Explore the entities and groups that have played a fundamental role in water privatization in Chile, a process that has transformed access to and management of this vital resource. This ranking details the transnational corporations and pension fund administrators that control a significant portion of the drinking water supply. Understand the impact of these figures on water governance and the implications for the Chilean population. It is of interest to students, researchers, and anyone concerned with water policy and natural resource rights.
Treats 73% of sewage discharges to international standards
(+4)
Aguas Andinas is Chile's largest sanitation services company and a major player in providing drinking water in the Metropolitan Region. Its control by the Spanish group Agbar and its participation in supply projects position it as a central actor in water privatization and management.
As the current Minister of Public Works since March 2026, Martín Arrau is a central figure in water administration in Chile. His decisions and policies directly impact the management of water resources and related public infrastructure.
Responsible for promoting water resource management and administration
(+3)
The DGA is the key governmental entity responsible for managing water resources in Chile, including granting and overseeing water use rights. Its recent activation of patent fees for non-use of water rights in 2026 underscores its current relevance.
Appointed a renowned climate scientist as environment minister
(+4)
As former president, Gabriel Boric signed the reform to the Water Code in 2022, a legislative milestone that seeks to prioritize human consumption and ecosystem protection. His legacy in this area remains a benchmark in the current debate on water management.
Efficiently manages the integral water cycle
(+4)
As the majority shareholder of Aguas Andinas, the Suez Group (through Agbar) is a Spanish multinational with significant influence in water management and privatization in Chile. Its presence demonstrates the involvement of foreign capital in the country's sanitation services.
All the rankings you can imagine
Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts
Invested over US$2.3 billion in Chilean water infrastructure
(+4)
This Canadian pension fund is a key investor in several Chilean sanitation companies such as Essbio, Esval, and Aguas del Valle. Its acquisition of Essbio in 2007 positions it as a relevant financial actor in the privatization of water services.
MAT is a coalition of social and territorial organizations leading the fight for water deprivatization and community management. Its call for a massive march in March 2026 demonstrates its current relevance as an opposing force to the privatized model.
Criticizes climate denialism
(+4)
As Governor of Valparaíso and spokesperson for MODATIMA, Rodrigo Mundaca is a prominent figure in denouncing water privatization and defending environmental rights. His activism and political stance make him a key actor in public debate.
Established private ownership of water in the 1980 Constitution
(+2)
Augusto Pinochet's regime implemented the 1980 Constitution and the 1981 Water Code, which established private ownership of water use rights. These regulations laid the groundwork for the current privatization model, making Pinochet a fundamental historical figure.
Announced water sector privatization in 1995
(+4)
During his presidency, Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle initiated the privatization process of sanitation companies in 1998. His government was crucial for transferring water management from the State to private hands, marking a milestone in the history of water rights in Chile.
Sold stake in water utility Aguas
(+1)
CORFO is a state entity that historically created regional sanitation companies and subsequently actively participated in their privatization through the sale of shares. Its role has been fundamental both in the creation and in the de-nationalization of water services.