or adjustment index	BRL	BRL
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Borrowings Expiration Date	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 31, 2019
Effective rate	13.57%	5.17%
Nominal rate	4.25%	5.17%
Notional amounts	$ 0
Current amounts	12
Borrowing costs	0
Total	12
Foreign Bank Borrowings One [Member] | Not later than three months [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amounts	0
Current amounts	$ 12
Foreign Bank Borrowings Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.		Foreign
Company		SQM Brasil Limitada
Country		Brazil
Tax ID No.		Foreign
Financial institution		Banco ITAU Brasil
Country		Brazil
Currency or adjustment index		BRL
Repayment		Upon maturity
Borrowings Expiration Date		Jan. 31, 2019
Effective rate		5.50%
Nominal rate		5.50%

Financial instruments (Detai_13

Financial instruments (Details 13) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2018	Jan. 15, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	Total	Foreign
Company		SQM S.A.
Effective rate				3.25%
Notional amount	$ 148,728	$ 16,796
Current maturities	282,914	16,796
Borrowing costs	0	(1,651)
Total	280,578	15,145
NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	24,390	5,674
Current maturities	24,390	5,674
LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	258,524	11,122
Current maturities	$ 258,524	$ 11,122
Single series bond One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	04-21-2020	04-21-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	5.50%	5.50%
Effective rate	0.43%	0.95%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 252,674	$ 2,674
Current maturities	252,674	2,674
Borrowing costs	(386)	(386)
Total	252,288	2,288
Single series bond One [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	2,674
Current maturities	0	2,674
Single series bond One [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	252,674	0
Current maturities	$ 252,674	$ 0
Single series bond Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	01-28-2020	01-28-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	4.38%	4.38%
Effective rate	2.35%	2.75%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 4,648	$ 4,648
Current maturities	4,648	4,648
Borrowing costs	(433)	(433)
Total	4,215	4,215
Single series bond Two [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	4,648	0
Current maturities	4,648	0
Single series bond Two [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	4,648
Current maturities	$ 0	$ 4,648
Single series bond Three [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	04-03-2020	04-03-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	3.63%	3.63%
Effective rate	1.42%	1.77%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 2,658	$ 2,658
Current maturities	2,658	2,658
Borrowing costs	(614)	(614)
Total	2,044	2,044
Single series bond Three [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	2,658
Current maturities	0	2,658
Single series bond Three [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	2,658	0
Current maturities	$ 2,658	$ 0
Single Series Bond Four [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Company	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile
Notional amount	$ 2,869
Current maturities	2,869
Borrowing costs	(679)
Total	2,190
Single Series Bond Four [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0
Current maturities	0
Single Series Bond Four [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	2,869
Current maturities	$ 2,869
Single Series Bond Five [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-
Maturity date	05-07-2020
Currency or adjustment index	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual
Nominal rate	4.25%
Effective rate	4.07%
Repayment	Upon maturity
Series H bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	564	564
Maturity date	01-05-2020	01-05-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	4.90%	4.90%
Effective rate	1.36%	1.90%
Repayment	Semiannual	Semiannual
Notional amount	$ 17,166	$ 3,756
Current maturities	17,166	3,756
Borrowing costs	(139)	(139)
Total	17,027	3,617
Series H bonds [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	17,166	0
Current maturities	17,166	0
Series H bonds [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	3,756
Current maturities	$ 0	$ 3,756
Series O bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	699	699
Maturity date	02-01-2020	02-01-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	3.80%	3.80%
Effective rate	2.41%	2.60%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 890	$ 934
Current maturities	890	934
Borrowing costs	(67)	(67)
Total	823	867
Series O bonds [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	890	0
Current maturities	890	0
Series O bonds [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	934
Current maturities	$ 0	$ 934
Series P bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	563	563
Maturity date	01-15-2020	01-15-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	3.25%	3.25%
Effective rate	2.71%	3.07%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 1,686	$ 1,784
Current maturities	1,686	1,784
Borrowing costs	(12)	(12)
Total	1,674	1,772
Series P bonds [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	1,686	0
Current maturities	1,686	0
Series P bonds [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	1,784
Current maturities	$ 0	$ 1,784
Series Q bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	700	700
Maturity date	06-01-2020	06-01-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Nominal rate	3.45%	3.45%
Effective rate	3.11%	3.34%	3.45%
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Notional amount	$ 323	$ 342
Current maturities	323	342
Borrowing costs	(6)	0
Total	317	342
Series Q bonds [Member] | NotLaterThanThreeMonths [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	342
Current maturities	0	342
Series Q bonds [Member] | LaterThanThreeMonthsAndNotLaterThanOneYear [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	323	0
Current maturities	$ 323	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_14

Financial instruments (Details 14) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 15, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	Total	Foreign
Company		SQM S.A.
Financial institution		Scotiabank Cayman
Effective rate			3.25%
Notional amount	$ 148,728	$ 16,796
Borrowing costs	$ 0	$ (1,651)
Bank Borrowings Chilean Tax [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID No.	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A
Country	Chile	Chile
Tax ID No.	Foreign	Foreign
Financial institution	Scotiabank Cayman	Scotiabank Cayman
Country	USA	USA
Currency or adjustment index	USD	USD
Effective rate	2.84%	3.98%
Nominal rate	3.01%	3.98%
Non current bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	$ 70,000	$ 70,000
Non-current maturities	70,000	70,000
Borrowing costs	(862)	(1,130)
Total	$ 69,138	$ 68,870
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Bank Borrowings Chilean Tax [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Financial institution	Scotiabank Cayman	Scotiabank Cayman
Notional amount	$ 70,000	$ 70,000
Non-current maturities	70,000	70,000
Borrowing costs	(862)	(1,130)
Total	69,138	68,870
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 1 year to 2 [member] | Bank Borrowings Chilean Tax [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 2 years to 3 [member] | Bank Borrowings Chilean Tax [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 3 Years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	70,000	70,000
Non-current maturities	70,000	70,000
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Between 3 Years to 4 [member] | Bank Borrowings Chilean Tax [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	70,000	70,000
Non-current maturities	$ 70,000	$ 70,000

Financial instruments (Detai_15

Financial instruments (Details 15) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Oct. 31, 2018	Jan. 15, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	Total	Foreign
Company		SQM S.A.
Effective rate				3.25%
Notional Amount	$ 148,728	$ 16,796
Borrowing costs	$ 0	$ (1,651)
Single series bond One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	04-21-2020	04-21-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	0.43%	0.95%
Nominal rate	5.50%	5.50%
Notional Amount	$ 252,674	$ 2,674
Borrowing costs	$ (386)	$ (386)
Single series bond Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	01-28-2020	01-28-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	2.35%	2.75%
Nominal rate	4.38%	4.38%
Notional Amount	$ 4,648	$ 4,648
Borrowing costs	$ (433)	$ (433)
Single series bond Three [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	04-03-2020	04-03-2019
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	1.42%	1.77%
Nominal rate	3.63%	3.63%
Notional Amount	$ 2,658	$ 2,658
Borrowing costs	$ (614)	$ (614)
Series H bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	564	564
Maturity date	01-05-2020	01-05-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Semiannual	Semiannual
Effective rate	1.36%	1.90%
Nominal rate	4.90%	4.90%
Notional Amount	$ 17,166	$ 3,756
Borrowing costs	$ (139)	$ (139)
Series O bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	699	699
Maturity date	02-01-2020	02-01-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	2.41%	2.60%
Nominal rate	3.80%	3.80%
Notional Amount	$ 890	$ 934
Borrowing costs	$ (67)	$ (67)
Series Q bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	700	700
Maturity date	06-01-2020	06-01-2019
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	3.11%	3.34%	3.45%
Nominal rate	3.45%	3.45%
Notional Amount	$ 323	$ 342
Borrowing costs	(6)	0
Non current bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,414,192	1,256,274
Non-current maturities	1,414,192	1,256,274
Borrowing costs	(11,084)	(6,795)
Total	1,403,108	1,249,479
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	264,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	264,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	313,749	314,428
Non-current maturities	313,749	314,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,059,196	648,562
Non-current maturities	$ 1,059,196	$ 648,562
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	01-28-2025	04-21-2020
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	4.08%	5.50%
Nominal rate	4.38%	5.50%
Notional Amount	$ 250,000	$ 250,000
Non-current maturities	250,000	250,000
Borrowing costs	(1,514)	(131)
Total	248,486	249,869
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	250,000
Non-current maturities	0	250,000
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond One [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	250,000	0
Non-current maturities	$ 250,000	$ 0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	04-03-2023	01-28-2025
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	3.43%	4.38%
Nominal rate	3.63%	4.38%
Notional Amount	$ 300,000	$ 250,000
Non-current maturities	300,000	250,000
Borrowing costs	(1,393)	(2,202)
Total	298,607	247,798
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	300,000	0
Non-current maturities	300,000	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Two [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	250,000
Non-current maturities	$ 0	$ 250,000
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	-	-
Maturity date	05-07-2029	04-03-2023
Currency or adjustment index	US$	US$
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	4.19%	3.63%
Nominal rate	4.25%	3.63%
Notional Amount	$ 450,000	$ 300,000
Non-current maturities	450,000	300,000
Borrowing costs	(5,923)	(2,006)
Total	444,077	297,994
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	300,000
Non-current maturities	0	300,000
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount		0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Single series bond Three [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	450,000	0
Non-current maturities	$ 450,000	$ 0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	564	564
Maturity date	01-05-2030	01-05-2030
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Semiannual
Effective rate	4.78%	4.90%
Nominal rate	4.90%	4.90%
Notional Amount	$ 130,617	$ 158,704
Non-current maturities	130,617	158,704
Borrowing costs	(1,253)	(1,392)
Total	129,364	157,312
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	13,749	14,428
Non-current maturities	13,749	14,428
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	75,621	100,992
Non-current maturities	$ 75,621	$ 100,992
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	699	699
Maturity date	02-01-2033	02-01-2033
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	3.70%	3.80%
Nominal rate	5.50%	5.50%
Notional Amount	$ 56,715	$ 59,514
Non-current maturities	56,715	59,514
Borrowing costs	(811)	(878)
Total	55,904	58,636
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series O bonds [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	56,715	59,514
Non-current maturities	$ 56,715	$ 59,514
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	563	563
Maturity date	01-15-2028	01-15-2028
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	3.24%	3.25%
Nominal rate	3.25%	3.25%
Notional Amount	$ 113,430	$ 119,028
Non-current maturities	113,430	119,028
Borrowing costs	(89)	(101)
Total	113,341	118,927
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series P Bonds [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	113,430	119,028
Non-current maturities	$ 113,430	$ 119,028
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Tax ID	93.007.000-9	93.007.000-9
Company	SQM S.A.	SQM S.A.
Country	Chile	Chile
Number of registration or ID of the instrument	700	700
Maturity date	06-01-2038	06-01-2038
Currency or adjustment index	UF	UF
Payment of interest	Semiannual	Semiannual
Repayment	Upon maturity	Upon maturity
Effective rate	3.45%	3.45%
Nominal rate	3.45%	3.45%
Notional Amount	$ 113,430	$ 119,028
Non-current maturities	113,430	119,028
Borrowing costs	(101)	(85)
Total	113,329	118,943
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member] | Over 1 year to 2 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member] | Over 2 years to 3 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member] | Over 3 years to 4 [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member] | Over 4 Years to 5 [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	0	0
Non-current maturities	0	0
Non current bonds issued [Member] | Series Q bonds [Member] | Over 5 Years [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional Amount	113,430	119,028
Non-current maturities	$ 113,430	$ 119,028

Financial instruments (Detai_16

Financial instruments (Details 17) - Series H bonds [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedge		$ 1,952	$ 495
Principal payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 7,691	$ 7,868	$ 8,325

Financial instruments (Detai_17

Financial instruments (Details 18) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Single series bond Four [Member] | Interest payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 10,938	$ 10,938	$ 10,938

Financial instruments (Detai_18

Financial instruments (Details 19) - Series O bonds [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Hedge	$ 354	$ 205
Interest payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 2,308	$ 2,457	$ 2,301

Financial instruments (Detai_19

Financial instruments (Details 20) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Single series bond Three [Member] | Interest payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 10,875	$ 10,875	$ 10,875

Financial instruments (Detai_20

Financial instruments (Details 21) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Single series bond Two [Member] | Interest payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 13,750	$ 13,750	$ 13,750

Financial instruments (Detai_21

Financial instruments (Details 22) - Series P bonds [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Interest payment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 3,960	$ 1,085	$ 0
CCS Coverage [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 2,995	$ 1,421	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_22

Financial instruments (Details 23) - Interest payment [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Series Q bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 3,791	$ 319	$ 0
Single Series Fifth Issue Bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Repayments of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 9,563	$ 0	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_23

Financial instruments (Details 24) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Abstract]
Accounts payable	$ 205,414	$ 163,373
Other accounts payable	376	378
Total	205,790	163,751
Accounts payable	0	0
Other accounts payable	0	0
Total	0	0
Accounts payable	205,414	163,373
Other accounts payable	376	378
Total	$ 205,790	$ 163,751

Financial instruments (Detai_24

Financial instruments (Details 25) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	$ 194,422	$ 145,275
Up to 30 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	187,103	141,323
31 - 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	4,969	2,394
61 - 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	128	1,089
91 - 120 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	116	132
121 - 365 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	2,106	337
366 and more days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	0
Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	133,495	52,105
Goods [Member] | Up to 30 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	126,577	48,969
Goods [Member] | 31 - 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	4,655	1,919
Goods [Member] | 61 - 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	128	912
Goods [Member] | 91 - 120 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	116	25
Goods [Member] | 121 - 365 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	2,019	280
Goods [Member] | 366 and more days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	0
Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	52,040	38,008
Services [Member] | Up to 30 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	51,785	37,376
Services [Member] | 31 - 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	168	314
Services [Member] | 61 - 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	157
Services [Member] | 91 - 120 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	107
Services [Member] | 121 - 365 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	87	54
Services [Member] | 366 and more days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	0
Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	8,887	55,162
Others [Member] | Up to 30 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	8,741	54,978
Others [Member] | 31 - 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	146	161
Others [Member] | 61 - 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	20
Others [Member] | 91 - 120 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	0	0
Others [Member] | 121 - 365 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period		3
Others [Member] | 366 and more days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Current Period	$ 0	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_25

Financial instruments (Details 26) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	$ 10,992	$ 18,098
Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	3,510	2,669
Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	4,485	13,737
Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	2,997	1,692
Up to 30 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	7,077	14,801
Up to 30 days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	2,086	1,533
Up to 30 days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	3,073	12,229
Up to 30 days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	1,918	1,039
31 - 60 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	638	1,432
31 - 60 days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	264	209
31 - 60 days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	329	838
31 - 60 days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	45	385
61 - 90 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	462	411
61 - 90 days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	35	210
61 - 90 days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	116	109
61 - 90 days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	311	92
91 - 120 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	667	372
91 - 120 days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	65	255
91 - 120 days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	387	111
91 - 120 days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	215	6
121 - 365 days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	2,148	1,082
121 - 365 days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	1,060	462
121 - 365 days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	580	450
121 - 365 days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	508	170
366 and more days [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	0	0
366 and more days [member] | Goods [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	0	0
366 and more days [member] | Services [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	0	0
366 and more days [member] | Others [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Trade And Other Current Payables To Trade Suppliers Past Due	$ 0	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_26

Financial instruments (Details 27) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	$ 0	$ 91
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	(18,707)	16
Derivative instruments (IRS) [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	0	91
Gains (losses) on hedging instrument, fair value hedges	$ (16)	$ 16

Financial instruments (Detai_27

Financial instruments (Details 28) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial assets at amortised cost	$ 1,534,588	$ 1,357,265
Current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	19,801	20,931
Current, total financial assets	1,554,389	1,378,196
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost	1,785	2,350
Non-current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	8,703	17,056
Non-current, total financial assets	10,488	19,406
Financial assets at amortised cost	1,536,373	1,359,615
Total, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	28,504	37,987
Total, total financial assets	485,689	1,397,602
Cash and cash equivalent [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial assets at amortised cost	588,530	556,066
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost	0	0
Financial assets at amortised cost	588,530	556,066
Trade receivables due from related parties [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial assets at amortised cost	61,227	42,790
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost	0	0
Financial assets at amortised cost	61,227	42,790
Term deposits [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial assets at amortised cost	485,689	291,790
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost	75	75
Financial assets at amortised cost	485,764	291,865
Loans and receivables, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial assets at amortised cost	399,142	466,619
Non-current financial assets at amortised cost	1,710	2,275
Financial assets at amortised cost	400,852	468,894
Hedging assets [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	17,270	18,238
Non-current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	3,918	13,425
Total, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	21,188	31,663
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	2,531	2,693
Non-current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	0	0
Total, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	2,531	2,693
Investments in equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	0	0
Non-current, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	4,785	3,631
Total, financial assets at fair value through profit or loss	$ 4,785	$ 3,631

Financial instruments (Detai_28

Financial instruments (Details 29) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	$ 494,736	$ 179,205
Current, total financial liabilities	505,087	187,345
Non-current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	1,502,449	1,318,349
Non-current, total financial liabilities		1,330,382
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	0	91
Total, total financial liabilities	1,518,926	1,517,727
Lease Liability [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	7,694
Non-current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	30,203
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	37,897
Trade payables due to related parties [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	475	9
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	475	9
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at amortised cost	10,351	8,140
Non-current financial liabilities at amortised cost	16,477	12,033
Financial liabilities at amortised cost	26,828	20,173
Bank borrowings [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	199	300
Non-current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	69,138	68,870
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	69,337	69,170
Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	280,578	15,145
Non-current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	1,403,108	1,249,479
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	1,683,686	1,264,624
Trade and other payables [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	205,790	163,751
Non-current financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	0	0
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss	205,790	163,751
Hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at amortised cost	7,183	5,285
Non-current financial liabilities at amortised cost	16,477	12,033
Financial liabilities at amortised cost	23,660	17,318
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, classified as held for trading, category [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current financial liabilities at amortised cost	3,168	2,855
Non-current financial liabilities at amortised cost	0	0
Financial liabilities at amortised cost	$ 3,168	$ 2,855

Financial instruments (Detai_29

Financial instruments (Details 30) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	$ 485,689,000	$ 1,397,602,000
Financial liabilities	1,518,926,000	1,517,727,000
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	4,785
Financial liabilities		0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities		0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	199,000	300,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	2,837,000	2,723,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Financial liabilities	289,000	132,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	7,183,000	5,285,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	280,578,000	15,145,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	71,033,000	71,826,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	1,658,506,000	1,357,640,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	16,477,000	12,033,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Current Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	7,694,000
Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Noncurrent Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	33,187,000
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Financial liabilities		0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	199,000	300,000
Fair value Informative [Member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Financial liabilities		0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	280,578,000	15,145,000
Fair value Informative [Member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	71,033,000	71,826,000
Fair value Informative [Member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	1,658,506,000	1,357,640,000
Fair value Informative [Member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair value Informative [Member] | Current Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	7,694,000
Fair value Informative [Member] | Noncurrent Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	33,187,000
Fair Value [Member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair Value [Member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Fair Value [Member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	2,837,000	2,723,000
Fair Value [Member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	4,785
Financial liabilities	289,000	132,000
Fair Value [Member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	7,183,000	5,285,000
Fair Value [Member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair Value [Member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair Value [Member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Fair Value [Member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	16,477,000	12,033,000
Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	2,042,462,000	1,527,250,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	199,000	300,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Derivative instruments [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Forwards [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Options [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Financial liabilities		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Hedging Swaps [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	280,578,000	15,145,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Bank loans [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	69,138,000	68,870,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Unsecured obligations [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	1,403,108,000	1,249,479,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Non-current hedging liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Current Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	7,694,000
Gross carrying amount [member] | Noncurrent Lease Liabilities [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	30,203,000
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	588,530,000	556,066,000
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	588,530,000	556,066,000
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	588,530,000	556,066,000
Time deposits [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Time deposits [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	485,689,000	291,790,000
Time deposits [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Time deposits [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	485,689,000	291,790,000
Time deposits [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Time deposits [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	485,689,000	291,790,000
Derivative instruments [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Derivative instruments [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Derivative instruments [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Derivative instruments [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Derivative instruments [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Derivative instruments [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0
Forwards [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Forwards [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	2,420,000	2,637,000
Forwards [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Forwards [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Forwards [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	2,420,000	2,637,000
Forwards [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Options [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Options [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	111,000	56,000
Options [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Options [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Options [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	111,000	56,000
Options [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	17,270,000	18,238,000
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	17,270,000	18,238,000
Investment Hedge Swaps [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	1,710,000	2,275,000
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Non-current accounts receivable [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	1,710,000	2,275,000
Others [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Others [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	94,000	75,000
Others [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Others [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	94,000	75,000
Others [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Others [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	94,000	75,000
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Level 1 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Level 2 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	3,918,000	13,425,000
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Level 3 of fair value hierarchy [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Fair value Informative [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	0	0
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	3,918,000	13,425,000
Hedging Swaps [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Financial assets	$ 0	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_30

Financial instruments (Details 33) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current and non-current lease liabilities, beginning of year	$ 0
Adoption of IFRS 16	45,115
Monetary Principal 1 paid	(7,221)	$ 0	$ 0
Monetary Interest paid	(1,537)
Non- Monetary Interest accrued	1,535
Current and non-current lease liabilities, ending of year	37,897	0
Buildings [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current and non-current lease liabilities, beginning of year	0
Adoption of IFRS 16	29,289
Monetary Principal 1 paid	(3,101)
Monetary Interest paid	(840)
Non- Monetary Interest accrued	838
Current and non-current lease liabilities, ending of year	26,186	0
Transport equipment [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current and non-current lease liabilities, beginning of year	0
Adoption of IFRS 16	3,893
Monetary Principal 1 paid	(515)
Monetary Interest paid	(62)
Non- Monetary Interest accrued	66
Current and non-current lease liabilities, ending of year	3,382	0
Machinery [member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Current and non-current lease liabilities, beginning of year	0
Adoption of IFRS 16	11,933
Monetary Principal 1 paid	(3,605)
Monetary Interest paid	(635)
Non- Monetary Interest accrued	636
Current and non-current lease liabilities, ending of year	$ 8,329	$ 0

Financial instruments (Detai_31

Financial instruments (Details Textual)	May 07, 2019USD ($)	Nov. 08, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2018USD ($)	Apr. 03, 2013USD ($)	Apr. 04, 2012USD ($)	Jan. 13, 2009USD ($)	Oct. 23, 2014USD ($)	Apr. 21, 2010USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Jul. 05, 2019USD ($)	Jul. 05, 2019CLF ( )	Jan. 01, 2019	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)	Jan. 15, 2018	Apr. 04, 2012CLF ( )	Jan. 13, 2009CLF ( )
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 148,728,000	$ 16,796,000
Borrowings, interest rate															3.25%
Outstanding purchase commitments									$ 101,280,000	59,919,000
Weighted Average Lessees Incremental Borrowing Rate									8.08%				8.08%
Single series bond One [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 252,674,000	$ 2,674,000
Borrowings, interest rate									0.43%	0.95%
Borrowings, maturity									04-21-2020	04-21-2019
Single series bond One [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount								$ 250,000
Borrowings, interest rate								5.50%
Borrowings, maturity								10
Single series bond Three [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 2,658,000	$ 2,658,000
Borrowings, interest rate									1.42%	1.77%
Borrowings, maturity									04-03-2020	04-03-2019
Single series bond Three [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount				$ 300					$ 300,000
Borrowings, interest rate				3.625%
Borrowings, maturity				10
Single series bond Two [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 4,648,000	$ 4,648,000
Borrowings, interest rate									2.35%	2.75%
Borrowings, maturity									01-28-2020	01-28-2019
Single series bond Two [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount							$ 250,000,000		$ 250,000,000
Borrowings, interest rate							4.375%
Borrowings, maturity							2025
Percentage of bonds issue price							99.41%
Series H bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 17,166,000	$ 3,756,000
Borrowings, interest rate									1.36%	1.90%
Borrowings, maturity									01-05-2020	01-05-2019
Series H bonds [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount						$ 139,216,000					$ 7.494	181,818.18					4,000,000
Borrowings, interest rate						4.90%											4.90%
Borrowings, maturity						21
Series Q bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 323,000	$ 342,000
Borrowings, interest rate									3.11%	3.34%				3.45%
Borrowings, maturity									06-01-2020	06-01-2019
Percentage Of Funds From Sale Of Financial Assets Used For Expansion		90.00%
Proceeds from disposal or maturity of available-for-sale financial assets		$ 83,567,623,842
Bond Authorised to Issue														$ 3,000,000
Series P bonds [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount									$ 1,686,000	$ 1,784,000
Borrowings, interest rate									2.71%	3.07%
Borrowings, maturity									01-15-2020	01-15-2019
Series P bonds [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount			$ 3,000,000,000
Borrowings, interest rate															3.25%
Borrowings, maturity			10 year
Series M Bonds [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount					$ 69,901,000											1,500,000
Borrowings, interest rate					3.80%											3.80%
Borrowings, maturity					21
Unsecured Bonds [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount	$ 450,000,000
Borrowings, interest rate	4.25%
Borrowings, maturity	2029
Percentage of bonds issue price	99.984%
Cross currency swap contracts [Member] | Series H bonds [Member] | Bonds issued [Member]
Financial instruments [Line Items]
Notional amount											$ 439

Intangible assets and goodwil_2

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Abstract]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 188,358	$ 189,350
Goodwill	34,726	34,866	$ 37,972
Total	$ 223,084	$ 224,216	$ 151,759

Intangible assets and goodwil_3

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 188,358	$ 189,350
Goodwill	34,726	34,866	$ 37,972
Total intangible assets and goodwill	$ 223,084	$ 224,216	151,759
Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Finite	Finite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 1,294	$ 1,412
Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	222,197	217,929
Goodwill	38,120	38,120	37,972
Total intangible assets and goodwill	260,317	256,049	172,589
Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	1,500	1,500
Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(31,190)	(26,843)
Total intangible assets and goodwill	(31,190)	(26,843)
Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(206)	(88)
Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(2,649)	(1,736)
Goodwill	(3,394)	(3,254)	0
Total intangible assets and goodwill	(6,043)	(4,990)
Accumulated impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 0	$ 0
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life		Indefinite
Intangible assets other than goodwill		$ 34,866
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill		38,120
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill		0
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill		$ (3,254)
Computer software [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Finite	Finite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 6,011	$ 4,568
Total intangible assets and goodwill	6,011	4,568	5,291
Computer software [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	34,471	29,137
Total intangible assets and goodwill	34,471	29,137	25,060
Computer software [member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(28,460)	(24,569)
Computer software [member] | Accumulated impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 0	$ 0
Copyrights, patents and other industrial property rights, service and operating rights [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Finite	Finite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 121	$ 151
Total intangible assets and goodwill	121	151	189
Copyrights, patents and other industrial property rights, service and operating rights [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	1,259	1,254
Total intangible assets and goodwill	1,259	1,254	1,250
Copyrights, patents and other industrial property rights, service and operating rights [member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(1,131)	(1,096)
Copyrights, patents and other industrial property rights, service and operating rights [member] | Accumulated impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(7)	(7)
Goodwill [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	34,726
Goodwill [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	38,120
Goodwill [Member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	0
Goodwill [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ (3,394)
Goodwill [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Indefinite
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Total intangible assets and goodwill	$ 182,260	$ 183,349
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Indefinite	Indefinite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 179,618	$ 181,620
Total intangible assets and goodwill	179,618	181,620	104,858
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	182,260	183,349
Total intangible assets and goodwill		183,349	104,858
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	0	0
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ (2,642)	$ (1,729)
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Finite	Finite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 1,273	$ 1,573
Total intangible assets and goodwill	1,273	1,573	1,778
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	1,778	1,778
Total intangible assets and goodwill	1,778	1,778	1,778
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(505)	(205)
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Accumulated impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 0	$ 0
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful life	Finite	Finite
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 41	$ 26
Total intangible assets and goodwill	41	26	171
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	929	911
Total intangible assets and goodwill	929	911	$ 171
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(888)	(885)
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Intangible assets other than goodwill	$ 0	$ 0

Intangible assets and goodwil_4

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details 2)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Bottom of range [member] | Mining property, water rights and rights of way [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	Indefinite
Bottom of range [member] | Mining property [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	1 year
Bottom of range [member] | Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	1 year
Bottom of range [member] | Commercial trademarks [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	1 year
Bottom of range [member] | IT programs [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	2 years
Top of range [member] | Mining property, water rights and rights of way [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	Indefinite
Top of range [member] | Mining property [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	11 years
Top of range [member] | Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	16 years
Top of range [member] | Commercial trademarks [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	5 years
Top of range [member] | IT programs [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Useful lives or amortisation rates, intangible assets other than goodwill	6 years

Intangible assets and goodwil_5

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 34,726	$ 34,866	$ 37,972
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	(140)	(3,254)
Transferred to available for sale	34,726	0
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	3,214	3,214	3,214
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	(3,214)	0
Transferred to available for sale	0	0
SQM S.A [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	22,255	22,255	22,255
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Transferred to available for sale	0	0
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	148	148	0
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Transferred to available for sale	0	0
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	86	86	86
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Transferred to available for sale	0	0
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	140	280	320
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	(180)	0
Transferred to available for sale	140	0
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	11,373	11,373	11,373
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Transferred to available for sale	11,373	0
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Goodwill	724	724	$ 724
Additional recognition	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Transferred to available for sale	$ 0	$ 0

Intangible assets and goodwil_6

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details 4) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	$ 224,216,000	$ 151,759,000
Additions	2,856,000	78,376,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(6,000)	(6,000)
Decreases through sale	(1,314,000)
Impairment	(1,053,000)	(4,990,000)	$ 1,164,000
Other increases (decreases)	2,479,000	2,285,000
Amortization	(4,094,000)	(3,208,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(1,132,000)	72,457,000
Final balance	223,084,000	224,216,000	151,759,000
Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	256,049,000	172,589,000
Additions	2,856,000	78,376,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(9,000)	(10,000)
Decreases through sale	(1,314,000)
Other increases (decreases)	2,735,000	5,094,000
Total increases (decreases)	4,268,000	83,460,000
Final balance	260,317,000	256,049,000	172,589,000
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(31,833,000)	(20,830,000)
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	3,000	4,000
Impairment	(1,053,000)	(4,990,000)
Other increases (decreases)	(256,000)	(2,809,000)
Amortization	(4,094,000)	(3,208,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(5,400,000)	(11,003,000)
Final balance	(37,233,000)	(31,833,000)	(20,830,000)
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Goodwill [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	34,866,000	37,972,000
Additions	0	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	(140,000)	(3,254,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	148,000
Amortization	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	(140,000)	(3,106,000)
Final balance	38,120,000	34,866,000	37,972,000
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Goodwill [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	38,120,000	37,972,000
Additions		0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency		0
Other increases (decreases)		148,000
Total increases (decreases)		148,000
Final balance		38,120,000	37,972,000
Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Goodwill [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(3,254,000)	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	(140,000)	(3,254,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	(140,000)	(3,254,000)
Final balance	(3,394,000)	(3,254,000)	0
IT programs [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	4,568,000	5,291,000
Additions	2,606,000	1,159,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(4,000)	(1,000)
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	2,479,000	999,000
Amortization	(3,638,000)	(2,880,000)
Total increases (decreases)	1,443,000	(723,000)
Final balance	6,011,000	4,568,000	5,291,000
IT programs [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	29,137,000	25,060,000
Additions	2,606,000	1,159,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(7,000)	(5,000)
Other increases (decreases)	2,735,000	2,923,000
Total increases (decreases)	5,334,000	4,077,000
Final balance	34,471,000	29,137,000	25,060,000
IT programs [member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(24,569,000)	(19,769,000)
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	3,000	4,000
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	(256,000)	(1,924,000)
Amortization	(3,638,000)	(2,880,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(3,891,000)	(4,800,000)
Final balance	(28,460,000)	(24,569,000)	(19,769,000)
Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service, Finite [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	151,000	189,000
Additions	5,000	5,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	(1,000)
Impairment	0	(7,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(35,000)	(35,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(30,000)	(38,000)
Final balance	121,000	151,000	189,000
Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service, Finite [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,254,000	1,250,000
Additions	5,000	5,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	(1,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	5,000	4,000
Final balance	1,259,000	1,254,000	1,250,000
Intellectual property rights, patents and other industrial property rights, service, Finite [member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(1,103,000)	(1,061,000)
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	(7,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(35,000)	(35,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(35,000)	(42,000)
Final balance	(1,138,000)	(1,103,000)	(1,061,000)
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	183,349,000
Additions	227,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(2,000)
Decreases through sale	(1,314,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total increases (decreases)	(1,089,000)
Final balance	182,260,000	183,349,000
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	181,620,000	104,858,000
Additions	227,000	77,201,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	(2,000)	(4,000)
Decreases through sale	(1,314,000)
Impairment	(913,000)	(1,729,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	1,294,000
Amortization	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	(2,002,000)	76,762,000
Final balance	179,618,000	181,620,000	104,858,000
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	183,349,000	104,858,000
Additions		77,201,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency		(4,000)
Other increases (decreases)		1,294,000
Total increases (decreases)		78,491,000
Final balance		183,349,000	104,858,000
Mining Property Water Rights And Rights Of Way [Member] | Indeifinite Intangible assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(1,729,000)	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	(913,000)	(1,729,000)
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	(913,000)	(1,729,000)
Final balance	(2,642,000)	(1,729,000)	0
Mining property [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,412,000	1,500,000
Additions	0	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(118,000)	(88,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(118,000)	(88,000)
Final balance	1,294,000	1,412,000	1,500,000
Mining property [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,500,000	1,500,000
Additions	0	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	0	0
Final balance	1,500,000	1,500,000	1,500,000
Mining property [member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(88,000)	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(118,000)	(88,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(118,000)	(88,000)
Final balance	(206,000)	(88,000)	0
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,573,000	1,778,000
Additions	0	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(300,000)	(205,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(300,000)	(205,000)
Final balance	1,273,000	1,573,000	1,778,000
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,778,000	1,778,000
Additions	0	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Total increases (decreases)	0	0
Final balance	1,778,000	1,778,000	1,778,000
Customer-related intangible assets [member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(205,000)	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Amortization	(300,000)	(205,000)
Total increases (decreases)	(300,000)	(205,000)
Final balance	(505,000)	(205,000)	0
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	26,000	171,000
Additions	18,000	11,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	(156,000)
Amortization	(3,000)	0
Total increases (decreases)	15,000	(145,000)
Final balance	41,000	26,000	171,000
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	911,000	171,000
Additions	18,000	11,000
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	729,000
Total increases (decreases)	18,000	740,000
Final balance	929,000	911,000	171,000
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Finite intangible assets [Member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Opening balance	(885,000)	0
Other increases / decreases for foreign currency	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	(885,000)
Amortization	(3,000)	0
Total increases (decreases)	(3,000)	(885,000)
Final balance	$ (888,000)	$ (885,000)	$ 0

Intangible assets and goodwil_7

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	$ 34,866	$ 37,972
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	34,726	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	(140)	(3,254)
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(3,106)
Total increase (decrease)	(140)	(3,106)
Total increase (decrease)	(1,132)	72,457
Goodwill Ending Balance	34,726	34,866
Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	38,120	37,972
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	148
Total increase (decrease)	0	148
Total increase (decrease)	4,268	83,460
Goodwill Ending Balance	38,120	38,120
Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	(3,254)	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	(140)	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(3,254)
Total increase (decrease)	(140)	(3,254)
Goodwill Ending Balance	(3,394)	(3,254)
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	3,214	3,214
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	(3,214)	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(3,214)
Total increase (decrease)	0	(3,214)
Goodwill Ending Balance	3,214	3,214
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	3,214	3,214
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		3,214
SQM Industrial S.A. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	(3,214)	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(3,214)
Total increase (decrease)	0	(3,214)
Goodwill Ending Balance	(3,214)	(3,214)
SQM S.A [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	22,255	22,255
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	22,255	22,255
SQM S.A [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	22,255	22,255
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		22,255
SQM S.A [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	0	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	0	0
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	148	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	148
Total increase (decrease)	0	148
Goodwill Ending Balance	148	148
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	148	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	148
Total increase (decrease)	0	148
Goodwill Ending Balance		148
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	0	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	0	0
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	86	86
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	86	86
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	86	86
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		86
SQM Investment Corporation N.V. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	0	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	0	0
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	280	320
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	140	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	(180)	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(40)
Total increase (decrease)	(140)	(40)
Goodwill Ending Balance	140	280
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	320	320
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		320
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	(40)	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	(140)	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	(40)
Total increase (decrease)	(140)	(40)
Goodwill Ending Balance	(180)	(40)
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	11,373	11,373
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	11,373	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	11,373	11,373
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	11,373	11,373
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		11,373
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	0	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	0	0
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	724	724
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	724	724
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	724	724
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance		724
SQM Potasio S.A. [Member] | Accumulated impairment [member]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in goodwill [line items]
Goodwill Begining Balance	0	0
Additional	0	0
Recognition subsequent to deferred tax assets	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Goodwill write-off without having been included previously in disposal groups classified as held for sale	0	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Increase (decrease) for net exchange differences	0	0
Increase (decrease) due to other changes	0	0
Total increase (decrease)	0	0
Goodwill Ending Balance	$ 0	$ 0

Intangible assets and goodwil_8

Intangible assets and goodwill (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Impairments of intangible assets	$ (1,053)	$ (4,990)	$ 1,164
Impairments of goodwill	$ 140	$ 3,254	$ 0
Intangible assets and goodwill [member]
Disclosure Of Intangible Assets And Goodwill [Line Items]
Discount rate applied to cash flow projections	8.48%
Period Over Which Management Has Projected Cash Flows	5 years

Property, plant and equipment_2

Property, plant and equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, plant and equipments [Abstract]
Land	$ 23,620	$ 24,695
Buildings	252,969	238,808
Other property, plant and equipment	32,604	28,175
Transport equipment	6,042	2,892
Suppliers and accessories	4,579	4,722
Office equipment	420	513
Network and communication equipment	663	692
Mining assets	23,174	11,501
IT equipment	4,359	4,980
Energy generating assets	5,998	6,117
Construction in progress	375,316	207,830
Machinery, plant and equipment	877,326	923,898
Total	1,607,070	1,454,823		$ 1,429,354
Description of classes of property, plant and equipment [Abstract]
Pumps	32,525	34,145
Conveyor belt	21,911	22,082
Crystallizer	24,102	27,112
Plant equipment	170,263	188,934
Water tanks	14,159	14,876
Filter	27,080	29,300
Facilities or electrical equipment	92,090	96,179
Other machinery, plant and equipment	53,396	58,997
Site Closure	12,056	12,967
Right-of-use assets	8,066		$ 45,115
Piping	96,402	98,498
Pond	41,319	42,903
Well	238,670	250,045
Parts	45,287	47,860
Total	877,326	923,898
Gross carrying amount [member]
Property, plant and equipments [Abstract]
Land	23,620	24,695
Buildings	695,316	648,719
Other property, plant and equipment	257,206	245,731
Transport equipment	16,036	11,668
Suppliers and accessories	25,531	24,456
Office equipment	11,441	11,377
Network and communication equipment	8,009	7,505
Mining assets	161,619	132,309
IT equipment	28,693	29,955
Energy generating assets	38,495	36,930
Construction in progress	375,316	207,830
Machinery, plant and equipment	3,154,435	3,068,862
Total	4,795,717	4,450,037		4,225,199
Description of classes of property, plant and equipment [Abstract]
Total	3,154,435	3,068,862
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member]
Property, plant and equipments [Abstract]
Buildings	(442,347)	(409,911)
Other property, plant and equipment	(224,602)	(217,556)
Transport equipment	(9,994)	(8,776)
Suppliers and accessories	(20,952)	(19,734)
Office equipment	(11,021)	(10,864)
Network and communication equipment	(7,346)	(6,813)
Mining assets	(138,445)	(120,808)
IT equipment	(24,334)	(24,975)
Energy generating assets	(32,497)	(30,813)
Machinery, plant and equipment	(2,277,109)	(2,144,964)
Total	(3,188,647)	(2,995,214)		$ (2,795,845)
Description of classes of property, plant and equipment [Abstract]
Total	$ (2,277,109)	$ (2,144,964)

Property, plant and equipment_3

Property, plant and equipment (Parenthetical) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 01, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	$ 8,066			$ 45,115
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)	(5,450)	$ 0	$ 0
Buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	25,742
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)	(3,547)
Buildings [member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	29,289
Vehicles [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	3,356
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)	(537)
Vehicles [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	3,893
Machinery [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	8,066
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)	(3,867)
Machinery [member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	11,933
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	37,164
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)	(7,951)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Right-of-use assets	$ 45,115

Property, plant and equipment_4

Property, plant and equipment (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	$ 1,454,823	$ 1,429,354
Changes
Additions	321,666	266,144
Disposals	(19)	(6,643)
Depreciation expense	(196,244)	(211,251)
Impairment	(49)	(1,390)	$ (5,205)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(124)	(277)
Reclassifications	(39)	0
Other increases (decreases)	(15,731)	(20,973)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(2,328)	(141)
Total changes	107,132	25,469
Closing balance	1,607,070	1,454,823	1,429,354
Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	45,115
Changes
Closing balance		45,115
Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	1,499,938
Changes
Closing balance		1,499,938
Land [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,695	24,900
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(35)	(64)
Reclassifications	132	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(1,172)	(141)
Total changes	(1,075)	(205)
Closing balance	23,620	24,695	24,900
Land [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Land [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,695
Changes
Closing balance		24,695
Buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	238,808	230,319
Changes
Additions	290	28
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(32,547)	(29,829)
Impairment	(49)	(437)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(44)	(93)
Reclassifications	18,533	38,852
Other increases (decreases)	(155)	(32)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(1,156)	0
Total changes	(15,128)	8,489
Closing balance	252,969	238,808	230,319
Buildings [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,289
Changes
Closing balance		29,289
Buildings [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	268,097
Changes
Closing balance		268,097
Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	28,175	24,862
Changes
Additions	332	833
Disposals	0	(74)
Depreciation expense	(8,013)	(7,415)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(1)	(4)
Reclassifications	12,450	9,847
Other increases (decreases)	(339)	126
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	4,429	3,313
Closing balance	32,604	28,175	24,862
Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	28,175
Changes
Closing balance		28,175
Transport equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	2,892	3,257
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	(43)
Depreciation expense	(1,220)	(880)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(1)	(2)
Reclassifications	478	529
Other increases (decreases)	0	31
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(743)	(365)
Closing balance	6,042	2,892	3,257
Transport equipment [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,893
Changes
Closing balance		3,893
Transport equipment [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	6,785
Changes
Closing balance		6,785
Supplies and accessoies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,722	1,872
Changes
Additions	37	41
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(1,144)	(2,056)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(2)	(7)
Reclassifications	751	4,802
Other increases (decreases)	215	70
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(143)	2,850
Closing balance	4,579	4,722	1,872
Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,722
Changes
Closing balance		4,722
Equipment Office [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	513	487
Changes
Additions	43	15
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(161)	(271)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(2)	(3)
Reclassifications	0	251
Other increases (decreases)	27	34
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(93)	26
Closing balance	420	513	487
Equipment Office [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Equipment Office [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	513
Changes
Closing balance		513
Network and communication equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	692	1,050
Changes
Additions	159	0
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(426)	(483)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	90	122
Other increases (decreases)	148	3
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(29)	(358)
Closing balance	663	692	1,050
Network and communication equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Network and communication equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	692
Changes
Closing balance		692
Mining assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,501	16,237
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(7,033)	(8,017)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	16,901	3,281
Other increases (decreases)	1,805	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	11,673	(4,736)
Closing balance	23,174	11,501	16,237
Mining assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Mining assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,501
Changes
Closing balance		11,501
Network infrastructure [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,980	3,401
Changes
Additions	492	489
Disposals	(2)	0
Depreciation expense	(1,158)	(1,374)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(1)	(12)
Reclassifications	1,284	2,190
Other increases (decreases)	(1,236)	286
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(621)	1,579
Closing balance	4,359	4,980	3,401
Network infrastructure [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Network infrastructure [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,980
Changes
Closing balance		4,980
Power generating assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	6,117	7,861
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Depreciation expense	(1,676)	(2,026)
Impairment	0	(12)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	1,565	76
Other increases (decreases)	(8)	218
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(119)	(1,744)
Closing balance	5,998	6,117	7,861
Power generating assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Power generating assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	6,117
Changes
Closing balance		6,117
Construction in Progress [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	207,830	165,054
Changes
Additions	314,236	263,290
Disposals	0	(6,582)
Depreciation expense	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	(140,104)	(184,095)
Other increases (decreases)	(6,646)	(29,837)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	167,486	42,776
Closing balance	375,316	207,830	165,054
Construction in Progress [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Construction in Progress [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	207,830
Changes
Closing balance		207,830
Machinery, plant and equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	923,898	950,054
Changes
Additions	6,077	1,448
Disposals	17	56
Depreciation expense	(142,866)	(158,900)
Impairment	0	(941)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(38)	(92)
Reclassifications	87,881	124,145
Other increases (decreases)	(9,542)	8,128
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(58,505)	(26,156)
Closing balance	877,326	923,898	950,054
Machinery, plant and equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,933
Changes
Closing balance		11,933
Machinery, plant and equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	935,831
Changes
Closing balance		935,831
Gross carrying amount [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,450,037	4,225,199
Changes
Additions	321,666	266,144
Disposals	(878)	(16,158)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(203)	(398)
Reclassifications	164	(1)
Other increases (decreases)	(17,576)	(24,608)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(2,608)	(141)
Total changes	300,565	224,838
Closing balance	4,795,717	4,450,037	4,225,199
Gross carrying amount [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	45,115
Changes
Closing balance		45,115
Gross carrying amount [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	4,495,152
Changes
Closing balance		4,495,152
Gross carrying amount [member] | Land [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,695	24,900
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(35)	(64)
Reclassifications	132	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(1,172)	(141)
Total changes	(1,075)	(205)
Closing balance	23,620	24,695	24,900
Gross carrying amount [member] | Land [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Land [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,695
Changes
Closing balance		24,695
Gross carrying amount [member] | Buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	648,719	610,264
Changes
Additions	290	28
Disposals	0	(38)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(72)	(134)
Reclassifications	18,526	38,746
Other increases (decreases)	0	(147)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	(1,436)	0
Total changes	17,308	38,455
Closing balance	695,316	648,719	610,264
Gross carrying amount [member] | Buildings [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,289
Changes
Closing balance		29,289
Gross carrying amount [member] | Buildings [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	678,008
Changes
Closing balance		678,008
Gross carrying amount [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	245,731	244,831
Changes
Additions	332	833
Disposals	(858)	(7,811)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(4)	(8)
Reclassifications	12,456	10,330
Other increases (decreases)	(451)	(2,444)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	11,475	900
Closing balance	257,206	245,731	244,831
Gross carrying amount [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	245,731
Changes
Closing balance		245,731
Gross carrying amount [member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,668	11,195
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	(51)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(2)	(3)
Reclassifications	477	529
Other increases (decreases)	0	(2)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	475	473
Closing balance	16,036	11,668	11,195
Gross carrying amount [member] | Transport equipment [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,893
Changes
Closing balance		3,893
Gross carrying amount [member] | Transport equipment [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	15,561
Changes
Closing balance		15,561
Gross carrying amount [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,456	19,498
Changes
Additions	37	41
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(9)	(19)
Reclassifications	745	4,889
Other increases (decreases)	302	47
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	1,075	4,958
Closing balance	25,531	24,456	19,498
Gross carrying amount [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	24,456
Changes
Closing balance		24,456
Gross carrying amount [member] | Equipment Office [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,377	11,105
Changes
Additions	43	15
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(3)	(6)
Reclassifications	0	268
Other increases (decreases)	24	(5)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	64	272
Closing balance	11,441	11,377	11,105
Gross carrying amount [member] | Equipment Office [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Equipment Office [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,377
Changes
Closing balance		11,377
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network and communication equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	7,505	7,356
Changes
Additions	159	0
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	89	150
Other increases (decreases)	256	(1)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	504	149
Closing balance	8,009	7,505	7,356
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network and communication equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network and communication equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	7,505
Changes
Closing balance		7,505
Gross carrying amount [member] | Mining assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	132,309	129,028
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	16,901	3,281
Other increases (decreases)	12,409	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	29,310	3,281
Closing balance	161,619	132,309	129,028
Gross carrying amount [member] | Mining assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Mining assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	132,309
Changes
Closing balance		132,309
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network infrastructure [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,955	27,038
Changes
Additions	492	489
Disposals	(3)	(10)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(6)	(11)
Reclassifications	1,289	2,100
Other increases (decreases)	(3,034)	349
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	(1,262)	2,917
Closing balance	28,693	29,955	27,038
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network infrastructure [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Network infrastructure [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,955
Changes
Closing balance		29,955
Gross carrying amount [member] | Power generating assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	36,930	36,643
Changes
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	1,565	75
Other increases (decreases)	0	212
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	1,565	287
Closing balance	38,495	36,930	36,643
Gross carrying amount [member] | Power generating assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Power generating assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	36,930
Changes
Closing balance		36,930
Gross carrying amount [member] | Construction in Progress [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	207,830	165,054
Changes
Additions	314,236	263,290
Disposals	0	(6,582)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	(140,104)	(184,095)
Other increases (decreases)	(6,646)	(29,837)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	167,486	42,776
Closing balance	375,316	207,830	165,054
Gross carrying amount [member] | Construction in Progress [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Gross carrying amount [member] | Construction in Progress [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	207,830
Changes
Closing balance		207,830
Gross carrying amount [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,068,862	2,938,287
Changes
Additions	6,077	1,448
Disposals	(17)	(1,666)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	(72)	(153)
Reclassifications	88,088	123,726
Other increases (decreases)	(20,436)	7,220
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0	0
Total changes	73,640	130,575
Closing balance	3,154,435	3,068,862	2,938,287
Gross carrying amount [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,933
Changes
Closing balance		11,933
Gross carrying amount [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,080,795
Changes
Closing balance		3,080,795
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(2,995,214)	(2,795,845)
Changes
Disposals	859
Disposals		9,515
Depreciation expense	(196,244)	(211,251)
Impairment	(49)	(1,390)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	79	121
Reclassifications	(203)	1
Other increases (decreases)	1,845	3,635
Decreases for classification as held for sale	280
Total changes	(193,433)	(199,369)
Closing balance	(3,188,647)	(2,995,214)	(2,795,845)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Land [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0	0
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	0	0
Closing balance	0	0	0
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(409,911)	(379,945)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		38
Depreciation expense	(32,547)	(29,829)
Impairment	(49)	(437)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	28	41
Reclassifications	7	106
Other increases (decreases)	(155)	115
Decreases for classification as held for sale	280
Total changes	(32,436)	(29,966)
Closing balance	(442,347)	(409,911)	(379,945)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(217,556)	(219,969)
Changes
Disposals	858
Disposals		7,737
Depreciation expense	(8,013)	(7,415)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	3	4
Reclassifications	(6)	(483)
Other increases (decreases)	112	2,570
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(7,046)	2,413
Closing balance	(224,602)	(217,556)	(219,969)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(8,776)	(7,938)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		8
Depreciation expense	(1,220)	(880)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	1	1
Reclassifications	1	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	33
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(1,218)	(838)
Closing balance	(9,994)	(8,776)	(7,938)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(19,734)	(17,626)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	(1,144)	(2,056)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	7	12
Reclassifications	6	(87)
Other increases (decreases)	(87)	23
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(1,218)	(2,108)
Closing balance	(20,952)	(19,734)	(17,626)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Equipment Office [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(10,864)	(10,618)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	(161)	(271)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	1	3
Reclassifications	0	(17)
Other increases (decreases)	3	39
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(157)	(246)
Closing balance	(11,021)	(10,864)	(10,618)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Network and communication equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(6,813)	(6,306)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	(426)	(483)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	1	(28)
Other increases (decreases)	(108)	4
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(533)	(507)
Closing balance	(7,346)	(6,813)	(6,306)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Mining assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(120,808)	(112,791)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	(7,033)	(8,017)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	(10,604)	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(17,637)	(8,017)
Closing balance	(138,445)	(120,808)	(112,791)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Network infrastructure [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(24,975)	(23,637)
Changes
Disposals	1
Disposals		10
Depreciation expense	(1,158)	(1,374)
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	5	(1)
Reclassifications	(5)	90
Other increases (decreases)	1,798	(63)
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	641	(1,338)
Closing balance	(24,334)	(24,975)	(23,637)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Power generating assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(30,813)	(28,782)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	(1,676)	(2,026)
Impairment	0	(12)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	0	1
Other increases (decreases)	(8)	6
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(1,684)	(2,031)
Closing balance	(32,497)	(30,813)	(28,782)
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Construction in Progress [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0	0
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		0
Depreciation expense	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	0	0
Reclassifications	0	0
Other increases (decreases)	0	0
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	0	0
Closing balance	0	0	0
Accumulated depreciation and amortisation [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	(2,144,964)	(1,988,233)
Changes
Disposals	0
Disposals		1,722
Depreciation expense	(142,866)	(158,900)
Impairment	0	(941)
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation difference	34	61
Reclassifications	(207)	419
Other increases (decreases)	10,894	908
Decreases for classification as held for sale	0
Total changes	(132,145)	(156,731)
Closing balance	(2,277,109)	(2,144,964)	$ (1,988,233)
Right-of-use assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	(7,951)
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	(7,951)
Closing balance	37,164	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	45,115
Changes
Closing balance		45,115
Right-of-use assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	45,115
Changes
Closing balance		45,115
Right-of-use assets [member] | Land [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Land [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Land [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Buildings [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	(3,547)
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	(3,547)
Closing balance	25,742	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Buildings [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,289
Changes
Closing balance		29,289
Right-of-use assets [member] | Buildings [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	29,289
Changes
Closing balance		29,289
Right-of-use assets [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Other property, plant and equipment [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Transport equipment [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	(537)
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	(537)
Closing balance	3,356	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Transport equipment [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,893
Changes
Closing balance		3,893
Right-of-use assets [member] | Transport equipment [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	3,893
Changes
Closing balance		3,893
Right-of-use assets [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Supplies and accessoies [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Equipment Office [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Equipment Office [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Equipment Office [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network and communication equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network and communication equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network and communication equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Mining assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Mining assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Mining assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network infrastructure [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network infrastructure [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Network infrastructure [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Power generating assets [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Power generating assets [member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Power generating assets [member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Construction in Progress [Member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	0
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	0
Closing balance	0	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Construction in Progress [Member] | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Construction in Progress [Member] | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Closing balance		0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	0
Changes
Depreciation expense	(3,867)
Impairment	0
Other increases (decreases)	0
Total changes	(3,867)
Closing balance	8,066	0
Right-of-use assets [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment | Initial recognition of IFRS 16 [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	11,933
Changes
Closing balance		11,933
Right-of-use assets [member] | Machinery, plant and equipment | Restated Balance [member]
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]
Opening balance	$ 11,933
Changes
Closing balance		$ 11,933

Property, plant and equipment_5

Property, plant and equipment (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Property Plant And Equipment [line items]
Impairment loss recognised in profit or loss, property, plant and equipment	$ 49	$ 1,390	$ 5,205

Other current and non-current_3

Other current and non-current non-financial assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	$ 50,552	$ 47,972
Other non-current non-financial assets	19,729	27,539
Domestic Value Added Tax [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	17,807	20,209
Foreign Value Added Tax [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	8,566	7,211
Prepaid mining property [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	1,244	1,329
Prepaid insurance [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	7,135	1,763
Other prepayment [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	1,423	1,774
Refund of Value Added Tax to exporters [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	10,560	12,545
Other taxes [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	3,213	2,800
Other assets [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other current non-financial assets	604	341
Other non-current non-financial assets	524	638
Stain development expenses and prospecting expenses [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other non-current non-financial assets	18,654	26,189
Guarantee deposits [Member]
Disclosure of other non-financial assets [Line Items]
Other non-current non-financial assets	$ 551	$ 712

Other current and non-current_4

Other current and non-current non-financial assets (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of other non-financials asset [Abstract]
Opening balance	$ 26,189	$ 17,721	$ 23,008
Change in assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources
Additions	0	11,298	0
Short-term reclassifications	(1,311)	1,987	595
Increase (decrease) due to transfers and other charges	(6,224)	(4,817)	(5,882)
Total changes	(7,535)	8,468	(5,287)
Final balance	$ 18,654	$ 26,189	$ 17,721

Employee benefits (Details)

Employee benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Current
Profit sharing and bonuses	$ 16,387	$ 20,085
Total	16,387	20,085
Non-current
Profit sharing and bonuses	8,026	8,831
Severance indemnity payments	27,814	28,233
Total	$ 35,840	$ 37,064

Employee benefits (Details 2)

Employee benefits (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year	$ 8,657	$ 8,755	$ 8,185
Service cost	0	0	2
Interest cost	336	319	359
Actuarial loss	984	63	556
Benefits paid	(391)	(480)	(347)
Benefit obligation at the end of the year	$ 9,586	$ 8,657	$ 8,755

Employee benefits (Details 3)

Employee benefits (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at the beginning of the year	$ 8,404	$ 8,751	$ 7,404
Actual return (loss) in plan assets	741	133	1,694
Benefits paid	(391)	(480)	(347)
Fair value of plan assets at the end of the year	8,754	8,404	8,751
Financing status	(832)
Net actuarial loss at the beginning of the year	(2,614)	(2,614)	(3,432)
Amortization during the year	242	160	219
Net estimated gain or loss occurred during the year	(854)	(568)	599
Adjustment to recognize the minimum pension obligation	$ (3,226)	$ (2,614)	$ (2,614)

Employee benefits (Details 4)

Employee benefits (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Abstract]
Service cost or benefits received during the year	$ 0	$ 0	$ 2
Interest cost in benefit obligation	336	319	359
Actual return in plan assets	741	133	1,694
Amortization of prior year losses	242	160	219
Net gain during the year	(854)	(568)	599
Net periodic pension expense	$ (33)	$ (159)	$ 41

Employee benefits (Details 5)

Employee benefits (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Opening balance	$ (28,233)	$ (27,445)
Current cost of service	0	0	$ (2)
Interest cost	336	319	359
Actuarial gain/loss	984	63	556
Benefits paid during the year	391	480	347
Balance	(27,814)	(28,233)	(27,445)
Staff severance indemnities [Member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Opening balance	(28,233)	(27,445)	(22,532)
Current cost of service	(2,880)	(1,529)	(934)
Interest cost	(1,661)	(1,658)	(1,488)
Actuarial gain/loss	(2,514)	(1,617)	(1,144)
Exchange rate difference	2,475	2,710	(2,284)
Benefits paid during the year	$ 4,999	1,306	937
Balance		$ (28,233)	$ (27,445)

Employee benefits (Details 6)

Employee benefits (Details 6)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of discount rates	3.68%	4.64%	5.114%
Voluntary retirement rate [Abstract]
Actuarial assumption of expected rates of salary increases	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
Retirement age [Abstract]
Mortality rate	RV - 2014	RV - 2014	RV - 2014
Men [Member]
Voluntary retirement rate [Abstract]
Actuarial assumption voluntary retirement rate	6.49%	6.49%	6.49%
Retirement age [Abstract]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	65 years	65 years	65 years
Women [Member]
Voluntary retirement rate [Abstract]
Actuarial assumption voluntary retirement rate	6.49%	6.49%	6.49%
Retirement age [Abstract]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	60 years	60 years	60 years

Employee benefits (Details 7)

Employee benefits (Details 7) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Actuarial assumption of discount rates [member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption	$ (1,796)	$ (1,807)
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption	2,021	2,033
Actuarial assumption of employee turnover rate [Member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption	(236)	(237)
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption	$ 263	$ 265

Employee benefits (Details Text

Employee benefits (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of discount rates	3.68%	4.64%	5.114%
Key management personnel compensation	$ 22,598	$ 27,907	$ 27,367
Number of shares effected	83,609
Weighted average share price	$ 54
Executive Compensation Plan [Member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Key management personnel compensation	$ 806	$ 3,754
Number of shares effected	427,652	476,302
Men [Member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	65 years	65 years	65 years
Men [Member] | Top of range [member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	60 years
Women [Member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	60 years	60 years	60 years
Women [Member] | Top of range [member]
Employee benefits [Line Items]
Actuarial assumption of retirement age	65 years

Provisions and other non-fina_3

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Current provisions			$ 106,197		$ 110,565
Non-current provisions			31,822		34,690
Provisions			138,019		145,255
Provision for legal complaints [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Current provisions	[1]		11,862		13,472
Non-current provisions	[1]		3,000		1,452
Provisions	[1]		14,862		14,924
Provision for decommissioning, restoration and rehabilitation costs [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Current provisions	[2]		0		0
Non-current provisions	[2]		28,822		33,238
Provisions	[2]		28,822		33,238
Other provisions [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Current provisions		$ 97,093	94,335	[3]	97,093	[3]
Non-current provisions	[3]		0		0
Provisions	[3]		$ 94,335		$ 97,093
[1]	These provisions correspond to legal processes that are pending resolution or that have not yet been disbursed. These provisions are mainly related to litigation involving the subsidiaries located in Chile, Brazil and the United States (see note 21.1).
[2]	The provisions related to commitments with Sernageomin have been incorporated through the issuance of a guarantee for the restoration of the place where the production sites are located.
[3]	See Note 18.2

Provisions and other non-fina_4

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Rent under lease contract	[1]	$ 90,320
Total			$ 106,197		$ 110,565
Miscellaneous other provisions [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Rent under lease contract	[1]		84,826
Provision for additional tax related to foreign loans		543	471
End of agreement bonus		3,641	5,129
Directors' per diem allowance		1,802	2,881
Miscellaneous provisions		787	1,028
Total		$ 97,093	$ 94,335	[2]	$ 97,093	[2]
[1]	Payment obligations for the lease contract with CORFO: These correspond to obligations assumed in the Lease Agreement. Part of these obligations are the quarterly lease payments to Corfo, according to SQM Salar's product sales from leased mining properties. Since 2018, another part are the annual contributions by SQM Salar to research and development, to local communities to the Antofagasta Regional Government and to the municipalities of San Pedro de Atacama, Maria Elena and Antofagasta.
[2]	See Note 18.2

Provisions and other non-fina_5

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of other provisions [abstract]
Tax withholdings	$ 3,345	$ 4,782
VAT payable	3,465	7,345
Guarantees received	2,641	2,641
Accrual for dividend	68,890	109,670
Monthly tax provisional payments	16,659	21,001
Deferred income	3,033	18,574
Withholdings from employees and salaries payable	4,575	6,052
Accrued vacations	21,686	20,070
Other current liabilities	2,605	4,489
Total	$ 126,899	$ 194,624

Provisions and other non-fina_6

Provisions and other non-financial liabilities (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Total provisions, initial balance	$ 138,019	$ 93,446	$ 50,846
Changes in provisions:
Additional provisions	158,841	184,064	60,923
Provision used	(3,736)	(139,506)	(4,921)
Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange	(24)	0	9
others	0	15	6
Total Increase (decreases)	7,236	44,573	42,600
Total provisions, final balance	145,255	138,019	93,446
Legal proceedings provision [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Total provisions, initial balance	14,862	19,419	23,867
Changes in provisions:
Additional provisions	4,111	1,000	6,352
Provision used	(4,049)	(5,557)	(10,800)
Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange	0	0	0
others	0	0	0
Total Increase (decreases)	62	(4,557)	(4,448)
Total provisions, final balance	14,924	14,862	19,419
Provision for decommissioning, restoration and rehabilitation costs [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Total provisions, initial balance	28,822	26,954	5,890
Changes in provisions:
Additional provisions	4,416	1,820	21,064
Provision used	0	0	0
Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange	0	0	0
others	0	48	0
Total Increase (decreases)	4,416	1,868	21,064
Total provisions, final balance	33,238	28,822	26,954
Miscellaneous other provisions [member]
Disclosure of Provisions and other non-financial liabilities [Line Items]
Total provisions, initial balance	94,335	47,073	21,089
Changes in provisions:
Additional provisions	150,314	181,244	33,507
Provision used	(147,532)	(133,949)	(7,538)
Increase(decrease) in foreign currency exchange	(24)	0	9
others	0	(33)	6
Total Increase (decreases)	2,758	47,262	25,984
Total provisions, final balance	$ 97,093	$ 94,335	$ 47,073

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_3

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Net Financial Debt	$ 719,809	$ (471,755)
Liquidity	3.45	4.32
Net Debt / Capitalization	0.25	0.18
Return on equity	13.154	20.7
Adjusted EBITDA	$ 645,142	$ 855,652
EBITDA	$ 669,831	$ 902,450
ROA	12.76	20.31
Indebtedness	1.19	1
Description Net Financial Debt	Financial Debt – Financial Resources
Description Liquidity	Current Assets divided by Current Liabilities
Description Net Debt / Capitalization	Net Financial Debt divided by Total Equity
Description ROE	Profit for the year divided by Total Equity
Description adjusted EBITDA	Adjusted EBITDA
Description EBITDA	EBITDA
Description ROA	Adjusted EBITDA – Depreciation divided by Total Assets net of financial resources less related parties’ investments
Description Indebtedness	Total Liabilities on Equity
Calculation Net Financial Debt	Other current Financial Liabilities + Other Non-Current Financial Liabilities – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Hedging Assets, non-current
Calculation Liquidity	Total Current Assets / Total Current Liabilities
Calculation Net Debt / Capitalization	Net financial debt / Total Equity
Calculation ROE	LTM(2) Profit for the year / Equity
Calculation EBITDA	Profit for the year + Depreciation and Amortization Expenses + Finance Costs + Income Tax
Calculation ROA	(LTM Gross Profit – Administrative Expenses)/ (Total Assets – Cash and Cash Equivalents – Other Current Financial Assets – Other Non-Current Financial Assets – Equity-accounted Investments)
Calculation Indebtedness	Total Liabilities / Total Equity

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_4

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 1) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Number of current shares		7,138,685
Capital amount in shares	$ 477,386	$ 477,386
Amount of reserves	$ (14,223)	$ (14,999)	$ (14,349)	$ (12,888)
Series A preferred shares [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Number of authorized shares	142,819,552	142,819,552
Number of fully subscribed and paid shares	142,819,552	142,819,552
Number of subscribed, partially paid shares	0	0
Par value of shares in ThUS$	$ 943.5	$ 943.5
Increase (decrease) in the number of current shares	0	0
Number of current shares	142,819,552	142,819,552
Number of shares owned by the entity or its subsidiaries or associates	0	0
Number of shares whose issuance is reserved due to the existence of options or agreements to dispose shares	0	0
Capital amount in shares	$ 134,750	$ 134,750
Amount of premium issuance	0	0
Amount of reserves	$ 0	$ 0
Total number of subscribed shares, total	142,819,552	142,819,552
Series B preferred shares [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Number of authorized shares	120,376,972	120,376,972
Number of fully subscribed and paid shares	120,376,972	120,376,972
Number of subscribed, partially paid shares	0	0
Par value of shares in ThUS$	$ 2,846.4	$ 2,846.4
Increase (decrease) in the number of current shares	0	0
Number of current shares	120,376,972	120,376,972
Number of shares owned by the entity or its subsidiaries or associates	0	0
Number of shares whose issuance is reserved due to the existence of options or agreements to dispose shares	0	0
Capital amount in shares	$ 342,636	$ 342,636
Amount of premium issuance	0	0
Amount of reserves	$ 0	$ 0
Total number of subscribed shares, total	120,376,972	120,376,972

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_5

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of detailed information about controls capital management [Abstract]
Reserve for currency exchange conversion	$ (25,745)	$ (26,307)	$ (24,913)
Reserve for cash flow hedges	7,196	7,971	2,248
Reserve for gains and losses from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	(270)	(1,111)	2,937
Reserve for actuarial gains or losses in defined benefit plans	(9,490)	(6,884)	(5,953)
Other reserves	14,086	11,332	11,332
Total other reserves	$ (14,223)	$ (14,999)	$ (14,349)	$ (12,888)

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_6

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	$ (14,999)	$ (14,349)	$ (12,888)
Increase in reserves	12,008	22,092	16,434
Decrease in Reserve	(11,232)	(22,742)	(17,895)
Closing balance	(14,223)	(14,999)	(14,349)
Reserve of change in value of foreign currency basis spreads [member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	(26,307)	(24,913)	(19,463)
Increase in reserves	1,824	6,542	1,992
Decrease in Reserve	(1,262)	(7,936)	(7,442)
Closing balance	(25,745)	(26,307)	(24,913)
Gains from cash flow hedge before tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	7,971	2,248	64
Increase in reserves	8,628	14,794	4,068
Decrease in Reserve	(6,720)	(9,071)	(1,884)
Closing balance	9,879	7,971	2,248
Gains from cash flow hedge tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	0	0	0
Increase in reserves	(2,683)	0	0
Decrease in Reserve	0	0	0
Closing balance	(2,683)	0	0
Losses from measurement of defined benefit plans before tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	(8,176)	(6,847)	(5,446)
Increase in reserves	0	674	1,092
Decrease in Reserve	(3,306)	(2,003)	(2,493)
Closing balance	(11,482)	(8,176)	(6,847)
Losses from measurement of defined benefit plans tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	1,292	894	612
Increase in reserves	0	(133)	(308)
Decrease in Reserve	700	531	590
Closing balance	1,992	1,292	894
Gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income before tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	(760)	4,787	4,813
Increase in reserves	1,570	294	6,090
Decrease in Reserve	(418)	(5,841)	(6,116)
Closing balance	392	(760)	4,787
Gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	(351)	(1,850)	(1,300)
Increase in reserves	(424)	(79)	0
Decrease in Reserve	113	1,578	(550)
Closing balance	(662)	(351)	(1,850)
Miscellaneous other reserves before tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	11,332	11,332	7,832
Increase in reserves	3,093	0	3,500
Decrease in Reserve	(339)	0	0
Closing balance	14,086	11,332	11,332
Total reserves, reserves before tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	(15,940)	(13,393)	(12,200)
Increase in reserves	15,115	22,304	16,742
Decrease in Reserve	(12,045)	(24,851)	(17,935)
Closing balance	(12,870)	(15,940)	(13,393)
Total reserves, reserves defered tax [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Opening balance	941	(956)	(688)
Increase in reserves	(3,107)	(212)	(308)
Decrease in Reserve	813	2,109	40
Closing balance	$ (1,353)	$ 941	$ (956)

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_7

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	$ 15,763	$ 13,009	$ 13,009
Adjustments to equity	(1,677)	(1,677)	(1,677)
Total Other reserves	14,086	11,332	11,332
SQM Iberian S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	9,464	9,464	9,464
SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	1,957	1,957	1,957
Soquimich European Holding B.V. [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	828	828	828
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	455	455	455
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	305	305	305
Kore Potash PLC [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Equity before adjustments	$ 2,754	$ 0	$ 0

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_8

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019		Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Non-controlling interests	$ 6,817		$ 9,733		$ 58,672
Interim Dividend	211,224		331,199		317,243
Additional dividend	0		100,000		0
Dividends payable	66,891		108,631		107,358
Owners of the Parent	278,115		5,398,300		424,601
Dividends discounted from equity for the period	284,932	[1]	549,563	[1]	483,273
Ajay SQM Chile S.A. Dividends [member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Non-controlling interests	882		823		55,501
Soquimich Comercial S.A. Interim Dividend [member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Non-controlling interests	3,936		7,872		0
Soquimich Comercial S.A. Payable Dividend [member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Non-controlling interests	$ 1,999		$ 1,038		$ 3,171
[1]	See Note 19.6

Disclosures on reserves in Eq_9

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details 6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 2,711	$ 2,397	$ 733
Equity, non-controlling interests	48,205	52,311	59,646
Total	$ 6,817	9,733	2,253
Proinsa Ltda.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	0.10%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 0	0	0
Equity, non-controlling interests	0	0	0
Total	$ 0	0	0
SQM Potasio S.A.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	0.00001%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 0	0	0
Equity, non-controlling interests	0	0	0
Total	$ 0	0	0
Ajay SQM Chile S.A.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	49.00%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 740	1,176	1,023
Equity, non-controlling interests	8,517	8,659	8,306
Total	$ 882	823	989
Soquimich Comercial S.A.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	39.36168%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 1,999	1,375	100
Equity, non-controlling interests	38,103	41,855	49,247
Total	$ 5,935	8,910	1,264
Comercial Agrorama Ltda.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	30.00%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ (251)	(318)	(403)
Equity, non-controlling interests	(693)	(481)	(184)
Total	$ 0	0	0
Agrorama S.A.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	0.001%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 0	0
Equity, non-controlling interests	0	0	0
Total	$ 0	0	0
Orcoma Estudios SPA
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	49.00%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 0	0	0
Equity, non-controlling interests	2,277	2,277	2,277
Total	$ 0	0	0
SQM Indonesia S.A.
Background of companies included in consolidation [Line Items]
% of interests in the ownership held by non- controlling interests.	20.00%
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	$ 0	0	0
Equity, non-controlling interests	1	1	0
Total	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Disclosures on reserves in E_10

Disclosures on reserves in Equity (Details Textual) - $ / shares	Nov. 20, 2019	Aug. 21, 2019	May 22, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Apr. 25, 2019
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Dividend payable per share						$ 1.67111
interim dividend per share	$ 0.22987		$ 0.30598
Provisional dividend paid, Per share		$ 0.26669			$ 1.25837
Maximum Threshold Percentage Of Issued Capital For Issuance Of Series B shares				50.00%
Minimum Percentage Required TO Call Ordinary Or Extraordinary Meeting				5.00%
Number Of Consecutive Limitation Period Of Series B shares				50 years
Discount rate				4.00%
Percentage Of Net Income				50.00%
Series A preferred shares [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Number of shares issued and fully paid				142,819,552	142,819,552
Series B preferred shares [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Number of shares issued and fully paid				120,376,972	120,376,972
Bottom of range [member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on equity [Line Items]
Cash dividend rate				30.00%

Earnings per share (Details)

Earnings per share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Net profit attributable to owners of the parent	$ 278,115	$ 439,830	$ 427,697
Number of common shares in circulation	263,196,524	263,196,524	263,196,524
Basic earnings per share (US$ per share)	$ 1.0567	$ 1.6711	$ 1.6250

Contingencies and restriction_2

Contingencies and restrictions (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Covepa SPA
Grantor obligations	$ 9,611	$ 9,423
Ferosor Agricola S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Ferosor Agrícola S.A.
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 5,372	3,598
Tattersall Agroinsumos S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Tattersall Agroinsumos S.A.
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 2,000	2,000
Contador Frutos S.A. [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Contador Frutos S.A.
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 0	1,587
Covepa SPA [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 671	720
Johannes Epple Davanzo [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Johannes Epple Davanzo
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 300	321
Hortofruticola La Serena [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Hortofrutícola La Serena
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 282	294
Com Serv Johannes Epple Davanz [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Com. Serv Johannes Epple Davanz
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 269	0
Juan Luis Gaete Chesta [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Juan Luis Gaete Chesta
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 182	195
Arena Fertilizantes y Semillas [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Arena Fertilizantes y Semillas
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 201	216
Vicente Oyarce Castro [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Vicente Oyarce Castro
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 213	222
Soc. Agrocom. Julio Polanco [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Soc. Agrocom. Julio Polanco
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 0	144
Bernardo Guzman Schmidt [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Name of grantor	Bernardo Guzmán Schmidt
Relationship with grantor	Unrelated Third party
Grantor obligations	$ 121	$ 126

Contingencies and restriction_3

Contingencies and restrictions (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	The Bank of Nova Scotia
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	$ 0
Guarantee One [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Australian and New Zealand Bank
Debtor Name	SQM North America Corp
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Two [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Australian and New Zealand Bank
Debtor Name	SQM Europe N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Three [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Generale Bank
Debtor Name	SQM North America Corp
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Four [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Generale Bank
Debtor Name	SQM Europe N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Five [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Kredietbank
Debtor Name	SQM North America Corp
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Six [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Kredietbank
Debtor Name	SQM Europe N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Seven [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Eight [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	SQM Europe N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Nine [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	SQM North America Corp
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Ten [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Eleven [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	SQM México S.A. de C.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twelve [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bancos e Instituciones Financieras
Debtor Name	SQM Brasil Ltda.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Thirteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	“BNP’’
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Fourteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Sociedad Nacional de Minería A.G.
Debtor Name	SQM Potasio S.A.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Fifteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd.
Debtor Name	Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Sixteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Scotiabank & Trust (Cayman) Ltd.
Debtor Name	Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Seventeen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Bank of America
Debtor Name	Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Eighteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Export Development Canada
Debtor Name	Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Nineteen [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd.
Debtor Name	Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	JP Morgan Chase Bank
Debtor Name	SQM Industrial S.A.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty Two [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Morgan Stanley Capital Services
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty Three [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty Four [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	HSBC
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty Five [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Deutsche Bank AG
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	0
Guarantee Twenty Six [Member]
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Creditor of the guarantee	Credit Suisse International
Debtor Name	SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
Relationship with debtor	Subsidiary
Type of guarantee	Guarantee
Guarantor obligations, carrying value	$ 0	$ 0

Contingencies and restriction_4

Contingencies and restrictions (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Leverage	1.19	1

Contingencies and restriction_5

Contingencies and restrictions (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 24, 2017	Aug. 26, 2016
Statement [Line Items]
Tax contingency, amount claimed			$ 14,400	$ 17,800
Tax contingency, amount under dispute correspond to excess charge levied	$ 7,000
Expected claim for differences in specific tax on mining activities	69,000
Guarantee obligations	551
Other environment related contingent liability [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Estimated Contingent Liabilities	9,000
Provision for taxes other than income tax [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Tax contingency, amount under dispute	32,200
Tax contingency, amount under dispute correspond to excess charge levied	7,000
Tax Contingency Amount Related To Specific Mining Tax	25,200
Tax Contingency Excess Charge Amount Returned	5,800
Tax Contingency Amount Related To First Category Tax Rate Plus Interests And Fines	1,200
Soquimich Comercial S.A. [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, damages owed, value	1,200
Collateral Security Carrying Value	$ 9,611	$ 9,423
Lawsuit one [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	City of Pomona California, USA
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM North America Corporation
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	December 2010
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	United States District Court Central District of California
Lawsuits, allegations	Payment of expenses and other amounts related to the treatment of groundwater to allow for its consumption by removing the existing perchlorate in such groundwater that allegedly comes from Chilean fertilizers.
Lawsuits, litigation status	On May 17, 2018, district judge Gary Klausner sentenced in favor of SQM NA following the verdict of the jury, On February 6, 2020, the court of appeals of the 9th circuit of United States ordered a retrial before the District Court.
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 32,000
Lawsuit two [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	City of Lindsay, California, USA
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM NA and the Company (still not noticed)
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	December 2010
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	United States District Court Eastern District of California.
Lawsuits, allegations	Payment of expenses and other amounts related to the treatment of groundwater to allow for its consumption by removing the existing perchlorate in such groundwater that allegedly comes from Chilean fertilizers.
Lawsuits, litigation status	Filing of the case, processing suspended.
Lawsuits, nominal value	Not possible to determine.
Lawsuit three [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	H&V Van Mele N.V.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	NV Euroports, SQM Europe N.V. y and its insurance companies
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	July 2013
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Commercial Court
Lawsuits, allegations	Alleged indirect responsibility for the absence of adequate specifications for the SOP–WS by the Belgian distributor
Lawsuits, litigation status	Sentencing against NV Euroports and subsidy SQM Europe N.V., for EUR 206,675.91, Appeal presented in November 2017
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 430
Lawsuit four [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Carlos Aravena Carrizo et al.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Nitratos S.A. and its insurers
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	May 2014
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	18th Civil Court Santiago
Lawsuits, allegations	Lawsuit seeking compensation for damages for alleged civil liability under tort as a result of an explosion that occurred during 2010 near Baquedano, causing the death of 6 employees
Lawsuits, litigation status	On May 7, 2019 2019 The 18th Civil Court of Santiago rejected the lawsuit. The case is before the Santiago Court of Appeals, which will hear the plaintiffs' appeal
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 1,235
Lawsuit five [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	SQM Salar S.A. and the Company
Lawsuits, name of defendant	Seguros Generales Suramericana S.A. (formerly - RSA Seguros Chile S.A.)
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	August 29, 2016.
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM
Lawsuits, allegations	Complaint for forced compliance and collection of indemnification for insurance claim of February 7 and 8, 2013
Lawsuits, litigation status	Evidence stage
Lawsuit six [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Tyne and Wear Pension Fund represented by the Council of the Borough of South Tyneside acting as Lead Plaintiff
Lawsuits, name of defendant	The Company
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	January 2016
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	United States District Court – Southern District of New York
Lawsuits, allegations	Alleged damage to ADS holders of the Company resulting from alleged noncompliance with the securities regulations in the United States by the Company
Lawsuits, litigation status	Initial stage of disclosure of background information
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 20,658
Lawsuit seven [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Ernesto Saldaña González et al
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	SQM Salar S.A., SQM Industrial S.A. and their insurance companies
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	13
Lawsuits, allegations	Lawsuit seeking compensation for damages for alleged civil liability under tort law arising from the accident that occurred in July 2014 in the María Elena location
Lawsuits, litigation status	On March 6, 2019, the ruling in first instance was passed, dismissing the claim. The case is currently before the Santiago Court of Appeals, which will hear the plaintiffs' appeal.
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 515
Lawsuit eight [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Transportes Buen Destino S.A.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Salar.
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	January 24, 2018
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM
Lawsuits, allegations	Discrepancies generated in the implementation of the following contracts entered into between TBD and SQM Salar: (i) lithium brine transportation; and (ii) salt transportation
Lawsuits, litigation status	Pending evidentiary stage.
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 3,019
Lawsuit nine [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Atacameña de Peine Indigenous Community, Atacameña de Camar Indigenous Community and the Consejo de Pueblos Atacameños.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SMA. SQM Salar has intervened as an independent third party.
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	January 30, 2019
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	1st Environmental Court
Lawsuits, allegations	Declare the SMA's decision illegal, which approved the PdC submitted by SQM Salar.
Lawsuits, litigation status	On December 26, 2019, the First Environmental Court of Antofagasta partially accepted the claim presented by the indigenous communities, rendering null and void the SMA resolution that approved the PdC and suspended the sanctions process against SQM Salar. On January 16, 2020, motions for cassation on grounds of form and substance, filed by the Company, were declared admissible and these will be addressed and resolved by the Supreme Court.
Lawsuits, nominal value	Not determined
Lawsuit ten [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Quillagua Aymara Indigenous Community and Quechua de Huatacondo Indigenous Community
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SMA
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	March 22, 2019
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	First Environmental Court of Santiago
Lawsuits, allegations	Declare the SMA's decision illegal, which approved the PdC submitted by the Company
Lawsuits, litigation status	Pending the case hearing
Lawsuits, nominal value	Not determined
Lawsuit eleven [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Congresspersons Claudia Nathalie Mix Jiménez, Gael Fernanda Yeomans Araya, Camila Ruslay Rojas Valderrama et al.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	CORFO. The entity has intervened as an independent third party
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	September 6,2018
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Special Magistrate, Mr. Alejandro Madrid Crohare
Lawsuits, allegations	To render null and void the contract for the Salar de Atacama Project signed between CORFO and SQM Salar.
Lawsuits, litigation status	Discussion stage
Lawsuits, nominal value	Not determined
Lawsuit twelve [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Danilo Andrés Araya Rojas et al.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	FPC Ingeniería y Construcción SpA, SQM S.A. and its insurers
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	May, 2019
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	19° Civil Court of Santiago
Lawsuits, allegations	Claim seeking compensation for damages, for extracontractual liability resulting from the traffic accident occurring on March 5, 2018 on Route 5, kilometer 1713, near Pozo Almonte, involving an overturned pick-up truck owned by FPC resulting in the death of its two occupants, both employees of FPC, one of which was father of the four claimants. At the time the accident occurred, the employees were heading towards their homes on the SQM site in Nueva Victoria (traffic accident). The four children of one of the deceased employees are the claimants in this case, compensation for moral damages
Lawsuits, litigation status	Discussion stage
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 1,194
Lawsuit thirteen [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Servicios Logísticos Integrales Inversol SpA
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Salar
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	June 24, 2019.
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Arbitration in accordance with the rules established by CAM
Lawsuits, allegations	Controversies originating in the implementation of the salt transportation contract
Lawsuits, litigation status	Discussion stage
Lawsuits, nominal value	ThUS$ 7,029
Lawsuit fourteen [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Fennix Industrial SpA
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Salar
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	April 17, 2019.
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	First Civil Court of Concepción.
Lawsuits, allegations	Disputes arising from the execution of civil works and electromechanical assembly contracts.
Lawsuits, litigation status	Pending ruling on motion to dismiss based on lack of jurisdiction.
Lawsuits, nominal value	THUS$ 770
Lawsuit fifteen [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Fennix Industrial SpA
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Salar and other
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	May 8, 2019.
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Criminal Court of San Pedro de la Paz
Lawsuits, allegations	Alleged misappropriation of funds - controversies originating from contract execution for civil works and electromechanical assembly
Lawsuits, litigation status	Research stage.
Lawsuits, nominal value	THUS$ 436
Lawsuit sixteen [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Lawsuits, name of plaintiff	Arrigoni Ingeniería y construcción S.A.
Lawsuits, name of defendant	SQM Salar
Lawsuits, lawsuit filing date	November 21, 2019
Lawsuits, domicile of litigation	Arbitration award in accordance with the arbitration rules established by the CAM
Lawsuits, allegations	Request to declare the end of Works Contract No. SC 9500002949, named “Expansion of Lithium Carbonate Plant Phase II” dated April 2, 2018
Lawsuits, litigation status	Discussion stage
Lawsuits, nominal value	THUS$ 13,054

Lawsuits and complaints (Detail

Lawsuits and complaints (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Disclosure of lawsuits and complaints [Line Items]
Term at which Department of Justice agreed not to prosecute those charges against Company	3 years
External monitor, term	24 months
Aforementioned Amounts	$ 30,500,000
Department of Justice [Member]
Disclosure of lawsuits and complaints [Line Items]
Legal proceedings, amount agreed to pay	15,487,500
Securities Exchange Commission [Member]
Disclosure of lawsuits and complaints [Line Items]
Legal proceedings, amount agreed to pay	$ 15,000,000

Mineral resource exploration _2

Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Construction in progress	$ 375,316	$ 207,830
Expense arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	5,537	5,864	$ 5,322
Exploitation [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Assets arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	$ 8,645	9,791
Metallic exploration [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Useful life measured as period of time, property, plant and equipment	10 years
Expense arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	$ 165	0
Mt Holland [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Assets arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	30,475	11,298
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Construction in progress	12,841	10,292
Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Assets arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	6,576	5,099
Current Inventories [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Assets arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	1,367	$ 2,028
Other non-current financial assets: [Member]
Disclosure of Mineral resource exploration and evaluation expenditure [Line Items]
Assets arising from exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources	$ 3,433

Gains (losses) from operating_3

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	723,920	781,751	697,251
Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	371,020	324,972	252,123
Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	505,714	734,801	644,573
Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	212,151	267,474	403,323
Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	94,875	108,267	135,578
Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	35,975	48,538	48,472
Chile [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	211,857	189,349	161,564
Chile [Member] | Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	109,975	111,595	91,243
Chile [Member] | Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,064	1,052	1,054
Chile [Member] | Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	599	700	802
Chile [Member] | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	27,371	25,593	20,001
Chile [Member] | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	39,512	4,575	2,522
Chile [Member] | Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	33,336	45,834	45,942
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	161,928	180,191	232,145
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	78,872	77,737	71,335
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	7,972	6,389	5,756
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	3,593	3,598	3,109
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	64,868	80,192	142,610
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	6,354	12,098	9,180
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] | Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	269	177	155
Europe
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	393,764	479,664	449,053
Europe | Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	149,992	200,229	177,997
Europe | Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	123,525	112,080	81,557
Europe | Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	76,250	103,430	88,443
Europe | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	27,973	46,068	72,405
Europe | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	15,289	17,384	28,346
Europe | Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	735	473	305
North America
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	451,272	471,515	441,854
North America | Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	243,399	240,995	235,963
North America | Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	90,070	83,587	67,491
North America | Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	45,810	68,254	42,918
North America | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	43,312	50,685	69,105
North America | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	27,798	27,347	25,824
North America | Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	883	647	553
Asia and others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	724,834	945,084	872,707
Asia and others [Member] | Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	141,682	151,195	120,713
Asia and others [Member] | Iodine and derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	148,389	121,864	96,265
Asia and others [Member] | Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	379,462	558,819	509,301
Asia and others [Member] | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	48,627	64,936	75,205
Asia and others [Member] | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	5,922	46,863	69,706
Asia and others [Member] | Others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 752	$ 1,407	$ 1,517

Gains (losses) from operating_4

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Specialty plant nutrition [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	723,920	781,751	697,251
Sodium Nitrates [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	20,679	17,688	18,555
Potassium Nitrate And Sodium Potassium Nitrate [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	457,477	527,945	474,451
Specialty Blends [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	153,739	145,511	121,263
Other Specialty Fertilizers [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	92,025	90,607	82,982
Iodine And Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	371,020	324,972	252,123
Lithium and Derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	505,714	734,801	644,573
Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	212,151	267,474	403,323
Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	94,875	108,267	135,578
Other Products [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	35,975	48,538	48,472
Income From Services [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	3,410	4,017	3,795
Income From leasing Of Properties [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,438	1,474	71
Income from subleases on right-of-use assets [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	261	0	0
Commodities [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	16,176	18,581	11,822
Other Ordinary Income Commercial Offices [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 14,690	$ 24,466	$ 32,784

Gains (losses) from operating_5

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Remuneration and benefits to employees	$ (238,748)	$ (260,869)	$ (227,617)
Raw material and supplies	(178,493)	(203,571)	(172,158)
Depreciation expense	(188,157)	(212,641)	(232,455)
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16)	(5,450)	0	0
Amortization expense	(6,020)	(6,376)	(7,490)
Investment plan expenses	(18,367)	(11,860)	(14,796)
Provision for site closure	(911)	(2,045)	(2,960)
Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies	(7,500)	1,721	1,746
Contractors	(123,096)	(120,923)	(118,610)
Operating leases	(47,007)	(37,245)	(36,333)
Mining concessions	(7,856)	(8,168)	(7,802)
Operations transport	(56,376)	(64,352)	(69,051)
Freight and product transport costs	(46,264)	(51,387)	(55,383)
Purchase of products from third parties	(189,583)	(182,695)	(184,226)
Insurance	(16,968)	(11,923)	(10,255)
CORFO right	143,861	182,954	(46,274)
Export costs	(97,103)	(107,418)	(86,831)
Expenses related to Variable Parts Leases (IFRS 16)	(1,096)	0	0
Variation in inventory	7,500	(1,721)	(1,746)
Variation in inventory provision	17,107	(8,997)	(14,989)
Other expenses, by nature	(85,284)	(34,525)	(70,133)
Total	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Cost Of Sales [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies	(52,557)	(20,597)	76,009
Variation in inventory	$ 52,557	$ 20,597	$ (76,009)

Gains (losses) from operating_6

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Amounts recovered from insurance	$ 320	$ 827
Total	18,218	32,048	$ 17,827
Other Incomes [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Discounts obtained from suppliers	676	705	345
Fines charged to suppliers	483	698	199
Taxes recovered	457	996	1,278
Amounts recovered from insurance	492	443	154
Overestimate of provisions for third-party obligations	983	375	586
Other operating income	2,422	1,536	4,543
Options on mining claims	5,298	16,095	2,607
Easements, pipelines and roads	7,204	10,806	4,656
Reimbursement mining licenses and notary expenses	203	394	1,196
Shares obtained in junior mining companies through options	0	0	2,263
Total	$ 18,218	$ 32,048	$ 17,827

Gains (losses) from operating_7

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Remuneration and benefits to employees	$ (238,748)	$ (260,869)	$ (227,617)
Amortization expense	(6,020)	(6,376)	(7,490)
Leases	(47,007)	(37,245)	(36,333)
Insurance	(16,968)	(11,923)	(10,255)
Contractors	(123,096)	(120,923)	(118,610)
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (contracts under IFRS 16)	5,450	0	0
Total	(117,180)	(118,126)	(101,171)
Administrative expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Remuneration and benefits to employees	(60,255)	(63,880)	(51,761)
Marketing costs	(3,911)	(3,078)	(2,539)
Amortization expense	(5)	(15)	(8)
Entertainment expenses	(5,783)	(4,805)	(4,781)
Advisory services	(13,862)	(12,848)	(14,348)
Leases	(3,653)	(4,556)	(4,097)
Insurance	(2,553)	(1,758)	(1,767)
Office expenses	(7,327)	(8,165)	(5,357)
Contractors	(4,874)	(5,730)	(4,805)
Other expenses, by nature	(12,456)	(13,291)	(11,708)
Total	$ (117,180)	$ (118,126)	$ (101,171)

Gains (losses) from operating_8

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation of assets not in use	$ (188,157)	$ (212,641)	$ (232,455)
Sub total	(202,264)	(220,827)	(240,526)
Impairment losses (reversals of impairment losses) recognized in profit (loss) for the year
Property, plant and equipment	(49)	(1,390)	(5,205)
Intangible assets other than goodwill	1,053	4,990	(1,164)
Goodwill	(140)	(3,254)
Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale	607
Other expenses, by nature
Investment plan expenses	(18,367)	(11,860)	(14,796)
Non-metallic exploration expenses	(5,537)	(5,864)	(5,322)
Sub total	(1,526,778)	(1,640,664)	(1,549,594)
Total	(25,995)	(36,907)	(53,600)
Other expenses by function [Member]
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation of assets not in use	(136)	(59)	(90)
Sub total	(136)	(59)	(90)
Impairment losses (reversals of impairment losses) recognized in profit (loss) for the year
Property, plant and equipment	(49)	(1,390)	0
Intangible assets other than goodwill	(913)	(1,736)	0
Goodwill	(140)	(3,254)	0
Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale	(607)	0	0
Sub total	(1,709)	(6,380)	0
Other expenses, by nature
Legal expenses	(9,277)	(15,139)	(25,176)
VAT and other unrecoverable taxes	(613)	(1,187)	(1,295)
Fines paid	(145)	(965)	(1,112)
Investment plan expenses	(1,694)	(7,555)	(10,006)
Non-metallic exploration expenses	(5,537)	(5,864)	0
Donations not accepted as tax credit	(5,026)	(4,502)	(5,527)
Reorganization of related businesses	0	6,000	(6,000)
Other operating expenses	(1,858)	(1,256)	(4,394)
Sub total	(24,150)	(30,468)	(53,510)
Total	$ (25,995)	$ (36,907)	$ (53,600)

Gains (losses) from operating_9

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Total	$ (383)	$ 6,404	$ 543
Other income expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Adjustment relating to previous year application of equity method to investments	(984)	(664)	500
Impairment of interests in joint ventures	631	(8,802)	0
Sales of investments in associates	0	(759)	0
Sales of investments in joint ventures	0	14,507	0
Others	(30)	2,122	43
Total	$ (383)	$ 6,404	$ 543

Gains (losses) from operatin_10

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 7) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
(Impairment loss)/ gain on reversal of financial assets	$ 1,057	$ (2,967)	$ 8,038
Investments In Associates [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
(Impairment loss)/ gain on reversal of financial assets	$ (1,057)	$ 2,967	$ (8,038)

Gains (losses) from operatin_11

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 8) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Raw materials and consumables		$ (271,912)	$ (260,869)	$ (227,617)
Classes of Employee Benefit Expenses
Personnel expenses		(238,748)	(260,869)	(227,617)
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation expense		(188,157)	(212,641)	(232,455)
Depreciation of Right-of-use Assets (IFRS 16)		(5,450)	0	0
Property, plant and equipment		(49)	(1,390)	(5,205)
Goodwill		(140)	(3,254)
Non-current assets and disowned groups held for sale		(607)
Amortization expense		(6,020)	(6,376)	(7,490)
Investment plan expenses		(18,367)	(11,860)	(14,796)
Non-metallic exploration expenses		(5,537)	(5,864)	(5,322)
Provision for site closure		(911)	(2,045)	(2,960)
Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies		(7,500)	1,721	1,746
Contractors		(127,970)	(126,653)	(123,415)
Leases		(50,660)	(41,801)	(40,430)
Mining concessions		(7,856)	(8,168)	(7,802)
Operation transport		(56,376)	(64,352)	(69,051)
Freight and product transport costs		46,264	51,387	55,383
Purchase of products from third parties		189,583	182,695	184,226
CORFO rights		(143,861)	(182,954)	46,274
Export costs		97,103	107,418	86,831
Expenses related to Variable Parts Leases (IFRS 16)		(1,096)	0	0
Insurance		(16,968)	(11,923)	(10,255)
Variation in inventory		7,500	(1,721)	(1,746)
Variation in provision on product inventory		17,107	(8,997)	(14,989)
Other expenses, by nature		(85,284)	(34,525)	(70,133)
Total		(1,526,778)	(1,640,664)	(1,549,594)
Other expenses by nature [Member]
Depreciation and amortization expense
Legal expenses		(9,277)	(15,139)	$ (25,176)
Provision for materials, spare parts and supplies	$ 76,009	(52,557)	(20,597)
Purchase of products from third parties	(184,226)	(189,583)	(182,695)
Export costs	(86,831)	(97,103)	(107,418)
Restructuring of joint ventures	(6,000)		6,000
Consultant and advisor services	(14,348)	(13,862)	(12,848)
Variation in inventory	$ (76,009)	$ 52,557	$ 20,597

Gains (losses) from operatin_12

Gains (losses) from operating activities in the statement of income, included according to their nature (Details 9) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Interest expense from bank borrowings and overdrafts	$ (2,133)	$ (1,707)	$ (1,650)
Interest expense from bonds	(72,983)	(55,887)	(49,373)
Interest expense from loans	(2,682)	(3,093)	(2,002)
Capitalized interest expenses	7,841	5,021	4,382
Financial expenses related to rehabilitation provisions	(4,417)	(960)	0
Lease interest	(1,535)
Other finance costs	(1,030)	(1,181)	(1,481)
Total	$ (76,939)	$ (57,807)	$ (50,124)

Reportable segments (Details)

Reportable segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Administrative expenses	(117,180)	(118,126)	(101,171)
Interest Expense	(76,939)	(57,807)	(50,124)
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(202,264)	(220,827)	(240,526)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	9,786	6,351	14,452
Income tax expense, continuing operations	110,019	178,975	166,173
Income (loss) before taxes	390,622	621,038	594,590
Net Income (Loss)	280,603	442,063	428,417
Assets	4,684,151	4,268,094	4,296,236
Equity-accounted investees	109,435	111,549	152,630
Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts	(8,778)	(17,131)	0
Increase of non-current assets			0
Liabilities	2,549,679	2,130,292	2,048,768
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	(1,057)	2,967	(31,899)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	426,971	524,839	758,272
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	(485,471)	(187,004)	(248,067)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	105,896	(387,313)	(411,920)
Operating Segments [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,943,655	2,265,803	2,157,323
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(202,264)	(220,827)	(240,526)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	560,052	780,172	762,501
Net Income (Loss)	560,052	780,172	762,501
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(17,583)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Unallocated amounts [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue			0
Cost of sales	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	(117,180)	(118,126)	(101,171)
Interest Expense	(76,939)	(57,807)	(50,124)
Depreciation and amortisation expense			0
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	9,786	6,351	14,452
Income tax expense, continuing operations	(110,019)	(178,975)	(166,173)
Income (loss) before taxes	(169,430)	(159,134)	(167,911)
Net Income (Loss)	(279,449)	(338,109)	(334,084)
Assets	4,684,151	4,268,094	4,296,236
Equity-accounted investees	109,435	111,549	152,630
Incorporation of non-current assets other than financial instruments, deferred tax assets, net defined benefit assets and rights arising from insurance contracts	124,569	(15,028)	0
Increase of non-current assets			0
Liabilities	2,549,679	2,130,292	2,048,768
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	(1,057)	2,967	(14,316)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	426,971	524,839	758,272
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	(485,471)	(187,004)	(248,067)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	105,896	(387,313)	(411,920)
Specialty plant nutrients [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	723,920	781,751	697,251
Cost of sales	(573,808)	(613,267)	(555,356)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(68,007)	(79,061)	(73,702)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	150,112	168,484	141,895
Net Income (Loss)	150,112	168,484	145,779
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(15,025)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Iodine and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	371,020	324,972	231,144
Cost of sales	(230,468)	(217,464)	(199,808)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(43,533)	(42,438)	(44,252)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	140,552	107,508	52,315
Net Income (Loss)	140,552	107,508	52,315
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	335
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Lithium and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	505,714	734,801	644,573
Cost of sales	(306,250)	(316,875)	(189,242)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(45,443)	(42,283)	(18,036)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	199,464	417,926	339,011
Net Income (Loss)	199,464	417,926	455,331
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	1,112
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	94,875	108,267	135,578
Cost of sales	(63,590)	(72,964)	(91,753)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(6,885)	(8,454)	(16,050)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	31,285	35,303	43,825
Net Income (Loss)	31,285	35,303	36,759
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(3,546)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	212,151	267,474	403,323
Cost of sales	(176,199)	(217,386)	(313,690)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(37,862)	(47,940)	(88,130)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	35,952	50,088	65,636
Net Income (Loss)	35,952	50,088	65,636
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(240)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Other products and services [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	35,975	48,538	62,238
Cost of sales	(33,288)	(47,675)	(44,973)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(534)	(651)	(356)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	2,687	863	5,796
Net Income (Loss)	2,687	863	5,796
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(219)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Reportable segments [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,943,655	2,265,803	2,157,323
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Interest Expense	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortisation expense	(202,264)	(220,827)	(240,526)
The entity's interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Income tax expense, continuing operations	0	0	0
Income (loss) before taxes	560,052	780,172	762,501
Net Income (Loss)	560,052	780,172	762,501
Assets	0	0	0
Equity-accounted investees	0	0	0
Increase of non-current assets	0	0	0
Liabilities	0	0	0
Impairment loss recognized in profit or loss	0	0	(17,583)
Reversal of impairment losses recognized in profit or loss for the period	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Parent [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Assets	4,069,649	3,737,892
Liabilities	1,983,382	1,652,401
Parent [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,943,655	2,265,803	2,157,323
Parent [Member] | Unallocated amounts [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Parent [Member] | Specialty plant nutrients [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	723,920	781,751	697,251
Parent [Member] | Iodine and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	371,020	324,972	252,123
Parent [Member] | Lithium and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	505,714	734,801	644,573
Parent [Member] | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	94,875	108,267	135,578
Parent [Member] | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	212,151	267,474	379,326
Parent [Member] | Other products and services [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	35,975	48,538	48,472
Parent [Member] | Reportable segments [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	1,943,655	2,265,803	2,157,323
Other Operating Segment [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Unallocated amounts [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Specialty plant nutrients [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Iodine and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Lithium and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Other products and services [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Other Operating Segment [Member] | Reportable segments [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Reportable segments (Details 1)

Reportable segments (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Cost of sales	(1,383,603)	(1,485,631)	(1,394,822)
Gross profit	560,052	780,172	762,501
Other incomes by function	18,218	32,048	17,827
Administrative expenses	(117,180)	(118,126)	(101,171)
Other expenses by function	(25,995)	(36,907)	(53,600)
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	(1,057)	2,967	(8,038)
Other gains (losses)	(383)	6,404	543
Financial income	26,289	22,533	13,499
Finance costs	(76,939)	(57,807)	(50,124)
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	9,786	6,351	14,452
Exchange differences	(2,169)	(16,597)	(1,299)
Profit (loss) before taxes	390,622	621,038	594,590
Income tax expense	110,019	178,975	166,173
Profit (loss)	280,603	442,063	428,417
Specialty plant nutrients [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	723,920	781,751	697,251
Cost of sales	(573,808)	(613,267)	(555,356)
Gross profit	150,112	168,484	145,779
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	150,112	168,484	141,895
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	150,112	168,484	145,779
Iodine and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	371,020	324,972	231,144
Cost of sales	(230,468)	(217,464)	(199,808)
Gross profit	140,552	107,508	39,846
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	140,552	107,508	52,315
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	140,552	107,508	52,315
Lithium and its derivatives [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	505,714	734,801	644,573
Cost of sales	(306,250)	(316,875)	(189,242)
Gross profit	199,464	417,926	339,011
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	199,464	417,926	339,011
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	199,464	417,926	455,331
Industrial chemicals [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	94,875	108,267	135,578
Cost of sales	(63,590)	(72,964)	(91,753)
Gross profit	31,285	35,303	36,759
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	31,285	35,303	43,825
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	31,285	35,303	36,759
Potassium [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	212,151	267,474	403,323
Cost of sales	(176,199)	(217,386)	(313,690)
Gross profit	35,952	50,088	43,846
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	35,952	50,088	65,636
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	35,952	50,088	65,636
Other products and services [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	35,975	48,538	62,238
Cost of sales	(33,288)	(47,675)	(44,973)
Gross profit	2,687	863	5,796
Other incomes by function	0	0	0
Administrative expenses	0	0	0
Other expenses by function	0	0	0
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	0	0	0
Other gains (losses)	0	0	0
Financial income	0	0	0
Finance costs	0	0	0
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	0	0	0
Exchange differences	0	0	0
Profit (loss) before taxes	2,687	863	5,796
Income tax expense	0	0	0
Profit (loss)	2,687	863	5,796
Corporate unit [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	0	0	0
Cost of sales	0	0	0
Gross profit	0	0	0
Other incomes by function	18,218	32,048	15,202
Administrative expenses	(117,180)	(118,126)	(88,436)
Other expenses by function	(25,995)	(36,907)	(82,533)
Impairment of gains and review of impairment losses (impairment losses) determined in accordance with IFRS 9	(1,057)	2,967	7,198
Other gains (losses)	(383)	6,404	679
Financial income	26,289	22,533	10,129
Finance costs	(76,939)	(57,807)	(57,498)
interest in the profit or loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method	9,786	6,351	13,047
Exchange differences	(2,169)	(16,597)	460
Profit (loss) before taxes	(169,430)	(159,134)	(181,752)
Income tax expense	(110,019)	(178,975)	(132,965)
Profit (loss)	$ (279,449)	$ (338,109)	$ (314,717)

Reportable segments (Details 2)

Reportable segments (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 1,943,655	$ 2,265,803	$ 2,157,323
Investments accounted for using equity method	109,435	111,549	152,630
Intangible assets other than goodwill	188,358	189,350
Goodwill	34,726	34,866	37,972
Property, plant and equipment	1,607,070	1,454,823	1,429,354
Other non-current assets	19,729	27,539
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	1,959,318	1,818,127
Chile [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	211,857	189,349	$ 161,564
Investments accounted for using equity method	0	6,588
Intangible assets other than goodwill	106,910	110,544
Goodwill	23,205	22,535
Property, plant and equipment	1,559,080	1,445,349
Other non-current assets	20,321	17,111
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	1,709,516	1,588,951
Latin America and the Caribbean [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	161,928	180,189
Investments accounted for using equity method	5,175	0
Intangible assets other than goodwill	420	1,215
Goodwill	0	86
Property, plant and equipment	513	347
Other non-current assets	28	23
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	4,214	1,671
Europe [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	393,764	479,664
Investments accounted for using equity method	42,243	61,256
Intangible assets other than goodwill	1,397	238
Goodwill	11,521	11,521
Property, plant and equipment	6,241	4,451
Other non-current assets	4	0
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	61,406	77,466
North America [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	451,272	471,515
Investments accounted for using equity method	14,669	16,115
Intangible assets other than goodwill	2,683	152
Goodwill	0	724
Property, plant and equipment	8,333	3,098
Other non-current assets	624	892
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	25,061	19,197
Asia and others [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Revenue	724,834	945,086
Investments accounted for using equity method	57,698	40,766
Intangible assets other than goodwill	76,948	77,201
Goodwill	0	0
Property, plant and equipment	32,903	1,578
Other non-current assets	0	11,297
Non-current assets that are not financial instruments	$ 167,549	$ 130,842

Borrowing costs (Details)

Borrowing costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Borrowing costs [abstract]
Capitalization rate of costs for capitalized interest, property, plant and equipment	4.00%	4.00%
Amount of costs for interest capitalized in ThUS$	$ 7,841	$ 5,021

Effect of fluctuations in for_3

Effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Conversion foreign exchange gains (losses) recognized in the result of the year.	$ (2,169)	$ (16,597)	$ (1,299)
Gains (losses) on exchange differences on translation, before tax	788	(1,220)	(5,446)
Equity attributable to owners of the Parent [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Gains (losses) on exchange differences on translation, before tax	562	(1,394)	(5,450)
Non-controlling interests [member]
Statement [Line Items]
Gains (losses) on exchange differences on translation, before tax	$ 226	$ 174	$ 4

Effect of fluctuations in for_4

Effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	$ (25,745)	$ (26,307)	$ (24,913)
Comercial Hydro S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	1,004	1,004	1,004
SQMC Internacional Ltda. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(9)	(17)	(2)
Proinsa Ltda. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(10)	(11)	(7)
Comercial Agrorama Ltda. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	33	(21)	(44)
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(44)	(1)	(74)
Almacenes y Depositos Ltda. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	142	113	97
Sacal S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(3)	(3)	0
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(19)	(10)	0
Agrorama S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	231	132	(98)
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(13,811)	(13,811)	(14,447)
SQM Vitas Fzco. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(2,267)	(2,682)	(1,779)
Ajay Europe S.A.R.L [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(1,449)	(1,270)
SQM Eastmed Turkey [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(155)	(113)	(92)
Doctochem Tarim Sanayi LTD [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	7	0	0
Coromandel SQM India [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(431)	(393)	(234)
SQM Italia SRL [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(236)	(213)	(154)
SQM Oceania Pty Limited [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(634)	(634)	(634)
SQM Indonesia S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(124)	(124)	(124)
Abu Dhabi Fertilizers Industries WWL [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	372	(435)	(435)
SQM Vitas Holland [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(197)	(170)	(101)
SQM Thailand Limited [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(68)	(68)	(68)
SQM Europe N.V. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(1,983)	(1,983)	(1,550)
SQM Australia Pty Ltd [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(4,035)	(4,222)	154
Pavoni C Spa [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(185)	70	0
Terra Tarsa B.V.. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	116	(82)	0
Plantacote N.V [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(16)	(34)	0
Doktolab Tarim Arastima San [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(54)	(29)	0
Kore Potash PLC [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(1,754)	(1,206)	0
SQM Colombia SAS [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	(166)	(94)	0
Minera Exar S.A. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	0	0	(5,209)
Charlee SQM Thailand Co. Ltd. [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	0	0	(285)
Ajay Europe SARL [Member]
Other reserves [abstract]
Reserve of exchange differences on translation	$ 0	$ 0	$ (831)

Disclosures on the effects of_3

Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency		US$
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 4,684,151	$ 4,268,094
Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	2,682,166	2,398,382
Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	2,001,985	1,869,712
Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	588,530	556,066
Other current financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	505,490	312,721
Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	50,552	47,972
Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	399,142	466,619
Receivables from related parties [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	61,227	42,790
Current Inventories [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	983,338	913,674
Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	91,433	57,110
Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	2,454	1,430
Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	19,729	27,539
Non-current right receivable [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	1,710	2,275
Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	109,435	111,549
Intangible assets other than goodwill [member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	188,358	189,350
Purchases goodwill, gross [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	34,726	34,866
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	1,607,070	1,454,823
Current Tax Assets Non Current [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	32,179	32,179
Other non current financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 8,778	17,131
USD | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 558,572	353,674
USD | Other current financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 127,889	291,790
USD | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 16,535	19,523
USD | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 225,554	255,528
USD | Receivables from related parties [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 60,135	42,685
USD | Current Inventories [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 983,338	913,674
USD | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 87,509	52,033
USD | Non-current assets or groups of assets classified as held for sale [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2,454	1,430
USD | Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 19,101	26,758
USD | Non-current right receivable [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 522	139
USD | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 57,777	41,923
USD | Intangible assets other than goodwill [member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 185,951	189,265
USD | Purchases goodwill, gross [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 34,438	34,866
USD | Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,593,324	1,451,436
USD | Current Tax Assets Non Current [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 32,179	32,179
USD | Other non current financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 8,687	17,039
ARS | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ARS
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3	2
ARS | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ARS
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 0	2
ARS | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ARS
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1	2
BRL | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2	0
BRL | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 19	20
BRL | Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 22	23
CLF | Other current financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 36,896	0
CLF | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 31	47
CLF | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 504	453
CLF | Non-current right receivable [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 165	329
CLP | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 8,240	157,500
CLP | Other current financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 340,705	20,931
CLP | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 24,374	20,276
CLP | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 56,023	71,730
CLP | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,623	601
CLP | Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 596	758
CLP | Non-current right receivable [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 980	1,807
CLP | Intangible assets other than goodwill [member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 136	85
CLP | Purchases goodwill, gross [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 140	0
CLP | Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,294	3,387
CLP | Other non current financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 20	20
CNY | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CNY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2,484	2,305
CNY | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CNY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 326	8
CNY | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CNY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,340	11,361
EUR | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,131	4,738
EUR | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,055	3,153
EUR | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 24,925	31,426
EUR | Receivables from related parties [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,092	105
EUR | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 61	3,500
EUR | Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 4	0
EUR | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 14,315	14,929
EUR | Intangible assets other than goodwill [member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,134	0
EUR | Purchases goodwill, gross [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 148	0
EUR | Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 4,756	0
GBP | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	GBP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3	0
GBP | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	GBP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 148	0
AUD | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AUD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 8,492	29,598
AUD | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AUD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 285	102
AUD | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AUD
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 801	0
INR | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	INR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 6	0
INR | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	INR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,568	1,729
MXN | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2,103	1,242
MXN | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2,629	3,274
MXN | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 211	452
MXN | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,806	843
MXN | Non-current right receivable [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 43	0
MXN | Intangible assets other than goodwill [member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,137	0
MXN | Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 5,588	0
PEN | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PEN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 4	1
PEN | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PEN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 6	0
PEN | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PEN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 0	131
YEN | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,559	1,786
YEN | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 174	21
YEN | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 66,266	76,267
YEN | Other non current financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 71	72
ZAR | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,929	5,219
ZAR | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3,119	1,547
ZAR | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 15,900	571
ZAR | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 139	0
Colombia, Pesos | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 2,557	0
Colombia, Pesos | Current tax assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 294	0
Colombia, Pesos | Other non-current non-financial assets [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 6	0
Colombia, Pesos | Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 108	0
Thailand, Baht | Other current non-financial assets [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	THB
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 22	19
Thailand, Baht | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	THB
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,695	2,970
Thailand, Baht | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	THB
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 40	53
AED | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AED
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 0	1
AED | Trade and other receivables [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AED
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1,193	15,841
AED | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AED
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 9,111	31,023
TRY | Investments classified using the equity method of accounting [Member] | Non-current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	TRY
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 26,624	21,892
IDR | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	IDR
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 3	0
PLN | Cash and cash equivalent [Member] | Current assets [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PLN
Assets held in foreign currency	$ 1	$ 0

Disclosures on the effects of_4

Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates (Details 1) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency		US$
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 2,549,679,000	$ 2,130,292,000
Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	776,812,000	555,663,000
Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,772,867,000	1,574,629,000
Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	298,822,000	23,585,000
Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	110,565,000	106,197,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	183,411,000	175,361,000
Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	205,790,000	163,751,000
Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	17,874,000	47,412,000
Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	34,690,000	31,822,000
Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	126,899,000	194,624,000
Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,518,926,000	1,330,382,000
Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	475,000	9,000
Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	16,387,000	20,085,000
Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	35,840,000	37,064,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	478,587,000	461,834,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	40,111,000	12,865,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	109,745,000	74,970,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	188,677,000	163,748,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	2,863,000	4,548,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	124,230,000	185,618,000
Up to 90 days [member] | Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	475,000	0
Up to 90 days [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	12,486	20,085,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	298,225,000	93,829,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	258,711,000	10,720,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	820,000	31,227,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	17,113,000	3,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	15,011,000	42,864,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	2,669,000	9,006,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	9,000
Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	3,901,000	0
Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	217,798,000	342,225,000
Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	69,048,000	63,534,000
Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	23,014,000	28,822,000
Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	89,896,000	249,869,000
Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	35,840,000	0
Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	42,503,000	126,339,000
Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	33,355,000
Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	167,000	3,000
Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	42,336,000	80,903,000
Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	9,081,000
Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	313,749,000	354,034,000
Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	56,040,000
Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	313,749,000	297,994,000
Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	129,554,000	0
Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	114,353,000	0
Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,452,000	0
Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	13,749,000	0
Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Over 5 years [member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,069,263,000	752,031,000
Over 5 years [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,000	22,432,000
Over 5 years [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,057,000	0
Over 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,059,196,000	701,616,000
Over 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	27,983,000
United States of America, Dollars | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 278,970,000	16,935,000
United States of America, Dollars | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 110,470,000	$ 105,170,000
United States of America, Dollars | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 183,411,000	$ 175,361,000
United States of America, Dollars | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 44,146,000	51,492,000
United States of America, Dollars | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 17,857,000	$ 41,612,000
United States of America, Dollars | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 34,690,000	$ 31,822,000
United States of America, Dollars | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 117,290,000	$ 178,995,000
United States of America, Dollars | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 1,106,988,000	$ 876,564,000
United States of America, Dollars | Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 475,000	9,000
United States of America, Dollars | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 16,387,000	$ 20,085,000
United States of America, Dollars | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	USD	USD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 34,884,000	$ 36,197,000
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	20,582,000	12,471,000
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	109,650,000	74,020,000
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	44,146,000	51,489,000
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	2,863,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	117,136,000	176,506,000
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	475,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	12,486,000	20,085,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	258,388,000	4,464,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	820,000	31,150,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	3,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	14,994,000	41,612,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	154,000	2,489,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade payables due to related parties, current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	9,000
United States of America, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	3,901,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	69,048,000	63,534,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	23,014,000	28,822,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	89,896,000	249,869,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	34,884,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	33,355
United States of America, Dollars | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	167,000	3,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	42,336,000	80,903,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	9,081,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	56,040,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	313,749,000	297,994,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	114,353,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,452,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	13,749,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 5 years [member] | Deferred Tax Liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,000	22,432,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 5 years [member] | Other non-current provisions [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,057,000	0
United States of America, Dollars | Over 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	647,258,000	247,798,000
United States of America, Dollars | Over 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	27,116,000
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 19,841,000	$ 6,598,000
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLF	CLF
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 411,938,000	$ 453,818,000
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	19,518,000	342,000
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	323,000	6,256,000
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Unidad de Fomento (funds code) | Over 5 years [member] | Other non current financial liabilities [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 411,938,000	453,818,000
Chile, Pesos | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 82,000	64,000
Chile, Pesos | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 90,811,000	69,789,000
Chile, Pesos | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 17,000	31,000
Chile, Pesos | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 8,408,000	$ 14,134,000
Chile, Pesos | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CLP	CLP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 519,000	$ 521,000
Chile, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	82,000	0
Chile, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	73,703,000	69,789,000
Chile, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Chile, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	5,969,000	7,703,000
Chile, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	64,000
Chile, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	17,108,000	0
Chile, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	17,000	31,000
Chile, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	2,439,000	6,431,000
Chile, Pesos | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	519,000	0
Chile, Pesos | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Chile, Pesos | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Chile, Pesos | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Chile, Pesos | Over 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	521,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 11,000	52,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	707,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 10,000	34,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	3,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	BRL
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 3,000	3,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	11,000	52,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	707,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,000	34,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Brazil, Brazil Real | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	3,000	3,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Brazil, Brazil Real | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Brazil, Brazil Real | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Brazil, Brazil Real | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	3,000
Brazil, Brazil Real | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Thailand, Baht | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	THB
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 53,000	65,000
Thailand, Baht | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	THB
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 30,000	158,000
Thailand, Baht | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	53,000	65,000
Thailand, Baht | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	30,000	158,000
Thailand, Baht | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Thailand, Baht | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 6,000	243,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 58,543,000	36,439,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	5,548,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	EUR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 842,000	1,053,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	6,000	243,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	58,538,000	36,439,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	4,548,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	842,000	1,053,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	5,000	0
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	1,000,000
Euro Member Countries, Euro | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
United Kingdom, Pounds | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	GBP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 17,000	0
United Kingdom, Pounds | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	17,000	0
United Kingdom, Pounds | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
India, Rupees | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	INR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 1,000	1,000
India, Rupees | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	1,000	1,000
India, Rupees | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 5,122,000	7,000
Mexico, Pesos | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	9,000
Mexico, Pesos | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 193,000	$ 149,000
Mexico, Pesos | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	MXN	MXN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 236,000	$ 175,000
Mexico, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	5,122,000	7,000
Mexico, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	129,000	103,000
Mexico, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	9,000
Mexico, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	64,000	46,000
Mexico, Pesos | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	236,000	0
Mexico, Pesos | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Mexico, Pesos | Over 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	175,000
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PEN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 5,000	0
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	PEN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 70,000	70,000
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	5,000	0
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	70,000	70,000
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Peru, Nuevos Soles | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Argentina, Pesos | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ARS
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 7,000	13,000
Argentina, Pesos | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ARS
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	4,082,000
Argentina, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	7,000	0
Argentina, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	4,082,000
Argentina, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current provisions [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	13,000
Argentina, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Japan, Yen | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 33,000	$ 0
Japan, Yen | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	JPY	YEN
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 201,000	$ 171,000
Japan, Yen | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	21,000	0
Japan, Yen | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	12,000	0
Japan, Yen | Over 1 year to 2 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	201,000	0
Japan, Yen | Over 2 years to 3 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Japan, Yen | Over 3 years to 4 [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Japan, Yen | Over 4 to 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Japan, Yen | Over 5 years [member] | Provisions for employee benefits, non-current [Member] | Non-current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	171,000
China, Yuan Renminbi | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CNY
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	8,000
China, Yuan Renminbi | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	CNY
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	51,000
China, Yuan Renminbi | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
China, Yuan Renminbi | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	11,000
China, Yuan Renminbi | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	8,000
China, Yuan Renminbi | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	40,000
United Arab Emirates, Dirhams | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AED
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 188,000	0
United Arab Emirates, Dirhams | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	188,000	0
United Arab Emirates, Dirhams | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Colombia, Pesos | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 192,000	0
Colombia, Pesos | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	COP
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 20,000	0
Colombia, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	192,000	0
Colombia, Pesos | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	20,000	0
Colombia, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
Colombia, Pesos | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
South Africa, Rand | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 2,260,000	1,842,000
South Africa, Rand | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	201,000
South Africa, Rand | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	ZAR
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 10,000	11,000
South Africa, Rand | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	2,260,000	1,842,000
South Africa, Rand | Up to 90 days [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
South Africa, Rand | Up to 90 days [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	10,000	11,000
South Africa, Rand | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	0
South Africa, Rand | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Current tax liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	0	201,000
South Africa, Rand | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Other current non-financial liabilities [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	0
Australia, Dollars | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Description of functional currency	AUD
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 4,442,000	0
Australia, Dollars | Up to 90 days [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	4,442,000	0
Australia, Dollars | Later than three months and not later than one year [member] | Trade and other payables [Member] | Current liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of Disclosures on the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates [Line Items]
Liabilities held in foreign currencies	$ 0	$ 0

Income tax and deferred taxes_2

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current		$ 91,433	$ 57,110
Current tax assets, non-current		32,179	32,179
Monthly provisional income tax payments, Chilean companies [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current		47,283	21,172
Current tax assets, non-current		6,398	6,398
Monthly provisional income tax payments, foreign companies [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current		124	5,199
Corporate tax credits [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current	[1]	1,262	1,858
1st category tax absorbed by tax loss [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current	[2]	916
Taxes in recovery process [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, current		41,848	28,881
Specific tax on mining activities paid (on consignment) [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax assets, non-current		$ 25,781	$ 25,781
[1]	These credits are available for Companies and are related to corporate tax payments in April of the following year. These credits include, among others, credits for training expenses (SENCE), credits for acquisition of fixed assets, donations and credits in Chile for taxes paid abroad.
[2]	This concept corresponds to the absorption of the tax losses determined by the company at the end of the year, which must be attributed to the dividends received during the year.

Income tax and deferred taxes_3

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax liabilities, current	$ 17,874	$ 47,412
1st Category income tax [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax liabilities, current	7,863	25,163
Foreign company income tax [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax liabilities, current	9,944	21,097
Article 21 single tax [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Current tax liabilities, current	$ 67	$ 1,152

Income tax and deferred taxes_4

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 2)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	27.00%	27.00%	255.00%
Spain [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	25.00%	25.00%
Belgium [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	29.58%	29.58%
Mexico [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	30.00%	30.00%
United States [member] | Top of range [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	21.00%	21.00%
United States [member] | Bottom of range [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	6.00%	6.00%
South Africa [member]
Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate	28.00%	28.00%

Income tax and deferred taxes_5

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	$ 138,230	$ 139,728
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(183,411)	(175,361)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(183,411)	175,361	$ (205,283)
Unrealized loss [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	82,075	75,832
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(82,075)	(75,832)	(68,544)
Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(197,167)	(196,843)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	197,167	196,843	211,374
Facility closure provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	7,313	4,280
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(7,313)	(4,280)	(3,469)
Manufacturing expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(106,420)	(103,760)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	106,420	103,760	102,748
Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(6,000)	(5,679)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	6,000	5,679	6,792
Vacation accrual [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	5,591	5,155
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(5,591)	(5,155)	(4,887)
Inventory provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	23,885	28,155
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(23,885)	(28,155)	(25,172)
Materials provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	7,982	6,239
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(7,982)	(6,239)	(7,107)
Forwards [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	2,169
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	0	(2,169)	(624)
Employee benefits [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	2,689	3,309
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(2,689)	(3,309)	(2,317)
Research and development expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(3,533)	(2,216)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	3,533	2,216	3,501
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	3,542	4,188
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(3,542)	(4,188)	(4,253)
Provision for legal complaints and expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	2,546	4,013
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(2,546)	(4,013)	(5,243)
Loan approval expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(3,856)	(2,337)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	3,856	2,337	2,670
Junior mining companies valued based on stock price [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(1,287)	(976)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	1,287	976	2,474
Royality [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(1,357)	(3,278)
Deferred tax liability (asset)	1,357	3,278	4,084
Tax loss benefit [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	2,296	1,124
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	(2,296)	(1,124)	(1,437)
Other deferred tax assets [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	0	5,005
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	(2,021)	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	2,021	(5,005)	(5,002)
Foreign items other [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	311	259
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	0	0
Deferred tax liability (asset)	$ (311)	$ (259)	$ (305)

Income tax and deferred taxes_6

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	$ 175,361	$ (205,283)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(5,758)	(27,407)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	2,292	2,515
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	8,050	(29,922)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(183,411)	175,361
Unrealized loss [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(75,832)	(68,544)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(6,243)	(7,288)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(6,243)	(7,288)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(82,075)	(75,832)
Property, plant and equipment and capitalized interest [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	196,843	211,374
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	324	(14,531)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	324	(14,531)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	197,167	196,843
Facility closure provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(4,280)	(3,469)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(3,033)	(811)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(3,033)	(811)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(7,313)	(4,280)
Manufacturing expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	103,760	102,748
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	2,660	1,012
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	2,660	1,012
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	106,420	103,760
Staff severance indemnities, unemployment insurance [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	5,679	6,792
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	1,007	(667)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	(686)	(446)
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	321	(1,113)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	6,000	5,679
Vacation accrual [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(5,155)	(4,887)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(436)	(268)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(436)	(268)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(5,591)	(5,155)
Inventory provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(28,155)	(25,172)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	4,270	(2,983)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	4,270	(2,983)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(23,885)	(28,155)
Materials provision [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(6,239)	(7,107)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(1,743)	868
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(1,743)	868
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(7,982)	(6,239)
Forwards [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(2,169)	(624)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(514)	(1,545)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	2,683	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	2,169	(1,545)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	0	(2,169)
Employee benefits [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(3,309)	(2,317)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	620	(992)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	620	(992)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(2,689)	(3,309)
Research and development expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	2,216	3,501
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	1,317	(1,285)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	1,317	(1,285)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	3,533	2,216
Provision for legal complaints and expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(4,013)	(5,243)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	1,467	1,230
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	1,467	1,230
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(2,546)	(4,013)
Loan approval expenses [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	2,337	2,670
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	1,519	(333)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	1,519	(333)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	3,856	2,337
Junior mining companies valued based on stock price [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	976	2,474
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	0	0
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	311	(1,498)
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	311	(1,498)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	1,287	976
Royalties [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	3,278	4,084
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(1,905)	(795)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	(16)	(11)
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(1,921)	(806)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	1,357	3,278
Tax loss benefit [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(1,124)	(1,437)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(1,172)	313
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(1,172)	313
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(2,296)	(1,124)
Other deferred tax assets [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(5,005)	(5,002)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	7,026	(64)
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	61
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	7,026	(3)
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	2,021	(5,005)
Foreign items other [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(259)	(305)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	(52)	46
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	0
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	(52)	46
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	(311)	(259)
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	(4,188)	(4,253)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) recognized in profit (loss) for the year	646	686
Deferred taxes related to items credited (charged) directly to equity	0	(621)	[1]
Total increases (decreases) in deferred tax liabilities (assets)	646	65
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	$ (3,542)	$ (4,188)
[1]	This corresponds to the adjustment to the beginning balance of the impairment provision for receivables against other reserves.

Income tax and deferred taxes_7

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 2,296	$ 1,124
Chile [Member]
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 2,296	$ 1,124

Income tax and deferred taxes_8

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Income tax and deferred taxes [Abstract]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net opening balance	$ 175,361	$ (205,283)
Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in profit or loss	(5,758)	(27,407)
Increase (decrease) in deferred taxes in equity	2,292	2,515
Deferred tax liability (asset) at end of period	$ (183,411)	$ 175,361

Income tax and deferred taxes_9

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 7) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current income tax expense
Current income tax expense	$ (116,483)	$ (207,959)	$ (182,567)
Adjustments to prior year current income tax	12,222	1,577	15,954
Current income tax expense, net, total	(104,261)	(206,382)	(166,613)
Deferred tax expense
Deferred tax expense (income) relating to the creation and reversal of temporary differences	2,551	26,434	440
Tax adjustments related to the creation and reversal of temporary differences from the previous year	8,309	973
Deferred tax expense, net, total	(5,758)	27,407	440
Tax expense (benefit)	$ (110,019)	$ (178,975)	$ (166,173)

Income tax and deferred taxe_10

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 8) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current income tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Current income tax expense	$ (104,261)	$ (206,382)	$ (166,613)
Deferred tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Deferred tax expense	(5,758)	27,407	440
Tax expense using the effective rate	(110,019)	(178,975)	(166,173)
Foreign countries [member]
Current income tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Current income tax expense	(7,394)	(7,516)	(14,396)
Deferred tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Deferred tax expense	2,370	(1,885)	(154)
Additional Tax Expense Relating To Transfer Pricing	1,068
Country of domicile [member]
Current income tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Current income tax expense	(96,867)	(198,866)	(152,217)
Deferred tax expense by foreign and domestic parties, net
Deferred tax expense	$ (8,128)	$ 29,292	$ 594

Income tax and deferred taxe_11

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 9) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or credit to net equity
Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans	$ (702)	$ (396)	$ (282)
Cash flow hedge	2,683	0	0
Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	0	0	550
Total	(2,543)	744	489
Amount before taxes (expense) gain [Member]
Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or credit to net equity
Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans	(3,310)	(1,327)	(1,401)
Cash flow hedge	1,907	5,723	2,184
Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	1,152	(5,546)	(26)
Total	(251)	(1,150)	757
Gains Losses For Income Taxes [Member]
Income tax related to other income and expense components with a charge or credit to net equity
Gain (loss) from defined benefit plans	702	396	282
Cash flow hedge	(2,683)	0	0
Reserve for gains (losses) from financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income	(311)	1,498	(550)
Total	$ (2,292)	$ 1,894	$ (268)

Income tax and deferred taxe_12

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details 10) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reconciliation of accounting profit multiplied by applicable tax rates [abstract]
Consolidated income before taxes		$ 390,622	$ 621,038	$ 594,590
Income tax rate in force in Chile		27.00%	27.00%	255.00%
Tax expense using the legal rate		$ (105,468)	$ (167,680)	$ (151,620)
Effect of royalty tax payments		(4,314)	(4,919)	(3,372)
Tax effect of revenue from regular activities exempt from taxation		2,376	1,446	2,886
Tax rate effect of non-tax-deductible expenses for determining taxable profit (loss)		(2,128)	(2,327)	(4,764)
Tax effect of tax rates supported abroad		(252)	3,517	(8,061)
IRS provision surplus	[1]	0	(3,724)	0
Other tax effects from the reconciliation between the accounting income and tax expense		(233)	(5,288)	(1,242)
Tax expense using the effective rate		$ (110,019)	$ (178,975)	$ (166,173)
[1]	Internal revenue service

Income tax and deferred taxe_13

Income tax and deferred taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate		27.00%	27.00%	255.00%
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		3
Prescriptive period extended for review legal deadline		6
Income Tax Penalty Paid	$ 3.8
Additional Income Tax Payable	$ 0.4
Mining Royalties Operation [Member]
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate		5.00%
Caliche Extraction Operation [Member]
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate		5.24%
United States
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		3
Prescriptive period extended for review legal deadline		6
Mexico
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate		30.00%	30.00%
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		5
Spain
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		4
Belgium
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		3
Prescriptive period extended for review legal deadline		5
South Africa
Disclosure of Income tax and deferred taxes [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate		28.00%	28.00%
Prescriptive period for review legal deadline		3
Prescriptive period extended for review legal deadline		5

Assets held for sale and deta_3

Assets held for sale and detail of assets sold (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale or as held for distribution to owners [abstract]
Land owned by Soquimich Comercial S.A.	$ 2,454	$ 1,430
Total assets held for sale	$ 2,454	$ 1,430

Events occurred after the rep_2

Events occurred after the reporting date (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Mar. 25, 2020	Jan. 22, 2020	Nov. 20, 2019	May 22, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 15, 2018
Disclosure of Events occurred after the reporting date [Line Items]
Borrowings, interest rate								3.25%
Profit (loss), attributable to owners of parent					$ 278,115	$ 439,830	$ 427,697
Notional amount					$ 148,728	$ 16,796
interim dividend per share			$ 0.22987	$ 0.30598
Single series bond One [Member]
Disclosure of Events occurred after the reporting date [Line Items]
Borrowings, interest rate					0.43%	0.95%
Notional amount					$ 252,674	$ 2,674
Maturity date					04-21-2020	04-21-2019
Major Borrowing Transactions [Member] | Unsecured Bond [Member]
Disclosure of Events occurred after the reporting date [Line Items]
Borrowings, interest rate		4.25%
Notional amount		$ 400,000
Maturity date		2050
Major Repayments Of Bonds Transactions [Member] | Single series bond One [Member]
Disclosure of Events occurred after the reporting date [Line Items]
Borrowings, interest rate		5.50%
Notional amount		$ 250,000
Maturity date		April 21, 2020
Event After Reporting [Member]
Disclosure of Events occurred after the reporting date [Line Items]
Profit (loss), attributable to owners of parent	$ 278,114,994
Final Dividend Payment	100.00%
Dividends Per Share	$ 1.05668	$ 0.25414
interim dividend per share	$ 0.80254