In 1892, Mr. Jorge Matetic Cetinja arrived in Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in mainland Chile, from the city of Rijeka in Croatia, formerly known as the Fiume harbor in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Over the years, his son Jorge Matetic Fernández strengthened the family’s place in the metal-mechanic industry in Chile, as well as venturing in the agricultural business.
Due to Jorge Matetic Riestra’s drive, the family eventually consolidated their lands and reinforced their place with the acquisition of Hacienda Canteras in 1979, Fundo El Rosario in the 80s, Complejo Ganadero Torres del Paine and Ganadera Cerro Guido in the 90s, and lastly, Fundo El Porvenir in 2008.
The Family has had a strong bond with agriculture from the beginning, and this passion has been passed down throughout three generations, maintaining its values: excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, care for the environment, and a close relationship with the people.
Currently, Matetic Farms manages over 155,000 hectares scattered across the country, where it has become one of the largest cattle producers since they first entered this business in 1963. Furthermore, the company has also ventured in the annual and fruit crop, business, where there has been a significant growth.
Innovation is in the group’s DNA, which is how they became pioneers at implementing technology-intensive irrigation systems for crops in the early 1990s. As for fruit crops, they have been precursors in the biodynamic production of blueberries not only in the region but in the world.
The long-term vision, excellence, respect for the environment and importance of the people; are the core values guiding the development of this family’s business area.
We are commited to the environment, the community, the people, and to our love for the earth.
We work with perseverance, leadership, and determination in all business areas.
We are constantly searching for creativity, improvement and product development with an eye to the future.
We believe in generosity, comprehensive project development, and educating people.
The long-term vision of the group in the development of their projects has put them in the path of sustainability. The agricultural DNA and experience in productive systems management, has allowed a deep understanding of the importance of balance when approaching any project.
The group strongly believes that any project’s success is related to the proper articulation of the financial, environmental, and social factors.
The financial aspect has been covered through the growth and development of new business areas.
The commitment with the environment can be seen in the deepening of the practice of Organic Agriculture, moving towards a Biodynamic Agriculture; and the on-going search for more sustainable methods that could be applied to the entire agricultural operation.
Lastly, in regards to the social aspect, a unique family hallmark is their profound concern for the people and local communities. The development and welfare of those working in Matetic Farms are key for the organization.