Unassociated Document
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 6-K

REPORT OF FOREIGN ISSUER
PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-16 OR 15D-16
OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Includes financial statements and their related notes for the three-month period ended
March 31, 2010 filed by Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. before the
Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros de Chile on May 25, 2010.

SOCIEDAD QUIMICA Y MINERA DE CHILE S.A.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

CHEMICAL AND MINING COMPANY OF CHILE INC.
(Translation of registrant's name into English)

El Trovador 4285, Santiago, Chile (562) 425-2000
(Address and phone number of principal executive offices)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F x
Form 40-F ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes ¨
No x.

If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82_________
 
 
 

 
 
On May 25, 2010, the Registrant filed with the Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros of Chile (the "SVS") a report that included information as to the Registrant's consolidated financial condition and results of operations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2010. Attached is a summary of such consolidated financial information included in the summary and in the report filed with the Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros of Chile. This financial information was prepared on the basis of International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).
 
THIS REPORT IS AN ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF, AND AN INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS PRESENTATION OF, THE THREE-MONTH PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2010 REPORT FILED WITH THE SUPERINTENDENCIA DE VALORES Y SEGUROS (SVS) IN CHILE, AND UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, FIGURES ARE IN US DOLLARS.
 
 
 

 

 
INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
For the period ended
 
as of March 31, 2010
 
SOCIEDAD QUIMICA Y MINERA DE CHILE S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Thousands of U.S. dollars
 

 
This document is composed of:
 
 
-
Consolidated Classified Statement of Financial Position.
 
 
-
Interim Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income by function.
 
 
-
Interim Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
 
 
-
Interim Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
 
 
-
Interim Statements of Changes in Net Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
-
Explanatory Notes to the Financial Statements
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
 

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
CONSOLIDATED CLASSIFIED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
 

 
ASSETS
 
Note
   
As of March 
31, 2010
ThUS$
   
As of
December 31,
2009
ThUS$
   
As of January 
1, 2009
ThUS$
 
Current assets
                       
Operating current assets
                       
Cash and cash equivalents
 
6.0
      359,256       530,394       303,799  
Other current financial assets
 
9.1
      88,259       75,537       21,720  
Other non-financial current assets
 
25
      34,601       36,884       42,776  
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, net
 
9.2
      365,104       325,823       334,791  
Accounts receivable from related companies
 
8.6
      34,547       68,656       51,027  
Inventories
 
7.0
      633,509       630,763       540,877  
Income taxes recoverable
 
28.1
      52,929       41,825       1,695  
Total operating current assets
          1,568,205       1,709,882       1,296,685  
                               
Non-Current Assets
                             
Other financial assets
 
9.1
      111       113       101  
Other non-financial assets
 
25
      39,956       41,751       31,042  
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, net
 
9.2
      3,905       4,208       766  
Accounts receivable from related companies
 
8.7
      -       -       2,000  
Investments in associated companies accounted for using the equity method
 
11.0
      58,762       55,185       36,934  
Intangible assets other than goodwill
 
13.1
      3,103       2,836       3,525  
Goodwill
 
13.1
      38,388       38,388       38,388  
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
14.1
      1,303,135       1,300,546       1,076,531  
Investment properties
 
14.4
      1,397       1,405       1,436  
Deferred tax assets
 
28
      181       870       1,969  
Total Non-Current Assets
          1,448,938       1,445,302       1,192,692  
Total Assets
          3,017,143       3,155,184       2,489,377  

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
1

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED CLASSIFIED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
 

 
Shareholders’ Equity and Liabilities
 
Note
   
As of March
31, 2010
ThUS$
   
As of
December 31,
2009
ThUS$
   
As of
January 1,
2009
ThUS$
 
Liabilities
                       
Current Liabilities
                       
Other current financial liabilities
 
9.4
      141,310       271,364       159,925  
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable
 
9.5
      129,349       184,195       110,802  
Current accounts payable to related companies
 
8.8
      3,556       3,892       178  
Other accrued expenses, short-term
 
18.1
      18,627       18,222       9,551  
Current Income Taxes payable
 
28.2
      1,083       1,298       89,142  
Current accrual expenses related to employee’s benefits
 
16.1
      12,938       16,375       22,112  
Other current non-financial liabilities
 
18.3
      57,224       52,205       115,682  
Total Current Liabilities
          364,087       547,551       507,392  
                               
Non-current Liabilities
                             
Other non-current financial liabilities
 
9.4
      990,560       1,035,221       515,940  
Non-current liabilities
 
9.5
      223       187       398  
Other long-term accrued expenses
 
18.2
      3,500       3,500       3,181  
Deferred tax liabilities
 
28.4
      61,837       53,802       27,188  
Non- current accrued expenses related to employee’s benefits
 
16.1
      47,987       50,473       35,059  
Total non-current liabilities
          1,104,107       1,143,183       581,766  
Total Liabilities
          1,468,194       1,690,734       1,089,158  
                               
Shareholders’ Equity
                             
Issued capital
          477,386       477,386       477,386  
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
          1,027,666       951,173       888,369  
Other reserves
          (1,022 )     (9,806 )     (12,077 )
Net shareholder’s equity attributable to instrument net shareholders of controlling interest
          1,504,030       1,418,753       1,353,678  
Minority interest
          44,919       45,697       46,541  
Total net shareholders’ equity
          1,548,949       1,464,450       1,400,219  
Total Net Shareholders’ Equity and Liabilities
          3,017,143       3,155,184       2,489,377  

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
2

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries

INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME BY FUNCTION
 


   
Note
   
As of
March 31,
2010
   
As of March
31, 2009
 
   
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Total common revenue
          388,523       321,143  
Cost  of sales
          (257,025 )     (179,058 )
Gross profit
          131,498       142,085  
                       
Other income, by function
 
27
      1,625       1,155  
Administrative expenses
          (17,774 )     (15,998 )
Other expenses, by function
 
27
      (5,044 )     (9,175 )
Other gains (losses)
          (7,146 )     51  
Financial operating income
          2,268       3,913  
Financial costs
          (7,786 )     (7,941 )
Equity participation in income (loss) of associated companies and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method
          3,059       (93 )
Exchange differences
          (3,133 )     (5,714 )
Income (loss), before income tax
          97,567       108,283  
Expense due to income taxes
 
28.4
      (20,696 )     (20,828 )
Income (loss) from continuing operations
          76,871       87,455  
                       
Income (loss)
          76,871       87,455  
Income (loss), attributable to
                     
Income (loss) attributable to equity holders of the controlling interest
          76,493       88,389  
Gain (loss) attributable to minority interest
          378       (934 )
Total income (loss) attributable to equity holders of the controlling interest and minority interest
          76,871       87,455  

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
3

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries

INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME BY FUNCTION , continued
 


   
As of
March
31, 2010
   
As of March
31, 2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
             
Earnings per share
           
Common shares
           
Basic earnings per share (US$ per share)
    0.2906       0.3358  
Basic earnings per share (US$ per share) from continuing operations
    0.2906       0.3358  
                 
Common diluted shares
               
Diluted earnings per share (US$ per share)
    0.2906       0.3358  
Diluted earnings per share (US$ per share) from continuing operations
    0.2906       0.3358  

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
4

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME BY FUNCTION , continued

   
As of
March
31, 2010
   
As of
March
31, 2009
 
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
             
Income (loss)
    76,871       87,455  
Other income or expenses with a charge to net shareholders’ equity
               
Effect derived from bond coverage in UF and Ch$
    10,799       10,389  
Restatement of property, plant and equipment
               
Translation adjustment
    (179 )     397  
Actuarial gains (losses) defined as benefits from pension plans
               
Other adjustments to net shareholders’ equity
    (1,836 )     (1,766 )
                 
Other income and expenses with a charge or credit to net shareholders’ equity, total
               
Total income from comprehensive income and expenses
    85,655       96,475  
                 
Income from comprehensive income and expenses attributable to:
               
                 
Income from comprehensive income and expenses attributable to majority shareholders
    85,277       97,409  
Income from comprehensive income and expenses attributable to minority interest
    378       (934 )
                 
Total income from comprehensive income and expenses
    85,655       96,475  

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
5

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Statement of cash flows
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities, indirect method
           
Income (loss)
    76,493       88,389  
Adjustments due to reconciliation of income (loss)
               
                 
Adjustments due to decreases (increases) on inventories
    (2,339 )     (41,600 )
Adjustments due to decreases (increases) in trade accounts receivable
    (9,625 )     (48,825 )
Adjustments due to decreases (increases) in other accounts receivable from operating activities
    33,808       (1,461 )
Adjustments due to decreases (increases) in trade accounts payable
    (48,869 )     5,449  
Adjustments due to decreases (increases)  in other accounts payable from operating activities
    (55,387 )     37,955  
Adjustments due to depreciation expenses and amortization
    32,374       35,063  
Accruals adjustment
    5,572       10,425  
Adjustments for losses (income) in unrealized foreign currency
    3,133       5,714  
Adjustments for losses (income) of reasonable value
            93  
Adjustments for undistributed income of associates
    (3,059 )        
Other adjustments for entries other than cash
    45,050       5,104  
      (1 )        
Total adjustments for income (losses) reconciliation
    657       7,917  
                 
Interest paid
    (1,988 )     (7,175 )
Reimbursed income taxes (paid)
    -       (21,038 )
                 
Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities
    75,162       68,093  
                 
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities
               
                 
Other payments to acquire participations in joint ventures
    (1,000 )     -  
Borrowings to related companies
    -       -  
Purchases of Property, plant and equipment
    (73,126 )     (73,589 )
Cash advances and loans  granted to third parties
    198       (1,253 )
Proceeds derived from futures contracts, on terms, options and swaps.
    (37,743 )     -  
Collections from futures contracts, on terms, options and swaps.
    15,043       20,121  
                 
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities
    (96,628 )     (54,721 )
 
The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
6

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
 
(continued)
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities
           
             
Amounts received from the issuance of other equity instruments
    -       199,065  
Amounts received from long-term loans
    39,500       124,500  
Amounts received from short-term loans
               
Total amounts received from loans
    39,500       124,500  
Payments of loans
    (193,540 )     (65,000 )
Dividends paid
    -       (74 )
Other income (expense) of cash
    -       (3,349 )
                 
Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities
    (154,040 )     255,142  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents before the effect of changes in exchange rates
    (175,506 )     268,514  
                 
Effects of variation in exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents
               
                 
Effects of variation in exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents
    4,368       (3,152 )
Net increase (decrease) of cash and cash equivalents
    (171,138 )     265,362  
                 
Cash equivalents to cash, Statement of cash flows Opening balance
    530,394       303,799  
                 
Cash equivalents to cash, Statement of cash flows Ending balance
    359,256       569,161  
 
The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
7

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
   
Changes in issued
capital
Common shares
   
Changes in other reserves
                         
Prior period
December  2009
 
Share capital
   
Translation
reserves
   
Revaluation
reserves
   
Coverage
reserves
   
Other
miscellaneous
reserves
   
Changes in
retained earnings 
(accumulated
deficit)
   
Total changes in net
shareholders ‘equity
attributable to net
equity holders of the
controlling interest
   
Changes in
minority
interest
   
Total changes in net 
equity
 
                                                                         
Initial balance current period:1/1/2010
    477,386       1,234       -       (7,984 )     (3,056 )     951,173       1,418,753       45,697       1,464,450  
                                                                         
Income from comprehensive income and expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       76,493       76,493       378       76,871  
                                                                         
Other increases (decreases) in net equity
    -       (179 )     -       8,963       -       -       8,784       (1,156 )     7,628  
                                                                         
Changes in  en equity
    -       179       -       8,963       -       76,493       85,277       (778 )     84,499  
                                                                         
Final balance current period 3/31/2010
    477,386       1,055       -       979       (3,056 )     1,027,666       1,504,030       44,919       1,548,949  
 
The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
8

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
   
Changes in
net equity,
total
   
Changes in other reserves
                               
Prior period December  2009
 
Share
capital
   
Translation
reserves
   
Revaluation
reserves
   
Coverage
reserves
   
Other 
miscellaneous
reserves
   
A
Changes
in own
shares in
portfolio
   
Changes in
retained
earnings 
(accumulated
deficit))
   
Total changes in net
shareholders ‘equity
attributable to net
equity holders of the
controlling interest
   
Changes in
minority
interest
   
Total
changes in
net equity
 
                                                                                 
Initial balance current period: January 1, 2009
    477,386       -       -       (7,891 )     (4,185 )     -       888,368       1,353,678       46,541       1,400,219  
                                                                                 
Income from comprehensive income and expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       -       88,389       88,389       (934 )     87,455  
                                                                                 
Other increases (decreases) in net equity
    -       397       -       8,623       -       -       -       9,020       195       9,215  
                                                                                 
Changes in  en equity
    -       397       -       8,623       -       -       88,389       97,409       (739 )     96,670  
                                                                                 
Final balance current period 3/31/2009
    477,386       397       -       732       (4,185 )     -       976,757       1,451,087       45,802       1,496,889  
 
The accompanying notes form an integral part of these interim consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
9

 
 
    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Index of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Note N°
 
Page
       
 
Interim consolidated Classified Statements of Financial Position
1
 
Interim Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income by function
3
 
Interim Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
5
 
Interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
6
 
Interim Statements of Changes in Net Equity
8
     
 
Notes  to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
 
1
Company’s Identification and Activity
16
2
Bases of presentation of the Interim Consolidated  Financial Statements  and accounting criteria applied
 
 
2.1
Accounting period
19
 
2.2
Basis of preparation
20
 
2.3
Transactions in foreign currency
23
 
2.4
Basis of consolidation
24
 
2.5
Basis of conversion
28
 
2.6
Responsibility for the information and estimates made
30
 
2.7
Financial information by operating segment
31
 
2.8
Property, plant and equipment
31
 
2.9
Investment properties
33
 
2.10
Inventories
34
 
2.11
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable
35
 
2.12
Revenue recognition
36
 
2.13
Investments recognized using the equity method
37
 
2.14
Taxes on companies
38
 
2.15
Earnings per share
39
 
2.16
Impairment in the value of non-financial assets
40
 
2.17
Financial assets
41
 
2.18
Financial liabilities
42
 
2.19
The environment
44
 
2.20
Minimum dividend
44
 
2.21
Financial debt obligations
44
 
2.22
Trade accounts payable
45
 
2.23
Statement of cash flows
45
 
2.24
Staff severance indemnity liabilities
46
 
2.25
Financial derivatives and hedging
47
 
2.26
Lease
49
 
2.27
Prospecting expenses
50
 
2.28
Other accruals
50
 
2.29
Compensation plans
51
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
10

 

 
    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Index of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements, continued
Note N°
 
Page
       
 
2.30
Good and service insurance expenses
52
 
2.31
Intangibles assets
52
 
2.32
Research and development expenses
53
 
2.33
Classification of balances in current and non-current
54
       
3
First adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards
 
 
Application of  IFRS
55
 
Reconciliation of net equity from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Chile to International Financial Reporting Standards as of January 1, 2009
57
 
Reconciliation of net equity from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Chile to International Financial Reporting Standards as of December  31, 2009
58
 
Reconciliation of income from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Chile to Information reporting Financial Standards as of  December 31, 2009
59
 
Explanation of the transition to IFRS
60
       
4
Financial risk management
 
 
4.1
Risk management policy
64
 
4.2
Risk factors
65
 
4.3
Risk measurement
68
       
5
Changes in estimates and accounting policies (uniformity)
69
       
6
Cash and cash equivalents
 
 
6.1
Classes of cash and cash equivalent
70
 
6.2
Other cash and cash equivalents
70
 
6.3
Information on cash and cash equivalents by currency
71
 
6.4
Amount of significant cash balances not available
72
 
6.5
Detail of time deposits
73
       
7
Inventories
74
       
8
Information to be disclosed on related parties
 
 
8.1
Information to be disclosed on related parties
75
 
8.2
Relationships between the controlling entity and the entity
75
 
8.3
Intermediate controlling entity and companies controlled by SQM S.A. which publicly issue financial statements
76
 
8.4
Detailed identification of the link between the controlling interest and the subsidiary  subsidiary
76
 
8.5
Detail of related parties and transactions with related parties
77
 
8.6
Current accounts receivable from related parties
79
 
8.7
Non-current accounts receivable from related parties
79
 
8.8
Current accounts payable to related parties
80
 
8.9
Board of Directors and senior management
80

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com


 
11

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Index of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements, continued
Note N°
 
Page
     
9
Financial instruments
 
 
9.1
Classes of other financial assets
84
 
9.2
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable
84
 
9.3
Current hedging assets
86
 
9.4
Financial liabilities
87
 
9.5
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable
95
 
9.6
Financial liabilities at fair value with changes on income
96
 
9.7
Financial asset and liability categories
97
 
9.8
Financial assets collateralized as guarantee
98
       
10
Investments and information to be disclosed on investments in subsidiaries
 
 
10.1
Information to be disclosed on investments in subsidiaries
99
       
11
Investments in associated companies
 
 
11.1
Common assets, liabilities, income and expenses of associated companies
106
 
11.2
Detail of investments in associated companies
108
 
11.3
Movements in investments in associated companies
109
 
11.4
Reconciliation of income from associated entities
110
       
12
Policy and information to be disclosed on participation in joint ventures
 
 
12.1
Policy for accounting recognition of joint ventures in financial statements disaggregated from a controlling entity
110
 
12.2
Information to be disclosed on participation in joint ventures
110
 
12.3
Detail of assets, liabilities and income (loss) in investments in significant joint ventures by company
112
 
12.4
Detail of amount of net gain (loss) from investments in significant joint ventures by company
113
       
13
Intangible Assets and goodwill
 
 
13.1
Balances
114
 
13.2
Information to be disclosed on intangible assets and goodwill
114
       
14
Property, Plant and Equipment
 
 
14.1
Classes of property, plant and equipment
118
 
14.2
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by class
119
 
14.3
Detailed of property, plant and equipment collateralized as guarantee
121
 
14.4
Additional information
121
       
15
Leases
 
 
15.1
Information to be disclosed on financial leases, lessee
123
 
15.2
Investment properties in financial leases
123
 
15.3
Reconciliation of financial lease minimum payments, lessee
123
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
12

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Index of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements, continued
Note N°
   
Page
       
16
Accumulated liabilities and benefits for employees
 
 
16.1
Accrued expenses due to benefits for employees
124
 
16.2
Policies on classes of benefits defined
125
 
16.3
Other long-term benefits
126
 
16.4
Employee post-retirement obligations
128
       
17
Information to be disclosed on net equity
 
 
17.1
Information to be disclosed on issued share capital.
130
 
17.2
Information to be disclosed on capital in preferred shares
130
 
17.3
Dividend policy
132
 
17.4
Provisional dividends
133
       
18
Accrued expenses and other non-financial expenses
 
 
18.1
Classes of accrued expenses
133
 
18.2
Description of other accrued expenses
134
 
18.3
Other liabilities
134
 
18.4
Movements in accrued expenses
135
 
18.5
Detail of the main classes of accrued expenses
136
       
19
Contingencies and restrictions
 
 
19.1
Lawsuits and other relevant events
138
 
19.2
Restrictions
141
 
19.3
Commitments
141
 
19.4
Restricted or collateralized cash
142
 
19.5
Sureties obtained from third parties
143
 
19.6
Indirect guarantees
143
 
 
   
20
Ordinary income
144
       
21
Earnings per share
144
       
22
Loan costs
145
       
23
Effect of variations in foreign currency exchange rates
146
       
24
The Environment
 
 
24.1
Information to be disclosed on disbursements related to the environment
147
 
24.2
Detail of information on disbursements related to the environment
148
 
24.3
Description of each project with an indication of whether this is in process or has finished
158
       
25
Other current and non-current financial assets
163
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
13

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Index of Interim Consolidated Financial Statements, continued
Note N°
Page
     
26
Operating segments
 
 
26.1
Operating segments
165
 
26.2
Statements of comprehensive income classified by operating segment based on product groups
166
 
26.3
Assets and liabilities by operating segment based on product groups
168
 
26.4
Segment non-monetary asset disbursements
170
 
26.5
Information on external customer products and services
171
 
26.6
Information on geographic areas
173
 
26.7
Income from ordinary activities from external customers, classified by geographic areas
173
 
26.8
Non-current assets classified by geographic area
174
 
26.9
Information on the main customers
175
 
26.10
Property, plant and equipment, classified by geographic area
176
       
27
Other operating income and expenses by function
178
     
28
Current and deferred income taxes
 
 
28.1
Income taxes recoverable
179
 
28.2
Income taxes payable
179
 
28.3
Retained earnings
179
 
28.4
Current and deferred income taxes
180
       
29
Events occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date
191
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
14

 

    Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
 
 as of  March 31, 2010
 
Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A.
 
and Subsidiaries
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
15

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 1.
Identification and business of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries

Historic Background
 Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (the “Company”) is an open stock corporation organized under the laws in the Republic of Chile. The Company was constituted by public deed issued on June 17, 1968 by the Notary Public 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 Business Registry of Santiago, on page 4.537 Nº 1.992. The Parent Company is located at El Trovador 4285, Floor 6, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile. Its phone No. is (56-2) 425-2000.
The Company is registered with the Securities Registry of the Chilean Superintendence of Securities and Insurance (SVS) under No. 0184 dated March 18, 1983 and is subject to the inspection of the SVS.
 
Our products are divided into five main categories, as follows:
 
Specialty Plant Nutrition: Products in this business line are niche fertilizers, used in specialty crops. This business is characterized by being closely related to its customers to which it has specialized staff who provide expert advice in best practices for fertilization according to each type of crop, soil and climate. Potassium derived fertilizers, and in particular  potassium nitrate, play an important role in crop development, and they also improve post-harvest shelf life, quality, flavor and fruit color. Products in this business line include potassium nitrate, which is sold in multiple grades and as a part of other specialty mixtures, sodium nitrate and potassium sodium nitrate, and more than 200 specialty blends.
 
Iodine: SQM is the largest global producer of iodine, a product widely used in a variety of industries such as pharmaceutical, technological and health/nutrition. During the 8 years prior to the economic crisis,  demand for iodine grew between 6% and 7% per year mainly due to its use in x ray contrast media and polarizing film for LCD displays. This growth trend should return to the industry in the short-term.
 
Lithium: Lithium is widely used in rechargeable batteries for cell phones, cameras and laptops. The sale of lithium grew at an average annual rate of 7% to 8% in the 10 years leading up to the financial crisis. During the financial crisis, overall consumption fell significantly. SQM is the worldwide leader in the production and sale of lithium. Demand growth should return to pre-crisis rates in the short term. Through the development of lithium-based products, SQM provides important resources to face modern challenges, such as the efficient use of energy and raw material.  Lithium is not only used in rechargeable batteries and in technologies for electric cars, but also used in industrial applications to lower melting temperature, helping to save energy and reduce costs.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
16

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 1.
Identification and business of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries, continued

Industrial Chemicals: Industrial chemicals include various products that are used inputs in a number of production processes. SQM has participated in this business line for more than 30 years producing sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, boric acid and potassium chloride. In recent years a new, important application has developed in the field of renewable energy; sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate are being used in new solar energy plants to store thermal energy. There are currently projects being developed in countries such as Spain and the United States, as these countries aim to reduce their CO2 emissions

Potassium: Potassium is a essential primary macro-nutrient that, although not part of a plant’s structure, has a significant role in the development of its basic functions. Potassium increases post-harvest shelf life, improves flavor, vitamin content and physical appearance. In this business line, SQM produces and sells potassium chloride and potassium sulfate, both produced from brines extracted from the Salar de Atacama salt flat in the north of Chile. In this business line SQM has focused a significant part of it investments plan, allowing a significantly increase in the Company’s production levels in the last2 years.

Employees

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 we had employees as detailed below:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
 
             
Employees in Chile
    3,789       4,161  
Employees elsewhere
    266       226  
Permanent employees
    4,055       4,387  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
17

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 1.
Identification and business of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries, continued
Majority shareholders

The table below establishes certain information about the beneficial property of Series A and Series B shares of SQM as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009.  In respect to each shareholder which has interest of more than 5% of outstanding Series A or B shares.  The information below is taken from our records and reports registered by the individuals indicated below with the Superintendence of Securities and Insurance (SVS) and the Chilean Stock Exchange.

Shareholder  3/31/2010
 
Number of Series
A shares with
ownership
   
% of Series A
shares
   
Number of Series
B shares with
ownership
   
% of Series B
shares
   
Total % of shares
 
                                         
Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A (*).
    57,934,256       40.56 %     6,427,129       5.34 %     24.45 %
                                         
Inversiones El Boldo Limitada
    44,679,453       31.28 %     17,643,419       14.66 %     23.68 %
                                         
The Bank of New York
    -       -       55,491,793       46.10 %     21.08 %
                                         
Inversiones RAC Chile Limitada
    19,200,242       13.44 %     2,699,773       2.24 %     8.32 %
                                         
Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada (*).
    9,993,168       7.00 %     -       -       3.80 %
                                         
Banchile Corredores de Bolsa S.A.
    121,838       0.09 %     4,689,692       3.90 %     1.83 %
                                         
Santiago Stock Exchange
    3,805,371       2.66 %     701,599       0.58 %     1.71 %
                                         
Inversiones La Esperanza Limitada
    3,693,977       2.59 %     -       -       1.40 %
                                         
AFP Provida S.A.
    -       -       2,705,016       2.25 %     1.03 %
                                         
Banco Itau on behalf of investors
    -       -       2,200,501       1.83 %     0.84 %
 
(*) Total Pampa Group  28.25%
 
Shareholder as of 12/31/2009
 
Number of Series
A shares with
ownership
   
% of Series A
shares
   
Number of Series
B shares with
ownership
   
% of Series B
shares
   
Total % of shares
 
                                         
Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. (*)
    57,934,256       40.56 %     7,544,215       6.27 %     24.88 %
                                         
Inversiones El Boldo Limitada
    44,679,453       31.28 %     17,643,419       14.66 %     23.68 %
                                         
The Bank of New York
    -       -       55,734,253       46.30 %     21.18 %
                                         
Inversiones RAC Chile Limitada
    19,200,242       13.44 %     2,699,773       2.24 %     8.32 %
                                         
Inversiones Global Mining (Chile) Limitada (*)
    9,993,168       7.00 %     -       -       3.80 %
                                         
Banchile Corredores de Bolsa S.A.
    123,318       0.09 %     5,326,662       4.42 %     2.07 %
                                         
Santiago Stock Exchange
    3,805,371       2.66 %     729,421       0.61 %     1.72 %
                                         
Inversiones La Esperanza Limitada
    3,693,977       2.59 %     -       -       1.40 %
                                         
AFP Provida S.A.
    -       -       2,900,035       2.41 %     1.10 %
                                         
Banco Itau on behalf of investors
    -       -       2,242,292       1.86 %     0.85 %
 
(*)Total Pampa Group  28.68%
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
18

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied

2.1 
Accounting period

These interim consolidated financial statements cover the following period:
 
-
Interim consolidated statements of financial position for the period ended as of March 31, 2010 and the year ended as of December 31,2009.

 
-
Interim consolidated statements of changes in net equity for the period ended as of March 31, 2010 and 2009.

 
-
Interim consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the period between January 1 and March 31, 2010 y 2009, respectively

 
Interim consolidated statements of cash flows, indirect method for the period ended as of March 31, 2010 and 2009.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
19

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.2          Basis of preparation of interim consolidated financial statements

Interim and annual consolidated financial statements of Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. and Subsidiaries, have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (hereinafter “IFRS”) and requirements of the Superintendence of Securities and Insurance.

These interim and annual consolidated financial statements reflect fairly the Company’s equity and financial position and the results of its operations, changes in the statement of recognized income and expenses and cash flows, which have occurred during the periods then ended.

IFRS establish certain alternatives for their application. Those applied by the Company and its subsidiaries are included in detail in this Note.

The accounting policies used in the preparation of these consolidated interim and annual accounts comply with each IFRS in force at their date of presentation.

For comparative purposes, the Company’s statement of financial position as of 12/31/2009 and the Company’s Income statement as of 3/31/2009 haven been translated from Chilean GAAP to IFRS.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
20

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

At the date of these interim consolidated financial statements, the following accounting pronouncements had been issued by the IASB but their application was not compulsory:

 
a)
Accounting standards.
 
Standards and Interpretations
 
Compulsory application, years
beginning on
     
Revised IFRS 3:
Business Combinations
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
July 1, 2009
     
Amendment to IAS 39:
Financial instruments:
Recognition and measurement.
Eligible covered items
 
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
July 1, 2009
 
     
Amendment to International Accounting
Standard 27(IAS 27):
Consolidated and separate financial statements
 
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
July 1, 2009
     
   
Mostly to annual periods beginning on
Improvement of IFRS
  or after July 1, 2009
     
Amendment to IFRS 2:
Share-based payment
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
International Financial Reporting Interpretations
  January 1, 2010
     
Committee 17 (IFRIC 17):
  Annual periods beginning on or after
Distributions of non-cash
 
July 1, 2009
assets to owners
   
     
IFRIC 17:
   
Distributions of non-cash
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
assets to owners
 
July 1, 2010
     
IFRIC 19:
   
Extinguishing financial liabilities with
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
Equity instruments
 
July 1, 2010

The Company’s management believes the adoption of these standards, amendments and interpretations described above had no significant impact for the Group. The remaining accounting principles applied in 2010 had no variation compared to those used in 2009

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
21

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

 
a)
Accounting standards.
 
Interpretation and amendments
 
Compulsory application, years
beginning on:
     
Amendment to IAS 32:
Classification  of right issues
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
February 1, 2010
     
IFRS 9:
   
Financial Instruments:
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
Classification and measurement
 
January 1, 2013
     
IAS 24 Revised:
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
Disclosures of related companies
 
January 1, 2011
     
IFRIC 19:
   
Extinguishing financial liabilities with
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
Equity instruments
 
July 1 , 2010
     
Amendment to IFRIC 14:
Prepayments of a minimum
funding requirement.
 
Annual periods beginning on or after
January 1, 2011
 

The Company’s management believes the adoption of standards, amendments and interpretations described above will have no significant impact on the Company’s interim consolidated financial statements in the first-time application period.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
22

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.3
Transactions in foreign currency

(a)
Functional currency and presentation

The Company’s interim consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars, which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency and is the currency of the primary economic environment in which it operates.
Consequently, the term foreign currency is defined as any currency other than U.S. dollar.
The interim consolidated financial statements are presented in thousands of U.S. dollars with no decimals.

(b)
Transactions and balances

Transaction balances denominated in a currency other than the functional currency (U.S. dollar) are converted using the exchange rate in force of the functional currency at the transaction date. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are converted at the exchange rate of the functional currency prevailing at the closing date of the consolidated statement of financial position. All differences are recorded with a charge or credit to income for the period, except if they are deferred in net equity.

Changes in the fair value of monetary titles denominated in foreign currency classified as available-for-sale are analyzed between translation differences resulting from changes in the amortized cost of the title and other changes in the amount of the title in the accounting records. Translation differences are recognized in net income for the year or period, as applicable and other changes in the amount in the accounting records are recognized in net equity.

Translation differences on non-monetary entries such as equity instruments held at fair value with changes in income are presented as part of the gain or loss in fair value. Translation differences on non-monetary entries are included in net equity in the restatement reserve.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
23

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

(c)
Group entities

The results, assets and liabilities of all those entities with a currency other than the presentation currency are converted to the presentation currency as follows:

 
-
Assets and liabilities are converted at the closing date exchange rate on the balance date.
 
-
Income and expenses in each income statement account are converted at average exchange rates.
 
-
All resulting exchange differences are recognized as a component separate from net equity.

In consolidation, exchange differences which arise from the conversion of a net investment in foreign entities and of loans and other instruments denominated in foreign currency designated as hedging for those investments are taken to net shareholders’ equity.  At the disposal date, these exchange differences are recognized in the statement of income as part of the loss or gain from the sale.

2.4
Basis of Consolidation

(a)
Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are all those entities on which Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. has the control to lead the financial and operating policies, which, in general, is accompanied by participation greater than half the voting rights. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date in which control is transferred to the Company and are excluded from consolidation on the date in which this control ceases to exist.

In order to account for the acquisition of an investment, the Company uses the acquisition method. Under this method, the acquisition cost is the fair value of assets delivered, of equity instruments issued and of liabilities incurred or assumed at the exchange date plus costs directly attributable to acquisition. Identifiable assets acquired and identifiable liabilities and contingencies assumed in a business combination are initially stated at their fair value at the acquisition date regardless of the scope of minority interest. The excess in acquisition cost over the fair value of the participation in identifiable net assets acquired is recognized as goodwill.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
24

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The subsidiaries included in consolidation are detailed as follows:
 
               
Ownership percentage
 
       
Country of
 
Functional
 
2010
 
2009
 
TAX ID No.
 
Foreign subsidiaries
 
origin
 
currency
 
Direct
   
Indirect
   
Total
   
Total
 
Foreign
 
Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda.
 
Brazil
 
Brazilian Real
    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$
    0.8600       99.1400       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.
 
The Netherlands
 
Euro
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Corporation N.V.
 
Dutch Antilles
 
US$
    0.0001       99.9999       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQI Corporation N.V.
 
Dutch Antilles
 
US$
    0.0159       99.9841       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Comercial De México S.A. De C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    1.0000       99.0000       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
 
Mexican Peso
    0.0200       99.9800       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Peru S.A.
 
Peru
 
US$
    0.9800       99.0200       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Ecuador S.A.
 
Ecuador
 
US$
    0.0040       99.9960       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Nitratos Mexico S.A. De C.V.
 
Mexico
 
Mexican Peso
    0.0000       51.0000       51.0000       51.0000  
Foreign
 
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P.
 
USA.
 
US$
    0.1000       99.9000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Investment Corporation N.V.
 
Dutch Antilles
 
US$
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Brasil Limitada
 
Brazil
 
Brazilian Real
    3.0100       96.9900       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$
    1.0000       99.0000       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
 
Australian dollar
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
Rs Agro-Chemical Trading A.V.V.
 
Aruba
 
US$
    98.3300       1.6700       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Indonesia
 
Indonesia
 
Indonesian rupee
    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 Venezuela S.A.
 
Venezuela
 
Venezuelan Bolivar
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Italia SRL
 
Italy
 
Euro
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A.
 
Cayman Islands
 
US$
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Africa Pty.
 
South Africa
 
South African Rand
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Lithium Specialties LLC
 
USA.
 
US$
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
Fertilizantes Naturales S.A.
 
Spain
 
Euro
    0.0000       66.6700       66.6700       66.6700  
Foreign
 
Iodine Minera B.V.
 
The Netherlands
 
Euro
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Foreign
 
SQM Agro India Pvt.Ltd.
 
India
 
US$
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       0.00000  
Foreign
 
SQM Beijing Comercial Ltd.
 
China
 
US$
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       0.00000  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
25

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The Subsidiaries included in consolidation are detailed as follows:
 
               
Ownership percentage
 
   
 
 
Country of
 
Functional 
 
 
   
2010
         
2009
 
Tax ID No
 
Domestic subsidiaries
 
de Origin
 
currency
 
Direct
   
Indirect
   
Total
   
Total
 
96801610-5
 
Comercial Hydro  S.A.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    0.0000       60.6382       60.6382       60.6382  
96651060-9
 
SQM Potasio S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    99.9974       0.0000       99.9974       99.9974  
96592190-7
 
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    99.9999       0.0001       100.0000       100.0000  
96592180-K
 
Ajay SQM Chile S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    51.0000       0.0000       51.0000       51.0000  
86630200-6
 
SQMC Internacional  Ltda.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    0.0000       60.6382       60.6382       60.6382  
79947100-0
 
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    99.9954       0.0046       100.0000       100.0000  
79906120-1
 
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
79876080-7
 
Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
79770780-5
 
Servicios Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    0.0003       99.9997       100.0000       100.0000  
79768170-9
 
Soquimich Comercial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    0.0000       60.6383       60.6383       60.6383  
79626800-K
 
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    18.1800       81.8200       100.0000       100.0000  
78602530-3
 
Minera Nueva Victoria S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    99.0000       1.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
78053910-0
 
Proinsa Ltda.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    0.0000       60.5800       60.5800       60.5800  
76534490-5
 
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A.
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
76425380-9
 
Exploraciones Mineras S.A.
 
Chile
 
US Dollar
    0.0100       99.9900       100.0000       100.0000  
76064419-6
 
Agrorama Callegari Ltda. (*)
 
Chile
 
Chilean peso
    0.0000       42.4468       42.4468       0.0000  
 
(*) Agrorama Callegari Ltda. was consolidated given that the Company has the control through the subsidiary Soquimich Comercial S.A

Subsidiaries are consolidated using the global integration method, including in the interim financial statements all their assets, liabilities, income, expenses and cash flows upon making the respective adjustments and eliminations of intragroup operations.

The results from dependant companies acquired or disposed of during the year are included in consolidated income statement accounts from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as applicable.

Interest of minority partners or shareholders represents the part which can be assigned to them of own funds and of results as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009 of those companies which are consolidated using the global integration method and are presented as “Net equity from minority shareholders” in total net shareholders’ equity of the attached interim consolidated statement of financial position and in line “Net income from minority shareholders” in the attached consolidated statement of income and losses.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
26

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The conversion of the financial statements of foreign companies with functional currency other than U.S. dollars is performed as follows:
 
-
Assets and liabilities using the exchange rate prevailing on the closing date of the interim consolidated financial statements.
 
-
Income statement account entries using the average exchange rate for the year.
 
-
Net shareholders’ equity is stated at the historic exchange rate prevailing at the date of acquisition (or at the average exchange rate for the year in which it was generated both for the case of retained earnings and for contributions made), as applicable.

Foreign currency translation differences which arise from the conversion of financial statements are recorded in the account “Foreign currency translation differences" within net shareholders' equity.

Foreign currency translation differences generated prior to January 1, 2009 have been transferred to the account “Reserves” in shareholders’ equity when the Company at the date of the first application of IFRS has invoked the exception included in IFRS 1 for the conversion of the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Chile to IFRS.

All balances and transactions between companies consolidated through global integration have been eliminated in consolidation.

(b)
Affiliated or associated companies

The affiliated or associated companies are all those entities on which significant influence is exercised but which are not controlled by the Company, which is, in general, accompanied by participation between 20% and 50% of voting rights. Investments in affiliated or associated companies are recognized in accounting using the equity method and are initially recognized at cost. The Group’s investment in affiliated or associated companies includes goodwill (net of any loss from accumulated impairment) identified in acquisition.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
27

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The participation in losses or gains subsequent to the acquisition of its affiliated or associated companies is recognized in income on an accrual basis and its participation in movements subsequent to the acquisition in reserves is recognized under Other reserves within Shareholders’ equity. When the participation in losses of an affiliated or associated company is equal to or greater than its participation in this affiliated or associated company no additional losses are recognized unless the company has incurred obligations or made payments in the name of the affiliated or associated company.

Unrealized gains from transactions with affiliated or associated companies are eliminated in consideration of the ownership percentage which the Company has on these. Unrealized losses are also eliminated except if the transaction provides evidence of loss from the impairment of the asset which is transferred.

(c)
Joint ventures

Joint ventures are contractual agreements by virtue of which the Company has agreed with other companies, outside the SQM Group, the performance of economic activities which are subject to joint control. As established in IAS 31 paragraph 38 the Company has adopted the equity method to recognize the participation in those entities jointly controlled.

2.5
Basis of conversion

Domestic dependents:

Assets and liabilities denominated in Chilean pesos and other currencies other than the functional currency (U.S. dollar) as of March 31, 2010, January 1 and as of December 31, 2009, have been converted to U.S. dollars at the exchange rates prevailing at those dates (the corresponding Chilean pesos were converted to $524.46 per US$1.00 as of March 31, 2010, $507.10 per US$1.00 as of December 31, 2009 and $636.45 per US$1.00 as of January 1, 2009.)

The values of UF (a Chilean peso-denominated, inflation-indexed monetary unit) used to convert to Chilean pesos (United States dollars) the assets and liabilities expressed in this adjustable unit as of March 31, 2010 amounted to Ch$20,998.52 (US$40.03) as of December 31, 2009  amounted to $20,942.88 (US$41.30)  and as of January 1, 2009 amounted to $21.452,57 (US$33,71).

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
28

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

Foreign subsidiaries:

The exchange rates used to convert the monetary assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currency at the closing date of each period in respect to U.S. dollar are detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
US$
   
US$
   
US$
 
                   
Brazilian Real
    1.78       1.74       2.34  
New Peruvian Sol
    3.16       2.88       3.14  
Argentinean Peso
    3.88       3.83       3.47  
Japanese Yen
    93.04       92.10       91.03  
Euro
    0.74       0.69       0.72  
Mexican Peso
    12.41       13.04       13.77  
Australian Dollar
    1.09       1.12       1.45  
Pound Sterling
    0.66       0.62       0.67  
South African Rand
    7.34       7.40       9.28  
Ecuadorian Dollar
    1.00       1.00       1.00  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
29

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                    
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.6
Responsibility for the information and estimates made

The information contained in these interim consolidated financial statements is the responsibility of the Company’s management who expressly indicate that it has applied all the principles and criteria included in IFRS issued by the International Accounting Standard Board (IASB.)

In the Company’s interim consolidated financial statements judgments and estimates have been made by management to quantify certain of the assets, liabilities, income, expenses and commitments recorded therein. Basically these estimates refer to the following:

 
-
The useful lives of material and intangible assets and their residual values.
 
-
Impairment losses of certain assets, including trade accounts receivable.
 
-
Hypotheses used for the actuarial calculation of commitments related to pensions and staff severance indemnities.
 
-
Provisions for commitments acquired with third parties and contingent liabilities.
 
-
Accrued expenses based on technical studies which cover the different variables which affect products in stock (density, humidity, among others) and allowances on slow-moving spare parts in inventories.
 
-
Future costs for the closure of mining facilities.
 
-
The determination of fair value of certain financial and non-financial assets and derivative instruments.
 
- 
The determination and assignation of fair values in business combinations.

Although these estimates have been made in consideration of the best possible information available on the date of preparation of these interim financial statements it is possible that events which may occur in the future obligate their modification (upwards or downwards) in the next few years, which would be prospective, recognizing the effects of change in estimates on the respective future consolidated financial statements.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
 
30

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                          
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.7
Financial information by operating segment

IFRS 8 requires that companies adopt “the management approach” to disclose information on the result of 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 assign resources for this purpose.
A business segment is a group of assets and operations responsible for providing products or services subject to risks and performance different that those of other business segments. A geographic segment is responsible for providing products or services in a given economic environment subject to risks and performance different that those of other segments which operate in other economic environments.

Accordingly, the following business segments have been identified for the Company:

 
-
Specialty plant nutrients
 
-
Industrial chemicals
 
-
Iodine and derivatives
 
-
Lithium and derivatives
 
-
Potassium
 
-
Other products and services

2.8
Property, plant and equipment

Tangible fixed assets are stated at acquisition cost, net of the related accumulated amortization and impairment losses which they have experienced.

In addition to the price paid for the acquisition of tangible fixed assets, the Company has considered the following concepts as part of the acquisition cost, as applicable:

 
1.
Accrued financial expenses during the construction period which are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of assets which qualify for these purposes, which are those which 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. The amount capitalized for this concept was ThUS$5.756 as of March 31, 2010 and ThUS$3.132 as of  March 31, 2009
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
31

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.
The present value of future costs, which the Company would have to be confronted with respect to the close of its facilities, are included in the asset's value at present value.

Work-in-progress is transferred to property, plant and equipment in operation once they are available for use beginning the related amortization on that date.

Extension, modernization or improvement costs which 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 income as cost of the year in which they are incurred.

The replacement of full 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 accounting withdrawal of substituted or renewed elements.

Based on the impairment analysis conducted by the Company’s management has been considered that the carrying value of assets do not exceed the net recoverable value of these assets.

Property, plant and equipment, net in the case of their residual value, are amortized through the straight-line distribution of cost among the estimated technical useful lives which constitute the period in which the Company expects to use them. When portions of a property, plant and equipment item have different useful lives, these are recorded as separate items. The useful life is reviewed on a regular basis.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
32

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                            
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The useful lives used for the depreciation of assets included in property, plant and equipment are presented below.
 
Classes of property, plant and
equipment
 
Life or
minimum
rate
   
Life or
maximum
rate
 
             
Life or rate for buildings
    3       80  
Life or rate for plant and equipment
    3       35  
Life or rate for information technology equipment
    3       10  
Life or rate for fixed facilities and accessories
    3       35  
Life or rate for motor vehicles
    5       10  
Life or rate for other property, plant and equipment
    2       30  
 
The gains or losses which are generated in the sale or withdrawal of property, plant and equipment are recognized as income for the period and calculated as the difference between the asset’s sales value and its net carrying value.

The Company obtains property rights and mining concessions from the Chilean State. Property rights are obtained usually without any initial cost (other than the payment of mining licenses and minor registration expenses) and when rights are obtained on these concessions, the Company retains them while it pays the related annual licenses. Such license fees, 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 which are not from the Chilean State are recorded at their acquisition cost in property, plant and equipment.

 
2.9
Investment properties

The Company recognizes as investment properties the net values of land, buildings and other constructions which are held to exploit them under lease agreements or to obtain proceeds from their sale as a result of those increases which are generated in the future in the respective market prices. These assets are not used in the activities and are not destined for own use.

They are initially stated at their acquisition cost, which includes the acquisition price or production cost plus directly assigned expenses. Subsequently, investment properties are stated at their acquisition cost less accumulated depreciation and the possible accumulated provisions for value impairment.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
33

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.10
Inventories

The Company states inventories for the lower of cost and net realizable value. The cost price of finished products and products in progress includes direct costs of materials and; as applicable, labor costs, indirect costs incurred to transform raw materials into finished products and general expenses incurred in carrying inventories to their current location and conditions. The method used to determine the cost of inventories is weighted average cost.
 
The net realizable value represents the estimate of the sales price less all finishing estimated costs and costs which will be incurred in commercialization, sales and distribution processes.

Commercial discounts, rebates obtained and other similar entries are deducted in the determination of the acquisition price.

The Company conducts an evaluation of the net realizable value of inventories at the end of each year recording an estimate with a charge to income when these are overstated. When the circumstances, which previously caused the rebate have ceased to exist, or when there is clear evidence of an increase in the net realizable value due to a change in the economic circumstances or prices of main raw materials, the estimate made previously is modified.

The valuation of obsolete, impaired or slow-moving products relates to their net estimated realizable value.

Accruals on the Company's inventories have been made based on a technical study which covers the different variables which affect products in stock (density, humidity, among others.)

Raw materials, supplies and materials are recorded at the lower of acquisition cost or market value. Acquisition cost is calculated according to the annual average price method.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
34

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                       
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.11
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable

Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable relate to non-derivative financial assets with fixed payments which can be determined and are not quoted in any active market.  These arise from sales operations involving the products and/or services which the Company commercializes directly to its customers with no intention of negotiating the account receivable and are not within the following categories:

•      Those which the Company has the intention of selling immediately in the near future and which are held-for-sale.

•      Those designated in their initial recognition as available-for-sale.

•      Those through which the holder does not intend to partially recover substantially its entire investment for reasons other than credit impairment and, therefore, must be classified as available-for-sale.

These assets are initially recognized at their fair value (which is equivalent to their par value, discounting implicit interest for installment sales) and subsequently at amortized cost according to the effective interest rate method less a provision for impairment loss.   When the par value of the account receivable does not significantly differ from its fair value, it is recognized at par value. A provision for impairment loss is established for trade accounts receivable when there is objective evidence that the Company will not be able to collect all the amounts which are owed to it according to the original terms of accounts receivable.

Implicit interest in installment sales is recognized as financial income when interest is accrued over the term of the operation.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
35

 
 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                      
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.12
Revenue recognition

Ordinary income includes the fair value of considerations received or considerations which will be received for the sale of goods and services during the course of the Company's activities. Ordinary income is presented netted against value added tax, returns, rebates and discounts and after the elimination of sales among subsidiaries.

Revenue is recognized when its amount can be stated in a reliable manner, it is possible that the future economic benefits flow to the entity and the specific conditions for each type of activity -related revenue are complied with, as, follows:

(a)
Sale of goods

Sales of goods are recognized when the Company has delivered products to the customer, the customer has total discretion on the distribution channel and the price at which products are sold and there is no obligation pending compliance which may 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 customers when the related risks of obsolescence and loss have been transferred to the customer and the customer has accepted products in accordance with the conditions established in the sale, the acceptance period has ended or 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)
Sales of services

Ordinary income associated with the provision of services is recognized considering the degree of completion of the service at the balance date provided that the result from the transaction can be estimated in a reliable manner.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
36

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                           
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

(c)
Interest income

Income is recognized as and when interest is accrued in consideration of the principal which is pending payment using the effective interest rate method.

(d)
Income from royalties

Income from royalties is recognized based on the accrual in accordance with the economic substance of the related agreements.

(e)
Income from dividends

Income from dividends is recognized when the right to receive the payment is established.

2.13
Investments registered using the equity method

Participations in companies on which control is exercised together with another company (joint venture) or in which the Company has significant influence (associated companies) are recorded using the equity method. It is presumed that there is significant influence when the Company has participation which exceeds 20% of the investee's capital.

Under this method, the investment is recorded in the statement of financial position at cost plus changes subsequent to the acquisition in an amount proportional to the net associated company’s equity using the ownership percentage in the associated company.  The associated goodwill acquired is included at the carrying value of the investment and it is not subject to amortization. The charge or credit to income reflects the proportional amount in the associated company's results.

Changes in shareholders’ equity of the associated companies are recognized proportionally with a charge or credit to “Other reserves” and classified according to their origin and, if applicable, these are disclosed in the Statement of changes in shareholders' equity.

The associated company’s and the Company’s reporting dates and policies are similar for equivalent transactions and events under similar circumstances.

In the event that significant influence is lost or the investment is sold or is available-for-sale, the equity value method is discontinued suspending the recognition of proportional results.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
37

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                         
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

If the resulting amount in accordance with the equity method was negative, participation is reflected as zero in the Consolidated Financial Statements unless the Company commits to resolve its equity position.  In this case, the respective provision for risks and expenses is recorded.

Dividends received in these companies are recorded reducing the participation value and proportional results recognized in conformity with their participation are included in the consolidated income statement accounts under “Participation income (loss) in companies using the equity method.”

2.14
Corporate tax

Corporate income tax for the year is determined as the addition of current tax from the different companies which is the result of the application of the type of tax on the taxable income for the year upon application of deductions which can be admitted for tax purposes plus the variation in deferred tax assets and liabilities and fiscal credits both for negative tax bases and deductions. 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 which are expected to be applicable when assets and liabilities are realized.

In conformity with current Chilean tax regulations, the provision for corporate income tax and taxes for the mining activity is recognized on an accrual basis presenting the net balances of accumulated monthly tax provisional payments for the fiscal period and credits associated with it. The balances of these accounts are presented in Current income taxes recoverable or Current income taxes payable, as applicable.

Tax on companies and variations on deferred tax assets or liabilities which are not the result of business combinations are recorded in income statement accounts or net equity accounts in the Consolidated Statement of Position considering the origin of the gains or losses which have generated them.

At the date of these statements of financial position, the carrying value of deferred tax assets is reviewed and reduced as long as it is possible that there is no sufficient taxable income to allow the recovery of all or a portion of the deferred tax asset.  Likewise, at the date of the statement of financial position deferred tax assets not recognized are revalued and recognized as long as it has become possible that future taxable income will allow the recovery of the deferred tax asset.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
38

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

With respect to temporary differences deductible associated with investments in subsidiaries, associated companies and participations in joint ventures, deferred tax assets are recognized solely provided that there is a possibility that temporary differences are 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 income.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a right legally receivable of offsetting tax assets against tax liabilities and the deferred tax is related to the same tax entity and authority.

2.15
Earnings per share

The net benefit per share is calculated as the ratio between the net benefit for the period attributable to the Parent Company and the weighted average number of common shares of the Parent Company in circulation during this period.

The Company has not conducted any type of operation of potential diluted effect which assumes a diluted benefit per share other than the basic benefit per share.
    
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
39

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                           
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.16
Non-financial asset value impairment

Assets subject to amortization are subject to test for impairment 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 amount in books of the asset over its recoverable amount.

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 which are clearly independent from other assets or groups of assets.

When the carrying value of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount the asset is considered an impaired asset and is decreased to its net recoverable amount.

In evaluating value in use, estimated future cash flows are discounted using a discount rate before taxes which reflects current market evaluation on the time value of money and specific asset risks.

An appropriate valuation model is used to determine the fair value less costs of sales.  These calculations are confirmed by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for subsidiaries quoted publicly or other available fair value indicators.

Impairment losses from continuing operations are recognized with a charge to income in the categories of expenses associated with the impaired asset function, except for properties reevaluated previously where the reevaluation was taken to equity. In this case impairment is also recognized with a charge to equity up to the amount of any previous reevaluation.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
40

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                               
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

For assets other than the goodwill acquired, an annual evaluation is conducted of whether there are impairment loss indicators recognized previously which might have already ceased to exist or decreased. The recoverable amount is estimated if such indicators exist.  An impairment loss previously recognized is reversed only if there have been changes in estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount from the last time in which an impairment loss was recognized. If that is the case, the carrying value of the asset is increased at its recoverable amount. This increased amount cannot exceed the carrying value which would have been determined net of depreciation if an asset impairment loss would have not been recognized in prior years. This reversal is recognized with a credit to income unless an asset is recorded at the reevaluated amount.  Should this be the case, the reversal is treated as an increase in reevaluation.
The following criterion is also applied for an impairment assessment on specific assets:

2.17
Financial assets

SQM S.A. and subsidiaries classify their financial statements in the following categories: at fair value with changes in income, loans and accounts receivable, financial assets held-to-maturity and financial assets available-for-sale. The classification depends on the purpose with which financial assets were acquired. Management determines the classification of its financial assets at the time of initial recognition.

(a)
Financial assets at fair value with changes in income

Financial assets at fair value with changes in income are financial assets held for negotiation. A financial asset is classified in this category if it is acquired mainly with the purpose of being sold in the short-term. Derivatives are also classified as acquired for their negotiation unless they are designated as hedge accounting. Assets in this category are classified as current assets and variations generated in fair value are directly recognized in income.
   
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
41

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

(b)
Loans and accounts receivable

Loans and accounts receivable are non-derivative financial assets with fixed payments or payments which can be determined and are not quoted in any active market. These are included in current assets, except for those with expiration dates which exceed 12 months from the closing date which are classified as non-current assets. Loans and accounts receivable are included in “Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable” in the Statement of financial position and are stated at amortized cost.

(c)
Financial assets held-to-maturity

Financial assets held-to-maturity are non-derivative financial assets with fixed payments or payments which can be determined and fixed expiration dates which management has the positive intention and ability of holding to maturity. If an amount which was not insignificant of financial assets held to maturity was sold, the full category would be reclassified as available for sale. Assets in this category are stated at amortized cost.

(d)
Financial assets available for sale

Financial assets available for sale are non-derivative instruments which are designated in this category or are not classified in any of the other categories. They are included in non-current assets unless the Company intends to dispose of the investment in the 12 months following the closing date. These assets are stated at fair value recognizing in equity those variations in fair value.

At each balance sheet date, the Company evaluates if there is objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of assets may have suffer impairment losses.

2.18
Financial liabilities

The Company classifies its financial liabilities in the following categories: at fair value with changes in income, trade accounts payable, loans that accrue interest or derivatives designated as hedging instruments.

The Company’s management determines the classification of its financial liabilities at the time of initial recognition.
    
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
42

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                    
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

Financial liabilities are disposed of when the obligation is paid, settled or it expires.

 
(a)
Financial liabilities at fair value with changes in income

Financial liabilities are classified at fair value when these are held for negotiation or designated in their initial recognition at fair value through income. This category includes derivative instruments not designated for hedge accounting.

 
(b)
Trade accounts payable

Balances payable to suppliers are subsequently stated in their amortized cost using the effective interest rate method.

 
(c)
Loans that accrue interest

Loans are subsequently stated at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Amortized cost is calculated considering any premium or discount from the acquisition and includes costs of transactions which are an integral part of the effective interest rate.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
43

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                     
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.19
The Environment

In general, the Group companies follow the criterion of considering amounts destined to environmental protection and improvement as environmental expenses. However, amounts of elements included in facilities, machinery and equipment destined to the same purpose are considered property, plant and equipment.

2.20
Minimum Dividend

As required by the Shareholders’ Company Act unless otherwise decided by the shareholders through unanimous vote of the holders of those shares issued and subscribed, a public shareholders’ company must distribute a minimum dividend of 30% of its net income, except in the event that the Company has losses not absorbed in previous years.

2.21
Financial debt obligations

Financial debt obligations are recorded at their par value as non-current when their expiration date exceeds twelve months and as current when the expiration occurs in a period lower than that indicated above. Interest expenses are calculated in the year in which they are accrued following a financial criterion.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
44

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                         
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.22
Trade accounts payable

Trade accounts payable are initially recognized at their fair value and are subsequently stated at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. When the par value of the account payable does not significantly differ from its fair value, it is recognized at par value.

2.23
Consolidated statement of cash flows

Cash equivalents relate to short-term highly liquid investments which are easily converted into known amount of cash, are subject to low risk of change in their value and expire in less than three months.

For the purposes of preparing the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents have been defined as cash and cash equivalents netted against pending bank overdrafts.

The statement of cash flows includes cash movements performed during the year determined by the indirect method.

In these statements of cash flows, the following expressions are used in the sense which is shown as follows:

 
-
Cash flows: cash and financial asset equivalent inflows or outflows understanding as such those short-term highly-liquid investments with low risk of change in their value.

 
-
Operating activities: common activities related to the operation of the Group’s business as well as other activities which cannot be classified as investing or financing activities.

 
-
Investing activities: investing activities relate to the acquisition, disposition or disposal related to other long-term assets and other investments not included in cash and cash equivalents.

 
-
Financing activities: activities which generate changes in the size and composition of shareholders' equity and of liabilities which are not part of operating activities.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
45

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

 
2.24
Obligations related to staff severance indemnities and pension commitments

Obligations with the Company’s employees are in accordance with that established in the collective bargaining agreements in force formalized through collective employment agreements and individual employment contracts. For the case of the United States, this is performed in accordance with the related pensions plan.

These obligations are valued using the actuarial calculation, which considers such hypotheses 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.

Actuarial losses and gains which may be generated by variations in previously established obligations defined are directly recorded in net income.

Actuarial losses and gains have their origin in deviations between the estimate and the actual behavior of actuarial hypotheses or in the reformulation of those actuarial hypotheses established.

The discount rate used by the Company for the calculation of the obligation was 6% for the periods ended as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
46

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                         
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.25
Financial derivatives and hedging operations

Derivatives are recognized initially at fair value at the date in which the derivatives contract has been signed and subsequently they are valued again at fair value.  The method for recognizing the resulting loss or gain depends on whether the derivative has been designated as an accounting hedging instrument and, if so, it depends on the type of hedging, which may be as follows:

(a)
Fair value hedging of assets and liabilities recognized (fair value hedging);

(b)
Hedging of a single risk associated with an asset or liability recognized or a highly possible foreseen transaction (cash flow hedging);

At the beginning of the transaction, the Company documents the relationship existing between hedging instruments and those entries 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 the end of each period of whether derivatives which are used in hedging transactions are highly effective to offset changes in the fair value or in cash flows of hedged entries.

The fair value of derivative instruments used for hedging purposes is shown in Note 9.3 (Hedging assets.) Movements in the hedging operation reserve are classified as a non-current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the hedged entry is higher than 12 months and as a current asset or liability if the remaining expiration period of the entry is lower than 12 months.

Investment derivatives are classified as a current asset or liability and the change in their fair value is recognized directly in income.

(a)
Fair value hedging

The change in the fair value of a derivative is recognized with a charge or credit to income, as applicable. The change in the fair value of the hedged entry attributable to hedged risk is recognized as part of the carrying value of the hedged entry and is also recognized with a charge or credit to income.
   
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
47

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                                        
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

For fair value hedging related to items recorded at amortized cost, the adjustment of the fair value is amortized against income on the remaining year to its expiration. Any adjustment to the carrying value of a hedged financial instrument for which effective rate is used is amortized with a charge or credit to income at its fair value attributable to the risk that is being covered.

If the hedged entry is disposed of, the fair value not amortized is immediately recognized with a charge or credit to income.

(b)
Cash flow hedging

The cash portion of gains or losses from the hedging instrument is initially recognized with a charge or credit to shareholders’ equity whereas any non-cash portion is immediately recognized with a charge or credit to income, as applicable.

Amounts taken to equity are transferred to income when the hedged transaction affects income the same as when the hedged financial income or expense is recognized when a forecasted sale occurs. When the hedged entry is the cost of a non-financial asset or liability, amounts taken to equity are transferred to the initial carrying value of the non-financial asset or liability.

Should the expected firm transaction or commitment not longer be expected to occur, the amounts previously recognized in shareholders' equity are transferred to income. If a hedging instrument expires, is sold, finished, exercised without any replacement or a rollover is performed or if its designation as hedging is revoked, amounts previously recognized in shareholders’ equity are maintained in shareholders' equity until the expected firm transaction or commitment occurs.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
48

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
                          
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

 
2.26
Lease

(a)
Leases  - Financial lease

Leases are classified as financial leases when the Company has substantially all the risks and benefits derived from the property. Financial leases are capitalized at the beginning of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset or the present value of minimum payments made related to the lease.

Each lease payment is distributed between the liability and the debt obligations to obtain ongoing interest type on the debt pending balance.  The respective lease obligations, netted against financial debt obligations, are included in other non-current liabilities. The interest element of financial cost is charged in the statement of comprehensive income during the lease period so that a regular ongoing interest rate is obtained on the remaining balance of the liability for each year. The asset acquired through a financial lease is subject to depreciation over the lower of its useful life or the life of the agreement.

(b)
Lessee – Operating lease

Leases in which the lesser maintains a significant part of risks and benefits derived from the ownership are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments (netted against any incentive received from the lesser) are charged to the statement of comprehensive income or capitalized (as applicable) on a straight-line basis over the lease period.

The Company does not maintain any significant agreement which meets the conditions established in IAS 17 to be considered as financial leases and therefore, all the current agreements are considered operating leases.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
49

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.27
Prospecting expenses

Those prospecting expenses associated with mineral reserves which are being exploited are included under Inventories and amortized according to the estimated mineral content reserves. Expenses associated with future reserves are presented under Intangible assets as and when minerals included in the future reserve have ore-grade which makes the mining property economically exploitable.

Those expenses incurred on properties in which the product has low ore-grade which is not economically exploitable, are directly charged to income.

2.28
Other accruals

Accruals are recognized when:

The Company has a present obligation as a result of a past event.

 
*
It is possible that certain resources are used, including benefits, to settle the obligation.

 
*
A reliable estimate can be made of the obligation amount.

In the event that the accrual or a portion of it is reimbursed, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset solely if there is certainty of income.

In the statement of income, the expense for any accrual is presented netted against any reimbursement.

Should the effect of the time value of money be significant, accruals are discounted using a discount rate before taxes which reflects the liability’s specific risks.  When a discount rate is used, the increase in the accrual over time is recognized as a financial cost.

The Company’s policy is maintaining accruals to cover risks and expenses based on a better estimate to deal with possible or certain and quantifiable responsibilities from litigations in force, compensations or obligations, pending expenses the amount of which has not been determined , collaterals and other similar guarantees which are the responsibility of the Company. These are recorded at the time in which the responsibility or the obligation which determines the compensation or payment is generated.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
50

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

The Company determines and recognizes the cost related to employee vacation on an accrual basis.

As a result of this policy, the Company has recorded accruals for:

 
-
Employee vacation: The Company determines and recognizes the cost related to employee vacation on an accrual basis.

 
-
Employee benefits agreed with employees other than staff severance indemnities and option plan, which the Company and its subsidiaries will have to pay to its employees by virtue of the agreements entered have been recognized on an accrual basis.

 
-
Legal expenses related to the estimate of future payments for lawsuits maintained with third parties.

2.29
Compensation Plans

Compensation plans implemented through benefits in share-based payments settled in cash, which have been provided are recognized in the financial statements at their fair value, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard No. 2 “Share-based payments.” Variations in the fair value of options granted are recognized with a charge to remuneration on a straight-line basis during the period between the date in which these options are granted and the payment date.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
51

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.30
Good and service insurance expenses

Payments for the different insurance policies which the Company contracts are recognized in expenses considering the proportional amount related to the time that they cover, regardless of payment terms. Amounts paid and not consumed are recognized as prepaid expenses within Current assets.
Costs of claims are recognized in income immediately after being known, netted against the recoverable amounts from insurance companies. Recoverable amounts are recorded as an asset reimbursable from the insurance company under “Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable", calculated as established in the respective insurance policies.

2.31
Intangible Assets

Intangible assets mainly relate to goodwill acquired, water rights, broadcasting rights, trademarks, rights of way related to electric lines and development expenses, and computer software licenses.

(a)
Goodwill acquired

Goodwill acquired represents the excess in acquisition cost on the fair value of them Company's ownership on the net identifiable assets of the subsidiary on the acquisition date. Goodwill acquired related to acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in intangible assets, which is subject to value impairment tests every time that the Company issues consolidated financial statements and is stated at cost plus 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. The assignation is performed based on cash generating units which are expected to obtain benefits from the business combination from which the aforementioned goodwill acquired arose.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
52

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

(b)
Water rights

Water rights acquired by the Company relate to the water from natural sources and are recorded at acquisition cost. Given that these assets represent rights granted on a perpetual basis to the Company, these are not amortized.  However, they are subject to an impairment assessment on an annual basis.

(c)
Right 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 in third party land. These rights are presented under Intangible assets. Amounts paid are capitalized at the date of the agreement and charged to income according to the life of the right of way.

(d)
Computer software

Licenses for IT programs acquired are capitalized based on costs which have been incurred to acquire them and prepare them to use the specific program. 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 probably will generate economic benefits which are higher than costs during more than a year, are recognized as intangible assets. Direct costs include expenses incurred for employees who develop IT programs and an adequate percentage of general expenses.

The costs of development of IT programs recognized as assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives.

2.32
Research and development expenses

Research and development expenses are charged to income in the period in which the disbursement is made except for property, plant and equipment acquired to be used in research and development, which are recognized in accounting under the respective item within property, plant and equipment.
    
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
53

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 2. Bases of presentation of interim consolidated financial statements and accounting criteria applied, continued

2.33
Classification of balances in current and non-current balances

In the attached statement of financial position, balances are classified in consideration of their remaining expiration dates; i.e., those expiring on a date equal to or lower than twelve months as current and those with expiration dates which exceed the aforementioned period as non-current.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
   
 
54

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
 
Application IFRS 1.

The annual consolidated financial statements for the Group as of December 31, 2010 will be the first consolidated financial statements prepared according to IFRS. The Company has applied IFRS 1 when preparing its interim consolidated financial statements.

The transition date is January 1, 2009, to which management has prepared its opening balance under IFRS to that date. The IFRS effective date is January 1, 2010, as indicated by the Chilean Superintendence of Securities and Insurance (SVS)

According to IFRS 1, in order to prepare the aforementioned consolidated financial statements, all mandatory exemptions have been applied by the Company, and some of the non-mandatory exemptions to the retroactive application of IFRS.

Exceptions established on IFRS 1 that the Company has decided to apply on its IFRS first time adoption process, are as follows:

i)
Business combinations

The Company has applied the exemption included in IFRS 1 for business combinations conducted from 2004 and thereafter. For these purposes, the Company reversed the amortization of goodwill recognized in accordance with the previous accounting standards.

ii)
Fair value or revaluation as attributable cost

The Company has chosen to measure certain property, plant and equipment items at their fair value at the transition date of January 1, 2009.  The fair value of property, plant and equipment was measured through a business appraisal conducted by independent external experts, who determined the new historic initial values, useful lives and residual values of these assets.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
55

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

iii)
Employee benefits

The Company has opted for recognizing all the actuarial gains and losses accumulated as of January 1, 2009.

iv)
Financial Instruments

The Company has defined the application of hedge accounting for financial derivative instruments associated with obligations with the public (bonds payable) denominated in UF and Chilean pesos as issued by the Company.

v)
Cumulative translation differences and technical revaluation

If the adopter uses this exemption: i) cumulative translation differences of all businesses abroad will be considered to be voided on the date of transition to IFRS; and ii) the gain or loss for the subsequent sale or disposal using another method of a business abroad will exclude translation differences which have arisen prior to the date of transition to IFRS and will include translation differences which have arisen subsequent to it.

The Company has opted to transfer cumulative translation differences and technical revaluation from other reserves to retained earnings. This exemption has been applied to all dependent companies in accordance with IFRS 1.

IFRS first-time adoption effects are recognized in retained earnings or other reserve accounts in the Company’s shareholders’ equity, depending on whether these adjustments represent realized or unrealized gains or losses at the transition date.

The following is a detailed description of the main differences between Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in Chile (Chilean GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) applied by the Company and the impact on shareholders’ equity as of March 31, 2009, and January 1, 2009 and on net income as of March 31,2010.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
56

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

a)
Reconciliation of net shareholders’ equity from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Chilean GAAP) to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as of January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009.

As of January 1, 2009
 
Equity of
majority
shareholders
   
Equity of
minority
shareholders
   
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
RECONCILIATION
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Net shareholders’ equity under Chilean GAAP
    1,463,108             1,463,108  
                       
Incorporation of minority shareholders
            47,069       47,069  
                         
Elimination of amortization of goodwill
    6,487       -       6,487  
Reversal of negative goodwill
    1,279       -       1,279  
Elimination of deferred tax complementary accounts
    (13,515 )     -       (13,515 )
Recognition of the legal obligation to distribute minimum dividend of 30% of net income
    (50,422 )     -       (50,422 )
Fair value of property, plant and equipment
    (53,732 )     (634 )     (54,366 )
Recognition of actuarial calculation  of accrual for staff severance indemnities
    (928 )     (2 )     (930 )
Fair value of bonds in UF
    (9,507 )     -       (9,507 )
Deferred taxes on IFRS adjustments
    10,908       108       11,016  
                         
Effect of transition to IFRS
    (109,430 )     (528 )     (109,958 )
                         
Net shareholders’ equity according to IFRS
    1,353,678       46,541       1,400,219  
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
57

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

As of December 31, 2009
 
Equity of
majority
shareholders
   
Equity of
minority
shareholders
   
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
RECONCILIATION
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Net shareholders’ equity under Chilean GAAP
    1,466,613             1,466,613  
                       
Incorporation of minority shareholders
            46,093       46,093  
                         
Elimination of amortization of goodwill
    8,663       -       8,663  
Reversal of negative goodwill
    1,072       -       1,072  
Elimination of deferred tax complementary accounts
    (11,365 )     -       (11,365 )
Recognition of the legal obligation to distribute minimum dividend of 30% of net income
    -               -  
Fair value of property, plant and equipment
    (45,132 )     (503 )     (45,635 )
Recognition of actuarial calculation  of accrual for staff severance indemnities
    (947 )     26       (921 )
Fair value of bonds in UF
    (9,619 )     -       (9,619 )
Deferred taxes on IFRS adjustments
    9,468       81       9,549  
                         
Effect of transition to IFRS
    (47,860 )     (396 )     (48,256 )
                         
Net shareholders’ equity according to IFRS
    1,418,753       45,697       1,464,450  
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
58

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
   
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued
 
 
b)
Reconciliation of net income for 2009 from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Chilean GAAP) to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS.)

As of December 31, 2009
 
Income from 
majority 
shareholders
   
Income from 
minority 
shareholders
   
Total net 
income
 
RECONCILIATION
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Net income from Chilean GAAP
    327,056       1,334       328,390  
                         
Goodwill - amortization
    2,176       -       2,176  
Negative goodwill - amortization
    (206 )     -       (206 )
Amortization of deferred tax complementary accounts
    2,151       -       2,151  
Depreciation
    8,601       131       8,732  
Recognition of actuarial calculation  of accrual for staff severance indemnities
    (19 )     28       9  
Deferred taxes on IFRS
    (1,459 )     (27 )     (1,486 )
                         
Effect of transition of IFRS at the date of the last annual financial statements
    11,244       132       11,376  
                         
Net income in accordance with IFRS
    338,300       1,466       339,766  
                         
Other income and expenses with a charge or credit to net shareholders’ equity
                       
                         
Cash flow hedging (UF-denominated bond)
    (112 )     -       (112 )
Income taxes related to other income and expense components with a charge to net shareholders’ equity
    19       -       19  
Comprehensive income for the year in accordance with IFRS
    338,207       1,466       339,673  
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
59

 
  
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

Explanation of adjustments for the effects of transition to IFRS

The detail of the explanation of the different concepts enumerated in the reconciliation included in the preceding point is detailed as follows:

(a)
Deferred income taxes

As described in Note 2.15, under IFRS the Company has to recognize the effects of deferred income taxes for all temporary differences existing between the tax and book balance based on the liability method.

Although the method established in IAS 12 is similar to Chilean GAAP, the Company made the following adjustments in accordance with IFRS requirements:

 
i)
The elimination of "deferred tax complementary accounts” in which the Company deferred the effects on shareholders’ equity of the first-time application of Technical Bulletin No. 60 issued by the Chilean Association of Accountants amortized with a charge / credit to income in the foreseen term for the reversal of the difference (or consumption of the related tax loss, if this is the case.)

 
ii)
The determination of deferred taxes on entries not subject to the calculation  under Chilean GAAP but which qualify as temporary differences under IFRS and the calculation of the tax effect of transition adjustments to IFRS.

(b)
Revaluation of property, plant and equipment at fair value as attributed cost

Chilean GAAP establish the valuation of property, plant and equipment at acquisition cost restated for inflation less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses and do not allow property, plant and equipment revaluation (revaluations were only and extraordinarily authorized by the Chilean SVS in accordance with Circulars Nos. 550 and 566 of 1985 issued by the Chilean Superintendence of Securities and Insurance.)  Except for that indicated in the next paragraph, the Company has considered the values of assets determined in accordance with the aforementioned accounting standards, as attributed cost of its property, plant and equipment.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
60

 
 
Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
  
Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

For the adoption of IFRS, the Company valued certain property, plant and equipment items (mainly machinery and equipment) at their fair value in conformity with the exemption contained in IFRS 1.  The revaluation was performed only once in accordance with IFRS 1.  The new value determined relates to the initial cost of the asset beginning on the transition date. This fair value of assets amounted to ThUS$60,458 as of January 1, 2009 and represented an adjustment to shareholders’ equity (decrease) of ThUS$54,366 at that date.

(c)
Minimum Dividend

In accordance with Chilean GAAP, dividends for distribution are recorded in the Company’s financial statements at the time of the agreement at the Shareholders’ or Board of Directors’ Meeting. Law No. 18,046 on Shareholders' Companies establishes in its article No. 79 that public shareholders' companies will have to distribute as dividends to its shareholders, at least, 30% of net income for the year, unless the shareholders of shares issued with voting right at the Shareholders' Meeting unanimously agree otherwise.  Under IFRS, the Company has recorded the obligation on an accrual basis, net of provisional dividends which would have been agreed at the closing date for 30% of net income for the year, which is the legal minimum percentage. As of December 31, 2009, the provisional dividend distributed during November covers this minimum dividend and therefore, no accrual was required.

(d)
Minority interest

Chilean GAAP, applied for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements recognized the participation of minority shareholders in the shareholders’ equity of subsidiaries as a separate account between liabilities and net shareholders’ equity of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Likewise, the consolidated financial statements for the year under Chilean GAAP excluded through a specific line the participation of minority interest in net income of subsidiaries. Under IFRS, minority shareholders are a part of the economic conglomerate or Group and; therefore, their participations are considered part of the statement of changes in net shareholders’ equity and the statement of comprehensive income.
  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
  
 
61

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

(e)
Hedging through derivatives

The Company maintains as hedging instruments those financial derivatives associated with obligations with the public (bonds payable) issued in UF and in Chilean pesos. Under IFRS, changes generated in the fair value of derivatives which are designated and qualified as hedging, for their cash component, are recognized in net shareholders’ equity. The gain or loss relative to the non-cash part of the hedging is immediately recognized in the statement of comprehensive income under "Other gains / losses." This represents a change with respect to Chilean GAAP where realized gains or losses for this concept were recognized in non-operating income whereas unrealized gains or losses related to changes in fair values of derivative instruments in cash flow hedging were deferred in asset and liability accounts without affecting income up to the settlement of hedged and hedging entries.

(f)
Actuarial staff severance indemnities

IFRS require that the benefits of services defined delivered to employees at long-term are determined in consideration of the application of an actuarial calculation model generating differences with respect to the methodology applied previously which considered present values.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
62

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 3 – First-time application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), continued

(g)
Negative goodwill

IFRS do not contemplate the recording in the balance sheet of negative goodwill at the date of a business combination recognizing this difference directly on income (under Chilean GAAP this was presented deducting assets.)  Accordingly, the existing balance for this concept was transferred to the Reserve for Retained Earnings account within Shareholders' Equity.

(h)
Goodwill

Under IFRS, the Company has considered goodwill as an intangible asset of indefinite useful life. At least, once a year, the cash generating unit which gave rise to goodwill is assessed for possible impairment. If there is any evidence of impairment, goodwill is initially adjusted with a charge to income. For first-time adoption purposes, the Company opted to reverse the amortization of goodwill which was generated by acquisitions of companies recorded using the business combination method conducted beginning in 2004. No other effects were generated for these restatements.

(i)
Reconciliation of the cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2009

The main differences between Chilean GAAP and IFRS in the preparation of the statement of cash flows relate to the classification of financial lease installments, which are included as investing activities in accordance with Chilean GAAP and as financing activities under IFRS.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
63

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 4 – Financial Risk Management

4.1 Risk Management Policy

The Company’s Risk Management Strategy is focused on safeguarding the Company and its subsidiaries’ stability and sustainability with respect to those relevant financial uncertainty components.

The objective of financial risk management activities is safeguarding the Company and its subsidiaries’ financial stability and sustainability at all times both under usual and exceptional conditions.

Our operations are subject to certain risk factors that may affect SQM’s financial condition or results of operations.

These risks are not the only ones we face. Additional risks of which we are not currently aware but which we believe are not significant may also affect our commercial operations, our business, the financial position or the results of operations may be materially affected by any of these risks.

The financial risk management structure includes the identification, determination, analysis, quantification, measurement and control of these events. The Company’s management and, in particular, the Finance Management is responsible for the ongoing evaluation of financial risk

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
64

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 4 – Financial Risk Management, continued

4.2 Risk Factors

4.2.1. Market risk

Market risks relate to those uncertainties associated with variations in variables which affect the Company's assets and liabilities among which we may highlight the following:

 
a)
Our sales to emerging markets expose us to risks related to economic conditions and trends in those countries

 
b)
The volatility of world prices of fertilizers and chemical products and changes in production capacities might affect our business, financial position and results of operations.

 
c)
Our inventory levels may increase due to the global economic situation.

 
d)
Quality standards in markets in which we sell our products may be more strict throughout time

 
e)
High prices of raw materials and energy may increase our production costs and the costs of goods sold

4.2.2  Bad debt risk

Our risk level and exposure to uncollectible accounts receivable (bad debt) may increase significantly depending on the present economic situation.  Although we take actions to minimize the risk of losses due to uncollectible accounts, such as the use of credit insurance, letters of credit and prepayments for a portion of our accounts receivable, a substantial increase in these losses may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations.

The current economic contraction and its potentially negative effects on the financial position of our customers may extend the terms for the payment of accounts receivable, may increase our bad debt exposure.  Although we take steps to minimize risk, this global economic situation may result in losses which might have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
65

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 4 – Financial Risk Management, continued

4.2.3
Exchange rate risk

Exchange rate fluctuations may have a material impact on our financial results.

The Chilean peso has been subject to large devaluations and revaluations in the past and may be subject to significant fluctuations in the future.  We trade a significant part of our business in U.S. dollars and U.S. dollar is the currency of the main economic environment where we operate and is our functional currency for financial statement reporting purposes.  However, a significant part of our costs relates to Chilean peso.  Therefore, an increase or a decrease in the exchange rate between Chilean peso and U.S. dollar would affect our production costs.  As of March 31, 2010, the exchange rate was Ch$524.46 per US$1.00 and as of December 31, 2009, the exchange rate was Ch$507.10 per US$1.00.

In addition, given that we are an international company which operates in Chile and in several other countries, we trade a part of our business and have assets and liabilities in Chilean pesos and other currencies which are different from U.S. dollars.  Therefore, fluctuations in the exchange rate of such foreign currencies may affect our business, financial position and results of operations.

With respect to debt denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollar, the Company has taken hedging in the form of currency swaps to eliminate the exchange rate risk.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
66

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 4 – Financial Risk Management, continued

4.2.4
Interest rate risk

Interest rate fluctuations may have a material impact on our financial results.
 
We maintain short and long-term debt stated at Libor plus a spread. As we do not have derivative instruments to hedge the Libor, we are subject to fluctuations in this rate. As of March 31, 2010, we had approximately 45% of long-term financial debt valued at LIBOR and; therefore, significant increases in the rate may have an impact on our financial position.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
67

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 4 – Financial Risk Management, continued

4.2.5
Liquidity risk

The liquidity risk is related to fund needs to deal with payment obligations. The Company’s objective is maintaining a balance between fund continuity and financial flexibility through normal operating flows, bank loans, public bonds, short-term investments, marketable securities.

We have an ambitious capital expenditure program, which is subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Specifically, reserve exploration and exploitation, mining costs and processing costs, the maintenance of machinery and equipment and compliance with laws and standards applicable require substantial capital expenditures. We must continue investing capital to maintain or increase our exploitation levels and the amount of finished products which we produce. We require environmental licenses for our new projects. Obtaining licenses, in certain cases, may generate significant delays in the execution and implementation of these new projects and; consequently, may require that we reassess the respective risks and economic incentives.  We cannot ensure that we could maintain our production levels or generate sufficient cash flows or that we will have access to investments, loan or other financing alternatives which are sufficient to continue our exploration, exploitation and refining activities in or over the present levels or that we will be able to implement our projects or receive the licenses required for them on a timely basis. Any or all these factors may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position and results of operations.

4.3
Risk Measurement

The Company has methods to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of risk strategies both in prospective and retrospective manner.  These methods are consistent with the Group’s risk management profile.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
68

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 5 - Changes in Accounting Estimates and Policies (Uniformity)

5.1
Changes in accounting estimates

There are no changes in accounting estimates at the closing date of the financial statements.

5.2
Changes in Accounting Policies

As of March 31, 2010, the Company’s financial statements presented no changes in accounting policies or estimates compared to the prior period or the transaction date, except for the application, beginning on January 1, 2010 of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS.)

Changes in policies and accounting estimates compared to local accounting principles and their effects were described in Note 3 Transition to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS.)

The interim consolidated statement of financial position as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009 and as of January 1, 2009 and the statements of comprehensive income, net shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the period ended as of March 31, 2010 have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.  Accounting principles and criteria applied are consistent.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
69

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 6 – Cash and Cash Equivalents

6.1 Classes of Cash and Cash Equivalents

As of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009 and as of January 1, 2009, the detail of cash and cash equivalents is as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Cash on hand
    114       96       2,845  
Cash in banks
    18,976       19,121       18,773  
Short-term deposits
    203,786       336,435       116,492  
Other cash and cash equivalents
    136,380       174,742       165,689  
                         
Total cash and cash equivalents
    359,256       530,394       303,799  

At the date of these financial statements, there are no differences between the amount of cash and cash equivalents recorded in the statement of financial position and the statement of cash flows.

6.2 Other Cash and Cash Equivalents

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, these relate to mutual funds for investments made in 'Citifunds Institutional Liquid Reserve Limited' of ThUS$46,631 (ThUS$ 59,224 as of December 31, 2009; ThUS$ 56,384 as of January 1, 2009), in 'Merrill Lynch Institutional Liquidity Fund' amounting to ThUS$346 (ThUS$59,070 as of December 31 2009; ThUS$ 55,760 as of January 1, 2009), in JPM US Dollar Money Market Fund ThUS$45,717 (ThUS$56,334 as of December 31, 2009 and ThUS$ 53,545 as of January 1, 2009, and), in Brim (UK) Ltd. Re ICS-Sub & Red amounting to ThUS$43,686 ( ThUS$0 as of December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009). (ThUS$114 as of December  31, 2009 in Citibank and ThUS$0 as of January 1 , 2009).

These institutions are highly liquid funds which are basically destined to investments in fixed income commercial paper in the U.S. market.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
70

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 6 – Cash and Cash Equivalents, continued

6.3
Information on cash and cash equivalents by currency

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, cash and cash equivalents in balances of cash on hand, in banks and financial instruments, classified by currency are detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Original currency
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS
   
ThUS$
 
Chilean Peso
    203,843       259,680       99  
US Dollar
    149,064       263,207       291,177  
Euro
    2,814       3,813       7,676  
Mexican Peso
    136       218       809  
South African Rand
    2,315       2,586       2,574  
Japanese Yen
    928       823       1,096  
Dirham
    -       -       176  
Peruvian Sol
    18       26       175  
Argentinean Peso
    -       1       3  
Brazilian Real
    26       33       4  
Chinese Yuan
    70       -       -  
Indonesian rupee
    5       5       4  
Pound sterling
    37       2       6  
Total
    359,256       530,394       303,799  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
71

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 6 – Cash and Cash Equivalents, continued

6.4
Amount of significant restricted (unavailable) cash balances

Cash on hand and in bank current accounts are resources available and their carrying value is equal to their fair value.

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the Company has no significant cash balances with any type of restriction.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
72

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 6 – Cash and Cash Equivalents, continued

6.5 Detail of time deposits

The detail of cash and cash equivalents in time deposits at each period-end is as follows:

Receiver of the deposit
 
Type of de
Deposit
   
Original
Currency
   
Interest
rate
   
Placement
date
   
Expiration
date
   
Principal
ThUS$
   
Interest
accrued to-
date ThUS$
   
March 31, 2010
ThUS$
   
December 31
2009
ThUS$
   
January 1, 2009
ThUS$
 
Banco Crédito e Inversiones
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.07    
1-7-2010
   
4-7-2010
    8,104       15       8,119       71,846       11,015  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.09    
12-28-2009
   
4-8-2010
    14,546       41       14,587       107,862       10,022  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
1-15-2010
   
4-15-2010
    4,698       8       4,706       -       -  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
1-15-2010
   
4-15-2010
    9,394       19       9,413       -       -  
CorpBanca
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
1-5-2010
   
4-19-2010
    14,622       33       14,655       50,468       20,045  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
            0.07    
2-22-2010
   
4-21-2010
    5,106       5       5,111       -       -  
Banco Créditos e Inversiones
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.07    
2-24-2010
   
4-26-2010
    10,347       8       10,355       -       -  
Banco Crédito e Inversiones
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.07    
3-3-2010
   
4-27-2010
    19,741       13       19,754       -       -  
CorpBanca
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.07    
2-22-2010
   
4-28-2010
    20,395       18       20,413       -       -  
Banco Santander-Santiago
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.07    
3-31-2010
   
5-3-2010 -
    5,001       -       5,001       89,137       44,452  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
3-23-2010
   
5-10-2010
    20,596       4       20,600       -       -  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
3-23-2010
   
5-11-2010
    20,585       4       20,589       -       -  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
3-24-2010
   
5-11-2010
    20,679       4       20,683       -       -  
Banco de Chile
 
Chile
   
Chilean pesos
      0.08    
3-24-2010
   
5-11-2010
    15,238       3       15,241       -       -  
Banco Crédito e Inversiones
 
Chile
   
U.F.
      (5.00 )  
3-30-2010
   
5-17-2010
    12,092       -       12,092       -       -  
Banco Crédito e Inversiones
 
Chile
   
U.F.
      (5.00 )  
3-30-2010
   
6-30-2010
    2,206       -       2,206       -       -  
Citibank New York
 
United States
   
US dollar
      0.03    
3-31-2010
   
4-1-2010
    253       -       253       2,122       824  
IDBI Bank
 
India
   
Rupee
      0    
12-31-2009
   
12-31-2010
    -       -       8       -       -  
Banco ITAU
    -                  
-
    -     -       -       -       -       9,018  
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
    -       -             -     -     -       -       -       -       16,103  
HSBC Bank Chile
    -       -             -     -     -       -       -       -       5,013  
Deutsche Bank Chile S.A.
    -       -             -     -     -       -       -       15,000       -  
Total
                                                                                                    203,786       336,435       116,492  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
73

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 7 - Inventories

The composition of inventories at each period-end is as follows:

Class of inventory 
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Raw materials
    6,200       6,491       11,144  
Supplies for production
    15,191       15,617       19,275  
Products-in-progress
    291,389       287,712       189,555  
Finished products
    320,729       320,943       320,903  
Total
    633,509       630,763       540,877  

Inventory provisions recognized as of March 31, 2010 amount to ThUS$66,715 as of December 31, 2009 amounted to ThUS$65,298, and as of January 1, 2009 amounted to ThUS$43,686. Provisions have been made based on a technical study which covers the different variables which affect products in stock (density, humidity, among others.) Additionally, provisions have been recognized for goodwill in the sale of products and inventory difference.

The detail of these provisions is as follows:

Class of inventory
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Supplies for production
    2,297       1,580       1,900  
Products-in-progress
    48,981       41,952       28,100  
Finished products
    15,437       22,396       13,686  
Total
    66,715       65,928       43,686  

The Company has not delivered inventories as collateral.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
74

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies

8.1
Information to be disclosed on related companies

Balances pending at year-end are not guaranteed, accrue no interest and are settled in cash. No guarantees have been delivered or received for accounts receivable from or payable to related parties. For the period ended March 31, 2010, the Group has not recorded any impairment in accounts receivable related to amounts owed by related parties. This evaluation is conducted every year through an examination of the financial position of the related party in the market in which it operates.

8.2
Relationships between the controlling interest and the entity

According to that provided in the by-laws of SQM S.A., no shareholder can concentrate more than 32% of the Company’s voting right capital.

Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A. and Global Mining Investments (Chile) S.A. and collectively, the Pampa Group, are the owners of a number of shares which is equivalent to 32% of the current total amount of shares issued, subscribed and paid of SQM S.A. In addition, Kowa Company Ltd., Inversiones La Esperanza (Chile) Limitada, Kochi S.A. and La Esperanza Delaware Corporation, collectively Kowa Group, are the owners of a number of shares equivalent to 2.07% of the total amount of shares issued, subscribed and paid of SQM S.A.

The Pampa Group and the Kowa Group have informed SQM S.A., the Chilean SVS and the pertinent stock exchanges in Chile and abroad that they are not and have never been related parties between them. In addition, this is regardless of the fact that both Groups on December 21, 2006 have subscribed a joint venture agreement with respect to those shares. Consequently, the Pampa Group, by itself, does not concentrate more than 32% of voting right capital of SQMS.A. and the Kowa Group does not concentrate by itself more than 32% of voting right capital of SQM S.A.

Likewise, the joint venture agreement has not transformed the Pampa Group and the Kowa Group in related companies between them. The joint venture agreement has only transformed the current controller of SQM S.A. composed of the Pampa Group and the Kowa Group into related parties of SQM S.A.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
75

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

Detail of effective concentration

Taxpayer ID
Company name
 
Ownership
percentage %
 
96.511.530-7
Sociedad de Inversiones Pampa Calichera S.A.
    24.45  
96.863.960-9
Global Mining Investments (Chile) S.A.
    3.80  
Total Pampa Group
      28.25  
           
79.798.650-k
Inversiones la Esperanza (Chile)  Ltda.
    1.40  
59.046.730-8
Kowa Co Ltd.
    0.30  
96.518.570-4
Kochi S.A.
    0.29  
59.023.690-k
La Esperanza Delaware Corporation
    0.08  
Total Kowa Group
      2.07  

8.3
Intermediate controlling entity and companies controlled by SQM S.A. which generate publicly available financial statements

The interim financial statements of the following companies are publicly available:

Soquimich Comercial S.A.

8.4
Detail of identification of the relationship between the controlling interest and the subsidiary as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009:

 
 
Participation percentage in subsidiary
 
Subsidiary
 
Direct
%
   
Indirect
%
   
Total
%
 
  Comercial Hydro S.A.
    0.0000       60.3820       60.3820  
  SQM Potasio S.A.
    99.9974       0.0000       99.9974  
  SQM Nitratos S.A.
    99.9999       0.0001       100.0000  
  Ajay SQM Chile S.A.
    51.0000       0.0000       51.0000  
  SQMC Internacional Ltda.
    0.0000       60.6382       60.6382  
  SQM Industrial S.A.
    99.9954       0.0046       100.0000  
  Isapre Norte Grande Ltda.
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000  
  Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda.
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000  
  Serv. Integrales de Tránsitos y Transferencias S.A.
    0.0003       99.9997       100.0000  
  Soquimich Comercial S.A.
    0.0000       60.6383       60.6383  
  SQM Salar S.A.
    18.1800       81.8200       100.0000  
  Minera Nueva Victoria S.A.
    99.0000       1.0000       100.0000  
  Proinsa Ltda.
    0.0000       60.5800       60.5800  
  Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Exploraciones Mineras S.A.
    0.2691       99.7309       100.0000  
Nitratos Naturais Do Chile Ltda.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Nitrate Corporation of Chile Ltd.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM North America Corporation.
    40.0000       60.0000       100.0000  
SQM Europe N.V.
    0.8600       99.1400       100.0000  
Soquimich SRL Argentina
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Soquimich European Holding B.V.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Corporation N.V.
    0.0001       99.9999       100.0000  
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
76

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

8.4
Detail of identification of the relationship between the controlling interest and the subsidiary as of March 31, 2010 and as of December 31, 2009, continued

   
Participation percentage in subsidiary
 
Subsidiary
 
Direct
%
   
Indirect
%
   
Total
%
 
SQI Corporation N.V.
    0.0159       99.9841       100.0000  
SQM Comercial de México S.A. de C.V.
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000  
North American Trading Co.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Administración y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V.
    0.0200       99.9800       100.0000  
SQM Peru S.A.
    0.9800       99.0200       100.0000  
SQM Ecuador S.A.
    0.0040       99.9960       100.0000  
SQM Nitratos México S.A.
    0.0000       51.0000       51.0000  
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P.
    0.1000       99.9000       100.0000  
SQM Investment Corporation N.V.
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000  
SQM Brasil Limitada.
    2.7900       97.2100       100.0000  
SQM France S.A.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Japan Co Ltd.
    1.0000       99.0000       100.0000  
Royal Seed Trading A.V.V.
    1.6700       98.3300       100.0000  
SQM Oceania Pty Limited
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Rs Agro Chemical Trading A.V.V.
    98.3300       1.6700       100.0000  
SQM Indonesia S.A.
    0.0000       80.0000       80.0000  
SQM Virginia L.L.C.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Venezuela S.A.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Italia SRL
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Comercial Caiman Internacional S.A.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Africa Pty.Ltd.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Lithium Specialties LLP.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
Fertilizantes Naturales S.A.
    0.0000       66.6700       66.6700  
Iodine Minera B.V.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Agro India Pvt. Ltd.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  
SQM Beijing Comercial Co. Ltd.
    0.0000       100.0000       100.0000  

8.5 Detail of related parties and transactions with related companies

Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries are part of the Company's common transactions. Their conditions are customary to this type of operations in respect to terms and market price.  In addition, these have been eliminated in consolidation and are not detailed in this note.

Expiration conditions for each case vary by virtue of the transaction which generated them.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
77

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

 
8.5
Detail of related parties and transactions with related companies, continued

Taxpayer
ID
Company
Relationship
Original country
Transaction
description
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
0-E
Doktor Tarsa Tarim
Sanayi As
Associated company
Turkey
Sale of products
    5,129       -  
0-E
Ajay Europe S.A.R.L.
Associated company
France
Sale of products
    5,235       1,503  
0-E
Ajay North America LLC.
Associated company
United States
Sale of products
    9,066       3,814  
0-E
Ajay North America LLC.
Associated company
United States
Dividends
    -       110  
0-E
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer
Industries WWL
Associated company
United Arab
Emirates
Sale of products
    4,025       1,046  
0-E
Kowa Company Ltd.
Entity with joint control
Japan
Sale of products
    17,128       11,488  
0-E
NU3 B.V.
Associated company
The Netherlands
Sale of products
    3,682       2,236  
0-E
NU3 B.V.
Associated company
The Netherlands
Sale of products
    27       26  
0-E
NU3 N.V.
Associated company
Belgium
Sale of products
    3,914       2,134  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
78

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

 
8.6
Accounts receivable from related companies, current:

Taxpayer ID
Company
Type of
currency
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
77.557.430-5
  Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
US$
    113       292       143  
96.511.530-7
  Soc.de Inversiones Pampa Calichera
US$
    8       8       8  
78.062.420-5
Minera Saskatchewan  Ltda.
US$
    226       32,588       -  
Foreign
  Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
US$
    2,002       7,304       13.641  
Foreign
  Nutrisi Holding N.V.
Euro
    1,630       1,741       1.702  
Foreign
  Ajay Europe S.A.R. L.
US$
    3,621       1,492       4.061  
Foreign
  Ajay North America LLC.
US$
    4,453       2,914       2.520  
Foreign
  Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
US$
    3,984       3,546       6.579  
Foreign
NU3 B.V.
Euro
    3,036       1,883       772  
Foreign
Misr Specialty Fertilizers
US$
    288       289       632  
Foreign
Kowa Company Ltd.
US$
    14,661       15,764       18.170  
Foreign
SQM Thailand Co. Ltd.
US$
    525       835       -  
Foreign
SQM Agro India
US$
    -       -       595  
Foreign
SQM East Med Turkey
US$
    -       -       1.075  
Foreign
NU3 N.V.
Euro
    -       -       1.129  
Total to-date
      34.547       68,656       51,027  

 
8.7
Accounts receivable from related companies, non-current:

Taxpayer ID
Company
Type of
currency
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
Amount
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
Amount
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
Amount
 
Foreign
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
Dollar
    -       -       2,000  
Total
      -       -       2,000  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
79

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

 
8.8
Accounts payable to related companies, current:

Taxpayer ID
Company
Currency
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
Amount
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
Amount
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
Amount
 
76.049.778-9
Callegari Agrícola S.A.
Chilean peso
    185       234       -  
Foreign
NU3 N.V.
US Dollar
    317       94       -  
Foreign
SQM Vitas
United Arab Emirates Dirham
    2,468       2,883       -  
Foreign
Coromandel Fertilizers Limited
Indian Rupee
    586       681       -  
Foreign
SQM Thailand Co. Ltd.
US Dollar
    -       -       178  
Total to-date
      3,556       3,892       178  

 
8.9
Board of Directors and Senior Management

1)
Board of Directors

SQM S.A. is managed by a Board of Directors which is composed of eight regular directors who are elected for a three-year period. The present Board of Directors was elected by the shareholders at the Ordinary Shareholders' Meeting of April 30, 2008.

As of March 31, 2010, the Company has a Directors' Committee which is composed of three members of the Board of Directors. This Committee performs those duties provided in Article 50 bis of Law No. 18,046.

During the periods covered by these financial statements, there are no pending balances receivable and payable between the Company, its directors or members of Senior Management other than those related to remuneration, fee allowances and profit participation. In addition, there were no transactions conducted between the Company, its directors or members of Senior Management.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
80

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

2)
Directors’ Compensation

2010

2.1 Board
 
Director’s compensation is detailed as follows:
 
a)
A payment of a monthly fixed gross amount of U.F 300 in favor of SQM Chairman and UF 50 in favor of the seven remaining board members regardless of their attendance to Board meetings or the number of meetings to which they attend.

b)
A payment in domestic currency and in favor of the Chairman of the Board of Directors consisting in variable and gross amount equivalent to 0.35% of total net income which SQM S.A. effectively obtains during fiscal year 2010.

c)
A payment in domestic currency in favor of each Company’s directors excluding the Chairman of the Board, consisting of variable and gross amount equivalent to 0.04% of the total net income which SQM S.A. effectively obtain during fiscal year 2010.

d)
Fixed and variable amounts indicated will not be subject to any charge between them and those expressed in percentage will be paid immediately after the shareholders at the respective Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting of SQM approve the statement of financial position (balance sheet), the financial statements, the annual report, the report by the account inspectors and the report of external auditors for the commercial year ending December 31, 2010.

2.2 Director’s committee

Director’s committee remuneration:

a) A payment of a monthly, fixed and gross amount of UF 17 in favor of each of the 3 Directors who are a part of the Company’s Directors’ Committee regardless of the number of meetings which are conducted during the respective month.

b) A payment in domestic currency and in favor of each of the 3 Directors of a variable and gross amount equivalent to 0.013% of the Company’s total net income,  which SQM S.A. effectively obtains during fiscal year 2010.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
81

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

2.3
Director’s remuneration and Committee

2009

During 2009, the Company has paid to its directors an annual amount of UF 300 to the Chairman and UF 50 to each of the seven remaining board members regardless of attendance to Board meetings 0r the number of meetings to which they attended.
In addition, the directors have received variable remuneration consistent in 0.05 of net revenue of 2008 for the Chairman and 0.05 of net income for 2008 divided in equal parts for each of the seven remaining board members.
Therefore, remuneration and profit share paid to the members of the Directors’ Committee and the directors during 2009 amount to ThUS$6,507.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
82

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 8 - Information to be disclosed on related companies, continued

In April 2009, the shareholders at the General Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of SQM S.A. agreed to change the percentages of variable benefit for 2009; i.e., to 0.35% of net income for 2009 for the Chairman and 0.04% of net revenue for 2009 to each of the remaining seven directors.

3) No guarantees have been constituted in favor of directors

4) Senior Management remuneration

As of March 31, 2010, the overall remuneration paid to the 108 main executives amounts to ThUS$ 8,912. (ThUS$25,559 as of December 31, 2009)  This includes monthly fixed remuneration, variable performance bonuses, corporate results over results obtained in the prior year and long-term compensation.

The Company’s executives perform their duties in the different areas and their jobs positions are: General Manager, Vice-President of Commerce, Finance and Development, Vice-President of Legal Affairs, Vice-President of Sustainable Development, Vice-President of Human Resources and Corporate Affairs and Vice-President of Operations (Nueva Victoria, Saltpeter Deposit - Iodine and Saltpeter Deposit - Lithium.)

5) Incentive plans for the main executives and managers

SQM S.A. for its executives has defined annual bonus plans related to goal achievement and level of individual contribution to the Company’s income. These incentives are structured in a minimum and maximum of gross remuneration which are paid once a year or every two years.

Additionally, the Company has retention bonuses for the Company’s executives. The amount of these bonuses is linked to the price of the Company’s share and is payable in cash between 2010 and 2011.

6) No guarantees have been constituted in favor of the Company’s management

7) The Company’s Managers and Directors do not receive or have not received any benefit during the first quarter ended as of March 31, 2010 or retribution for the concept of pensions, life insurance, paid time off, profit sharing, incentives, benefits due to disability other than those mentioned in the preceding numbers.

8) In accordance with IAS No. 24 paragraph 9, letter f) we must inform that our Director Wolf Von Appen B. is a part of the Ultramar Group. As of March 31, 2010, the amount of operations with this Group is approximately ThUS$151.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
83

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial Instruments

In accordance with IAS 39, financial assets are detailed as follows:

9.1
Classes of other financial assets

Classes of other financial assets
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
1/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Other current financial assets (1)
    37,743       15,045       20,121  
Derivative instruments (2)
    3,804       9,153       1,599  
Hedging assets, current
    46,712       51,339       -  
                         
Total other current financial assets
    88,259       75,537       21,720  
                         
Other non-current financial assets (3)
    111       113       101  

 
(1)
Relates to a time deposit with Banco de Chile and Banco BCI which expires in more than 90 days.

 
(2)
Relate to forwards and options which were not classified as hedging instruments.

 
(3)
Relate to guarantees delivered for the lease of offices and investments in Sociedad Garantizadora de Pensiones (ownership of 3%.)

9.2
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable

a)
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, net:

Description of the class of trade accounts receivable
and other accounts receivable, net:
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
1/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Current trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, net
    365,104       325,823       334,791  
Trade accounts receivable
    330,089       309,765       328,044  
Other accounts receivable
    35,015       16,058       6,747  
                         
Non-current trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, net
    3,905       4,208       766  
Other accounts receivable
    3,905       4,208       766  
                         
Total to-date
    369,009       330,031       335,557  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
84

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial Instruments, continued

b)
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, gross:

Description of the class of trade accounts
receivable and other accounts receivable, gross:
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Current trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, gross
    382,972       342,906       348,066  
                         
Trade accounts receivable
    346,455       326,192       339,932  
Other accounts receivable
    36,517       16,714       8,134  
                         
Non-current trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable, gross
    3,906       4,209       766  
                         
Other accounts receivable
    3,906       4,209       766  
                         
Total to-date
    386,878       347,115       348,832  

c)
Detail of financial assets past due and not paid but not impaired

Financial assets past due, not paid but not impaired are composed of the following: Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009.

                     
Balances as of March
31,2010
 
Financial assets
 
Expiring in
less than
three months
   
Expiring
between
three and six
months
   
Expiring
between six
and twelve
months
   
Expiring in
more than
twelve
months
   
Total
ThUS$
 
                               
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable
    49,902       3,081       4,073       6,402       63,458  
Total
    49,902       3,081       4,073       6,402       63,458  

                     
Balances as of
December 31, 2009
 
Financial assets
 
Expiring in
less than
three months
   
Expiring
between
three and six
months
   
Expiring
between six
and twelve
months
   
Expiring in
more than
twelve
months
   
Total
ThUS$
 
                                
Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable
    36,956       7,107       713       6,370       51,146  
Total
    36,956       7,107       713       6,370       51,146  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
85

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial Instruments, continued

d)
Detail of impaired financial assets

At the end of each period, the financial assets included in trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable have been subject to value impairment tests and there are indications of impairment in the value of these.
The Company and its subsidiaries record an allowance for doubtful accounts when in the Company’s management’s opinion, all collection means have been depleted or there are certain doubts as to the recovery of trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable.
Financial assets
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                         
 Trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable
    (17,868 )     (17,083 )     (13,279 )
Balance
    (17,868 )     (17,083 )     (13,279 )

9.3
Current Hedging Assets

The balance relates to financial instruments measured at fair value, which have been classified as foreign currency translation hedging and interest rate hedging associated with all the Company’s obligations related to bonds payable in Chilean pesos and in UF.  As of March 31, 2010, the par value of cross currency swap contracts amounted to ThUS$415,749, as of December 31, 2009 amounted to ThUS$415,749, as of March 31, 2009 amounted to ThUS$ 250,702 and as of January 1, 2009 amounted to ThUS$ 113,025. These are detailed as follows:

Hedging assets,
current 
 
Derivative
instruments (CCS)
   
Effect on income
Derivative
Instruments
   
Balance in Equity
 
    
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
March 31, 2010
    46,712       (14,849 )     1,181  
                         
March 31, 2009
    11,308       12,327       884  

Hedging assets,
current
 
Derivative
instruments (CCS)
   
Effect on income
Derivative
Instruments
   
Balance in Equity
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
December 31, 2009
    51,339       68,533       (9,619 )

Hedging assets, current
 
Derivative instruments
(CCS)
   
Balance in Equity
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
             
January 1, 2009
    (11,031 )     (9,507 )

Balances in the column, Effects on income consider the annual affects of contracts which were in force as of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009, March 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
86

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 -   Financial Instruments, continued

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 hedging the exchange rate financial risks associated with bonds payable. Hedging is documented and tested to measure its 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 Chilean pesos and UF. Likewise, hedging contracts are denominated in the same currencies and have the same expiration dates of bond principal payments.

9.4
Financial liabilities

The detail as of March 31, 2010, as of December 31, 2009 and as of January 1, 2009, is as follows:

Classes of loans that accumulate (accrue) interest 
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Current loans that accrue interest
                 
                   
Bank loans
    122,464       221,526       133,806  
Derivative instruments
    3,456       4,232       7,158  
Current hedging liabilities
    -       -       11,031  
Obligations not guaranteed
    15,390       45,606       7,930  
Total
    141,310       271,364       159,925  
                         
Non-current loans that accrue interest
                       
                         
Bank loans
    335,000       365,000       230,000  
Obligations not guaranteed
    655,560       670,221       285,940  
Total
    990,560       1,035,221       515,940  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
87

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 -   Financial Instruments, continued

a)
Current bank loans:

       
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Taxpayer ID
Financial
institution
Currency
 
ThUS$
   
Annual
interest
rate
   
ThUS$
   
Annual
interest
rate
   
ThUS$
   
Annual
interest
rate
 
                                         
97.036.000-K
Banco Santander Santiago
US$
    -       -       -       -       20,075       6.14 %
97.032.000-8
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Chile
US$
    20,016       0.85 %     20,762       4.51 %     -       -  
97.032.000-8
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Chile
US$
    -       -       10,376       4.46 %     -       -  
97.032.000-8
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Chile
US$
    5,000       0.55 %     -       -       -       -  
97.030.000-7
Banco Estado
US$
    -       -       20,813       4.66 %     -       -  
97.951.000-4
HSBC Bank Chile
US$
    14,514       0.95 %     15,090       4.74 %     15,266       7.80 %
97.006.000-6
Banco Crédito e Inversiones
US$
    -       -       -       -       35,518       7.41 %
97.032.000-8
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
US$
    -       -       -       -       40,524       6.83 %
Foreign
JP Morgan Chase Bank
US$
    -       -       -       -       20,317       6.63 %
Foreign
Other banks
Euro
    796       -       3,327       2.60 %     1,633       4.78 %
Foreign
Other banks
Dirham
    -       -       -               22       -  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    20,019       3.71 %     223       3.98 %     -       -  
Foreign
Caja de Ahorro y Monte de Piedad Madrid
US$
    43       2.56 %     43       2.56 %     -       -  
Foreign
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
US$
    -       -       100,053       0.69 %     204       2.63 %
Foreign
ING Capital LLC
US$
    215       0.80 %     55       0.80 %     215       2.93 %
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    10,008       3.72 %     109       3.98 %     -       -  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    1,593       2.68 %     656       2.68 %     -       -  
Foreign
Export Development Canada
US$
    50,260       1.93 %     50,019       1.93 %     32       3.33 %
 
Total
      122,464               221,526               133,806          

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
88

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 -  Financial Instruments, continued

b)
Current unguaranteed obligations:

As of March 31, 2010, as of December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, current unguaranteed obligations which accrue interest are composed of promissory notes and bonds payable, detailed as follows:

Promissory notes

ID or registration No.
     
Adjustment
unit of
       
Expiration of
promissory
note or line of
   
Interest
   
Carrying value
ThUS$
 
of the instrument 
 
Series
 
the bond
 
Par value
   
credit
   
rate
   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
47
    1-B  
Ch$
    15,000,000,000       3-17-2010       3.6 %     -       29,363       -  
                                                           
Total
                                      -       29,363       -  

On March 17, 2010, was paid the promissory note N°47 series 1-B Capital amounting to ThUS$29,040
 
Bonds

ID or
registration
         
Adjustment
           
Periodicity
 
Par value
ThUS$
 
Placement
No. of the
instrument 
 
Series
 
Placed
face value
 
unit of the
bond
 
Interest
rate
   
Final term
 
Payment of
interest
Payment of
amortization
 
3/31/2010
 
12/31/2009
 
01/01/2009
 
in Chile or
abroad
                                              
184
 
A
    -  
US$
    6.125 %     4-15-2010  
Semi-annual
Expiration date
    5,589     2,577     2,577  
Abroad
446
 
C
    150,000  
UF
    4.00 %     6-1-2010  
Semi-annual
Semi-annual
    7,333     6,537     5,353  
In Chile
564
 
H
    -  
UF
    4.9 %     7-5-2010  
Semi-annual
Semi-annual beginning 2019
    1,821     3,891     -  
In Chile
563
 
G
    -  
Ch$
    7.00 %     7-5-2010  
Semi-annual
Expiration date
    647     1,386     -  
In Chile
563
 
I
    -  
UF
    3.00 %     10-1-2010  
Semi-annual
Expiration date
    -     461     -  
In Chile
563
 
J
    -  
Ch$
    5.50 %     10-1-2010  
Semi-annual
Expiration date
    -     1.391     -  
In Chile
Total
          15,390     16,243     7,930    

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
89

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 -  Financial Instruments, continued

c)
Classes of non-current loans that accrue interest

As of March 31, 2010,  December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the detail of non-current bank loans that accrue interest is as follows:

Non-current bank loans that accrue interest

       
3/31/2010
Years to maturity
       
Taxpayer
No.
Financial institution
Currency
 
1 to 2
years
ThUS$
   
2 to 3
years
ThUS$
   
3 to 5
years
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
 
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    -       -       140,000       140,000  
Foreign
Caja de Ahorro y Monte de Piedad Madrid
US$
    -       40,000       -       40,000  
Foreign
BBVA Bancomer
US$
    -       75,000       -       75,000  
Foreign
ING Capital LLC
US$
    80,000       -       -       80,000  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    -       -       -       -  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    -       -       -       -  
 
Total
      80,000       115,000       140,000       335,000  
 
Principal owed
US$
    335,000                          
 
Annual average interest rate
      2.35 %                        

       
31/12/2009
Years to maturity
       
Taxpayer
No.
Financial institution
Currency
 
1 to 2
years
ThUS$
   
2 to 3
years
ThUS$
   
3 to 5
years
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
 
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    -       -       140,000       140,000  
Foreign
Caja de Ahorro y Monte de Piedad Madrid
US$
    -       40,000       -       40,000  
Foreign
BBVA Bancomer
US$
    -       75,000       -       75,000  
Foreign
ING Capital LLC
US$
    80,000       -       -       80,000  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    20,000       -       -       20,000  
Foreign
Banco Estado NY Branch
US$
    10,000       -       -       10,000  
 
Total
      110,000       115,000       140,000       365,000  
 
Principal owed
US$
    365,000                          
 
Annual average interest rate
      2.74 %                        

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
90

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

       
1/1/2009
Years to maturity
       
Taxpayer
No.
Financial institution
Currency
 
1 to 2
years
ThUS$
   
2 to 3
years
ThUS$
   
3 to 5
years
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
 
Foreign
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
US$
    100,000       -       -       100,000  
Foreign
ING Capital LLC
US$ Dollar
    -       80,000       -       80,000  
Foreign
Export  Development  Canada
US$ Dollar
    50,000       -       -       50,000  
 
Total
      150,000       80,000       -       230,000  
 
Principal owed
US$ Dollar
    230,000                          
 
Annual average interest rate
      2.88 %                        

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
91

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

d)
Non-current unguaranteed obligations that accrue interest

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the composition of non-current unguaranteed obligations that accrue interest is as follows:

                       
Periodicity
 
Par value
MUS$
   
ID or
registration No.
of the
instrument
 
Series
 
Placed face
value
 
Adjustment
unit
of the
bond
 
Interest
rate
 
Final term
 
Payment of
interest
 
Payment of
amortization
 
3/31/2010
 
12/31/2009
 
01/01/2009
 
Placement
in Chile 
or abroad
                                             
184
  A     200,000,000  
US$
    6.125 %   4-15-2016  
Semi-annual
 
Expiration date
    200,000     200,000     200,000  
Abroad
446
  C     2,400,000  
UF
    4.00 %   12-1-2026  
Semi-annual
 
Semi-annual
    96,106     99,119     85,940  
National
564
  H     4,000,000  
UF
    4.9 %   1-5-2030  
Semi-annual
 
Semi-annual
    160,177     165,197     -  
National
563
  G     21,000,000,000  
Ch$
    7.00 %   1-5-2014  
Semi-annual
 
Expiration date
    40,047     41,412     -  
National
563
  I     1,500,000  
UF
    3.00 %   4-1-2014  
Semi-annual
 
Expiration date
    60,066     61,949     -  
National
563
  J     52,000,000,000  
Ch$
    5.50 %   4-1-2014  
Semi-annual
 
Expiration date
    99,164     102,544     -  
National
Total
                                      655,560     670,221     285,940    

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
92

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

e)
Additional Information

-
Bonds

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, an amount of ThUS$15,390 and ThUS$16,243 and ThUS$7,930, respectively is presented at short-term related to principal, short-term portion plus interest accrued at that date. In the long-term, the Company presented an amount of ThUS$655,560 as of March 31, 2010, ThUS$670,221 as of December 31, 2009 and ThUS$285,940 as of January 1, 2009 related to principal installments of Series C bonds, unique Series bonds, Series G  bonds, Series H bonds, Series J bonds, and Series I bonds.

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009 the detail of each issuance is as follows:

Series “C” bonds

On January 25, 2006, the Company placed Series C bonds for UF 3,000,000 (ThUS$100,991) at an annual rate of 4.00%

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the following cash payments have been made to the Series C bonds:

Payments made
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
UF
   
ThUS$
   
UF
   
ThUS$
   
UF
   
ThUS$
 
Principal payments
    -       -       150,000.00       5,967       150,000.00       5,572  
Payments of interest
    -       -       105,456.30       4,191       111,397.50       4,145  

Unique Series Bonds

On April 5, 2006, the Company placed Unique Series bonds for ThUS$200,000 at an annual rate of 6.125%  under "Rule 144 and regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933."

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the following cash payments have been made with a charge to the Unique Series bonds line:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
Payments of interest
    -       -  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
93

 
 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

Series “G” and “H” Bonds

On January 13, 2009, the Company placed two bond series in the domestic market. Series H for UF 4,000,000 (ThUS$139,216) at an annual interest rate of 4.9% at a term of 21 years with principal payment beginning in 2019 and Series G for ThCh$ 21,000,000 (ThUS$34,146) which was placed at a term of 5 years with single payment at the expiration of the term and annual interest rate of 7%.

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the following cash payments have been made with a charge to the Series G and H bonds line:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
Payment of interest on Series G bonds
           1,424              -  
Payment of interest on Series H bonds
    3,996       -  

Series “J” and “I” Bonds

On May 8, 2009, the Company placed two bond series in the domestic market. Series J for ThCh$52,00,000 (ThUS$92,456) which was placed in a term of 5 years with single payment at the expiration date of the term and annual interest rate of 5.5% and Series I for UF 1,500,000 (ThUS$56,051) which was placed at a term of 5 years with single payment at the expiration of the term and annual interest rate of 3.00%.

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 the following cash payments have been made with a charge to the Series J and I bonds line:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
Payment of interest on Series J bonds
           2,681              -  
Payment of interest on Series I bonds
    891       -  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
94

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

-
Drafts (Promissory notes)

On March 24, 2009, the Company placed promissory notes totaling ThCh$15,000,000 (ThUS$25,875) in the Chilean market. These notes are denominated series 2-A, line 46 and mature in 10 years. The maximum amount that can be issued is UF 1,500,000.

On December 15, 2009, the Company paid Series 2-A.

On April 2, 2009, the Company placed promissory notes totaling ThCh$15,000,000 (ThUS$25,770) in the Chilean market. These notes are denominated series 1-B, line 47 and mature in 10 years. The maximum amount that can be issued is UF 1,500,000.

Payments made
 
2010
   
2009
 
   
ThCh$
   
ThUS$
   
ThCh$
   
ThUS$
 
Payment of Series 2-A principal
    -       -       15,000,000       30,270  
Payment of Series 1-B principal
    15,000,000       29,040       -       -  
 
9.5
Trade accounts payable and other accounts payable

Classes of accounts payable and other
accounts payable
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Current trade accounts payable and other accounts payable
                 
                   
Trade accounts payable
    128,145       182,718       109,465  
Lease payables
    297       300       226  
Other accounts payable
    907       1,177       1,111  
Total
    129,349       184,195       110,802  
                         
Non-current trade accounts payable and other accounts payable
                       
                         
Trade accounts payable
    118       -       -  
Lease payables
    105       187       398  
Total
    223       187       398  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
95

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

9.6
Financial liabilities at fair value with changes in income

This balance relates to derivative instruments measured at their fair value, which has generated balances against the Company. The detail by type of instrument is as follows:

Financial liabilities at fair
value with changes in
income
 
3/31/2010
   
Effect on
income as of
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
Effect on
income as of
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                               
Current
                             
Derivative instruments (forwards)
    2,283       (2,283 )     3,993       (3,993 )     5,029  
Derivative instruments (options)
    1,173       (1,173 )     239       (239 )     2,129  
      3,456       (3,456 )     4,232       (4,232 )     7,158  
 
Balances of the column effect on income consider the annual affects of agreements which were in force as of March 31, 2010.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
96

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued
 
9.7
Classes of financial assets and liabilities
 
Description of financial assets
 
3/31/2010
Amount
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
Amount
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
Amount
ThUS$
 
Financial assets designated at fair value with changes in income
    -       -       -  
Financial assets held for negotiation
    -       -       -  
Investments held-to-maturity
    88,370       75,650       21,821  
Loans and accounts receivable
    369,009       330,031       335,557  
Financial assets available for sale
    -       -       -  
Total financial assets
    457,379       405,681       357,378  
 
Description of financial liabilities
 
3/31/2010
Amount
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
Amount
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
Amount
ThUS$
 
Financial liabilities designated at fair value with changes in income
    -       -       -  
Total financial liabilities held for negotiation
    -       -       -  
Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost
    1,261,442       1,490,967       787,065  
Total financial liabilities
    1,261,442       1,490,967       787,065  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
97

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 9 - Financial instruments, continued

9.8
Financial assets collateralized as guarantee

On November 4, 2004, Isapre Norte Grande maintains a guarantee equivalent to the total amount owed to its members and healthcare providers, which is managed and maintained by Banco de Chile.

On October 15, 2009, SQM Brazil delivered a guarantee directly to governmental entities related to legal processes being developed the note of which is issued by BBVA Bancomer S.A.

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, collateralized assets are detailed as follows:

Restricted cash
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
Isapre Norte Grande
           437              446  
SQM Brazil
    -       21  
Total
    437       467  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
98

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 -  Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries

10.1
Information to be disclosed on investments in subsidiaries

 
a)
Operations executed in 2010

On February 2, 2010, the subsidiary SQM Beijing Comercial”, was formed, to which Soquimich Comercial S.A. contributed capital of ThUS$100 obtaining 100% participation in the capital of that entity.

 
b)
Operations executed in 2009

On July 14, 2009, the subsidiary Comercial Agrorama Callegari Limitada was formed, to which Soquimich Comercial S.A. contributed capital of ThUS$1,021 obtaining 70% participation in the capital of that entity

On October 9, 2009, the subsidiary Soquimich European Holdings formed a joint venture with Coromandel Fertilizers Limited called Coromandel SQM; each party contributed capital of ThUS$2,200 for a 50% share

On March 18, 2009, a shareholder agreement was signed to form Sichuan SQM-Migao Chemical Fertilizer Co. Ltda. and the process for the registration and obtaining licenses ended on September 1, 2009.

SQM Industrial S.A. made its first capital contribution of ThUS$3,000 on November 6, 2009 from a total committed of ThUS$10,000 that each party will contribute. These additional contributions will be made during 2010.

On December 17, 2009, Soquimich European Holdings B.V. acquired 51% of SQM Agro India Private Ltda. for ThUS$50. With this acquisition, it now holds 100% of this entity.  The Company conducted the valuation considering the carrying value of equity of SQM Agro India Private Ltda., which does not significantly differ from its fair value determined at that date.

On December 29, 2009, a joint venture agreement was signed with the Roullier Group for the company SQM Dubai-Fzco., decreasing our share from 100% to 50%. On the same date, the company changed its name to SQM Vitas.

We recorded a gain from that transaction of ThUS$3,019, which is presented in Other non-operating income (loss).

The Parent Company controls all the subsidiaries in which it has more than 50% direct or indirect voting rights.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
99

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued

Below, we detail the financial information as of March 31, 2010 of those companies on which the Group exerts significant influence.

3/31/2010
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
         
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of
Incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Ordinary
income
ThUS$
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       488,449       64,133       552,582       481,092       10,750       491,842       25,561       (2,074 )
Proinsa Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.58       202       -       202       -       -       0       -       -  
SQMC Internacional Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6382       271       -       271       -       -       0       -       (1 )
SQM Potasio S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    99.9974       102,082       523,603       625,685       1       209,323       209,324       -       16,352  
Serv. Integrales de Tránsito y Transf. S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       106,056       57,815       163,871       145,466       3,034       148,500       10,548       3,048  
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       506       507       1,013       523       118       641       926       9  
Ajay SQM Chile S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    51       13,317       3,483       16,800       7,282       660       7,942       11,768       99  
Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       370       45       415       -       -       0       -       (2 )
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       423,502       555,275       978,777       335,098       87,725       422,823       145,396       29,373  
Comercial Hydro S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6382       5,952       338       6,290       41       66       107       30       35  
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       903,901       550,138       1,454,039       746,269       36,533       782,802       141,341       39,907  
Minera Nueva Victoria S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       71,083       54,077       125,160       2,017       2,378       4,395       420       1,102  
Exploraciones Mineras S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       403       31,354       31,757       3,625       -       3,625       -       (51 )
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100       501       104       605       169       315       484       451       (12 )
Soquimich Comercial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6383       141,022       13,621       154,643       52,539       883       53,422       20,515       648  
Agrorama Callegari Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    42.4468       2,486       1,244       3,730       2,198       119       2,317       1,066       (99 )
SQM North America Corp.
 
United States
 
US$
    100       114,536       15,552       130,088       99,924       3,644       103,568       54,410       3,467  
RS Agro Chemical Trading A.V.V.
 
Aruba
 
US$
    100       5,232       -       5,232       -       -       0       -       -  
Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda.
 
Brazil
 
US$
    100       1       276       277       4,847       -       4,847       -       32  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
100

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued

3/31/2010
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
         
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of
incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Ordinary
income
ThUS$
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
Nitrate Corporation of Chile Ltd.
 
England
 
US$
    100       5,076       -       5,076       -       -       0       -       -  
SQM Corporation N.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100       669       53,178       53,847       3,709       -       3,709       -       13,769  
SQM Peru S.A.
 
Peru
 
US$
    100       25,897       145       26,042       26,480       -       26,480       5,885       182  
SQM Ecuador S.A.
 
Ecuador
 
US$
    100       5,457       77       5,534       5,197       -       5,197       3,588       25  
SQM Brasil Ltda.
 
Brazil
 
US$
    100       225       54       279       1,089       -       1,089       198       17  
SQI Corporation NV.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100       -       10       10       31       -       31       -       3  
SQM Japan Co. Ltd.
 
Japan
 
US$
    100       1,072       504       1,576       106       325       431       315       (11 )
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P.
 
United States
 
US$
    100       1,339       7,298       8,637       467       -       467       -       (680 )
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Belgium
 
US$
    100       318,286       562       318,848       300,612       -       300,612       182,985       8,391  
SQM Italia SRL
 
Italy
 
US$
    100       1,389       -       1,389       18       -       18       -       -  
SQM Indonesia S.A.
 
Indonesia
 
US$
    80       5       -       5       1       -       1       -       -  
North American Trading Company
 
United States
 
US$
    100       162       145       307       39       -       39       -       -  
SQM Virginia LLC
 
United States
 
US$
    100       14,834       14,379       29,213       14,834       -       14,834       -       (1 )
SQM Comercial de México S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    100       61,241       1,495       62,736       64,058       -       64,058       38,004       (1,941 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
101

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued

3/31/2010
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
         
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of
incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
Current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Ordinary
income
ThUS$
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
SQM investment Corporation N.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100       133,260       778       134,038       110,118       651       110,769       2,987       2,462  
Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V.
 
Aruba
 
US$
    100       148,831       654       149,485       230       155,000       155,230       -       (6,744 )
SQM Lithium Specialties LLP
 
United Stares
 
US$
    100       15,786       3       15,789       1,265       -       1,265       -       (1 )
Soquimich SRL Argentina
 
Argentina
 
US$
    100       548       -       548       116       -       116       -       (14 )
Comercial Cayman International S.A.
 
Panama
 
US$
    100       709       -       709       1,360       -       1,360       -       (83 )
SQM France S.A.
 
France
 
US$
    100       345       6       351       114       -       114       -       -  
Administración y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    100       156       -       156       895       222       1,117       662       (133 )
SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    51       21       1       22       11       -       11       31       4  
Soquimich European Holding B.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100       92,941       72,803       165,744       119,105       -       119,105       -       13,302  
Fertilizantes Naturales S.A.
 
Spain
 
US$
    66.67       19,003       -       19,003       18,118       -       18,118       14,968       304  
Iodine Minera B.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100       8,765       -       8,765       4       -       4       367       (185 )
SQM Africa Pty Ltd.
 
South Africa
 
US$
    100       64,418       185       64,603       61,234       -       61,234       22,123       1,761  
SQM Venezuela S.A.
 
Venezuela
 
US$
    100       91       -       91       399       -       399       -       -  
SQM Oceania Pty Ltd.
 
Australia
 
US$
    100       1,819       -       1,819       1,158       -       1,158       438       (126 )
SQM  Agro India Pvt. Ltd.
 
India
 
US$
    100       291       4       295       213       -       213       -       (16 )
SQM Beijing Comercial
 
China
 
US$
    100       90       -       90       13       -       13       126       (23 )
Total
                    3,302,598       2,023,846       5,326,444       2,612,085       511,746       3,123,831       685,109       122,095  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
102

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued
Below, we detail the financial information as of December 31, 2009 of those companies on which the Group exerts significant influence.
 
12/31/2009
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
         
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of
incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Ordinary
Income
ThUS$
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       455,452       66,481       521,933       447,246       11,889       459,135       167,562       45,824  
Proinsa Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.58       209       1       210       -       -       -       -       4  
SQMC Internacional Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6382       281       -       281       -       -       -       -       5  
SQM Potasio S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    99.9974       100,238       506,474       606,712       1       198,902       198,903       -       100,293  
Serv. Integrales de Tránsito y Transf. S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       93,505       56,361       149,866       135,104       2,156       137,260       28,066       351  
Isapre Norte Grande Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       439       521       960       466       106       572       3,780       17  
Ajay SQM Chile S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    51.00       12,816       3,829       16,645       6,221       1,662       7,883       35,752       722  
Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       383       46       429       1       -       1       -       7  
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       388,416       526,431       914,847       301,143       77,496       378,639       477,878       160,158  
Comercial Hydro S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6382       6,105       361       6,466       44       66       110       69       279  
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       848,339       574,126       1,422,465       728,276       37,142       765,418       629,444       18,825  
Minera Nueva Victoria S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       68,861       55,213       124,074       1,928       2,489       4,417       1,895       3,809  
Exploraciones Mineras S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       403       31,344       31,747       3,565       -       3,565       -       (183 )
Sociedad Prestadora de Servicios de Salud Cruz del Norte S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    100.00       549       110       659       216       335       551       1,658       (44 )
Soquimich Comercial S.A.
 
Chile
 
US$
    60.6383       144,525       16,241       160,766       54,876       1,417       56,293       188,072       2,998  
Agrorama Callegari Ltda.
 
Chile
 
US$
    42.4468       2,130       173       2,303       740       -       740       1,211       (7 )
SQM North America Corp.
 
United States
 
US$
    100.00       137,329       15,540       152,869       126,097       3,644       129,741       191,520       (761 )
RS Agro Chemical Trading A.V.V.
 
Aruba
 
US$
    100.00       5,232       -       5,232       -       -       -       -       (4 )
Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda.
 
Brazil
 
US$
    100.00       6       287       293       4,896       -       4,896       -       (572 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
103

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010

Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued
 
12/31/2009
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
         
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of
incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
Current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Ordinary
Income
ThUS$
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
Nitrate  Corporation of Chile Ltd.
 
England
 
US$
    100.00       5,076       -       5,076       -       -       -       -       -  
SQM Corporation N.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100.00       669       37,138       37,807       3,688       -       3,688       -       954  
SQM Peru S.A.
 
Peru
 
US$
    100.00       29,200       144       29,344       29,965       -       29,965       17,791       (2,583 )
SQM Ecuador S.A.
 
Ecuador
 
US$
    100.00       6,218       81       6,299       5,992       -       5,992       12,960       (183 )
SQM Brasil Ltda.
 
Brazil
 
US$
    100.00       245       77       322       1,149       -       1,149       844       (131 )
SQI Corporation NV.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100.00       -       7       7       31       -       31       -       (2 )
SQM Japan Co. Ltd.
 
Japan
 
US$
    100.00       1,075       509       1,584       103       326       429       1,395       10  
SQMC Holding Corporation L.L.P.
 
United States
 
US$
    100.00       1,443       7,678       9,121       358       -       358       -       1,632  
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Belgium
 
US$
    100.00       274,514       502       275,016       265,171       -       265,171       510,837       6,755  
SQM Italia SRL
 
Italy
 
US$
    100.00       1,485       -       1,485       19       -       19       -       0  
SQM Indonesia S.A.
 
Indonesia
 
US$
    80.00       5       -       5       1       -       1       -       181  
North American Trading Company
 
United States
 
US$
    100.00       162       145       307       39       -       39       -       (1 )
SQM Virginia LLC
 
United States
 
US$
    100.00       14,834       14,380       29,214       14,834       -       14,834       -       (99 )
SQM Comercial de México S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    100.00       60,370       2,128       62,498       61,880       -       61,880       129,083       (10,090 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
104

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 10 - Investments and Information to be Disclosed on Investments in Subsidiaries, continued

12/31/2009
 
                 
Asset
   
Liability
   
Ordinary
   
Net
 
Subsidiary
 
Country of incorporation
 
Functional currency
 
Ownership %
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Current
ThUS$
   
Non-
Current
ThUS$
   
Total
ThUS$
   
Income
ThUS$
Total
   
income
(loss)
ThUS$
 
                                                               
SQM investment Corporation N.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100.00       136,110       797       136,907       115,554       568       116,122       14,746       (21,889 )
Royal Seed Trading Corporation A.V.V.
 
Aruba
 
US$
    100.00       255,328       793       256,121       100,123       155,000       255,123       -       1,777  
SQM Lithium Specialties LLP
 
United States
 
US$
    100.00       15,787       3       15,790       1,264       -       1,264       -       (100 )
Soquimich SRL Argentina
 
Argentina
 
US$
    100.00       564       -       564       118       -       118       -       (14 )
Comercial Cayman International S.A.
 
Panama
 
US$
    100.00       1,345       -       1,345       1,912       -       1,912       1,092       220  
SQM France S.A.
 
France
 
US$
    100.00       345       6       351       114       -       114       -       -  
Administración y Servicios Santiago S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    100.00       20       -       20       664       185       849       2,830       (55 )
SQM Nitratos México S.A. de C.V.
 
Mexico
 
US$
    51.00       19       1       20       13       -       13       110       (14 )
SQM Dubai Fzco.
 
United Arab Emirates
 
US$
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       5,198       -  
Soquimich European Holding B.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100.00       97,854       58,418       156,272       125,168       38       125,206       -       568  
Fertilizantes Naturales S.A.
 
Spain
 
US$
    66.67       16,872       3       16,875       16,293       -       16,293       52,872       (689 )
Iodine Minera B.V.
 
Netherlands Antilles
 
US$
    100.00       8,959       0       8,959       14       -       14       1,330       1,864  
SQM Africa Pty Ltd.
 
South Africa
 
US$
    100.00       61,289       153       61,442       59,834       -       59,834       75,438       (1,181 )
SQM Venezuela S.A.
 
Venezuela
 
US$
    100.00       91       -       91       399       -       399       -       -  
SQM Oceania Pty Ltd.
 
Australia
 
US$
    100.00       2,509       -       2,509       1,934       -       1,934       1,679       429  
SQM  Agro India Pvt. Ltd.
 
India
 
US$
    100.00       242       3       245       284       -       284       -       (213 )
Total
                    3,257,848       1,976,505       5,234,353       2,617,738       493,421       3,111,159       2,555,112       308,867  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
105

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 11 -  Investment in Associated Companies accounted for using the equity method

Investment in Associated Companies accounted for using the equity method

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and as of January 1, 2009, in accordance with criteria established in Note 2.5 and Note 2.14, investment in associated companies accounted for using the equity method and investments in business combinations are as follows:

   
Note
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01 /01/2009
 ThUS$
 
                       
Investments in associated companies
 
11.1 to 11.4
    37,728       35,163       36,934  
Business combination
 
12.0  to 12.4
    21,034       20,022       -  
                             
Total
        58,762       55,185       36,934  
 
11.1 
Assets, liabilities, ordinary income and expenses of associated companies

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
 
   
Asset
   
Liability
                   
Associated company
 
Current
   
Non-Current
   
Current
   
Non-
Current
   
Ordinary
income
   
Ordinary
expenses
   
Net Income
(loss)
 
 Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
    2,349       506       923       -       1,073       (775 )     298  
 Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
    17,498       2,970       7,391       -       9,497       (8,591 )     906  
 Ajay North America
    15,518       7,092       7,716       -       12,737       (12,463 )     274  
 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
    38,519       5,790       26,786       -       13,854       (12,002 )     1,852  
 Nutrisi Holding N.V.
    (99 )     15,925       1,283       -       2,479       (62 )     2,417  
 Ajay Europe SARL
    21,171       2,952       11,451       -       13,247       (12,765 )     482  
 Mirs Specialty Fertilizers
    2,931       3,724       2,821       274       827       (1,005 )     (178 )
 SQM Eastmed Turkey
    715       595       933       228       -       -       -  
 SQM Thailand Co. Ltd.
    5,928       539       2,682       -       286       (227 )     59  
Total
    104,530       40,093       61,986       502       54,000       (47,890 )     6,110  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
106

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 11 Investment in Associated Companies, continued

11.1
Assets, liabilities, ordinary income and expenses of associated companies,
continued

   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
   
Asset
   
Liability
                   
Associated company
 
Current
   
Non-
current
   
Current
   
Non-
current
   
Ordinary
income
   
Ordinary
expenses
   
Net Income
(loss)
 
 Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
    1,850       2       1,195       -       2,362       (2,008 )     354  
 Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries WWL
    14,559       2,746       5,163       -       26,173       (24,626 )     1,547  
 Ajay North America
    12,471       7,046       3,848       -       28,594       (24,497 )     4,097  
 Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
    36,022       6,032       22,545       2,525       58,850       (55,172 )     3,678  
 Nutrisi Holding N.V.
    (552 )     14,913       1,494       -       -       (2,120 )     (2,120 )
 Ajay Europe SARL
    12,830       2,325       4,181       -       20,788       (19,339 )     1,449  
 Mirs Specialty Fertilizers
    2,708       3,858       2,542       275       5,400       (4,518 )     882  
 SQM Eastmed Turkey
    764       636       998       -       793       (804 )     (11 )
 SQM Thailand Co. Ltd.
    6,119       574       2,999       -       9,691       (9,261 )     430  
Total
    86,771       38,132       44,965       2,800       152,651       (142,345 )     12,306  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
107

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 11 - Investment in Associated Companies, continued

11.2 
Detail of investments in associated companies

  The Company’s ownership in its associated companies is detailed as follows:
 
Taxpayer No.
 
Associated company
 
Investment
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
Investment
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
Investment
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
Country of
incorporation
 
Functional
currency
 
Ownership %
 
Main activities of the associated
                                             
77.557.430-5
 
Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
    713       328       473  
Chile
 
Chilean $
    50
 Commercialization of magnesium salts.
Foreign
 
Abu Dhabi Fertilizer Industries Co. W.W.L.
    6,538       6,072       5,278  
Arabia
 
US Dollar
    50 %
 Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients in the Middle East.
Foreign
 
Ajay North America L.L.C
    6,155       6,653       4,892  
United States
 
US Dollar
    49 %
 Production and commercialization of iodine derivatives.
Foreign
 
Doktor Tarsa Tarim Sanayi AS
    8,762       8,492       11,212  
Turkey
 
Euro
    50 %
Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients
Foreign
 
Nutrisi Holding N.V.
    6,976       6,239       6,823  
Belgium
 
Euro
    50 %
 Holding company
Foreign
 
Ajay Europe SARL
    5,191       3,920       4,282  
France
 
Euro
    50 %
Production and distribution of iodine and iodine derivatives
Foreign
 
Mirs Specialty Fertilizers S.A.E.
    1,691       1,780       2,247  
Egypt
 
US Dollar
    47.4857 %
Production and commercialization of specialty liquids for Egypt.
Foreign
 
SQM Agro India PVT Ltda.
    -       -       94  
India
 
US Dollar
    49 %
  Agent and distributor of specialty plant nutrients.
Foreign
 
SQM Eastmed Turkey
    188       201       219  
Turkey
 
Euro
    50 %
 Production and commercialization of specialty products.
Foreign
 
SQM Thailand Co. Ltd.
    1,514       1,478       1,414  
Thailand
 
US Dollar
    40 %
 Distribution and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients.
   
Total
    37,728       35,163       36,934                  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
108

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 11 - Investment in Associated Companies, continued
 
11.3 
Movements in investments in associated companies

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Investments in associated companies accounted for using the equity method, initial balance
    35.163       36.934  
                 
Changes in investments in associated entities:
               
Additions
            (94 )
Participation in ordinary income (loss)
    3.251       4.438  
Dividends received
            (838 )
Other increases (decreases)
    (686 )     (656 )
Total changes in investments in associated entities
            (4.715 )
                 
Investments in associated companies accounted for using the equity method, ending balance
    37.728       35.163  

The Company has no participation in unrecognized losses in investments in associated companies.

The Company has no associated companies not recognized using the equity method,
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
109

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 11 -  Investment in Associated Companies, continued

11.4 Reconciliation of income from associated entities

Item
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Participation in ordinary income (loss) in associated companies
    3,251       4,438  
                 
Effect of differences in depreciation and amortization on adjustments at fair value
    -       -  
Effect of amortization or impairment in the value of goodwill acquired
    -       -  
                 
Total adjustments to reconcile the income (loss) reported by associated companies to the amount reported by the Group total
    -       -  
                 
Participation in ordinary income (loss) in associated companies presented by the Group
    3,251       4,438  

Note 12- Policy and Information to be Disclosed on Participations in Joint Ventures

12.1
Policy for the recognition of joint ventures in financial statements separate from a controlling entity

The method for the recognition of joint ventures in which participation initially is recorded at cost and subsequently adjusted considering changes after the acquisition in the portion of the entity’s net assets of the entity which correspond to the investor.  Net income for the period of the investor will collect the portion which belongs to it in the results of the controlled entity as a whole.
 
12.2
Information to be disclosed on participation in joint ventures

 
a)
Operations conducted in 2010

On March 4, 2010, SQM Industrial signed an agreement with Qingdao Star Plant Proteccion Technology Co., Ltd., through which the companies formed a joint venture SQM Qingdao-Star Co, Ltd. Each party contributed capital amounting of ThUS$2,000 for share of 50%.

 
b)
Operations conducted in 2009

On October 9, 2009, the subsidiary Soquimich European Holdings formed a joint venture with Coromandel Fertilizers Limited called Coromandel SQM; each party contributed capital of ThUS$2,200 for share of 50%.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
110

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 12 - Policy and Information to be Disclosed on Participations in Joint Ventures, continued
 
On March 18, 2009, a shareholder agreement was signed to form Sichuan SQM-Migao Chemical Fertilizer Co. Ltda. and the process for the registration and obtaining licenses ended on September 1, 2009.

SQM Industrial S.A. made its first capital contribution of ThUS$3,000 on November 6, 2009 from a total committed of ThUS$10,000 that each party will contribute. These additional contributions will be made during 2010.
 
On December 29, 2009, a joint venture agreement was signed with the Roullier Group for the company SQM Dubai-Fzco., decreasing our share from 100% to 50%. On the same date, the company changed its name to SQM Vitas.
 
We recorded a gain from that transaction of ThUS$3,019, which is presented in Other non-operating income.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
111

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 12 - Policy and Information to be disclosed on Participations in Joint Ventures, continued
 
12.3
Detail of assets, liabilities and income or loss on investments in significant joint ventures by company as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively:
 
             
3/31/2010
ThUS$
 
             
Addition of assets
   
Addition of liabilities
                   
Name of significant joint venture
 
Country of
Incorporation
 
Ownership
percentage
   
Current
   
Non-
current
   
Current
   
Non
Current
   
Ordinary
income
   
Ordinary
expenses
   
Net Income
(loss)
 
Coromandel SQM
 
India
    50 %     683       268       109       -       -       (26 )     (26 )
SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda.
 
China
    50 %     6,113       2,639       295       -       7       (18 )     (11 )
SQM Vitas
 
United Arab Emirates
    50 %     25,883       5,540       (1,869 )     -       3,155       (2,869 )     286  
SQM Quindao-Star Co. Ltda.
 
China
    50 %     995       5       17       -       -       (17 )     (17 )
Total
                33,674       8,452       (1,448 )     -       3,162       (2,930 )     232  
 
             
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Addition of assets
   
Addition of liabilities
                   
Name of significant joint venture
 
Country of Incorporation
 
Ownership
percentage
   
Current
   
Non-
current
   
Current
   
Non
Current
   
Ordinary
income
   
Ordinary
expenses
   
Net Income
(loss)
 
Coromandel SQM
 
India
    50 %     -       1,060       -       -       -       -       -  
SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizers Co Ltda.
 
China
    50 %     6,414       2,146       92       -       -       (33 )     (33 )
SQM Vitas
 
United Arab Emirates
    50 %     25,913       5,543       (1,551 )     -       1,893       (1,821 )     72  
Total
                32,327       8,749       (1,459 )     -       1,893       (1,854 )     39  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
112

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
12.4
Detail of Gain (Loss) Net of Investments in Significant Joint Ventures by Company:

Taxpayer No.
 
Associated company
name
 
Investment
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
Investment
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
Investment
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
Country of incorporation
 
Functional
currency 
 
Ownership %
 
Main activities of the associated
                                     
Foreign
 
 Coromandel SQM
    421       530       -  
India
 
US$
    50 %
 Production and distribution of potassium nitrate.
Foreign
 
 SQM Migao Chemical Fertilizer
    2,985       2,988       -  
China
 
US$
    50 %
 Production and distribution of soluble fertilizers.
Foreign
 
SQM Vitas
    16,645       16,504       -  
United Arab Emirates
 
United Arab Emirates Dirham
    50 %
 Production and commercialization of specialty plant and animal nutrition and industrial hygiene.
Foreign
 
SQM Quindao-Star Co. Ltda.
    983       -       -  
China
 
US$
    50 %
Production and distribution of nutrient plant solutions with specialties NPK soluble.
   
Total
    21,034       20,022       -                  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
113

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 13 - Intangible assets and Goodwill

13.1 Balances

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Balances
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Intangible assets
    3,103       2,836       3,525  
Goodwill
    38,388       38,388       38,388  
                         
Total
    41,491       41,224       41,913  

13.2 
Information to be disclosed on intangible assets

Intangible assets relate to goodwill, water rights, trademarks, industrial patents, rights of way and IT programs.

Balances and movements in the main classes of intangible assets as of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009 are detailed as follows:

       
3/31/2010
 
Description of classes of
intangible assets
 
Useful life
 
Gross
amount
ThUS$
   
Accumulated
amortization
ThUS$
   
Net Amount
ThUS$
 
                       
Goodwill
 
Indefinite
    39,961       (1,573 )     38,388  
Water rights
 
Indefinite
    3,627       (2,079 )     1,548  
Rights of way
 
Indefinite
    548       (152 )     396  
Industrial patents
 
Finite
    1,197       (645 )     552  
Trademarks
 
Finite
    3,984       (3,886 )     98  
IT programs
 
Finite
    1,071       (562 )     509  
                             
Total
        50,388       (8,897 )     41,491  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
114

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 13 - Intangible assets and Goodwill, continue
 
13.2 Information to be disclosed on intangible assets, continue

       
12/31/2009
 
Description of classes of
intangible assets
 
Useful life
 
Gross
amount
ThUS$
   
Accumulated
amortization
ThUS$
   
Net amount
ThUS$
 
                       
Goodwill
 
Indefinite
    39,961       (1,573 )     38,388  
Water rights
 
Indefinite
    3,539       (1,990 )     1,549  
Rights of way
 
Indefinite
    547       (152 )     395  
Industrial patents
 
Finite
    1,204       (634 )     570  
Trademarks
 
Finite
    3,989       (3,989 )     -  
IT programs
 
Finite
    825       (503 )     322  
                             
Total
        50,065       (8,841 )     41,224  

       
01/01/2009
 
Description of classes of
intangible assets
 
Useful life
 
Gross
amount
ThUS$
   
Accumulated
amortization
ThUS$
MUS$
   
Net amount
ThUS$
 
                       
Goodwill
 
Indefinite
    39,961       (1,573 )     38,388  
Water rights
 
Indefinite
    3,488       (1,591 )     1,897  
Rights of way
 
Indefinite
    547       (138 )     409  
Industrial patents
 
Finite
    1,204       (554 )     650  
Trademarks
 
Finite
    3,989       (3,830 )     159  
IT programs
 
Finite
    701       (291 )     410  
                             
Total
        49,890       (7,977 )     41,913  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
115

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 13 - Intangible assets and Goodwill, continue
 
a)
Estimated useful lives or amortization rates used for finite identifiable intangible assets
 
Finite useful life, measures the lifetime or the number of productive units or other similar which constitute its useful life.

The estimated useful life for software is 3 years for other finite useful life assets, the period in which they are amortized relate to periods defined by contracts or rights which generate them.
 
Indefinite useful life intangible assets mainly relate to water rights and rights of way, which were obtained as indefinite.

b)
Method used to express the amortization of identifiable intangible assets (life or rate)
 
The method used to express the amortization is useful life.
 
c)
Minimum and maximum amortization lives or rates of intangible assets:
 
Estimated useful lives or amortization rate
 
Minimum life or rate
 
Maximum life or rate
 
           
Water rights
 
Indefinite
 
Indefinite
 
Rights of way
 
1 year
 
20 years
 
Industrial patents
 
1 year
 
16 years
 
Trademarks
 
1 year
 
5 years
 
IT programs
 
2   years
 
3 years
 
 
d)
Information to be disclosed on assets generated internally
 
The Company has no intangible assets generated internally.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
116

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 13 - Intangible assets and Goodwill, continue
 
e)
Movements in identifiable intangible assets as of March 31, 2010
 
Movements in identifiable intangible assets
 
Net
goodwill
ThUS$
   
Water
rights, net 
ThUS$
   
Rights of way,
net
ThUS$
   
Industrial
patents, net
ThUS$
   
Trademarks,
net
ThUS$
   
Computer
software, net
ThUS$
   
Identifiable 
Intangible
assets, net 
ThUS$
 
                                           
Opening balance
    38,388       1,549       395       570       -       322       41,224  
                                                         
Additions
    -       37       -       -       99       246       382  
Amortization
    -       (38 )     -       (18 )     -       (59 )     (115 )
                                                         
Ending balance
    38,388       1,548       395       552       99       509       41,491  
 
f)
Movements in identifiable intangible assets as of December 31, 2009
 
Movements in identifiable intangible assets
 
Net
goodwill
ThUS$
   
Water
rights, net 
ThUS$
   
Rights of way,
net
ThUS$
   
Industrial
patents, net
ThUS$
   
Trademarks,
net
ThUS$
   
Computer
software, net
ThUS$
   
Identifiable 
Intangible
assets, net 
ThUS$
 
                                           
Opening balance
    38,388       1,897       409       650       159       410       41,913  
                                                         
Additions
    -       51       -       -       -       124       175  
Amortization
    -       (399 )     (14 )     (80 )     (159 )     (212 )     (864 )
                                                         
Ending balance
    38,388       1,549       395       570       -       322       41,224  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
117

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 14 - Property, Plant and Equipment

As of December 31, 2009, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the detail of property, plant and equipment is as follows:

14.1
Classes of property, plant and equipment

Description of classes of property, plant and equipment
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Property, plant and equipment, net
                 
                   
Construction-in-progress
    415,014       379,416       234,757  
Land
    108,401       108,356       106,800  
Buildings
    83,769       86,252       66,813  
Plant and equipment
    433,760       453,859       461,277  
IT equipment
    3,526       3,853       3,526  
Fixed facilities and accessories
    187,087       193,893       152,176  
Motor vehicles
    52,746       55,341       41,309  
Other property, plant and equipment
    18,832       19,576       9,873  
Total
    1,303,135       1,300,546       1,076,531  
Property, plant and equipment, gross
                       
                         
Construction-in-progress
    415,014       379,416       234,757  
Land
    108,401       108,356       106,800  
Buildings
    212,790       212,751       184,061  
Plant and equipment
    1,091,218       1,090,769       1,012,711  
IT equipment
    21,595       21,573       19,540  
Fixed facilities and accessories
    368,477       368,419       304,360  
Motor vehicles
    154,879       154,887       130,154  
Other property, plant and equipment
    38,052       37,962       32,410  
Total
    2,410,426       2,374,133       2,024,793  
                         
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of property, plant and equipment
                       
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment  of buildings
    129,021       126,499       117,248  
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of plant and equipment
    657,458       636,910       551,434  
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of  IT equipment
    18,069       17,720       16,014  
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of fixed facilities and accessories
    181,390       174,526       152,184  
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment of motor vehicles
    102,133       99,546       88,845  
Accumulated depreciation and value impairment  of other
    19,220       18,386       22,537  
Total
    1,107,291       1,073,587       948,262  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
118

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 14 - Property, Plant and Equipment, continued

14.2
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by class as of March 31, 2010:

Reconciliation entries of
changes in property, plant
and equipment by class as
of March 31, 2010
 
Construction
in-progress
   
Land
   
Buildings,
net
   
Plant and
equipment,
net
   
IT equipment,
net
   
Fixed facilities
and
accessories,
net
   
Motor
vehicles,
net
   
Improvement
of lease fixed
assets, net
   
Other property,
plant and
equipment, net
   
Property, plant
and
equipment, net
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                                                             
Opening balance
    379,416       108,356       86,252       453,859       3,853       193,893       55,341       -       19,576       1,300,546  
                                                                                 
Changes
                                                                               
Additions
    75,031       -       -       62       22       -       -       -       6       75,121  
Divestitures
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Depreciation expense
    -       -       (2,521 )     (20,445 )     (349 )     (6,829 )     (2,577 )     -       (823 )     (33,544 )
Increase (Decrease) in foreign currency exchange
    -       -       -       7       -       23       (5 )     -       3       28  
Other increases (Decreases)
    (39,433 )     45       38       277       -       -       (13 )     -       70       (39,016 )
                                                                                 
Total Changes
    35,598       45       (2,483 )     (20,099 )     (327 )     (6,806 )     (2,595 )     -       (744 )     2,589  
                                                                                           
Ending balance
    415,014       108,401       83,769       433,760       3,526       187,087       52,746       -       18,832       1,303,135  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
119

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 14 - Property, Plant and Equipment, continued

14.2
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment by class as of December 31, 2009, continued:

Reconciliation entries of changes in
property, plant and equipment by
class as of December 31, 2009
 
Construction
in-progress
   
Land
   
Buildings,
net
   
Plant and
equipment,
net
   
IT equipment,
net
   
Fixed
facilities and
accessories,
net
   
Motor
vehicles,
net
   
Improvement
of lease
fixed assets,
net
   
Other
property,
plant and
equipment,
net
   
Property, plant
and equipment,
net
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                                                             
Opening balance
    234,757       106,800       66,813       461,277       3,526       152,176       41,309       -       9,873       1,076,531  
                                                                                 
Changes
                                                                               
Additions
    394,180       1,560       -       306       148       9       233       -       128       396,564  
Divestitures
    (4,405 )     -       (324 )     (1,172 )     (9 )     (108 )     (6 )     -       (134 )     (6,158 )
Depreciation expense
    -       -       (8,459 )     (90,446 )     (1,585 )     (22,426 )     (10,480 )     -       (3,014 )     (136,410 )
Increase (Decrease) in foreign currency exchange
    -       -       3       54       -       -       1       -       3       61  
Other increases (Decreases)
    (245,116 )     (4 )     28,219       83,840       1,773       64,242       24,284       -       12,720       (30,042 )
                                                                                 
Total changes
    144,659       1,556       19,439       (7,418 )     327       41,717       14,032       -       9,703       224,015  
                                                                                           
Ending balance
    379,416       108,356       86,252       453,859       3,853       193,893       55,341       -       19,576       1,300,546  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
120

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 14 - Property, Plant and Equipment, continued

14.3
Detail of property, plant and equipment collateralized as guarantee

There are no restrictions in title or guarantees for the compliance with obligations which affect property, plant and equipment.

14.3
Additional Information

 
1)
Assets recognized at fair value
 
As part of the process for the first-time adoption of IFRS, the Company opted to measure certain assets at fair value as attributed cost at the transition date of January 1, 2009.  These amounts were determined by an external specialist. The revaluation of assets implied an adjustment against retained earnings as of January 1, 2009 of ThUS$52,755. The adjusted balance of property, plant and equipment assets is detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/209
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Land
    1,332       1,332       1,332  
Buildings, net
    2,210       2,241       2,426  
Plant and equipment, net
    38,746       42,335       53,576  
IT equipment, net
    1       1       1  
Fixed facilities and accessories, net
    1,799       1,840       2,031  
Other property, plant and equipment, gross
    882       918       1,091  
Total
    44,970       48,667       60,457  
 
 
2)
Lease fixed assets
 
Investment properties include lease assets.  The detail is as follows:
 
   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Description of assets
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
2 floors of the Las Americas Building, net
    1,397       1,405       1,436  
Total (net)
    1397       1,405       1,436  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
121

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 14 - Property, Plant and Equipment, continued
 
 
3)
Interest capitalized in construction-in-progress

The amount capitalized for this concept amounted to ThUS$ 5,756 as of March 31, 2010 (ThUS$3,132 as of March 31, 2009) and ThUS$ 19,231 as of December 31, 2009

Financing costs are not capitalized for periods which exceed the normal term of acquisition, construction or installation of the asset, such as the case of delays, interruptions or temporary suspension of the project due to technical, financial or other issues, which prevent that the asset is maintained in good conditions for its use.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
122

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note  15 -  Leases

 
15.1
Information to be disclosed on financial lease, lessee

The asset acquired under the financial lease agreement method relates to a contract which SQM S.A. has with Inversiones La Esperanza S.A. which began in June 1992 and ends on June 31, 2011. The agreement entered indicates 230 installments with a sum of UF 663.75 each with an annual interest rate of 8.5%.
 
The Company maintains financial lease arrangements as lessee for which there are no contingent installments or restrictions which should be reported.

The net amount as of December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009 is ThUS$1,405 and ThUS$1,436, respectively,
The net amount in book value as of March 31, 2010 amounted to ThUS$1,397 and as of December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009 amounted to ThUS$ 1,405 and ThUS$ 1,436, respectively.
 
 
15.2
Investment properties under financial lease:
 
Description of total investment properties under financial lease,
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
net:
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Financial lease, Las Americas Building
    1,397       1,405       1,436  
                         
Total
    1,397       1,405       1,436  
 
 
15.3
Reconciliation of minimum payments of the financial lease, lessee:
 
The reconciliation between the total gross investment and the present value is as follows:
 
Minimum
payments 
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
to be
made
 
Gross
investment
   
Deferred
interest
   
Present
value
   
Gross
investment
   
Deferred
interest
   
Present
value
   
Gross
investment
   
Deferred
interest
   
Present
value
 
Not exceeding one year
    319       (22 )     297       329       (29 )     300       268       (43 )     225  
Between 1 and 5 years
    106       (2 )     104       192       (5 )     187       425       (28 )     397  
Total
    425       (24 )     401       521       (34 )     487       693       (71 )     622  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
123

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits

16.1
Accrued liabilities

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Classes of benefits and expenses by employee
 
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Current
                 
Profit sharing and bonuses
    12,938       16,375       22,112  
Total
    12,938       16,375       22,112  
                         
Current
                       
Profit sharing and bonuses
    20,982       20,082       12,000  
Severance indemnities
    25,296       28,682       20,186  
Pension Plan
    1,709       1,709       2,873  
                         
Total
    47,987       50,473       35,059  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
124

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits, continued

16.2
Defined benefit plan policy

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 leaves and other leaves, 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.

Staff severance indemnities

The Company only provides compensation and benefits to active employees.

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 net income at the end of each period applying a factor obtained subsequent to the employee appraisal process.

The bonus provided to the Company’s directors is calculated based on net income at each year-end and will consider the application of a percentage factor.

The benefit relates to vacations (short-term benefits to employees), which is provided in the Labor Code which indicates that employees with more than a year of service will be entitled to annual holidays for a period not lower than fifteen paid business days. The Company provides the benefit of two additional vacation days.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
125

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits, continued

Staff severance indemnities are agreed and payable based on the last salary for each year of service for the Company or with certain maximum limits in respect to the number of years to be considered or in respect to monetary terms. In general, this benefit is payable when the employee or worker ceases to provide his/her services to the Company and the right for its collection can be acquired because of different causes, 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 14, 2002 required “Compulsory Unemployment Insurance” in favor of all depending employees regulated by the Chilean Labor Code.  Article 5 of this law provided the financing of this insurance through monthly contribution payments by both the employee and the employer.

All benefits provided by the company are current. Certain benefits such as vacation and severance indemnities are long-term benefits which are accumulative. These relate to services provided in which there are future disbursements which will be subsequent to twelve months

16.3
Other Long-term Benefits

The other long-term benefits relate to staff severance indemnities and are recorded at their actuarial value.

Staff severance indemnities at actuarial value
 
3/31/2009
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
Staff severance indemnities, Chile
    24,751       28,170       19,478  
Other obligations in companies elsewhere
    545       512       708  
Total other non-current liabilities
    25,296       28,682       20,186  
                         
SQM North America’s pensions plan
    1,709       1,709       2,873  
Total post employment obligations
    1,709       1,709       2,873  

Staff severance indemnities have been calculated under the actuarial assessment method of the Company’s obligations with respect to staff severance indemnities, which relate to defined benefit plans which consist 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.

The methodology followed to determine the accrual for all the employees adhered to agreements considers turnover and salary increase rates according to the valuation method referred to as Accumulated Benefit Valuation or Accrued Cost of the Benefit Method. This methodology is established in IAS 19.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
126

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits, continued

About the characteristics of the indemnity fund

Under this benefit plan, the Company retains the obligation for the payment of staff severance indemnities related to retirements 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 6%.

Benefit payment conditions

The staff severance indemnity benefit relates to remuneration days for year worked for the Company with no limit of salary or years of services for the Company, when employees cease to work for the Company due to turnover or death.  In this case, the maximum age for men is 65 years and 60 years old for women, which are the usual ages for retirement due to achieving the senior citizen age according to the Chilean pensions system provided in Decree Law 3,500 of 1980.

Methodology

The determination of the obligation for benefits under IAS 19, Projected Benefit Obligation (PBO) is described as follows:

To determine the Company's total liability, we used a mathematical simulation model which was programmed using a computer and which processed the situation of each employee on an individual basis.

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. Thus, information on each person was simulated from the beginning of the life of his/her employment contract or when he/she started earning benefits up to the month in which it reaches the 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 indemnity related to retirement due to old age.

The methodology followed to determine the accrual for all the employees adhered to agreements has considered turnover rates and the mortality rate RV-2004 established by the Chilean Superintendence of Securities and Insurance 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 Retirement Benefit Costs.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
127

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits, continued

16.4
Employee Post Retirement Obligations

Our subsidiary, SQM North America has established with its employees certain pension plans for retired employees, which are calculated measuring the expected future forecasted 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 an interest rate of 6.5%. The net balance of this liability is presented under Other Accrued Liabilities.

The table below establishes the status of the plan financing and the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet:

   
2010
   
2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Variation in the benefit liability:
           
Benefit liability at the beginning of year
    6,631       6,631  
Cost of service
    1       1  
Interest cost
    423       423  
Actuarial loss
    33       33  
Benefits paid
    (297 )     (297 )
Benefit liability at year-end
    6,791       6,791  
                 
Change in the plan’s assets:
               
Fair value of the plan’s assets at beginning of year
    3,758       3,758  
Contributions by the employer
    448       448  
Actual return (loss) on plan assets
    1,173       1,173  
Benefits paid
    (297 )     (297 )
Fair value of the plan assets’ at year-end
    5,082       5,082  
                 
Status of financing
    (1,709 )     (1,709 )
Items not yet recognized as net regular provisional cost elements:
               
Net actuarial loss at the beginning of year
    (4,186 )     (4,186 )
Amortization during the period
    198       198  
Net gain or loss during the period
    857       857  
Adjustment made to recognize the minimum pension-related liability
    (3,131 )     (3,131 )
Accrued pension-related (liability) / prepaid pension-related cost
    (1,709 )     (1,709 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
128

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 16 Accrued Liabilities and Employee Benefits, continued

16.5
Employee Post Retirement Obligations, continued

As of March 31, 2010, the net regular pension-related expense was composed of the following elements:

   
2010
 
   
ThUS$
 
       
Costs or benefits of services earned during the period
    1  
Cost of interest in benefit liability
    423  
Actual return in plan’s assets
    (1,173 )
Amortization of loss from prior periods
    198  
Net gain for the period
    889  
Net regular pension-related expense
    338  
 
As of March 31, 2010, distributions of the plan assets by category are detailed as follows:
 
   
2010
 
       
Growth amounts
    59 %
International amounts
    25 %
Growth and income amounts
    -  
Taxable bonus
    14 %
Treasury amounts
    0 %
Money market funds
    2 %
      100 %
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
129

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 17 - Information to be disclosed on net shareholders’ equity

The detail and movements in the funds of net shareholders’ equity accounts are shown in the Consolidated statement of changes in net shareholders’ equity.

17.1
Information to be disclosed on issued share capital

Issued share capital is divided into 263,196,524 fully paid and subscribed shares with no par value composed of a Series "A" with142,819,552 shares and Series “B” shares with 120,376,972 shares, where both series are preferred shares.

17.2
Information to be disclosed on capital in preferred shares

The preferential voting rights of each series are as follows:

Series “A”:
If the election of the President of the Company results in a tied vote, the Company's directors may vote once again, without the vote of the director elected by the Series B shareholders

Series “B”:
 
1)
A general or extraordinary shareholders' meeting may be called at the request of shareholders representing 5% of the Company's Series B shares.
 
2)
An extraordinary meeting of the Board of Directors may be called with or without the agreement of the Company's President, at the request of the director elected by Series B shareholders.

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the Group does not maintain any dominant company's shares either directly or through investees.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
130

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 17 - Information to be disclosed on net shareholders’ equity, continued

Detail of classes of capital in preferred shares:

Class of capital in preferred shares
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Description of class of capital in preferred shares
 
A Series
   
B Series
   
A Series
   
B Series
   
A Series
   
B Series
 
Number of authorized shares
    142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972  
Par value of shares in ThUS$
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Capital amount in shares ThUS$
    134,750       342,636       134,750       342,636       134,750       342,636  
Amount of premium issuance ThUS$
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Amount of reserves ThUS$
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Number of fully subscribed and paid shares
    142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972  
Number of subscribed, partially paid shares
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
Total number of subscribed shares
    142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972       142,819,552       120,376,972  

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the Company has not placed any new issuances of shares in the market..

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
131

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 17 - Information to be disclosed on net shareholders’ equity, continued

17.3
Dividend policy

As required by 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 net income for year ended as of December 31, 2009 unless and except to the extent it has a deficit in retained earnings (losses not absorbed in prior years.)

The Company’s dividend policy for 2010 is as follows:

 
-
Distribution and payment in favor of each shareholder of a final dividend which will be equivalent to 50% of net income obtained in 2010.
 
 
-
Distribution and payment, if possible during 2010, of a provisional dividend which will be recorded against the aforementioned final dividend. This provisional dividend will be paid probably during the last quarter of 2010 and its amount could not exceed 50% of the retained earnings for distribution obtained during 2010, which are reflected in the Company’s financial statements as of September 30, 2010.
 
 
-
The distribution and payment by the Company of the remaining balance of the final dividend related to net income for the 2010 commercial year in up to two installments, which will have to be effectively paid and distributed prior to June 30, 2011.
 
 
-
An amount equivalent to the remaining 50% of the Company’s net income for 2010 will be retained and destined to the financing of operations of one or more of the Company’s investment projects with no prejudice of the possible future capitalization of the entirety or a portion of this.
 
-
The Board of Directors does not consider the payment of any additional or interim dividends.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
132

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 17 - Information to be disclosed on net shareholders’ equity, continued

17.4
Provisional Dividends
 
At a Board of Directors meeting held on November 17, 2009, the Directors agreed to pay and distribute an interim dividend of US$0.37994 per share. This dividend totals approximately ThUS$100,000 and is equivalent to 40% of distributable net income for 2009, accumulated as of September 30, 2009. This dividend is payable with a charge to net income for that commercial year to SQM shareholders registered in the respective shareholders’ registry as of the fifth business day prior to December 16, 2009, in its equivalent in Chilean pesos, based on the observed dollar exchange rate as published in the Official Gazette of December 10, 2009.
 
Note 18 – Accrued Expenses and Other non-financial Liabilities

18.1
Classes of Accruals

Description of classes of accrued expenses
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Current accrued expenses
                 
                   
Provision for legal complaints
    590       590       715  
Other accrued expenses
    18,037       17,632       8,836  
Total
    18,627       18,222       9,551  
                         
Non-current accrued expenses
                       
                         
Other accrued expenses
    3,500       3,500       3,181  
Total
    3,500       3,500       3,181  

Provisions for legal complaints relate to legal expenses the resolution of which is pending in the lawsuit to make the disbursement for expenses incurred for this purpose.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
133

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 18 – Accrued Expenses and Other non-financial Liabilities, continued
 
18.2
Description of other accrued expenses
 
Description of other accrued
expenses
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
21/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
Current accrued expenses, other accrued expenses
                 
Provision for tax loss in fiscal litigation
    1,529       1,564       1,284  
royalties, agreement with CORFO (the Chilean Economic Development Agency)
    4,654       3,752       5,256  
Temporary closure of El Toco operation
    6,298       6,500       -  
Retirement plan
    3,700       2,500       -  
Miscellaneous accruals
    1,856       3,316       2,296  
Total
    18,037       17,632       8,836  
Other non-current accrued expenses
                       
Mine closure
    3,500       3,500       3,181  
Total
    3,500       3,500       3,181  
 
18.3
Other liabilities:
 
Description of other liabilities
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
21/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Tax withholdings
    3,174       6,043       594  
VAT payable
    2,334       4,733       5,322  
Guarantees received
    2,600       1,016       2,511  
Provision for minimum dividend
    1,105       -       50,422  
Monthly Tax Provisional Payments
    9,765       5,071       10,345  
Deferred income
    19,769       16,537       31,722  
Withholdings from employees and salaries payable
    7,394       4,858       4,199  
Vacation accrual
    10,966       13,897       10,518  
Other current liabilities
    117       50       49  
Total
    57,224       52,205       115,682  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
134

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 18 – Accrued Expenses and Other non-financial Liabilities, continued

18.4
Movements in accrued expenses as of March 31, 2010

Description of items which gave rise to
variations
 
Guarantee
   
Restructuring
   
Legal complaints
   
Expensive
contracts
   
Restoration and
rehabilitation
dismantling costs
   
Other accruals
   
Total
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Total accrued expenses, initial balance
    -       -       590       -       -       46,285       46,875  
Changes in accruals:
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Additional accruals
    -       -       -       -       -       13,053       13,053  
Increase (decrease) in existing accruals
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Acquisition through business combinations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Divestitures through business disposals
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Provision used
    -       -       -       -       -       (16,783 )     (16,783 )
Reversal of unused provision
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase due to adjustment in value of money throughout time
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase (decrease) in discount rate
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation
    -       -       -       -       -       (36 )     (36 )
Other increases (decreases)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
      -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Total accrued expenses, final balance
    -       -       590       -       -       42,519       43,109  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
135

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 18 – Accrued Expenses and Other non-financial Liabilities, continued

18.5
Movements in accrued expenses as of December 31, 2009

Description of items which gave rise to
variations
 
Guarantee
   
Restructuring
   
Legal complaints
   
Expensive
contracts
   
Restoration and
rehabilitation
dismantling costs
   
Other accruals
   
Total
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Total accrued expenses, initial balance
    -       -       715       -       -       34,362       35,077  
Changes in accruals:
                                                       
Additional accruals
    -       -       200       -       -       29,537       29,737  
Increase (decrease) in existing accruals
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Acquisition through business combinations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Divestitures through business disposals
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Provision used
    -       -       (325 )     -       -       (17,243 )     (17,568 )
Reversal of unused provision
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase due to adjustment in value of money throughout time
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase (decrease) in discount rate
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Increase (decrease) in foreign currency translation
    -       -       -       -       -       (371 )     (371 )
Other increases (decreases)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                         
Total accrued expenses, final balance
    -       -       590       -       -       46,285       46,875  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
136

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 18 – Accrued Expenses and Other non-financial Liabilities, continued

18.6
Detail of main classes of accruals

Legal expenses: this provision depends on the pending resolution of a lawsuit to conduct the disbursement for expenses associated with and incurred for this purpose.

Tax accrual in tax litigation: this accrual relates to lawsuits pending resolution related to taxes in Brazil for two of our subsidiaries, SQM Brazil and NNC.

Monthly tax provisional payments: a provision for monthly tax provisional payments is calculated based on sales of SQM and its subsidiaries.

It is paid on the 12th day of the month following in the income tax return.

Royalties CORFO (Economic Development Agency) agreement: relates to the exploitation of mining properties which SQM Salar S.A. pays on a quarterly basis to the Economic Development Agency.  The amount of the lease payable is calculated based on sales of products extracted from the Atacama Saltpeter deposit.

The settlement of these will be performed on a quarterly basis.

Temporary closure of El Toco operation: The Company’s Board of Directors unanimously agreed to approve the temporary closure of Toco and Pampa Blanca mining sectors.  The Company accrued the legal severance indemnity for the employees subject to this closure. Additional benefits which will be paid to employees will correspond to 2010 expenses.

Retirement plan: corresponds to a benefit agreed with employees to retire from the Company.  Those employees who invoked the agreed plan signed their consent as of December 31, 2009 and the effective retirement date will be the first quarter of 2010.

Through the present date, SQM and its subsidiaries do not present any uncertainty on the timing and amount of a class of accrual.

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
137

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions

The Company maintains lawsuits or other relevant legal actions which are detailed as follows:

19.1
Lawsuits or other relevant events

1.
Plaintiff
: Compañía de Salitre y Yodo Soledad S.A.
 
Defendant
: Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A.
 
Date of lawsuit
: December 1994
 
Court
: Civil Court of Pozo Almonte
 
Cause
: Partial annulment of mining property, Cesard 1 to 29
 
Instance
: Evidence provided
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$21 1
     
2.
Plaintiff
: Compañía Productora de Yodo y Sales S.A.
 
Defendant
: Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A
 
Date of lawsuit
: November 1999
 
Court
: Civil Court of Pozo Almonte
 
Cause
: Partial annulment of mining property, Paz II1 to 25
 
Instance
: Evidence provided
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$162
     
3.
Plaintiff
: Compañía Productora de Yodo y Sales S.A.
 
Defendant
: Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A.
 
Date of lawsuit
: November 1999
 
Court
: Civil Court of Pozo Almonte
 
Cause
: Partial annulment of mining property, Paz III 1 to 25
 
Instance
: Evidence provided
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$204
     
4.
Plaintiff
: Angélica Allende and their sons Iván Molina and Cristóbal Molina
 
Defendant
: Ingeniería, Construcción y Servicios SMR Limitada and jointly and severally SQM Nitratos S.A. and its insurance companies.
 
Date of lawsuit
: May 2008
 
Court
: Arbitration Court of Antofagasta
 
Cause
: Work accident
 
Instance
: Evidence
 
Nominal amount
:ThUS$670
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
138

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions, continued
 
  
19.1
Lawsuits or other relevant events, continued

5.
Plaintiff
: Nancy Erika Urra Muñoz
 
Defendant
: Fresia Flores Zamorano, Duratec-Vinilit S.A. and SQM S.A. and Its insurance companies.
 
Date of lawsuit
: December 2008
 
Court
: 1st Civil Court of Santiago
 
Cause
: Work accident
 
Instance
: Response
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$550
     
6.
Plaintiff
: Agraria Santa Aldina Limitada
 
Defendant
: SQM Peru S.A.
 
Date of lawsuit
: June 2009
 
Court
: Civil Court of Pisco - Peru
 
Cause
: Seek compensation for damages for alleged breach of the terms and conditions of product distribution contract
 
Instance
: Response
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$6,000
     
7.
Plaintiff
: Eduardo Fajardo Núñez, Ana María Canales Poblete, Raquel Beltrán Parra, Eduardo Fajardo Beltrán y Martina Fajardo Beltrán
 
Defendant
: SQM Salar S.A. and us insurers.
 
Date of lawsuit
: November 2009
 
Court
: 20th Civil Court of Santiago
 
Cause
: Work accident
 
Instance
: Demand response.
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$1,880
     
8.
Plaintiff
: María Elena Dorantes and their daughters
 
Defendant
: SQM North America Corp. (SQM)
 
Date of lawsuit
: October-November 2009
 
Court
: High Court of Justice of San Francisco, California, USA
 
Cause
: Indemnity claim presented against SQM and other
   
17 companies as a result of the alleged responsibility for the death of Mr. Victorino Dorantes which, in the opinion of the plaintiff, would have occurred after inhaling, ingesting or absorbing certain products, which the defendants provided to the employers of Mr. Dorantes for commercialization
 
Instance
: Defense plea
 
Nominal amount
: Undetermined amount
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
139

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions, continued

Lawsuits or other relevant events, continued

9.
Plaintiff
: Marcelo Figueroa Zenteno
 
Defendant
: Excon Construcción Limitada and SQM S.A. and its insurance companies
 
Date of lawsuit
: April 2010
 
Court
: 1st Labor Court of Santiago
 
Cause
: Work accident
 
Instance
: Notice of complaint
 
Nominal amount
: ThUS$ 514

SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries have been participating and probably will continue to participate habitually as plaintiffs or defendants in various judicial proceedings that have been and will be filed and are subject to the decisions of the Ordinary Courts of Justice. Those proceedings, which are regulated by the applicable legal provision, mainly seek to exercise or oppose certain actions or exceptions related to certain mining concessions constituted or in the process of being constituted and do not and will not essentially affect the development of SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries.

Soquimich Comercial S.A. has been participating and probably will continue to participate habitually as a plaintiff in various judicial proceedings through which it seeks mainly to collect and receive the amounts owed to it. As of December 31, 2009 in the total amount claimed in such proceedings is approximately ThUS $900.

SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries have tried and currently continue to try to obtain payment of certain amounts still owed to them for their normal business activities. Those amounts will continue to be judicially and non-judicially demanded by the plaintiffs and the actions exercised in relation to them are currently in full force.

SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries have not been legally notified of other complaints other than those listed above and which pursue the voidance of certain mining properties purchased by SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries and whose proportional purchase price, in respect to the part affected by the respective overlap, exceeds the nominal and approximate amount of ThUS$150 or which seek to obtain payment of certain amounts allegedly owed from exercising their own activities and which exceed the nominal individual amount of approximately ThUS$1 50.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
140

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions, continued

19.1
Restrictions:

Bank loans of SQM S.A. and its subsidiaries contain restrictions similar to those of other comparable loans existing at the dates when those debt agreements were entered into. These restrictions involve maximum indebtedness and minimum equity. Other than these restrictions, SQM S.A. is not exposed to any other management restrictions or limits to financial ratios in contracts or agreements with creditors.

19.2
Commitments:

The subsidiary SQM Salar S.A. has signed a rental contract with the Economic Development Agency (CORFO) which establishes that such subsidiary, will pay to CORFO, for the concept of exploitation of certain mining properties owned by CORFO and for the products resulting from such exploitation, the annual rent stated in the aforementioned contract, the amount of which is calculated on the basis of the sales of each type of product. The contract is in force until 2030 and rent began being paid in 1996 reflecting in income an amount of ThUS$ 4,643 as of March 31, 2010 (ThUS$ 4.383 as of March 31, 2009).

19.3
Restricted or pledged cash

The subsidiary Isapre Norte Grande S.A. in compliance with that 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 sum owed to its members and medical providers. Banco de Chile on a daily basis reports the present value of the guarantee to the Chilean Superintendence of Healthcare and Isapre Norte Grande Ltda. As of March 31, 2010, the guarantee amounts to ThUS$ 437.

The subsidiary SQM Brasil Ltda. delivered as guarantee a cash amount paid directly to Brazilian governmental agencies related to legal processes under development as of March 31, 2010 amount to ThUS$21.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
141

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions, continued

19.4
Sureties obtained from third parties

The main sureties received from third parties (distributors) to guarantee Soquimich Comercial S.A. the compliance with obligations in contracts of commercial mandates for the distribution and sale of fertilizers amounted to ThUS$6,433 as of March 31, 2010; as of December 31, 2009 amounted to ThUS$6,523 and as of January 1 , 2009 amounted to ThUS$5,302 which are detailed as follows:

Entity name
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Llanos y Wammes Soc. Com. Ltda
    2,096       2,037       1,727  
Fertglobal Chile Ltda. y Bramelli
    3,241       3,352       2,671  
Tattersall S.A.
    1,096       1,134       904  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
142

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 19 - Contingencies and Restrictions, continued

19.5
Indirect Guarantees

Guarantees in which there is no 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.
 
Creditor of the guarantee
 
Debtor
 
Type of
guarantee
 
Pending balances as of the closing date
of the financial statements
 
   
Name
 
Relationship
     
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
Australian and New Zealand Bank
 
SQM North America  Corp
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Australian and New Zealand Bank
 
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Generale Bank
 
SQM North America  Corp
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Generale Bank
 
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Kredietbank
 
SQM North America  Corp
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Kredietbank
 
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
SQM Europe N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
SQM North America  Corp
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
Nitratos Naturais do Chile Ltda.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
SQM México S.A. de C.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banks and financial institutions
 
SQM Brasil Ltda.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Banque Nationale de Paris
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
San Francisco Branch
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Sociedad Nacional de Mineria A.G.
 
SQM Potasio S.A.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Royal Bank of Canada
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Citibank N.Y
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
BBVA Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria
 
Royal Seed Trading A..V.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       100,053       100,204  
ING Capital LLC
 
Royal Seed Trading A..V.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    80,215       80,055       80,215  
JP Morgan Chase Bank
 
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    -       -       -  
Export Development Canada
 
SQM Investment Corp. N.V.
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    50,260       50,019       50,032  
BBVA Bancomer S.A.
 
Royal Seed Trading
 
Subsidiary
 
Bond
    75,000       75,000       -  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
143

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 20 - Ordinary Income

As of March 31, 2010 and 2009, ordinary income is detailed as follows:

Classes of ordinary income
 
3/31/2010
   
3/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
             
Sales of goods
    387,109       319,114  
Provision of services
    1,412       2,029  
Interest income
    1,405       -  
Income from royalties
    -       -  
Income from dividends
    -       -  
Total
    389,926       321,143  
 
Note 21 – Earnings per Share
 
Basic earnings per share will be calculated dividing net income for the period attributable to the Company’s shareholders by the weighted average of the number of shares in circulation during that period.

As expressed, basic earnings per share is as follows:

Basic earnings per share
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Earnings (loss) attributable to the holders of instruments in the net equity of the controlling entity
    76,493       88,389  

   
3/31/2010
Units
   
3/31/2009
Units
 
Number of common shares in circulation
    263,196,524       263,196,524  

   
3/31/2010
   
3/31/2009
 
             
Basic earnings per share
    0.2906       0.3358  

The Company has not made any operation with a potential diluted effect which assumes a diluted benefit per share different from the basic benefit per share.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
144

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 22 - Costs of Loans
 
The costs of interest are recognized as expenses in the year in which they are incurred except for those which are directly related to the acquisition and construction of tangible fixed assets and which comply with the requirements in IAS 23. As of March 31, 2010, total financial expenses incurred amount to ThUS$7,786 (ThUS$7,941 as of March 31, 2009.

The Company capitalizes all interest costs which directly relate to the construction or the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, which require a substantial time to be suitable for use.

Costs of capitalized interest, property, plant and equipment

The cost of capitalized interest is determined applying weighted average or mean of all financing incurred by the Company to the final monthly balances of work-in-progress and which meet the requirements of IAS 23.

The rates and costs for capitalized interest of property, plant and equipment are detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
3/31/2009
 
                   
Capitalization rate of costs for interest capitalized, property, plant and equipment
    7 %     7 %     7 %
Amount of costs for interest capitalized in ThUS$
    5,756       19,231       3,132  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
145

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 23 - Effect of variation in the foreign currency exchange rates

a)           Foreign currency translation differences recognized in income except for financial instruments measured at fair value through income:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
Foreign currency translation difference recognized in income except for financial instrument measured at fair value
    (3,133 )     (5,714 )
                 
Conversion reserve
    1,055       397  

b)           Translation reserves:

As of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the detail is as follows:

Detail
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Changes in equity generated through the proportional equity method  for conversion:
           
Comercial Hydro S.A.
    689       277  
SQMC Internacional Ltda.
    31       9  
Proinsa Ltda.
    24       12  
Agrorama Callegari Ltda.
    121       -  
Isapre Cruz del Norte Ltda.
    80       23  
Almacenes y Depósitos Ltda.
    30       22  
Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
    48       43  
Sociedad de Servicios de Salud S.A.
    32       11  
Total
    1,055       397  

The functional currency of these subsidiaries is Chilean peso.

 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
146

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment
 
24.1
Information to be disclosed on disbursements related to the environment
 
The Company is continuously concerned with protecting the environment both in its production processes and with respect to products manufactured. This commitment is supported by the principles indicated in the Company’s Sustainable Development Policy.

SQM is currently operating under an Environmental Management System (EMS) which has allowed strengthening its environmental performance through the effective application of the Company’s Sustainable Development Policy

Operations that use caliche as a raw material are carried out in desert areas with climatic conditions that are favorable for drying solids and evaporating liquids using solar energy. Operations involving the open-pit extraction of minerals, due to their low waste-to-mineral ratio, generate remaining deposits that slightly alter the environment. During the extraction process and subsequent crushing of ore, particle emissions occur, which is normal for this type of operation.

In the Maria Elena location, this particle material affects air quality exceeding the allowed standard for PM 10. Within the framework of a decontamination plan for this city and in accordance with its Sustainable Development Policy, the Company has implemented a series of measures that have shown notable improvement in air quality at Maria Elena. This project is operating from January 2009 having achieved the final closure of the old crushing plant located in Maria Elena beginning on July 5, 2008 with the related improvement in air quality.

In addition, for all its operations, the Company carries out environmental follow-up and monitoring plans based on specialized scientific studies, and it also provides an annual training program in environmental matters to both its direct employees and its contractors’ employees. Within this context, SQM entered into a contract with the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) aimed at researching the activities of flamingo groups that live in the Salar de Atacama (Atacama Saltpeter Deposit) lagoons. Such research includes a population count of the birds, as well as breeding research. Environmental monitoring activities carried out by the Company at the Salar de Atacama and other systems in which it operates are supported by a number of studies that have integrated diverse scientific efforts from prestigious research centers, including Dictuc from Pontificia Universidad Católica in Santiago and the School of Agricultural Science of Universidad de Chile.

Furthermore, within the framework of the environmental studies which the Company is conducting, the Company is performing significant activities in relation to the recording of Pre-Columbian and historical cultural heritage, as well as the protection of heritage sites, in accordance with current Chilean laws. These activities have been especially performed in the areas surrounding María Elena and the Nueva Victoria plants. This effort is being accompanied by cultural initiatives within the community and the organization of exhibits in local and regional museums.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
147

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

As emphasized in its Sustainable Development Policy, the Company strives to maintain positive relationships with the communities surrounding the locations in which it carries out its operations, as well as to participate in communities’ development by supporting joint projects and activities which help to improve the quality of life for residents. For this purpose, the Company has focused its efforts on activities involving the rescue of historical heritage, education and culture, as well as development, and in order to do so, it acts both individually and in conjunction with private and public entities.

24.2
Detail of disbursement information related to the environment

As of March 31, 2010, accumulated disbursements on investing projects associated to environmental issues in production processes, review and law compliance control related to processes and industrial facilities in which incurred SQM and its subsidiaries, including prior years disbursements related to these projects amounted to ThUS$ 8,340  which are detailed as follows:
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
148

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued
Accumulated expenses as of March 31, 2010

Identification of the
Parent Company or
subsidiary 
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the
disbursement was made or
will be made
 
Asset /
Expense
 
Description of the
Asset or Expense
Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the Period
ThUS$
 
Certain or Estimated Date in
which Disbursements Were or Will
Be Made
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Cleaning of rescue yard
 
Cost reduction
 
Expense
 
Development
 
602
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
ANMI -Consulting in infrastructure to store hazardous chemicals
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Expense
 
Development
 
45
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNH8 – Lightning improvement
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
221
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
SCCY – hazardous waste garbage dump
 
Sustentation
 
Expense
 
Development
 
164
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
JNTU - San Isidro water assessment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset -expense
 
Not classified
 
552
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
JNNX – Several environmental Nitrate
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
50
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNTE – Industrial Hygiene equipment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
18
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
INST – Acquisition of used lubricant quick discharge. NV-ME-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
44
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MP17 – Normalization of drinking water chlorination ME/CS/PV
 
Sustentation
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
7
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MP5W – Normalization of  TK Fuel
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
364
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
FNWR - DIA  Pampa Blanca discard yard
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
30
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNYS – Actions for the dissemination of cultural heritage, technology change Maria Elena
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
20
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
FP55 – Agua de Mar Pampa Blanca (DIA Mine Zone  PB y DIA Enlargement PB)
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
513
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MP8Z – Automation of water volume inlet pipe at ME, CS y Vergara
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
261
 
3/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPL5 – Repair of sanitary and electric facilities
 
Sustentation
 
Asset -expense
 
Development
 
191
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPIS- Stabilization of streets and suppression of dust at sidewalks
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
711
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
PPNK – Handling of  PV Ammoniac PV IN Plant detention
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
22
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPGF – Improve sealing and pressurization room 031
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
47
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
TPO4 – Indigenous Camping
 
Sustentation
 
Asset -expense
 
Not classified
 
87
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPLS – Automated alarms and information of Hospital Monitoring Station
 
Not classified
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
8
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Management on environment (expense 2010)
 
Operations
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
175
 
12/31/2010

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
149

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued
 
Identification of the
Parent Company or
subsidiary 
 
Name of the project to which
the disbursement is
associated
 
Concept by which the
disbursement was made or
will be made
 
Asset /
Expense
 
Description of the
Asset or Expense
Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the Period
ThUS$
 
Certain or Estimated Date in
which Disbursements Were or
Will Be Made
Minera Nueva Victoria
 
IPMN – Capacity expansion  Sanitaria Iris
 
Capacity extension
 
Asset
 
Development
 
84
 
6/30/2010
Minera Nueva Victoria
 
IPMW – Improvements in work rooms C/D/B in Iris
 
Sustentation:
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
30
 
12/31/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
PNH2 – RILES treatment plant, wash yards PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Development
 
42
 
6/30/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
PPOV – Environmental projects  Maintenance ME-PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Development
 
81
 
6/30/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
IP6W – Riles Treatment Plant
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
94
 
3/31/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
PPAT – Risk prevention projects Sem II 2008
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
141
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LP5K - Environmental evaluation extension  production capacity MOP
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
4
 
3/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LNNT – Renewal of meteorological station Salar Chaxa
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
97
 
3/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LP5J – Water recharge study Atacama Salar
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Investigation
 
84
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LPIK – MOP Dryer  (Dryer plant Potassium Chloride)
 
Capacity extension
 
Asset
 
Development
 
31
 
3/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LP82 – Project to foster the agricultural activities in Salar locations
 
Sustentation:
 
Asset-expense
 
Development
 
160
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LPGA – Pit construction to infiltrate used water Toconao camp
 
Capacity extension
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
105
 
3/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LPK2 – implementation of foreign currency exchange facility
 
Not classified
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
99
 
3/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LPIL - Plant Dual MOP-SOP (DIA Modification plant SOP)
 
Capacity extension
 
Asset
 
Development
 
14
 
3/31/2010
SIT
 
TNLA – Pavement on roads from Work site to port
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
80
 
3/31/2010
SIT
 
PNOT – Lightning improvement for FFCC area
 
Sustentation:
 
Asset
 
Development
 
369
 
3/31/2010
SIT
 
TPR8 – Elimination of riles generation through vacuum
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
21
 
6/30/2010
SIT
 
TPLR – Implementation of pump system for used water to waste
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
78
 
6/30/2010
SIT
 
TPM7 – Environmental nets to  Field 3 and 4
 
Not classified
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
315
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
SC16 – Environmental arrays – Project, Region I of Chile
 
Not classified
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
2,201
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
IPFT – Cultural heritage Region I
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
78
 
12/31/2010
               
Total
 
8.340
   
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
150

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued
 
Future expenses
 
Identification of
the Parent
Company or
subsidiary 
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the disbursement was
made or will be made
 
Asset / Expense
 
Description of
the Asset or
Expense Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or
Estimated Date
in which
Disbursements
Were or Will Be
Made 
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
ANMI – Infrastructure Consulting to storage of Hazardous chemical material
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Development
 
4
 
6/30/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNH8 – Lightning improvement
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Development
 
26
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
JNTU - San Isidro water assessment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
304
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNTE – Industrial Hygiene Equipment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Development
 
11
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MP17 – Normalization drinking water chloride  ME/CS/PV
 
Sustentation
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
87
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MP5W - Normalization Fuel TK
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
543
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MNYS - Actions for the dissemination of cultural heritage, technology change Maria Elena
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
11
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
FP55 – Agua de Mar Pampa Blanca (DIA Mine Zone PB and DIA enlargement PB)
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Development
 
81
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
PPC1 –Eliminate  OCB switches in sub stations 3  ½ of Pedro de Valdivia
 
Sustentation: equipment replacement
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
171
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
PPNK – Handling of PV ammoniac en Plant detention
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
112
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPGF – Improve sealing and pressurization room 031
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
22
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
IPNX – Improve NV supervisor’s room NV
 
Sustentation
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
10
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
MPLS – Automated alarms and information for Hospital monitoring station
 
Not classified
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
1
 
30/06/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Environmental management ( only 2010)
 
Operations
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
1,145
 
12/31/2010
Minera Nueva Victoria
 
IPNW – Improves in work rooms C/D/B in Iris
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
13
 
12/30/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
PPOV – Maintenance of environmental projects ME-PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Development
 
3
 
30/06/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
PPAT – Risk prevention projects Sem II 2008
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Development
 
12
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LP5K – Environmental evaluation l extension of production capacity MOP
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
33
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
LP5J – Water recharge array Atacama Salar
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Investigation
 
27
 
12/30/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
New – array to improve fuel  facilities
 
Sustentation
 
Asset- expense
 
Investigation
 
50
 
31/12/2011
SQM Salar S.A
 
LPIK – Dryer MOP (DIA Potassium chloride plant)
 
Capacity extension
 
asset
 
Development
 
181
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
LP82 – Project to forest the agricultural activity in Salar locations
 
Sustentation
 
Asset- expense
 
Development
 
91
 
12/31/2010
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
151

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

Future expenses
 
Identification of
the Parent
Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the disbursement was
made or will be made
 
Asset / Expense
 
Description of
the Asset or
Expense Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or
Estimated Date
in which
Disbursements
Were or Will Be
Made
SQM Salar S.A.
 
LPK2 – Habilitation of currency exchange facility
 
Not classified
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
5
 
3/31/2010
SIT
 
PNOT – Improving of lightning in FFCC area
 
Sustentation:
 
asset
 
development
 
64
 
12/31/2010
SIT
 
TPR8 – Eliminate riles generation through vacuum
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
128
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
SCI6 – Environmental arrays – Project Region I
 
Not classified
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
75
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
IPFT – Cultural heritage region l I
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-expense
 
Not classified
 
65
 
12/31/2010
               
Total
 
3,275
   
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
152

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued
 
Accumulated expenses performed as of 12/31/2009
 
Identification of the
Parent Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the
disbursement was made or
will be made
 
Asset /
Expense
 
Description of the
Asset or Expense
Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the Period
 
Certain or Estimated Date
in which Disbursements
Were or Will Be Made
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Yards Cleaning
 
Cost reduction
 
Expense
 
Development
 
569
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Implementation of used water lines to treatment plant ME
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Development
 
32
 
3/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Environmental arrays – New crushing plant ME
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Development
 
5
 
4/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Consulting on infrastructure for storage of hazardous chemical materials
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Development
 
46
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Lightning improvement
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
221
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Sanitary installation prilling/granulation plant ME
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
44
 
9/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Dump for dangerous residuals
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
165
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
San Isidro water evaluation
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset-Expense
 
Not classified
 
505
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Improvements in measures of NH3 levels
 
Sustentation
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
64
 
12/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Sanitary regulations traffic installations PV
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
82
 
8/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Industrial hygiene equipment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
31
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Replacement of starters and transformers with  PCB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
4
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Acquisition for quick evacuation for used lubricants. NV-ME-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
45
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Handling of residual Antofagasta
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
17
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Normalization drinking water chloride ME/CS/PV
 
Sustentation
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
7
 
2/28/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Normalization Fuels  TK
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
160
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
DIA Discard field  Pampa Blanca
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
30
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Actions for the dissemination of cultural heritage, technology change Maria Elena
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Not classified
 
20
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Chamber to detect gas leaking
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Expense
 
Investigation
 
5
 
1/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Automated Control caudal and water junctions ME, CS y Vergara
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
261
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Reparation of sanitary and electric  services
 
Sustentation
 
Asset-Expense
 
Development
 
165
 
12/31/2009
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
153

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

Identification of the
Parent Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the
disbursement was made or will
be made
 
Asset /
Expense
 
Description of the
Asset or Expense
Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or Estimated Date in
which Disbursements Were or
Will Be Made
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Pavement of streets and eliminate dust in sidewalks
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
development
 
689
 
6/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Improve sealing and pressurization in room 031
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
42
 
11/1/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Various environmental Nitrate
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
51
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Automated alarms and information of monitoring station Hospital
 
Not classified
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
8
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Handling of ammonia PV in Detention of plant
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
1
 
01/12/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Indigenous camp
 
Sustentation
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
83
 
12/31/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Agua de Mar Pampa Blanca (DIA Mine Zone PB and DIA extension PB)
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
development
 
461
 
12/30/2009
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Management of Environment
 
Operations
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
1.235
 
12/31/2009
Minera Nueva Victoria
 
Extension in sanitary capacity for Iris
 
Capacity extension
 
asset
 
development
 
85
 
12/31/2009
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
RILES treatment plant washing surfaces PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
development
 
42
 
12/31/2009
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Maintenance of Environmental projects ME-PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
development
 
82
 
12/31/2009
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Riles treatment plant
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
95
 
12/31/2009
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Risk prevention projects Sem II 2008
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
development
 
117
 
12/31/2009
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
154

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

Expenses conducted during the period

Identification of
the Parent
Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the disbursement was
made or will be made
 
Asset / Expense
 
Description of
the Asset or
Expense Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or
Estimated Date in
which
Disbursements
Were or Will Be
Made
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Environmental evaluation extension of production capacity MOP
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
38
 
12/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Detailed engineering and implementation of a dust collector
 
Sustentation
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
81
 
8/30/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Renewal of meteorological station Salar chaxa
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
98
 
12/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Array for water recharge Salar de Atacama
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Investigation
 
42
 
8/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Construction of pit  for used water infiltration Toconao camp
 
Capacity extension
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
106
 
12/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Project to foster the agricultural activity in locations in Salar
 
Sustentation
 
Asset- expense
 
Development
 
131
 
12/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Currency Exchange facility – set up
 
Not classified
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
105
 
2/28/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Dual MOP-SOP (DIA Plant Modification SOP)
 
Capacity extension
 
asset
 
Development
 
14
 
12/31/2009
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Dryer MOP (DIA Potassium chloride dryer plant)
 
Capacity extension
 
asset
 
Development
 
19
 
12/31/2009
SIT
 
Pavement or roads Work place- port
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
asset
 
Development
 
82
 
12/31/2009
SIT
 
Risk prevention plan Port
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Development
 
101
 
12/31/2009
SIT
 
Lightning improvement area FFCC
 
Sustentation
 
asset
 
Development
 
365
 
12/31/2009
SIT
 
Implementation of a system to pump used water to dump
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
68
 
12/31/2009
SIT
 
Environmental nets for field 3 and 4
 
Not classified
 
asset
 
Not classified
 
164
 
12/30/2009
SQM S.A.
 
Environmental arrays - Project Region I
 
Not classified
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
2,091
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
Environmental commitments Zone of Mina Nueva Victoria
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
275
 
3/30/2009
SQM S.A.
 
Cultural heritage Region I
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and environment
 
Asset- expense
 
Not classified
 
75
 
12/30/2009
               
Total
 
9,324
   
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
155

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 - The Environment, continued

Future expense
 
Identification of the
Parent Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the disbursement was made or
will be made
 
Asset / Expense
 
Description of the
Asset or Expense
Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or
Estimated Date in
which
Disbursements
Were or Will Be
Made
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Consulting in infrastructure to store hazardous chemicals
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Expense
 
Development
 
4
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Improvement in lighting
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
27
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
San Isidro water assessment
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset expense
 
Not classified
 
352
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Normalization of drinking water chlorination, ME/CS/PV
 
Sustentation
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
88
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Normalization of TK´s fuel
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
748
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Cultural heritage dissemination actions, Technological change at Maria Elena
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
13
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Elimination of OCB switches at 3 and 1/12 Pedro de Valdivia sub stations
 
Sustentation: replacement of equipment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
171
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Improve sealing and pressurization of 031 room
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
28
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Improve the NV supervisors’ hall
 
Sustentation
 
Asset expense
 
Not classified
 
10
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Automation of alarms and information on Hospital Monitoring station
 
Not classified
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
2
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Handling of PV ammonia at plant stoppage
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
134
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Pampa Blanca sea water (DIA PB mine zone and DIA PB extension)
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
30
 
12/31/2010
SQM Industrial S.A.
 
Environmental management
 
Sustentation
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
1.239
 
12/31/2010
Minera Nueva Victoria
 
Improvements in Iris C/D/B halls
                   
   
ME-PV-NV-PB environmental maintenance projects
                   
   
2008 Sem II risk prevention projects
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
44
 
12/31/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Environmental projects maintenance ME-PV-NV-PB
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset expense
 
Development
 
4
 
12/31/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Risk prevention projects Sem II 2008
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Development
 
38
 
12/31/2010
SQM Nitratos S.A.
 
Construction of sewerage system at  Lagarto.
 
Capacity extension
 
Asset expense
 
Development
 
100
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A.
 
Renewal of Chaxa saltpeter deposit meteorological station
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
1
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
Water recharge array Salar de Atacama
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
expense
 
Research
 
70
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
Project to foster the agricultural activity in the saltpeter deposit locations
 
Sustentation
 
Asset expense
 
Development
 
212
 
12/31/2010
SQM Salar S.A
 
Fuel facility improvement study
 
Sustentation
 
Asset expense
 
Research
 
50
 
12/31/2011
SIT
 
Improvement in lighting area FF CC
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Development
 
64
 
12/31/2010
SIT
 
Environmental nets for fields 3 and 4
 
Sustentation
 
Asset
 
Not classified
 
66
 
12/31/2010
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
156

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 - The Environment, continued

Future expense
 
Identification of
the Parent
Company or
subsidiary
 
Name of the project to which the
disbursement is associated
 
Concept by which the disbursement was
made or will be made
 
Asset / Expense
 
Description of
the Asset or
Expense Item
 
Amount of
Disbursement
for the
Period
 
Certain or
Estimated Date
in which
Disbursements
Were or Will Be
Made
SIT
 
Elimination of Riles generation through vacuum
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
expense
 
Not classified
 
150
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
Environmental studies – Project Region  I
 
Not classified
 
Asset expense
 
Not classified
 
184
 
6/30/2010
SQM S.A.
 
Cultural Heritage Region  I
 
Sustentation: Risk prevention and the environment
 
Asset expense
 
Not classified
 
440
 
12/31/2010
               
Total
 
4.269
   
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
157

 
 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 - The Environment, continued
 
24.3
Description of each project indicating whether the project is in progress or has been finished

SQM Industrial S.A.

MCLX: Cleaning of all rescue yards at all SQM’s plants (25 yards.) This project consists of cleaning and/or sorting rescue yards, selecting and selling all waste products which can be commercialized in these yards.  Identify and destine household waste to authorized garbage dumps. This process is in the closure period.

MCJU: Send all sewage water in the former primary and secondary sectors of ME Mill Plant to the Treatment emissary, which requires the preparation and installation of sewage discharge lines for channeling purposes.  This project has finished.

MCLQ: Identification of archeological findings to comply with the Technological Change at Maria Elena project.  This project is finished.

ANMI: Compliance with technical, legal aspects and specific standards required with respect to warehousing, signaling, safety and main factors associated with materials, products and supplies which are handled in the mine site. In addition, the Company will implement an improvement in the warehouse infrastructure for the storage of hazardous chemicals.  This project is being performed.

MNH8: Improvement in the lighting in the Maria Elena location given that there are certain areas, which have no lighting, wires without channeling and timeworn wiring.  This project is being executed.

MNE3: Relates to the sanitary improvement of rest room facilities in the granulation plant at Maria Elena through a system for the disposal of sewage. This system has finished.

SCCY: Conceptual engineering and environmental study for the construction of a storage facility for hazardous waste generated at the Company’s facilities due to the performance of different processes.  The project is in the closure process.

JNTU: Assessment of the environmental impact of San Isidro water. This project is being executed.

MNQT: Change in meters and knowledge of ammonia inventory at the collectors in María Elena and Pedro de Valdivia refrigeration plants. This project has finished.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
158

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

PNTV: Installation of modules for money exchanges, restrooms, dining rooms, cool and hot drinking water network, sewage system, sanitary authorizations, absorption tests, septic tank, absorption well, projector and room equipment. This project has finished.

MNTE: Acquisition of stationary equipment for the quantitative measurement of harmful agents at the Company’s facilities.  This project is being executed.

PP1B: Replacement of certain splitters and transformer polluted with PCB. This project has finished.

INST: Implementation of a circuit for the drainage of oil directly from the equipment which moves the earth to the ALU storage tanks.  This project is at the closure stage.

ANUN: Construction of a semi-open shed for the proper handling, storage and dispatch of hazardous and non-hazardous waste generated in Antofagasta by different technical areas. This project has finished.

MP17: A study and identification will be conducted in respect to the current water chlorination system at Maria Elena, Coya Sur and Pedro de Valdivia facilities for the subsequent implementation and start-up of water chlorination in accordance with standards in force.  This project is being executed.

MP5W: Normalization of the system for the storage and distribution of fuel at the Company’s facilities.  This project is being executed.

FNWR: Preparation and processing of DIA for the Pampa Blanca discard yard. This project is in the process of closure.

MNYS: Preparation and execution of the geoglyphs preservation project.  Edition and publishing of a book in addition to implementing a dissemination center. Construction and habilitation of a collection deposit. All offsetting steps for the Technological Change at Maria Elena project. This project is being executed.

MPAM: Acquisition of a chamber which allows detecting ammonia gas leakage or leakage of any type of gas.  This project has finished.

MP8Z: Implement a control system at inlet pipes at rivers at ME, CS and Vergara, which allow automating the control of these flows. In addition, this project requires the complementation of the satellite extraction control system recently implemented at inlet pipes to ensure full compliance with rights authorized by the (General Water Directorate) DGA and, therefore, also ensure the usual water supply required by SQM. This process is in the closure process.

MPL5: Improvement of a portion of the water network infrastructure and sewage system at Maria Elena. This project is being executed.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
159

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

MPIS: Improve the urban situation at Maria Elena, placing a stabilization layer with product at the streets and anti-dust treatment with product in sidewalks.  This project is being executed.

MPGF: Eliminate pollution in sub station 031 due to the inefficient sealing system.  This project is being executed.

JNNX: Incorporation of UV sensor at the Coya Sur meteorological station, perimeter closure of the Nueva Victoria meteorological station and geo-reference of new emission sources at Toco and Coya Sur.  This project is in the closure process.

MPLS: Implement alarms via emails as to peak concentration of particle materials and change in the recording of information from text files to database for the implementation of reports. This project is being executed.

PPNK: Project to ensure the control of ammonia gas in crystal plant stoppage. This project is being executed.

TPO4: Project to change the drinking water system and sewage system in the indigenous camp to improve living conditions.  This project is being executed.

FP55: This project consists of the installation of the 87 kilometer sea water adductor system from the Mejillones zone to the Company’s facilities in Pampa Blanca. Expenses considered relate solely to environmental processing.  This project is being executed.

Minera Nueva Victoria S.A.

IPMN: Extend the sanitary capacity of the IRIS camp through the construction of 3 wells. This project is being executed.

SQM Nitratos S.A.

PNH2: Design and construct pouring off tanks for mud, water, oil and a pool with a pump to re-use poured off water, metallic pools to remove mud.  This project is being executed.

PP0V: Installation of a container for hazardous waste at workshops for maintenance and removal of liquid industrial waste from hydraulic filters, workshop for mine maintenance at Maria Elena, Pedro de Valdivia, Nueva Victoria and Pampa Blanca.  This project is being executed.

IP6W: Design and construct pouring off tanks for mud, water, oil and a pool with a pump to re-use poured off water, metallic pools to remove mud.  This project is in the closure process.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
160

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

PPAT: With this project the Company intends to comply with the current sanitary standards with respect to water treatment and waste infiltration at certain sectors in Pedro de Valdivia and Maria Elena. This project is being executed.

SQM Salar S.A.

LP5K: Environmental evaluation through DIA of the project for the extension of the MOP production capacity. This project is in the closure process.

LNSH: Conduct detail engineering and implement a dust collector system at the SOP-H plant in order to improve the system’s efficiency and decrease the pollution degree. This project has finished.

LNNT: Through this project, the Company intends to have reliable measurements of the climatologic seasonal variation in the saltpeter deposit, timely measurements for the preparation of reports and programs and deliver actual information to the environmental authority.  This project is in the closure process.

LP5J: Conduct analyses to define the hydrological units in the basin, quantify the reload to the aquifer through environmental isotopic techniques. This project is being executed.

LPGA: Improvement in the discharge of sewage already treated. This project is in the closure process.

LP82: Support for the development of demonstration estate, technical support for the application of improvements in watering and agricultural practices. This project is being executed.

LPK2: Improve sanitary facilities in the current money exchange, MOP sector to comply with all requirements of the mine’s different users. This project is in the closure process.

LPIL: Through this project, the Company intends to modify the current SOP plant to work in the production of MOP or SOP as deemed convenient.  This project has been closed.

LPIK: Construction of new MOP dryer given that the current Compacting Drying Plant will be destined to the production of another product.  This project has finished.

SIT S.A.

TNLA: Paving of yard 2 roads and Southern access to the Tocopilla port given that these are the source of dust and emissions and risk of accidents in the operation of machinery.  This project is in the closure process.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
161

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 24 – The Environment, continued

TNT8: Enablement of 10% more of pedestrian pathways, installation of up to 30% of corporate signaling, installation an electricity pylon in yard 6 of the Tocopilla location.  This project has finished.

PNOT: Improve night lighting in sectors with high number of movements, installing sodium bulbs more continuously with an angle of 45°. This will allow complying with Safety and Lighting Regulation Standards.  This project is in the closure process.

TPLR: The objective of the process is being able to discharge waste water generated in the Tocopilla port to the public sewage system.  This project is being executed.

TPM7: Meshes will be acquired which will be installed in yards 3 and 4 to control dust emissions in sieving operations and protect product from emissions generated by the power plant. This project is being executed.

SQM S.A.

SCI6: This project is intended to obtain environmental licenses for the Development projects in Region I of Chile including all pieces of work related to initial environmental requirements which allow that Operations execute the project’s construction and operation. The environmental evaluation to obtain the related license would be conducted through EIA, which contemplates the preparation and processing of the document and also includes specific environmental study activities (the study of tamarugos in Llamara and P. Tamarugal, archeological mitigation steps, environmental study of Loa river, hydro geological studies.) This project is being executed.

IP3P: Implementation of steps for the mitigation and compensation of cultural heritage for new mine areas in Nueva Victoria (EIA Nueva Victoria Mine Zone.) This project has finished.

IPFT: This project contemplates the implementation of heritage steps committed in the projects referred to as Nueva Victoria Mine Zone, Nueva Victoria Operation Updates, Iris Duct and Evaporation Pools. This project is being executed.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
162

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 25 - Other Current and Non-current Assets

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the composition of the other current and non-current assets is detailed as follows:

Other current assets
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Agreement termination bonus
    2,097       2,191       990  
Cost of bond placement and issuance
    1,736       1,739       586  
Cost of loan assumption
    753       770       219  
Domestic Value Added Tax
    15,537       23,246       24,650  
Foreign Value Added Tax
    3,039       3,080       10,666  
Mine licenses prepaid
    7,202       1,104       1,183  
Prepaid insurances
    2,808       4,062       4,085  
Commercial and industrial patents
    803       -       -  
Prepaid leases
    26       29       145  
Sea concessions
    -       39       30  
Other prepaid
    63       42       46  
Other assets
    537       582       176  
Total
    34,601       36,884       42,776  

Other non-current assets
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Agreement termination bonus
    2,487       2,842       454  
Stain development expenses and prospecting expenses (1)
    26,120       26,832       24,892  
Income taxes recoverable
    551       567       454  
Long-term loan negotiation costs
    953       1,192       320  
Cost of bond placement and issuance
    9,255       9,679       4,278  
Deposits held in guarantee
    437       467       308  
Other assets
    153       172       336  
Total
    39,956       41,751       31,042  
 
 
1.
Assets for the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources are amortized when the explored or evaluated sector is exploited. For this purpose, a variable rate is applied to extracted tons, which is determined based on the measured initial reserve and evaluation cost.  The Company presents expenses associated with Exploration and Evaluation of Mineral Resources.  Of these expenses those that are under exploitation are included under Inventories and are amortized according to the estimated contained ore reserves and expenses associated with future reserves are presented under Other non-current assets.  Those expenses incurred on properties with low ore grade which is not economically exploitable are directly charged to income. As of March 31, 2010, balances associated with the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources are presented under Inventories for ThUS$ 2,431.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
163

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 25 - Other Current and Non-current Assets, continued
 
Reconciliation of changes in assets for exploration and mineral resource evaluation, by classes

Movements in assets for the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
 
Reconciliation 
           
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
             
Assets for the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources, net, beginning balance
    26,832       24,892  
                 
Changes in assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources:
               
                 
Additions, different from business combinations
    -       5,446  
Depreciation and amortization
    (568 )     ( 2,641 )
Increase (decrease) for transfers and other charges
    (144 )     (865 )
                 
Assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources, net, final balance
    26,120       26,832  

At the date of presentation, no reevaluations of assets for exploration and evaluation of mineral resources have been conducted.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
164

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments

26.1
Operating segments

In accordance with IFRS 8 "Operating segments", the Company provides financial and descriptive information about the segments it has defined in consideration of available annual separate financial information, which is regularly evaluated by the maximum authority in making operating decisions with the purpose of deciding how to assign resources and evaluate performance.

Operating segments relate to the following groups of products which provide income from the performance of ordinary activities, for which the Company incurs expenses and the result of which is regularly reviewed by the Company's maximum authority in the decision-making process:

1. Specialty plant nutrients
2. Iodine and its derivatives
3. Lithium and its derivatives
4. Industrial chemicals
5. Potassium chloride
6.- Other products and services

Information relative to assets, liabilities and income and expenses which cannot be assigned to the segments indicated above, due to the nature of production processes, is included under the "Corporate Unit" category of information disclosed.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
165

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 – Operating Segments, continued

26.2
Statement of comprehensive income classified by operating segments based on groups of products as of March 31, 2010:

Items in the statement of comprehensive income
 
Specialty
plant nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium and
its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and
services
   
Corporate
unit
   
Total
segments
and
Corporate
unit
 
                                                 
Ordinary income
    128,165       62,919       33,914       27,414       124,673       11,438       -       388,523  
Cost of sales of ordinary income
    (87,332 )     (36,651 )     (18,432 )     (16,729 )     (87,037 )     (10,844 )     -       (257,025 )
                                                                 
Gross margin
    40,833       26,268       15,482       10,685       37,636       594       -       131,498  
                                                                 
Other operating income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,625       1,625  
Administrative expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (17,774 )     (17,774 )
Other expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (5,044 )     (5,044 )
Other income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (7,146 )     (7,146 )
Financial interest
    -       -       -       -       -       -       2,268       2,268  
Financial costs
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (7,786 )     (7,786 )
Participation in income (loss) of associated and business combination through the equity method
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (3,059 )     (3,059 )
Exchange differences
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (3,133 )     (3,133 )
Income (loss ) before income tax
    -       -       -       -       -       -       97,567       97,567  
Income tax expense
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (20,696 )     (20,696 )
Income (loss ) prom continued operations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       76,871  
Income (loss ) from discontinued operations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       76,871  
Income  (loss ) attributable to:
                                                               
Income  (loss ) attributable to the controlling ownership
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       76,493  
Income (loss ) attributable to participations non-controlling
    -       -       -       -       -       -       378       378  
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       76,871  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
166

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 – Operating Segments, continued

26.2
Statement of comprehensive income classified by operating segments based on groups of products as of March 31, 2009:

Items in the statement of comprehensive income
 
Specialty
plant nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium and
its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and
services
   
Corporate
unit
   
Total
segments
and
Corporate
unit
 
                                                 
Ordinary income
    120,719       43,106       24,536       22,357       95,746       14,679       -       321,143  
Cost of sales of ordinary income
    (76,104 )     (14,973 )     (8,196 )     (10,422 )     (55,252 )     (14,111 )     -       (179,058 )
                                                                 
Gross margin
    44,615       28,133       16,340       11,935       40,494       568       -       142,085  
                                                                 
Other operating income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,155       1,155  
Administrative expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (15,998 )     (15,998 )
Other expenses
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (9,175 )     (9,175 )
Other income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       51       51  
Financial interest
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,913       3,913  
Financial costs
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (7,941 )     (7,941 )
Participation in income (loss) of associated and business combination through the equity method
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (93 )     (93 )
Exchange differences
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (5,714 )     (5,714 )
Income (loss ) before income tax
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       108,283  
Income tax expense
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (20,828 )     (20,828 )
Income (loss ) prom continued operations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       87,455  
Income (loss ) from discontinued operations
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       87,455  
Income  (loss ) attributable to:
                                                               
Income  (loss ) attributable to the controlling ownership
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       88,389  
Income (loss ) attributable to participations non-controlling
    -       -       -       -       -       -       (934 )     (934 )
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       87,455  

 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
167

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 – Operating Segments, continued

26.3
Assets and liabilities by operating segments based on product groups as of March 31, 2010
 
Items in the statement of
comprehensive income
 
Specialty plant
nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium
and its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and
services
   
Corporate
unit
   
Eliminations
consolidation
process
associated
with operating
segments
   
Total
segments
and
Corporate
Unit
 
                                                       
Current assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       4,632,086       (3,063,881 )     1,568,205  
Non-current assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,594,018       (2,145,080 )     1,448,938  
                                                                         
Total assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       8,226,104       (5,208,961 )     3,017,143  
                                                                         
Current liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,136,031       (2,770,242 )     365,789  
Non-current liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,373,618       (269,511 )     1,104,107  
Total shareholders’ equity
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,716,455       (2,169,208 )     1,547,247  
                                                                         
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       8,226,104       (5,208,961 )     3,017,143  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
168

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 – Operating Segments, continued

26.3
Assets and liabilities by operating segments based on product groups as of December 31, 2009
 
Items in the statement of
comprehensive income
 
Specialty plant
nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium
and its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and
services
   
Corporate
unit
   
Eliminations
consolidation
process
associated
with operating
segments
   
Total
segments
and
Corporate
Unit
 
                                                       
Current assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       4,582,162       (2,872,280 )     1,709,882  
Non-current assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,448,724       (2,003,422 )     1,445,302  
                                                                         
Total assets
    -       -       -       -       -       -       8,030,886       (4,875,702 )     3,155,184  
                                                                         
Current liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,099,433       (2,551,882 )     547,551  
Non-current liabilities
    -       -       -       -       -       -       1,415,712       (272,529 )     1,143,183  
Total shareholders’ equity
    -       -       -       -       -       -       3,515,741       (2,051,291 )     1,464,450  
                                                                         
Income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       -       8,030,886       (4,875,702 )     3,155,184  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
169

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.4
Disbursements of segment non-monetary assets as of March 31, 2010

Identification of disbursements of non-monetary assets
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to the
Statement of
Financial
Position
 
                                     
Investments in joint ventures
    -       -       -       -       1,000       1,000  
 - SQM Quindao - Star
    -       -       -       -       1,000       1,000  
Amounts in additions of non-current assets
    72,843       -       -       -       -       72,843  
 - Property, plant and equipment
    72,763       -       -       -       -       72,763  
 - Intangible assets
    80       -       -       -       -       80  
Total segments
    72,843       -       -       -       1,000       73,843  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
170

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.4
Disbursements of segment non-monetary assets as of December 31, 2009

Identification of disbursements of non-monetary assets
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to the
Statement of
Financial
Position
 
                                     
Investments in joint ventures
    -       -       -       -       3,530       3,530  
 - SQM Migao Sichuan
    -       -       -       -       3,000       3,000  
 - Coromandel SQM India
    -       -       -       -       530       530  
Amounts in additions of non-current assets
    376,515       -       -       -       -       376,515  
 - Property, plant and equipment
    376,186       -       -       -       -       376,186  
 - Intangible assets
    329       -       -       -       -       329  
Total segments
    376,515       -       -       -       3,530       380,045  
 
26.5
Information on products and services, external customers

Income from ordinary activities from external customers by product and service groups as of March 31,2010 are detailed as follows:

Items in the statement of comprehensive
income
 
Specialty plant
nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium and
its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and services
   
Total
segments and
Corporate Unit
 
                                           
Ordinary income
    128,165       62,919       33,914       27,414       124,673       11,438       388,523  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
171

 

    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued
 
Information on products and services, external customers

Income from ordinary activities from external customers by product and service groups as of March 31,2009 are detailed as follows:

Items in the statement of comprehensive
income
 
Specialty plant
nutrients
   
Iodine and
its
derivatives
   
Lithium and
its
derivatives
   
Industrial
chemicals
   
Potassium
chloride
   
Other
products
and services
   
Total
segments and
Corporate Unit
 
                                           
Ordinary income
    120,719       43,106       24,536       22,357       95,746       14,679       321,143  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
172

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.6
Information on geographic areas

As indicated in paragraph 33 of IFRS 8, the entity discloses geographic information on its income from ordinary activities from external customers and from non-current assets which are not financial instruments, deferred income tax assets, assets related to post employment benefits and rights derived from insurance contracts.

26.7
Income from ordinary activities from external customers, classified by geographic areas as of March 31, 2010:

Identification of income from ordinary activities from external
customers
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to the
Statement of
Comprehensive
Income
 
                                     
Ordinary income
    17,889       44,045       153,585       100,276       72,728       388,523  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
173

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.7
Income from ordinary activities from external customers, classified by geographic areas as of March 31, 2009:

Identification of income from ordinary activities from external customers
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to
the Statement
of
Comprehensive
Income
 
                                     
Ordinary income
    38,222       59,393       61,143       85,574       76,811       321,143  
 
26.8
Non-current assets classified by geographic area as of March 31, 2010:

Non-current asset item, adjusted (IFRS 8,33,b,1/11/2006)
 
Chile
   
Latin
America and
the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to
the Statement
of Financial
Position
 
                                     
Investments in associates recognized using the equity method
    713       -       21,117       6,154       30,778       58,762  
Intangible assets other than goodwill
    2,453       -       98       552       -       3,103  
Goodwill
    24,147       86       11,373       724       2,058       38,388  
Net, Property, plant and equipment
    1,300,452       282       433       1,752       216       1,303,135  
Investment properties
    1,397       -       -       -       -       1,397  
Other non-current assets
    38,343       212       -       1,107       294       39,956  
Balance to date
    1,367,505       580       33,021       10,289       33,346       1,444,741  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
174

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.8
Non-current assets classified by geographic area as of December 31, 2009:

Non-current asset item, adjusted  (IFRS 8,33,b,1/11/2006)
 
Chile
   
Latin
America and
the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Balances
according to
the Statement
of Financial
Position
 
                                     
Investments in associates recognized using the equity method
    328       -       18,853       6,653       29,351       55,185  
Intangible assets other than goodwill
    2,267       -       -       569       -       2,836  
Goodwill
    24,248       86       11,373       724       1,957       38,388  
Net, Property, plant and equipment
    1,297,830       293       474       1,766       183       1,300,546  
Investment properties
    1,405       -       -       -       -       1,405  
Other non-current assets
    39,400       1,017       -       1,037       297       41,751  
Balance to date
    1,365,478       1,396       30,700       10,749       31,788       1,440,111  

26.9
Information on main customers
In 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 which individually represent 10% or more of its income from ordinary activities.  Credit risk concentrations with respect to trade accounts receivable and other accounts receivable are limited due to the significant number of entities which compose the Company’s portfolio and its worldwide distribution. The Company’s policy is requiring guarantees (such as letters of credit, guarantee clauses and others) and/or maintaining insurance policies for certain accounts as deemed necessary by the Company's Management.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
175

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.10
Property, plant and equipment classified by geographic areas as of March 31, 2010:

Property, plant and equipment
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Total
 
   
3/31/2010
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Production facilities:
                                   
Coya Sur
    229,248       -       -       -       -       229,248  
María Elena
    134,195       -       -       -       -       134,195  
Nueva Victoria
    201,265       -       -       -       -       201,265  
Pampa Blanca
    24,638       -       -       -       -       24,638  
Pedro de Valdivia
    73,861       -       -       -       -       73,861  
Salar de Atacama
    295,897       -       -       -       -       295,897  
Salar del Carmen
    258,038       -       -       -       -       258,038  
Tocopilla (port facilities)
    60,951       -       -       -       -       60,951  
Sub total production facilities
    1,278,093       -       -       -       -       1,278,093  
Corporate facilities:
                                               
Santiago
    14,277       -       -       -       -       14,277  
Antofagasta
    6,628       -       -       -       -       6,628  
Sub total corporate facilities
    20,905       -       -       -       -       20,905  
Sub total Business Offices
    1,454       282       433       1,752       216       4,137  
Total segments
    1,300,452       282       433       1,752       216       1,303,135  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
176

 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 26 - Operating Segments, continued

26.10
Property, plant and equipment classified by geographic areas as of December 31, 2009:

Property, plant and equipment
 
Chile
   
Latin America
and the
Caribbean
   
Europe
   
North America
   
Asia and
others
   
Total
 
   
12/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Production facilities:
                                   
Coya Sur
    252,138       -       -       -       -       252,138  
María Elena
    142,442       -       -       -       -       142,442  
Nueva Victoria
    202,037       -       -       -       -       202,037  
Pampa Blanca
    25,271       -       -       -       -       25,271  
Pedro de Valdivia
    73,203       -       -       -       -       73,203  
Salar de Atacama
    302,840       -       -       -       -       302,840  
Salar del Carmen
    222,093       -       -       -       -       222,093  
Tocopilla (port facilities)
    59,132       -       -       -       -       59,132  
Sub total production facilities
    1,279,156       -       -       -       -       1,279,156  
Corporate facilities:
                                               
Santiago
    12,233       -       -       -       -       12,233  
Antofagasta
    5,808       -       -       -       -       5,808  
Sub total corporate facilities
    18,041       -       -       -       -       18,041  
Sub total Business Offices
    633       293       474       1,766       183       3,349  
Total segments
    1,297,830       293       474       1,766       183       1,300,546  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
177

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 27 – Other operating income and expenses

The composition of other operating income and expenses is as follows:

a)           Other operating income
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Interest collected from direct customers
           
Discounts obtained from suppliers
    122       363  
Indemnities received
    -       68  
Insurance recovery
    7       101  
Overestimate of provision for obligation with third parties
    479       354  
Sale of materials, spare parts and supplies
    226       65  
Other operating income
    44       102  
Services to related companies
    -       26  
Miscellaneous services
    328       76  
Indemnities at Minera Esperanza
    419       -  
                 
Total
    1,625       1,155  

b)           Other expenses by function
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Bad debt impairment
    (309 )     (4.965 )
V.A.T. and other non-recoverable taxes
    (104 )     (155 )
Fines paid
    (100 )     (8 )
Expenses related to investment plan
    (2,900 )     (3,370 )
Grants not accepted as credit
    (857 )     (228 )
Other operating expenses
    (774 )     (449 )
                 
Total
    (5,044 )     (9,175 )
 
c)           Other gains or losses 
 
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
3/31/2009
ThUS$
 
             
Provision for retirement program
    (1,200 )     -  
Accrual for temporary closure of operations at El Toco
    (5,900 )     -  
Prior year equity value adjustment
    (34 )     51  
Other
    (12 )     -  
                 
Total
    (7,146 )     51  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
178

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, current income taxes recoverable are detailed as follows:

28.1
Current income taxes recoverable:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Monthly tax provisional payments, Chilean companies
    91,114       71,720       54,787  
Monthly tax provisional payments, foreign companies
    1,696       1,606       1,126  
Royalty monthly tax provisional payments
    13,749       9,149       1,107  
First category tax credits
    1,173       1,085       1,044  
First category tax absorbed by tax losses
    8,789       8,563       77  
Transfer from and to income tax
    (63,592 )     (50,298 )     (56,446 )
Total
    52,929       41,825       1,695  

28.2
Current income taxes payable:

 
Taxes payable
 
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
First category tax
    51,631       42,082       124,626  
Royalty
    12,083       8,539       20,148  
Foreign company income tax
    579       592       762  
Article 21 unique tax
    382       383       52  
Transfer from and to income tax
    (63,592 )     (50,298 )     (56,446 )
Total
    1,083       1,298       89,142  

28.3
Retained Taxable Earnings Registry

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, the Company and its subsidiaries have recorded the following consolidated balances for retained taxable earnings registry, income which do not constitute revenue subject to income tax, accumulated tax losses and credit for shareholders:

   
3/31/2010
ThUS$
   
12/31/2009
ThUS$
   
01/01/2009
ThUS$
 
                   
Tax earnings with credit
    668,166       668,670       813,716  
Tax earnings with no credit
    77,393       107,832       132,773  
Tax losses
    121,283       99,333       16,949  
Credit for shareholders
    136,715       136,874       166,554  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
179

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

28.4
Current and deferred income taxes

Assets and liabilities recognized in the Statement of Financial Position are offset when and only if:

1. the Company has legally recognized before the tax authority the right to offset the amounts recognized in these entries; and

2.
deferred income tax assets and liabilities are derived from income tax related to the same tax authority on:

(i)
the same entity of tax subject; or

(ii)
different entities or subjects to tax effects who intend either to settle current fiscal assets and liabilities for their net amount, either realize 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.

Deferred income tax assets recognized are those income taxes to be recovered in future periods, related to:

(a) deductible temporary differences;

(b) the compensation of losses obtained in prior periods, which have not yet been subject to tax deduction; and

(c) the compensation of unused credits from prior periods.

The Company recognizes a deferred tax asset when there is certainty that these can be offset with fiscal income from subsequent periods, losses or credits.

Fiscal amounts not yet used but solely as long as it is possible that there will be tax earnings in the future to charge to these losses or unused fiscal credits against them.

Deferred tax liabilities recognized are the amounts of income taxes payable in future periods related to taxable temporary differences.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
180

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

No deferred income taxes have been recognized between the tax and book value of investments in related companies, in accordance with the criteria indicated in IAS 12. Therefore, there is no recognition of deferred taxes for translation adjustments and adjustments of associated companies recorded directly in net equity, shown in the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income.

d.1 
Income tax assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2010 are detailed as follows:

Description of deferred income tax assets and
liabilities
 
Assets
   
Liabilities
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Depreciation
    -       80,618  
Bad debt impairment
    -       (3,736 )
Vacation accrual
    -       (1,872 )
Production expenses
    -       43,907  
Unrealized gains (losses) from sales of products
    -       (44,070 )
Bonds fair value
    -       201  
Staff severance indemnities
    -       1,554  
Hedging
    -       9,165  
Inventory of products, spare parts and supplies
    -       (14,651 )
Research and development expenses
    -       5,161  
Tax losses
    1,063       (18,440 )
Capitalized interest
    -       11,995  
Expenses in assumption of bank loans
    -       1,927  
Unaccrued interest
    -       (251 )
Fair value of property, plant and equipment
    -       (7,790 )
Employee benefits
    -       (6,394 )
Royalty deferred income taxes
    -       7,238  
Other
    (882 )     (2,725 )
   Balances to date
    181       61,837  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
181

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued
 
d.2           Income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2009 are detailed as follows:
 
Description of deferred income tax assets and
liabilities
 
Assets
   
Liabilities
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Depreciation
    -       81,055  
Bad debt impairment
    -       (3,708 )
Vacation accrual
    -       (2,309 )
Production expenses
    -       39,660  
Unrealized gains (losses) from sales of products
    -       (48,644 )
Bonds fair value
    -       (1,635 )
Staff severance indemnities
    -       2,593  
Hedging
    -       10,948  
Inventory of products, spare parts and supplies
    -       (14,229 )
Research and development expenses
    -       5,263  
Tax losses
    1,733       (16,473 )
Capitalized interest
    -       11,222  
Expenses in assumption of bank loans
    -       2,015  
Unaccrued interest
    -       (393 )
Fair value of property, plant and equipment
    -       (10,524 )
Employee benefits
    -       (6,180 )
Royalty deferred income taxes
    -       7,677  
Other
    (863 )     (2,536 )
   Balances to date
    870       53,802  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
182

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued
 
d.3 Income tax assets and liabilities as of January 1, 2009 are detailed as follows:

Description of deferred income tax assets and
liabilities
 
Assets
   
Liabilities
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
Depreciation
    -       72,192  
Bad debt impairment
    -       (1,926 )
Vacation accrual
    -       (1,734 )
Production expenses
    -       29,774  
Unrealized gains (losses) from sales of products
    -       (55,827 )
Bonds fair value
    -       (1,616 )
Staff severance indemnities
    -       1,777  
Hedging
    -       (629 )
Inventory of products, spare parts and supplies
    -       (13,613 )
Research and development expenses
    -       4,702  
Tax losses
    2,828       (1,534 )
Capitalized interest
    -       9,252  
Expenses in assumption of bank loans
    -       826  
Unaccrued interest
    -       (504 )
Fair value of property, plant and equipment
    -       (12,287 )
Employee benefits
    -       (2,915 )
Royalty deferred income taxes
    -       5,544  
Other
    (859 )     (4,294 )
   Balances to date
    1,969       27,188  

SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
183

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

d.4 Deferred income 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.  During 2009, the Company applied no significant lax losses.

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, tax loss carryforwards were detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
                   
Chile
    18,440       16,473       1,534  
Other countries
    1,063       1,733       2,828  
                         
Balances to date
    19,503       18,206       4,362  

d.5 Unrecognized deferred income tax assets and liabilities

As of March 31, 2010, December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2009, unrecognized assets and liabilities are detailed as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
   
01/01/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
   
Assets (liabilities)
   
Assets (liabilities)
   
Assets (liabilities)
 
                   
Tax losses
    489       489       1,544  
Bad debt impairment
    98       98       98  
Inventory impairment
    1,176       1,176       748  
Pensions plan
    648       648       1,091  
Vacation accrual
    29       29       29  
Depreciation
    (44 )     (44 )     (20 )
Other
    (15 )     (15 )     (12 )
                         
Balances to date
    2,381       2,381       3,478  

Tax losses mainly relate to the United States, which prescribe in 20 years.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
184


    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

d.6      Movements in deferred tax liabilities

Movements in deferred tax liabilities as of March 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 are as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
12/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
   
Liabilities
(assets)
   
Liabilities
(assets)
 
             
Beginning balance of deferred income tax liabilities
    53,802       27,188  
Increase (decrease) in deferred income taxes in income
    6,199       26,633  
Increase (decrease) in deferred income taxes in equity
    1,836       (19 )
                 
Balances to date
    61,837       53,802  

d.7        Information to be disclosed on income tax expense (income)

The Company recognizes current and deferred income taxes as income or expenses and are included in income, except if they arise from:

 
(a)
a transaction or event which is recognized in the same period or in a different period, off-income either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity; or

(b)
a business combination
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
185

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

Current and deferred income tax expenses (income) are detailed as follows

   
3/31/2010
   
3/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
   
Income
(expenses)
   
Income
(expenses)
 
             
Expense for current income tax
           
Expense for current income taxes
    (13,770 )     (30,693 )
Adjustments to prior period current income tax
    53       -  
                 
Total expense for current income tax, net
    (13,717 )     (30,693 )
                 
Expense for deferred income taxes
               
Deferred tax expense (income) related to the creation and reversal of temporary differences
    (6,979 )     9,865  
                 
Total expense for deferred income taxes, net
               
                 
Expense (income) for income taxes
    (20,696 )     (20,828 )

Expenses (income) for income taxes by foreign and domestic parties are as follows:

   
3/31/2010
   
3/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
   
Income (loss)
   
Income (loss)
 
             
Current income tax expense by domestic and foreign parties, net
           
Current income tax expense, foreign parties, net
    (1,022 )     (286 )
Current income tax expense, domestic, net
    (12,695 )     (30,407 )
                 
Total current income tax expense, net
    (13,717 )     (30,693 )
                 
Deferred income taxes by foreign and domestic parties, net
               
Deferred income tax expense, foreign parties, net
    (615 )     (644 )
Deferred income tax expense, domestic, net
    (6,364 )     10,509  
                 
Total deferred income tax expense, net
    (6,979 )     9,865  
                 
Expense (income) for income taxes
    (20,696 )     (20,828 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
186

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

d.8
Participation in taxation attributable to investments recognized according to the equity method:

The Company does not recognize any deferred income tax liability in all cases of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches and associated companies or participations in joint ventures, because as indicated in the standard, the following two conditions are jointly met:

 
(a)
the controller, investor or participant is able to control the time for reversal of the temporary difference; and

(b) it is possible that the temporary difference is not 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 participations in joint ventures because it is not possible that the following requirements are met:

(a) temporary differences are reversed in a foreseeable future; and

(b) the Company has tax earnings against which temporary differences can be used.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
187

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

d.9
Information to be disclosed on the tax effects of other comprehensive income components:
 
   
3/31/2010
 
   
ThUS$
 
Income tax related to components of other income and expense with a charge or credit to net equity
 
Amount
before taxes
   
Expense
(income) for
income
taxes
   
Amount
after taxes
 
                         
Cash flow hedging
    10,799       (1,836 )     8,963  
                         
Total
    10,799       (1,836 )     8,963  

   
3/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
 
Income tax related to components of other income and expense with a charge or credit to net equity
 
Amount
before
taxes
   
Expense
(income) for
income
taxes
   
Amount
after taxes
 
                         
Cash flow hedging
    10,389       (1,766 )     8,623  
                         
Total
    10,389       (1,766 )     8,623  
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com

 
 
188

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued
 
d.10
Explanation of the relationship between expense (income) for taxes and accounting income

In accordance with paragraph No. 81, letter c) of IAS 12, the Company has estimated that the method which discloses more significant information for the users of its financial statements is the reconciliation of tax expense (income) to the result of multiplying income for accounting purposes by the rate in force in Chile.  This option is based on the fact that the Parent Company and its subsidiaries incorporated in Chile generate almost the total amount of tax expense (income) and the fact that amounts of subsidiaries incorporated in foreign countries have no relevant significance within the context of the total amount of tax expense (income.)

   
3/31/2010
   
3/31/2009
 
   
ThUS$
   
ThUS$
 
   
Income (loss)
   
Income (loss)
 
             
Consolidated income before taxes
    97,567       108,283  
Income tax rate in force in Chile
    17 %     17 %
                 
Tax expense using the legal rate
    (16,586 )     (18,408 )
Tax effect of rates in other jurisdictions
    (3,360 )     (1,198 )
Tax effect of not deductible (rejected) expenses
    -       -  
Other increases (decreases) in charge for legal taxes
    (750 )     (1,222 )
                 
Tax expense using the effective rate
    (20,696 )     (20,828 )
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
189

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 28 – Current and Deferred Income Taxes, continued

d.11
Tax periods potentially subject to verification:

The Group companies are potentially subject to tax audits for income taxes by tax authorities in each country.  These audits are limited to a number of annual 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 which are potentially subject to verification, in accordance with tax regulations in force in the country of origin:

 
a)
Chile

In Chile, the tax authority may review tax returns of up to 3 years old from the expiration date of the legal term in which the payment should have been made.  In the event that there is an administrative or legal notice, the review can be extended to a period of 6 years.

 
b)
United States

In the United States the tax authority may review tax returns of up to 3 years old from the expiration date of the tax return. In the event of detecting an omission or error in the tax return of revenue or cost of sales, the review can be extended up to a period of 6 years.

 
c)
Mexico:

In Mexico, the tax authority can review tax returns up to 5 years old from the expiration date of the tax return.

 
d)
Spain:

In Spain, the tax authority can review tax returns up to 4 years old from the expiration date of the tax return.

 
e)
Belgium:

In Belgium, the tax authority may review tax returns of up to 3 years old, 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 up to a period of 5 years.

 
f)
South Africa:

In South Africa, the tax authority may review tax returns of up to 3 years old, from the expiration date of the tax return. In the event of detecting an omission or error in the tax return, the review can be extended up to a period of 5 years.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
 
 
190

 
 
    Notes to the Interim Consolidated Financial Statements as of March 31, 2010
 
Note 29 - Events occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date
 
29.1
Authorization of the financial statements

The financial statements of Sociedad Química y Minera S.A. and subsidiaries prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for the period ended March 31, 2010 were approved and authorized for issuance by the Board of Directors at their meeting held on May 25, 2010.
 
29.2 
Information to be disclosed on events occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date

On April 21, 2010, the Company informed the SVS regarding the issuance of a bond in international market (United States) under Rule 144-A Regulation S for US$ 250,000,000 with an annual rate of 5.5% expiring in 10 years beginning on the aforementioned date.

Management is not aware of any other significant events occurred between March 31, 2010 and the date of issuance of these interim consolidated financial statements, which may significantly affect them.

29.3
Detail of dividends declared after the balance sheet date

On April 29, 2010, at the Annual General Board of Directors’ Meeting, the directors unanimously agreed to reduce dividend distribution.  This implies the payment of a final dividend of US$0.62131 per share due to the amount of net income obtained. However, is subject to the reduction of US$0.37994 which was already paid as a provisional dividend.  Consequently, the remaining balance of US$0.24137 per share will be paid and distributed in favor of those SQM shareholders who have been registered with the Shareholders’ Register on the fifth business day prior to the date in which this dividend is paid.
 
SQM
Los Militares 4290,
Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
Tel: (56 2)  425 2000
www.sqm.com
  
 
191

 
 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
SOCIEDAD QUIMICA Y MINERA DE CHILE S.A.
 
Conf: /s/ Ricardo Ramos R.
 
Ricardo Ramos R.
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
Date: July 21, 2010