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Significant accounting policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2020
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 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, without decimal places, 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.
Description of accounting policy for foreign currency translation [text block] |
| 3.3 | Accounting policy for 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 shareholder’s 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 and average of each period in respect to U.S. dollars, are as follows:
|  | Closing exchange rates |  |  | Average exchange rates |
Currencies |  | As of December 31, 2020 |  |  | As of December 31, 2019 |  |  | As of December 31, 2020 |  |  | As of December 31, 2019 |
|  | ThUS$ |  |  | ThUS$ |  |  | ThUS$ |  |  | ThUS$ |
Brazilian real |  |  | 5.18 |  |  |  | 4.02 |  |  |  | 5.14 |  |  |  | 4.11 |
New Peruvian sol |  |  | 3.62 |  |  |  | 3.31 |  |  |  | 3.60 |  |  |  | 3.35 |
Argentine peso |  |  | 84.14 |  |  |  | 59.83 |  |  |  | 82.62 |  |  |  | 59.86 |
Japanese yen |  |  | 105.56 |  |  |  | 108.90 |  |  |  | 103.81 |  |  |  | 109.12 |
Euro |  |  | 0.81 |  |  |  | 0.89 |  |  |  | 0.82 |  |  |  | 0.90 |
Mexican peso |  |  | 19.93 |  |  |  | 18.89 |  |  |  | 19.97 |  |  |  | 19.11 |
Australian dollar |  |  | 1.30 |  |  |  | 1.43 |  |  |  | 1.33 |  |  |  | 1.45 |
Pound Sterling |  |  | 0.74 |  |  |  | 0.76 |  |  |  | 0.74 |  |  |  | 0.76 |
South African rand |  |  | 14.61 |  |  |  | 14.06 |  |  |  | 14.88 |  |  |  | 14.42 |
Chilean peso |  |  | 710.95 |  |  |  | 748.74 |  |  |  | 731.92 |  |  |  | 767.22 |
Chinese yuan |  |  | 6.51 |  |  |  | 6.98 |  |  |  | 6.53 |  |  |  | 7.01 |
Indian rupee |  |  | 73.30 |  |  |  | 71.31 |  |  |  | 73.65 |  |  |  | 71.16 |
Thai Baht |  |  | 29.94 |  |  |  | 29.97 |  |  |  | 30.08 |  |  |  | 30.22 |
Turkish lira |  |  | 7.36 |  |  |  | 5.94 |  |  |  | 7.70 |  |  |  | 5.85 |
UF (*) |  |  | 40.89 |  |  |  | 37.81 |  |  |  | 39.73 |  |  |  | 36.90 |
(*) US$ per UF
| (b) | Transactions and balances
The Company’s 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 until disposal of the invesment 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 retranslated 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 statement 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 | Accounting policy for 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 profit or loss), 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 on the date when the Company commits to the purchase or sale of an asset. In the case of account 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:
| (a) | 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 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: (ii) cash equivalents; (iii) related party receivables; (iv) trade debtors; (v) other receivables.
| (b) | 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".
| (c) | 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.
Financial asset impairment 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. 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. Impairment losses from receivables and contract assets are shown as net impairment losses in the line “Impairment of financial assets and reversal of impairment losses”, see Note 23.7. The subsequent recovery of previously canceled amounts is accredited in the same line.
Description of accounting policy for financial liabilities [text block] |
| 3.6 | 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.
Description of accounting policy for reclassification of financial instruments [text block] |
| 3.7 | Reclassification 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 from the principle responsibility contained in the liability.
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 a recognized asset or liability 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 14.3. 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 hedged item 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 depending on the nature of the hedged risk. The amounts accumulated in net equity are carried over to results when the hedged items are settled or when these have an impact on results. When a hedging instrument 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. 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] |
| 3.10 | 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, 2020, and December 31, 2019, 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 | Leases
| (a) | 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”.
| (b) | 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. Lease payments include fixed payments (including payments that are essentially fixed), 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. Payments made that affect lease liabilities are presented as part of the financing activities in the cash flow statement.
| (c) | 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. Lease payments in short-term leases and low-value asset leases are recognized as lineal expenses during the lease term.
| (d) | 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 trade and other receivables [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:
| (a) | Provision associated with the lower value of stock: The 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; (iii) reprocessing costs of products that are unfeasible for sale due to current specifications.
| (b) | Provision associated with physical differences in inventory: A provision is made for differences that exceed the tolerance considered in the respective inventory process (physical and annual inventories are taken for the productive units in Chile and the port of Tocopilla, the business subsidiaries depend on the last zero ground obtained, but in general it is at least once a year), these differences are recognized immediately.
| (c) | Potential errors in the determination of stock: The company has an algorithm that is reviewed at least once a year and corresponds to diverse percentages assigned to each inventory based on the product, location, complexity involved in the associated measurement, rotation and control mechanisms.
| (d) | Provisions undertaken by business subsidiaries: these are historical percentages that are adjusted as zero ground is attained based on normal inventory management.
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 subsidiaries 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.
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 located in 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 |  |  |  | 7 |  |  |  | 6 |
Energy generating assets |  |  | 3 |  |  |  | 16 |  |  |  | 9 |
Buildings |  |  | 3 |  |  |  | 25 |  |  |  | 13 |
Supplies and accessories |  |  | 2 |  |  |  | 10 |  |  |  | 7 |
Office equipment |  |  | 5 |  |  |  | 5 |  |  |  | 5 |
Transport equipment |  |  | 5 |  |  |  | 8 |  |  |  | 6 |
Network and communication equipment |  |  | 4 |  |  |  | 10 |  |  |  | 8 |
IT equipment |  |  | 5 |  |  |  | 11 |  |  |  | 7 |
Machinery, plant and equipment |  |  | 5 |  |  |  | 25 |  |  |  | 13 |
Other property, plant and equipment |  |  | 3 |  |  |  | 15 |  |  |  | 10 |
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 the line item 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 Western Australian Governments. Property rights from the State of Chile 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) | Estimated useful lives or amortization rates used for finite identifiable intangible assets
Finite useful life measures the length of, or number of production or similar units constituting that useful life., except for the mining claims 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. The estimated useful life for software which they are amortized corresponds to the periods defined by the contracts or rights from which they originate.
| f) | Minimum and maximum amortization lives or rates of intangible assets:
Estimated useful life or amortization rate |  | Minimum Life or Rate |  | Maximum Life or Rate
Water rights and rights of way |  | Indefinite |  | Indefinite
Mining rights granted by Corfo |  | 10 years |  | 10 years
Mining rights |  | Unit-production method
IT programs |  | 2 years |  | 8 years
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 non-financial assets” category, reclassifying the portion related to the area to be 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 as 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.
| (d) | Mount Holland exploration
Mount Holland exploration expenses are presented 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 of Western Australia, Australia. 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 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 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. 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. 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. 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 with a WACC rate. For December 31, 2020, the WACC rate was 9.73%.
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 20.4).
Description of accounting policy for earnings per share [text block] |
| 3.24 | Earnings per share
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. 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 | Capitalization of interest expenses
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. The financial expenses accrued during the construction period that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of assets that qualify for this, use the corresponding interest rate for the financing specific to the project; where this does not exist, the mean financing rate of the subsidiary that makes the investment is used.
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 more likely than not that certain resources must be used, to settle the obligation.
| · | A reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.
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 18.4). 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 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. The net balance of this obligation is presented under the “Non-Current Provisions for Employee Benefits” (refer to Note 18.4).
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 IFRS 2. Changes in the fair value of options granted are recognized with a charge to payroll in the results for the period (see Note 18.6).
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 follows:
| (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.
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 and deferred income 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 period. 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. The income tax 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 is reviewed and recognized only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be available to allow the recovery of all or a portion of the deferred tax assets. 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 taxes related to items directly recognized in equity is registered with effect on other comprehensive income and not with effect on income. 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. The recognized deferred tax assets refer to the amount of income tax to recover in future periods, related to:
| a) | deductible temporary differences;
| b) | compensation for losses obtained in prior periods, which have not yet been subject to tax deduction; and
| c) | compensation for unused credits from prior periods.
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets when it has the certainty that they can be offset with tax income from subsequent periods, unused tax losses or credits to date, but only when this availability of future tax income is probable and can be used for offsetting these unused tax losses or credits. The recognized deferred tax liabilities refer to the amount of income tax to pay in a future period, related to taxable temporary differences.
Description of accounting policy for segment reporting [text block] |
| 3.32 | Operating 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.
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 judgments and estimates to quantify certain assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and commitments included therein. Basically, these estimates refer to:
| · | 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, 15 and 16).
| · | Impairment losses of certain assets - Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not amortized and are assessed for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if the events or changes in circumstances indicate that these may have deteriorated Other assets, including property, plant and equipment, exploration assets, goodwill and intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts exceed their recoverable amounts. 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 18) and determination of long-term provisions.
| · | 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 21).
| · | Volume determination for certain in-process and finished products is based on topographical measurements and technical studies that cover the different variables affecting products in stock (density and moisture, among others), and related allowance.
| · | Estimates for obsolescence provisions to ensure that the carrying value of inventory is not in excess of the net realizable Inventory valuation. (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 few years, which would be made prospectively.
Description of accounting policy for environment related expense [text block] |
| 3.34 | Environment
In general, the Company follows the criteria of considering amounts used in environmental protection and improvement as environmental expenses. However, the cost of facilities, machinery and equipment used for the same purpose are considered property, plant and equipment, as the case may be.

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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for dividends. Dividends are distributions of profits to holders of equity investments in proportion to their holdings of a particular class of capital. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for employee benefits. Employee benefits are all forms of consideration given by an entity in exchange for services rendered by employees or for the termination of employment. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for segment reporting. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for transactions in which the entity: (a) receives goods or services from the supplier of those goods or services (including an employee) in a share-based payment arrangement; or (b) incurs an obligation to settle the transaction with the supplier in a share-based payment arrangement when another group entity receives those goods or services. [Refer: Share-based payment arrangements [member]] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for trade and other receivables. [Refer: Trade and other receivables] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for transactions with non-controlling interests. [Refer: Non-controlling interests] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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- Definition The description of the entity's accounting policy for transactions with related parties. [Refer: Related parties [member]] + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Name IAS -Number 1 -IssueDate 2020-01-01 -Paragraph 117 -Subparagraph b -URI http://eifrs.ifrs.org/eifrs/xifrs-link?type=IAS&num=1&code=ifrs-tx-2020-en-r&anchor=para_117_b&doctype=Standard -URIDate 2020-01-01 + Details
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