SANTIAGO, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chile's exports plunged 20.7 percent in October compared to the same period last year, amid a wave of anti-government protests that have roiled the country in recent weeks, the Central Bank of Chile said on Thursday.
Imports also fell in the same period, by 19.8 percent.
The drop in exports left Chile with a trade deficit of 307 million U.S. dollars, as the unrest disrupted shipments of copper, the country's main export, pushing it to its lowest level in two years.
Mining activity was brought to a standstill as demonstrators blocked roads and highways around the country to protest high living costs and a lack of services.
Protests were sparked on Oct. 14 by an increase in subway fares.
The fare hike has since been repealed, but the protests continue, as demonstrators demand comprehensive improvement of living standards.
