Why did Chile not want to join mercosur?

Chile opted not to join Mercosur primarily due to its preference for free trade agreements over regional trade blocs that impose tariffs and trade barriers. The country sought to maintain its open economy and promote trade liberalization, which it believed could be better achieved through bilateral agreements. Additionally, Chile's trade policies were more aligned with those of the Pacific Rim countries, further distancing it from Mercosur's regulatory framework.