Doing Business In Argentina

Doing Business in Argentina: 2008 Country
Commercial Guide for U.S. Companies
INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT, U.S. & FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICE AND U.S.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, 2008. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED
STATES.
3/4/2008
Chapter 1: Doing Business In Argentina
Chapter 2: Political and Economic Environment
Chapter 3: Selling U.S. Products and Services
Chapter 4: Leading Sectors for U.S. Export and Investment
Chapter 5: Trade Regulations and Standards
Chapter 6: Investment Climate
Chapter 7: Trade and Project Financing
Chapter 8: Business Travel
Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade Events
Chapter 10: Guide to Our Services

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Chapter 1: Doing Business In Argentina
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Market Overview
Market Challenges
Market Opportunities
Market Entry Strategy
Market Overview Return to top
Argentina's economy has sustained a robust recovery following the severe
2001/2002 economic crisis, with five consecutive years of over 8 percent growth
in real gross domestic product (GDP).
Argentina posted real GDP growth of 8.8 percent in 2003, 9.0 percent in 2004,
9.2 percent in 2005, 8.4 percent in 2006, and an estimated 8.5 percent in 2007.
Argentina should continue to perform well, with the Central Bank of Argentina’s
consensus survey forecasting 6.6 percent real GDP growth for 2008.
The Government published single-digit inflation figures two years running: 9.8
percent for 2006 and 8.5 percent for 2007. However, many private economists’
estimates are significantly higher. Inflation will continue to be a concern in 2008.
Argentina’s economic expansion continues to create jobs, and unemployment
continues to decline, down from a 21.5 percent peak in 2002 to 7.5 percent
during the fourth quarter of 2007, according to official government statistics.
Central Bank estimates place this figure at slightly below 7 percent in 2008.
Total Argentine exports increased at an annual rate of 20 percent in 2007,
compared to 15 percent in 2006, 16 percent growth in 2005, 15 percent growth in
2004, and almost 17 percent growth in 2003. A 14 percent increase is expected
in 2008.
Argentine exports to the U.S. increased by 20 percent in 2005 to $4.5 billion but
declined 13.3% in 2006 to $4 billion largely due to lower hydrocarbon exports;
2007 exports to the U.S. are expected to remain in the $4 billion range.
Total Argentine imports increased 31 percent in 2007, compared to 19 percent in
2006, 28 percent in 2005, and 62 percent in 2004.
U.S. exports to Argentina jumped 52 percent to $3.4 billion in 2004, 18 percent to
$4.0 billion in 2005, and 15.8 percent to $4.8 billion in 2006. U.S. exports to
Argentina in 2007 were estimated at $5.3 billion.
The U.S. is Argentina's second largest trading partner after Brazil and competes
with Spain for the top investment spot.
Argentina has maintained a strong primary fiscal surplus for five consecutive
years and continues to accumulate foreign exchange reserves. The government
projects a primary fiscal surplus of about 3.5 percent in 2008; a $46 billion foreign
exchange reserve cushion (as of December 2007) helps insulate the economy
from external shocks.
In January 2006 Argentina repaid the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in full
and in January 2007 reached an agreement to repay its $1 billion debt to Spain
over six years.

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Argentina’s banking system, devastated by the economic recession and financial
crisis, rebounded dramatically in 2004, continued to perform well in 2005, and
returned to solvency in 2006. The ratio of private bank non-performing loans
has fallen to an historic low of approximately 2.5 percent, and profits for the
overall banking system are among the highest levels achieved in over a decade.
U.S. investment is concentrated in IT and telecommunications, agribusiness,
energy, petrochemicals, food processing, household products, and motor vehicle
manufacturing.
Under the 1994 U.S.-Argentina Bilateral Investment Treaty, U.S. investors enjoy
national treatment in all sectors except real estate in border areas, air
transportation, shipbuilding, nuclear energy, uranium mining, and fishing.
Argentina is a member of the Common Market of the South (MERCOSUR-
Mercado Común del Sur), which includes Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela joined the pact as
associate members. Venezuela was accepted as full-fledged member in July
2006 (though its membership has yet to be ratified by the Brazilian and
Paraguayan legislatures), and has four years to adapt to the MERCOSUR
Common External Tariff scheme.
As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Argentina signed the
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), affirming its obligations relative
to technical regulations and conformity assessment procedures.
Market Challenges Return to top
MERCOSUR (Common Market of the South) gradually eliminated almost all nontariff
restrictions and other limitations to trade among its members (Argentina,
Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay).
Argentina and its MERCOSUR partners established a common external tariff
(CET) on goods originating in non-member countries that currently ranges from
zero to 20 percent for most products. However, some categories of goods, such
as automobiles, have a CET of 35 percent. The average tariff is approximately
14 percent.
Prior government approval is required for imports of sensitive goods such as
pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, insecticides, veterinary products, medical devices,
defense materials, cosmetics and toiletries, and others.
Certain types of special vehicles, publications, shoes, carpets, paper and
automobiles to be used as prototypes also require prior government approval to
be imported into Argentina.
Many food-related and agricultural imports, such as livestock, plants, bulbs,
cuttings, rhizomes, roots, grains, and plant products require a sanitary certificate
issued by an appropriate authority in the exporting country.
Argentina continues to ban imports of poultry meat and other poultry products,
with few exceptions such as day-old chicks. It also currently imposes antidumping
duties on imports of U.S. polyvinyl chloride.
Most recently, the government imposed new non-automatic licenses on toys,
soccer balls, footwear parts, some used equipment, and bicycle tires and tubes,
requiring importers to obtain an import certificate reviewed by Argentine
government authorities.

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A few sensitive products must be imported through specifically identified customs
points of entry. Such products include drugs, medicines, vines and their parts for
experiment or research purposes, and cotton fiber and seeds.
The Argentine government requires certificates of origin on a broad range of
imports generally covering but not limited to consumer goods, textiles, apparel
and footwear, printing machines, and machine tools.
Commercial invoices must be presented in Spanish (one original and three
copies), with the caption "Original Invoice."
The bill of lading should be issued (at minimum) in one negotiable copy.
Packing lists are necessary for customs clearance in Argentina and must
describe the contents of each package. A packing list is not necessary for goods
imported in bulk, such as such as coal, petroleum, sand, etc., or for articles
identical in kind, characteristics, composition, weight, etc.
Argentina is not included in the A.T.A. (Temporary Admission) Carnet program of
the U.S. Council for International Business, which allows the importation of
goods, display booths, and literature for display in local trade shows for
subsequent re-export.
Labels of all products sold in country should be in Spanish, with the exception of
foreign words/phrases of common usage in trade. Imported products may keep
the original label of country/language of origin but should have a sticker/label
attached to the package in Spanish. Indication of net content in labeling must be
in the metric system.
Used capital goods must be refurbished in the country of origin or the country of
export.
Safety regulations and mandatory certification apply to all electric apparatus over
50 volts, as well as toys, lighters, bicycles, shoes, gas appliances and products,
construction steel, elevators, energy consumption and noise labeling of
appliances, closures for dangerous products, and personal protective equipment.
There is a quota system and the special regime for auto parts imports in the
automotive industry. Temporary quotas on organic chemicals (HS code
2915.90), fluoride of aluminum (2826.12), and petroleum resins (3911.10) also
affect U.S. exports.
A Bilateral Common Automotive Industry Regime with Brazil establishes
preferential market access treatment for both countries.
Transparency International has identified corruption in Argentina as a significant
problem, particularly in procurement, regulatory systems, tax collection, and
health care administration.
Argentina does not have a bilateral tax treaty (Treaty for the Mutual Avoidance of
Double Taxation) with the United States, but it does have double taxation treaties
with the following countries: Australia, United Kingdom, Denmark, Germany,
Belgium, Austria, France, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Canada, Chile,
Bolivia, Brazil, Finland, Norway, and the Netherlands.
Market Opportunities Return to top

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The zero percent import duty on a broad range of new capital goods produced in
non-MERCOSUR countries, such as the United States, was implemented in
2003, renewed in 2006, and will remain will remain in effect until at least
December 31, 2008.
Some goods not produced within the four MERCOSUR countries (Argentina,
Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay), such as newsprint and books, and certain petroleum
products, also pay zero percent import duties on entering the Argentine market.
Ex-Im Bank is open for short and medium-term financing for U.S. exports to
private sector clients in Argentina. Long-term (15 years) financing is available for
environmental projects on a case-by-case basis.
The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) offers assistance to U.S.
private investors in the form of political risk insurance, as well as loans and loan
guarantees for their direct investment in Argentina.
Leading U.S. exports to Argentina in 2006 were boilers, machinery, etc. and
parts thereof (26.6%); organic chemicals (12%); electric machinery etc., sound
equipment, TV equipment and parts thereof (10.3%); and plastics and articles
thereof (6%).
The following sectors offer the most significant growth potential for U.S.
exporters: agricultural machinery, equipment and parts; electrical power systems;
food processing and packaging equipment and parts; information technology;
medical equipment and supplies; mining machinery and equipment; pleasure
boats; plastics production machinery; security and safety equipment;
telecommunication equipment; travel and tourism services.
The following agricultural sectors offer the most significant growth potential for
U.S. exporters: animal genetics (bovine semen), food ingredients, and planting
seeds (for more information, click here).
Market Entry Strategy Return to top
U.S. companies typically market their products and services through an
Argentine agent/representative or distributor.
After analyzing the product and its uses, and defining the potential customers,
U.S. companies intending to export to Argentina should identify the geographical
areas where the major users of the product reside.
Segmentation is key. It is increasingly difficult to establish a "typical customer",
due to new consumption habits and to the dynamics of income distribution and
demography.
Personal relationships are fundamental when doing business in Argentina.
Success requires taking the time to develop a close personal relationship with
the representative, agent, or distributor.
U.S. companies intent on exporting to Argentina should consider economic,
demographic, and cultural characteristics that distinguish it from other Latin
American countries.
Marketing U.S. products and services in Argentina requires a high level of
research, preparation, and involvement.
An important component of the marketing-mix is promotion. Companies are
encouraged to visit or exhibit at local and regional trade shows, and to visit trade
shows in the U.S. attended by Argentine buyers.

3/4/2008
Always use a professional translator, and if possible, have a native Argentine
speaker, such as your agent or distributor, review any materials before using
them in the Argentine market.
Below are some practical tips to successfully approach Argentine consumers:
Appoint a representative or distributor
Have Spanish-language capacity in firm
Furnish materials in Spanish
Have a long term outlook
Personalize your approach
Be consistent in attention to service and delivery
Provide fair credit terms
Dot your I's and cross your T's (lawyers and accountants)
Protect your trademarks
Do not take no for an answer/ frequent visits and follow-ups
The U.S. Commercial Service in Argentina provides a wide range of services to help
U.S. companies enter and expand operations in the country:
http://www.comerciousa.org/argentina/en/Content_pages/Our_Products_Services_2.asp
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Return to table of contents
Chapter 2: Political and Economic Environment
For background information on the political and economic environment of the country,
please click on the link below to the U.S. Department of State Background Notes.
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26516.htm
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Return to table of contents
Chapter 3: Selling U.S. Products and Services
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Using an Agent or Distributor
Establishing an Office
Franchising
Direct Marketing
Joint Ventures/Licensing
Selling to the Government
Distribution and Sales Channels
Selling Factors/Techniques
Electronic Commerce
Trade Promotion and Advertising
Pricing
Sales Service/Customer Support
Protecting Your Intellectual Property
Due Diligence
Local Professional Services
Web Resources
Using an Agent or Distributor Return to top
U.S. companies typically market their products through an Argentine
agent/representative or a distributor.
Distributors purchase goods directly from the manufacturer with the intent of reselling
them. Consequently, they assume the risk of sales to third parties. Unlike distributors, an
agent or representative (equivalent to the U.S. sales agent) acts on behalf of its principal
and promotes the principal's business without actually taking title. Agents typically earn a
commission or fee on sales. In contrast, distributors earn their margins on the difference
between the price at which they purchase the goods for resale and the price at which
they sell these goods in the market.
Working with a distributor has several advantages. Distributors can provide strategic
support for positioning brands in the market through advertising and promotion.
Furthermore, they understand the local culture and can assist with after-sales service.
This value-added service is increasingly important for customers, and contributes to a
positive image of U.S. firms doing business abroad. It should be noted that some
Argentine importers/distributors complain that U.S. companies are sometimes inflexible
on financing options for imports and providing promotional support in the local market.
When deciding upon the optimal form of representation to use, U.S. companies should
consider their control over price, channel distribution network, policy, operational
expenses, after-sales service, and potential liability under Argentine labor law.
Representation Representative Distributor Branch/Subsidiary
Price Control Yes No Yes
Channel Yes Yes Yes

Policy Short-term Short/Medium Term Long-term
Operational
Expenses
After Sales Service
(Well-served
clientele)
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No No Yes (No, in cases of
large multinational
No/Yes (according
to % of revenue
companies
No/Yes Yes
The Civil and Commercial Codes govern principal-agent relations. No special legislation
has been enacted to regulate the cancellation of agency/distribution agreements,
although a company could incur additional costs associated with the cancellation of an
agency agreement under Argentine labor law.
The contract entered with agents/distributors should specify rights and responsibilities,
the exclusive or non-exclusive nature of the relationship, geographical scope, description
of the product or services included, and the compensation plan. Contracts do not
require a specific format and can be executed verbally. However, given the complexity of
the legal and commercial environment, contracts are generally negotiated in writing
through the exchange of reversal letters or via a basic instrument.
If the distributor is granted exclusive representation in an area, this right must be
explicitly noted. Areas may be assigned according to geography, sectors of activity
(public or private sectors), transaction volumes (large companies, retailers, etc.), and
transaction modes (cash segment, home sale, etc.)
The agent may become an employee when any of the following requirements is fulfilled:
When he/she sells in the name of his/her employer
When he/she sells at the prices and sales conditions established by the ones
he/she represents (terms of sale defined by principal)
When he/she receives a salary, travel allowances, fees, or any other kind of
compensation
When he/she usually and personally carries out his/her activity as a traveling
salesperson
When he/she renders his/her services within a determined geographic area
When the risk of his/her operations is levied on the employer.
In these cases, Law 11,544 of 1929, as amended, may regulate the agent. In particular,
Law 14,546 of 1958 extends Labor Law benefits to business agents.
The parties may not elect foreign laws to govern the agreement. If a contract is executed
abroad to avoid Argentine law, Argentine courts will not enforce it.
The Civil and Commercial Codes permit a principal to cancel an agency agreement at
his or her discretion. However, the terminating party may be liable for damages resulting
from a wrongful cancellation. All agreements, whether for a definite or indefinite term,
should include a notice of cancellation clause.
Labor laws similarly require the service of a cancellation notice sometime before the

actual cancellation date; otherwise, the principal may be liable to the employee for
earnings that would have accrued during the notification period. In all cancellation cases,
except those based on a just cause, the agent is entitled to one month's compensation
for each year of service, payable in a lump sum.
In addition, when a contract is terminated after one year, the agent or the distributor is
entitled to compensation for the lost customers, which will amount to 25 percent of the
amount corresponding to a wrongful dismissal.
Distributors of U.S. exporters may have experienced problems in transferring funds for
imports, particularly during the first months of 2002. However, financial transactions
have gradually returned to normal, allowing for advance import payments and transfer of
foreign exchange (further details may be found in Chapter 5 on Trade Regulations and
Standards).
Relationships are key. U.S. companies should look at the long-term picture, taking the
time to develop a close relationship with a representative, agent, distributor, or other
business partner.
Finding a Partner
The U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce assists exporters in
finding appropriate partners in the local market. The U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos
Aires (CSBA) offers the following partner search services:
Customized Market Research/Customized Contact List: Using a variety of resources,
including in-country databases and local expertise, we will prepare a customized list of
Argentine companies in the sector of your choice. This list will contain company name,
address, phone/fax numbers, a contact name, e-mail address, web site, and a
description of the firm and products/services offered. We will provide the list within two to
10 business days from receipt of notification from the pertinent U.S. Export Assistance
Center that the $250 fee has been paid.
International Partner Search: We will conduct a pre-screened search to identify up to five
qualified potential representatives, distributors, licensees, franchisees, or other strategic
partners interested in your product or service. The preferred method for showing your
products and company information to Argentine firms is your web site or electronic
catalog/brochure. If a web site or electronic catalog is not available, we will require 20
sets of product literature. The cost for this service is US$500; turnaround time is 30
business days.
Gold Key Matching Service: This service allows U.S. firms to efficiently and effectively
travel to Buenos Aires for face-to-face meetings with potential business partners. We
will prepare a customized schedule of appointments with pre-screened potential agents,
distributors, or other business contacts, according to your needs. The cost for this
service is $685 the first day, $320 each additional day of appointments. Six weeks
advance notice is required.
Video Gold Key Matching Service (VGK): The VGK offers all the advantages of the Gold
Key Service (GKS), without the expense of travel. We will arrange for pre-screened
potential agents, distributors, or other business contacts to come to our offices for video
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meetings. The service includes at least three quality meetings with pre-screened
potential Argentine firms, up to four hours of video interaction (including a briefing with
Commercial Service staff). Please contact us for price and payment method.
Platinum Key Service: This service is intended for U.S. firms active in a key industry
sector, involved in bidding on a major project, or seeking commercial intelligence to
achieve their business goals. A senior staff member will actively monitor and seek out
information and intelligence in your area of interest. You will receive up-to-the-minute
privileged market intelligence, trade leads, insights and major projects news or
developments. These reports, via e-mail or through confidential periodical telephone or
videoconferences with the Embassy Commercial Specialist, will discuss political,
strategic, financial and competitive developments in your firm's sector or in any number
of specific projects in Argentina. In short, you can now access the perfect tool to know -or
double check-- what your foreign competitors, colleagues, customers, private and
government clients are doing and how it affects your competitive position. This ongoing
service is available for six months, one year, or a specified timeframe based on the
mutually agreed-upon scope of work. Price will be quoted prior to initiation of service.
Please see further information on CS Argentina products and services, especially
designed for U.S. companies to successfully enter this market, under Services Offered
by the Commercial Service Argentina below.
Establishing an Office Return to top
Foreign companies may carry out any single transaction. To carry on a habitual activity,
a foreign company must establish a branch (sucursal) in Argentina. An individual must
be appointed as the company's legal representative, but assignment of capital to the
branch is not necessary.
Legal Structures Commonly Used by Investors
Regardless of whether they are associated with local investors, foreign investors may do
business in Argentina as individuals or through corporations, branches of foreign
corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, general partnerships and
"joint ventures".
Foreign corporations often operate in Argentina through a separately incorporated
subsidiary rather than through a branch, primarily to reduce their potential liability. If a
branch is used, all of the foreign corporation's assets, not only its Argentine assets, may
be subject to potential liability. In contrast, if an Argentine or foreign subsidiary were
used, the foreign corporation's liability would generally be limited to the assets owned by
that subsidiary.
Registration Procedures: a law effective throughout Argentina regulates Corporations.
Corporations are set up with the approval of at least two legal or natural persons,
whether Argentine or foreign.
A corporation may not be a partner in a partnership. A corporation can usually be
established within three to four weeks if capital is supplied only in cash. If supplied in
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kind, the corporation can be established within approximately two months.
The estimated total incorporation cost ranges from US$350 to US$850, including
statutory books and excluding both professional fees and stamp tax (1 percent of
capital).
A minimum of two founders, whether legal or natural persons, is required. There is no
maximum limit on the number of founders. The founders of a company must report a
domicile in Argentina for related proceedings.
A minimum of two shareholders is required. No maximum is prescribed.
The minimum initial capital required is US$4,000, except for corporations engaged in
banking, insurance or related activities. If the capital is supplied in cash, at least 25
percent must be paid at incorporation, with the remainder payable in two years. If in kind,
it must be fully paid at incorporation.
U.S. firms considering setting up operations in Argentina are encouraged to fully
investigate the tax and legal aspects of establishing a business with legal counsel before
making any final decisions. (A brief list of local English-speaking law firms is available in
Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade Events.)
Franchising Return to top
While franchising billings reached over US$4 billion in the year 2000, after five-years of
growth, it fell by 20 percent by the end of 2001 and gradually started recovering in 2003.
Currently, franchising represents a turnover of almost US$3 billion (or AR$9 billion). As
a result of the recuperating economy, domestic franchises particularly have experienced
growth, although at more moderate rate than in the 2006-2007 period. While revenues
have increased in local currency terms, in dollar terms they are still below market levels
obtained in the 1990s. At that time, the currency exchange was one Argentine peso to
one U.S. dollar.
During the last few years companies created different types of business partnerships,
adjusted costs, and reduced the requirements to franchisees in order to adapt to real
market demand and opportunities. For example, the franchising businesses that used to
be rated in the medium-investment range were forced to reduce installation costs and
fees. They are now rated in the medium-low to low investment range. Their reduced
costs allowed several micro-entrepreneurial businesses to grow in an orderly fashion,
starting with an investment as low as US$8,000.
Another system that has emerged in past years is the franchise concept, which doesn’t
involve a physical outlet, entrance fees or royalties, and are a starting point for ventures
in sectors such as merchandising, souvenirs, decoration supplies, key-holders, and pins
among others.
Development of franchising in Argentina has been uneven and shows a high level of
concentration: 10-15 chains handle 36 percent of the franchises and 50 percent of the
total turnover. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, there are approximately 410
franchise brands and more than 16,000 franchise points of sale. The percentage of local
franchisers has grown considerably in the past decade, now accounting for
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approximately 87 percent of the total number of franchisers. U.S. companies make up
about 6.1 percent of the total, and Spanish and Brazilian companies each account for
about 1.9 percent of the total. The peso exchange rate disadvantage vis-à-vis the dollar
and scarce credit render it increasingly difficult for potential Argentine franchisees to
acquire international or U.S. franchises. However, each opportunity should be evaluated
on a case-by-case basis.
The most popular areas for international franchisers are fast foods, foreign language
training, apparel, dry cleaning, hotels, and car rental services. Local franchises have
been particularly successful in ice creams, "empanada" pastries, health clubs, and
education. Significant U.S. market players include Kodak Express, McDonald's, Burger
King, Blockbuster, Holiday Inn, FutureKids, and the Wall Street Institute. The recent
entries of companies in services such as real estate (Re-Max) open roads for new
market niches.
Franchise contracts are generally protected under the Argentine Commercial Code as
opposed to being governed by specific legislation. The scope of the service, commercial
trade market/name, expertise, and shared production elements are covered by
contractual obligations on both franchiser and franchisee.
Elements of the contract include: the license, methods/systems or proprietary
information transferred to a franchisee, the supply of needed inputs, methods of sales,
and quality standards, and ultimate control by franchiser of the contract elements.
Franchises have been successfully used in Argentina, but the obligations of the
franchiser must be clearly delineated in the contract to avoid legal obligations associated
with the operator, in case of default, bankruptcy, etc. Argentine law is unclear about
franchiser obligations in case of bankruptcy or other commercial failings. Legal advice
should be sought before signing contracts.
Franchise contracts are generally protected under the Argentine Commercial Code as
opposed to being governed by specific legislation. The scope of the service, commercial
trade market/name, expertise, and shared production elements are covered by
contractual obligations on both franchiser and franchisee.
Elements of the contract include: the license, methods/systems or proprietary
information transferred to a franchisee, the supply of needed inputs, methods of sales,
and quality standards, and ultimate control by franchiser of the contract elements.
Franchises have been successfully used in Argentina, but the obligations of the
franchiser must be clearly delineated in the contract to avoid legal obligations associated
with the operator, in case of default, bankruptcy, etc. Argentine law is unclear about
franchiser obligations in case of bankruptcy or other commercial failings. Legal advice
should be sought before signing contracts.
Direct Marketing Return to top
With the Argentine economy registering five consecutive years of growth and rising
consumption levels, direct marketing methods have renewed opportunities for
development. Telemarketing has been one of the quickest growing tools for businesses
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to contact their clients during recent years. E-commerce is increasingly a part of the daily
life, particularly given a higher penetration of home broadband connections. While in
most cases it still represents a marginal portion of total sales, e-commerce activity has
grown 1000 percent since 2000 in peso terms. Credit through installments (12 to 18
month) is once again experiencing positive growth. Short-term consumption credit
through personal credit, and credit cards, surpassed US$ 11 billion.
Mail order marketing is still not widespread in Argentina. Mail distribution prices remain
high, while duties and other taxes to be paid on international mail order merchandise
depend on the nature of the product or shipment. Obstacles that impede the
development of mail orders include payment methods (the most common being credit
card), and delivery, which is not clearly regulated. Other means of delivery include local
messenger services.
Despite increased competition during past years and growing efficiency among postal
carriers to reduce costs, leading courier companies have been greatly affected by the
macroeconomic situation. Employee layoffs and salary reductions have resulted as fuel
costs have risen. Nevertheless, many have incorporated new services related to ebusiness
development and telephone sales, and have introduced logistics centers that
connect the entire country via satellite.
Some imported products are marketed directly through cable and satellite TV programs.
Argentina has the largest number of cable TV subscribers in Latin America. There are
over 70 cable TV channels and cable TV penetration is estimated around 68 percent, the
highest in Latin America, similar or even higher than fixed telephone line penetration.
Large and specialized retailers, such as household appliance stores, print flyers to lure
consumers into their stores. Use of coupons has still not caught on as an important
marketing tool, as redemption rates are still low. Traditionally, companies that sell
cosmetics, kitchenware, fragrances, and books have been most likely to utilize direct
marketing tools. However, the increasing use of the Internet is enabling other
firms/sectors to penetrate the market.
Additionally, companies selling household consumer goods, electronic devices,
merchandising, books and CDs, computer hardware, tourism services, and even cars
publish their product catalogs on-line. On-line product catalogs are an increasingly used
tool for Argentine companies interested in exporting premium Argentine products (wine,
leather products, polo gear and accessories, etc.).
The number of people with access to the Internet has continued to grow. Network
expansion allows people to connect from multiple locations such as from offices, cybercafes,
phone booths, etc. In fact, as of 2007, Argentina has 17 million Internet users.
According to the Argentine E-commerce Association, e-commerce in 2007 was expected
to reach approximately US$ 6.4 billion, an accumulation of five consecutive years of
growth of more than 100%. In 2006, Argentine E-commerce exceeded US$3.2 billion, in
transactions by over 5 million users. However, actual sales via Internet have not reached
the same levels as in other countries, since a large percentage of Internet users make
purchases through traditional channels after consulting the Internet. On-line sales have
a higher rate of acceptance in the interior of the country, where the variety of products is
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more limited and delivery is a growing sales tool. Home banking services are used by 2
million Argentines.
Joint Ventures/Licensing Return to top
Argentine legislation permits the establishment of temporary associations, equivalent to
"joint ventures", known as UTEs (Union Transitoria de Empresas). This is an association
of two or more individuals or companies that contribute assets to develop or perform a
particular transaction in Argentina or outside the country using Argentina as its base of
operations. The UTE can also perform work or render services that are supplementary
or accessory to its main purpose. UTEs (joint ventures) are not considered to be
companies or legal entities in their own right. Participants may be resident
businesspeople, locally constituted entities, or non-resident companies that have
established a separate branch or other type of presence in Argentina.
A contract must be signed and registered with the Public Commercial Registry at the
Office of the Inspector General of Justice (Inspeccion General de Justicia) in the Federal
Capital, or its provincial equivalent. The contract must contain the objective, term of
duration, name and other specific information regarding their partners' responsibilities,
financial contribution, and many other specific clauses. It must also provide for the
appointment of a legal representative in charge of management.
See below the different forms or structures local investment can take, whether as a "joint
venture" or wholly owned. (Also see Chapter 6: Investment Climate Statement, for
further information.)
Selling to the Government Return to top
Bidding on official government tenders requires a case-by-case analysis of the project
and government situation.
Federal government purchases are referred to as "compras y contrataciones de la
Nacion". These are classified in larger categories or subsections of the expenditure
budget: consumer goods (foods, textiles, office supplies, cleaning products, etc.); nonpersonal
services (basic services, rentals, maintenance, cleaning services, technical and
commercial services, advertising, traveling services, etc.); and fixed assets (land,
buildings, facilities, equipment, books, collectibles, artwork, intangible assets, etc.).
Public service contracts, petty cash purchases, contracts with foreign governments,
contracts with international public law institutions or multilateral credit organizations do
not fall under these categories.
Decree 436/2000, called "Rules for Acquiring, Selling and Contracting Goods and
Services for the National Government", establishes the rules applicable to federal
government purchases. Resolution 515/2000 supplements this decree through a manual
for describing such hiring of services. It can be downloaded from the following web site:
http://www.onc.mecon.gov.ar/pprSistContrataciones.htm.
This decree applies to all federal public agencies (including autonomous or
3/4/2008

decentralized institutions), but excludes federal banks. It also establishes the amounts
determining the selection process. Government purchases of less than US$35,000 are
affected by direct invitation to bid; no tender is published. Purchases of US$25,000 or
less undergo direct purchase. Contracts under US$3,000 undergo a simplified process
and are considered petty cash expenses. Purchases of under US$100,000 or less may
undergo private bidding, but any purchases greater than that amount must have an open
public bidding process.
Advertising and publishing procedure terms apply regarding important contracts in main
publications and Internet sites such as ONC and Cristal, (www.cristal.gov.ar) as well as
in the Official Bulletin and publications of suppliers associations. Requirements for firsttime
sales to the Government depend on the type of provider. Information should be
submitted in writing and in the form of a diskette. Furthermore, documents should be
formatted in compliance with the regulations set by the National Contracting Office in
order to be incorporated in the SIPRO database. (www.onc.mecon.gov.ar/asp/sip)
The National Contracting Office (Oficina Nacional de Contrataciones - ONC) is the
agency supervising procurement for the National Public Administration. This Office is
part of the Under Secretariat of Budgeting, Secretariat of Treasury, Ministry of Economy.
Contact Information:
Oficina Nacional de Contrataciones (National Contracting Office)
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 10, Of. 1001
C1086AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11)-4349-6592/79.
Fax: (54-11)-4349-6588.
E-mail: ondc@mecon.gov.ar
URL: www.onc.mecon.gov.ar
A prominent NGO looking out for the interests of companies participating in national,
provincial, and municipal procurements is the Union Argentina de Proveedores del
Estado (UAPE). UAPE has a database of government procurements. More information
can be found at www.uape.org.ar.
Most provincial governments have their own websites with procurement information.
Both the Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank have a number of
active loans in Argentina presenting procurement opportunities for U.S. companies. The
U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires publishes information about many of these
opportunities and can sometimes assist in obtaining bidding documents.
Procurement from Local Companies (Buy Local Regime)
By Law 25551 issued on November 2001 and implemented by Decree 1600/2002 the
national government established the Buy National Regime. The "Compre Trabajo
Argentino" regime, affects national treatment in that it obligates all government agencies
and privatized utilities to purchase domestic materials, goods and products, provided
that the price is "reasonable" (precio razonable) and the performance is identical or
similar (idénticas o similares prestaciones) to that of the imported/foreign goods offered,
as defined by regulatory Decree 1600/2002 of August 28, 2002.
Preferences:
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Goods: Preference will be given to domestic goods. The origin of the goods shall be
determined by the nature/composition of the goods themselves, not based on the
nationality or ownership of the manufacturing company. Goods containing imported
parts shall be considered domestically produced when the value of the imported parts is
no more than 40 percent of the sales value of the finished good, or when the imported
product undergoes substantial transformation in country; such that the MERCOSUR
tariff classification code of the transformed item differs from that of the imported part.
Services: Preference will be given to bids submitted by a domestic company or
consultant.
Public Works: Preference will be given to domestic materials and to domestic services
(i.e., project design, management, and construction services) as defined above.
Preferential Treatment:
In cash payment conditions, when the cost of the domestic goods is five or seven
percent higher than the cost of the imported/foreign goods, the contracting party should
select the domestic goods. SMEs - seven percent; other companies - five percent. In the
case of deregulated markets, the contracting party should select the domestic goods
when the value quoted is equal to or lower than that of the imported/foreign goods.
The above applies only when the domestic goods meet all the requirements set forth in
the contracting documents and can fulfill the expected functions (idénticas o similares
prestaciones).
Foreign Goods:
When a bidder offers to supply foreign goods not available in country, he/she must
guarantee "nationalization" of the goods by depositing a bond on behalf of the
contracting party. In addition, the Secretariat of Industry, Commerce and SMEs will issue
a certificate verifying the value of the goods to be purchased abroad at the request of the
contracting party, within 96 hours of receiving said request. To obtain the Certificate of
Verification (Certificado De Verificación-CDV), the contracting party must submit a sworn
statement declaring (1) that it has complied with the Compre Argentino regime, (2) the
end price or value of the foreign goods, and (3) that said price or value is lower than that
of domestic goods offered or that no domestic goods were offered.
Disputes:
Whenever the selection of imported/foreign goods is challenged, the Secretariat of
Industry, Commerce and SMEs will determine whether the domestic goods offered in
fact meet all the requirements set forth in the contracting documents and can fulfill the
expected functions (idénticas o similares prestaciones) in the same manner as the
imported/foreign goods selected. The Secretariat may request the advice of the National
Institute of Industrial Technology (Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Industrial-INTI) or any
other body accredited by the Argentine Accreditation Organization (Organismo Argentino
de Acreditación-OAA). If the challenge fails, the challenging party pays the costs of the
Secretariat's intervention; if the challenge succeeds, the bidder offering the
imported/foreign goods pays the costs.
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Remaining provisions refer to announcement or advertisement requirements. Definitions:
Reasonable Price: In cash payment conditions, when the cost of the domestic goods is
five or seven percent higher than the cost of the imported/foreign goods. SMEs - seven
percent; other companies - five percent. In the case of deregulated markets, a domestic
good is "reasonably priced" when the value quoted is equal to or lower than that of the
imported/foreign good.
Deregulated Market or Market in Competition: That which is free of tariff controls,
performance controls, investment controls and/or approvals by the Federal Government.
Identical or Similar Performance: The good meets all the requirements set forth in the
contracting documents and can fulfill the expected functions.
SMEs: Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises are defined on the basis of their
annual sales in Argentine pesos (excluding VAT and domestic taxes) as follows.
SIZE/SECTOR AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY & COMMERCE SERVICES
/ LIVESTOCK MINING
MICRO
ENTERPRISE
$ 150,000 $ 500,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 250,000
SMALL
ENTERPRISE
$ 1,000,000 $ 3,000,000 $ 6,000,000 $ 1,800,000
MEDIUM
ENTERPRISE
$ 6,000,000 $24,000,000 $48,000,000 $12,000,000
Source: SEPyME Resolution 24/2001.
Domestic Parts: Parts wholly produced with domestic materials or locally produced with
imported raw materials, provided the composition, shape or structure of the latter is
changed during the production or manufacturing process.
Domestic Components or Subcomponents: (1) The value of the imported parts is no
more than 40 percent of the "sales value", without VAT, of the component or
subcomponent. (2) The component or subcomponent undergoes substantial
transformation in country, such that the MERCOSUR tariff classification code of the
transformed item differs from that of the imported part.
Note: the Decree says "sales value"; the Law says "gross production value"
Domestic Origin Formula: RM + I + M = X
GPV
RM = Cost of the imported raw material once placed in the market.
I = Cost of the imported input (supplies) once placed in the market (includes components
and subcomponents).
M = Cost of the imported materials once placed in the market.
GPV = Gross Production Value of the good.
Input (insumos): The parts, components, or subcomponents that make up a good.
Gross Production Value (of a domestic good): Cost of the domestic or foreign raw
3/4/2008

material, input, or material needed to produce the good before taxes PLUS Cost of
conversion (labor, services and other charges, excluding VAT) incurred by the
company to produce or sell the good PLUS Financial costs (i.e., explicit and implicit
interest, monetary updates, exchange differentials) derived from using capital belonging
to other than the producing/selling company PLUS Prorated overhead costs PLUS The
company's unit profit or mark-up.
Cost of Raw Material, Input, or Material: (1) In the case of goods purchased by the
domestic producer, the procurement cost plus the cost of transportation to the location
where the goods will be converted or incorporated into the finished product. (2) In the
case of goods imported by the domestic producer, the CIF cost plus import duties and
taxes paid to place the good in the local market, except VAT, plus the cost of
transportation to the location where the goods will be converted or incorporated into the
finished product. (3) In the case of goods manufactured by the local producer, all the
costs associated with the production process, including the cost of transportation to the
location where the goods will be converted or incorporated into the finished product.
Comparable Prices: Must include transportation costs to the location specified in the
contract.
Distribution and Sales Channels Return to top
After analyzing the product and its uses, and defining the potential customers, U.S.
companies intending to export to Argentina should identify the geographical areas where
the major users of the product reside. It is important to recognize that 80 percent of the
Argentine population is concentrated in urban areas, with over 40 percent living in
Buenos Aires and its suburbs, and almost 10 percent in the cities of Cordoba, Rosario,
and Mendoza.
Segmentation is key. It is increasingly difficult to establish a "typical customer", due to
new consumption habits and to the dynamics of income distribution and demography.
Channel selection should be based on the nature of the product and the company's
knowledge of the Argentine market. Generally, firms new to this market find it more
effective to sell through a distributor. Large firms generally buy directly from overseas
suppliers, while smaller firms prefer to buy through intermediaries. Industrial equipment
is sold by sales agents or through trade fairs, while consumer goods are increasingly
sold through large outlets such as supermarkets.
Argentine distribution channels have gained increased efficiency through merging and
streamlining during the past decade, as a result of the increased competition and
changes in the consumer buying process that require goods to be delivered at lower
prices and in a timely manner. (Please refer to the Retail Network for further details.)
Warehouse and distribution
Argentines have realized the benefits of logistics management in order to be more
competitive. State-of-the-art technology plays an important role in upgrading
warehouses. The introduction of "paperless" warehouses by large companies has been
well received due to its inherent advantages and the reduction of operating costs.
3/4/2008

Approximately 70 percent of Argentina's 1,500 warehouses and manufacturing plants
are located in the Greater Buenos Aires city area. Approximately 40 percent of the
population is concentrated in Greater Buenos Aires area.
Distribution in Argentina tends to be radial, with all roads converging on the Port of
Buenos Aires. This dates back to the turn of the century when Argentina's rail and road
systems were developed by the British to bring products to the Port of Buenos Aires to
satisfy the foreign demand for commodities. The hub-oriented distribution approach
used in the U.S. does not exist in Argentina as of yet. There have been significant
improvements in transportation infrastructure during the past decade as a result of
deregulation and privatization.
Land Transportation
Argentina stretches 4,000 km (2,400 mi.) from north to south, an expanse crossed by
only a few major highways. Argentina's 208,350 km road network carries 85 percent of
domestic freight traffic. Argentina has 35,000 km (21,000 mi.) of railroads.
Although rail, maritime, river and air cargo services are all improving, the popular and
quite efficient trucking industry cannot afford to run into bottlenecks in a country that is
experiencing increased international trade growth.
In an effort to relieve some of this pressure, 29 vital national corridors, encompassing
almost 10,000 km, have been privatized, with concessions for conservation and
improvements of existing roads rather than construction of new ones.
While tolls are comparatively high, the preexisting road conditions actually made
operations much more costly. However, trucking has drawbacks as well. Trucks are not
inspected regularly, and many fleets use old and poorly maintained vehicles.
River and Maritime Transportation
Almost 70 percent of Argentina’s foreign trade is carried by ship, and about 80 percent of
the import/export transactions are carried out through the ports of Buenos Aires and La
Plata. The waterways on the Parana and Uruguay rivers are well dredged and
maintained. These rivers link the port of Buenos Aires to internal Argentine ports, and
well as to Paraguay and Brazil.
Port-rail links in Argentina are generally poor. This lack of interconnectivity is the main
reason why trucking services handle the bulk of all overland freight.
Air cargo
In the late 1990s, Argentina completed the world’s largest airport privatization program
by selling concessions to 33 airports, which introduced significant upgrades. A recent
terminal merging imports and exports in one single area at Ezeiza International Airport in
Buenos Aires is proof of this, allowing products imported under air-routed services to
benefit from this service.
Terminal de Cargas Argentina (TCA) was created as a concessionary
partnership established by the Argentine Government for the operation of airfreight
3/4/2008

terminals at international airports. TCA provides full logistics and storage services to all
foreign cargo agents. TCA's primary business is bonded warehouse management at the
major Argentine International Airports, where the company stores imported and exported
cargo while their consignees perform all relevant formalities with the General Customs
Administration or Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA). TCA's headquarters are located
at Ezeiza International Airport. Additionally, the company has branches in Córdoba,
Mendoza, Mar del Plata, and Jorge Newbery Domestic Airport, in Buenos Aires City.
Air cargo imports have been growing rapidly in the past years. U.S. exporters shipping
small items to Argentina in a short time frame may want to consider the benefits of air
routed or express delivery services. U.S. products imported under air-routed services
correspond mainly to the following sectors: pharmaceutical products; electric power
systems; computer software; computers and peripherals; telecommunications
equipment; medical equipment and supplies; automotive parts and service equipment;
pollution control equipment; office equipment; irrigation equipment; mining supplies;
construction machinery and equipment; security equipment components; industrial
chemicals.
Express delivery has rapidly evolved following Argentina's liberalization of postal
services and strong local and international competition. International courier delivery
services are extremely active and most global express delivery firms have significant
operations in Argentina, including FedEx, DHL, and UPS.
The Retail Network
There are two types of traditional sales channels in Argentina. One is through largescale
retailers with a defined but limited share of the market. The other is through the
many specialized retailers that seek to protect their niches.
The food retail market is loosely separated into three categories: traditional "mom and
pop" stores scattered throughout local neighborhoods, self-service mini markets and
drugstores, and the supermarkets and hypermarkets.
Throughout the past decade, supermarkets and hypermarkets have dominated the
Argentine retailing market. (i.e. very large stores that carry products found in a
supermarket as well as merchandise commonly found in a department store). Some
discount stores, characterized by smaller retail space, a limited product selection, and
very low prices, which emerged in 1999, are reconverting into a traditional supermarket
format.
Consumers prefer hypermarkets and supermarkets for practicality and convenience,
particularly for monthly or weekly purchases. Hypermarkets provide a selection of
between 50,000 to 100,000 items under one roof and supermarkets provide between
5,000 and 15,000 items. In an effort to become more competitive, these stores are
providing additional services such as film developing, dry-cleaning, and an array of new
products such as toys, apparel, school supplies, and holiday decorations.
A large number of mergers, acquisitions, and transfers have taken place during the last
few years. This wave has impacted several industries, including apparel, housing
construction, decoration materials and music. Concentration of distribution channels is
expected to continue over the next few years.
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Social assistance and barter distribution methods appeared during the economic crisis.
There are still bartering centers operating, particularly in the interior of Argentina.
Selling Factors/Techniques Return to top
The Argentine economy has been recovering remarkably since 2003 and has posted 5
years of consecutive growth. A combination of several factors is contributing to a rise in
consumption (with the risk of further raising the inflation rate), particularly influenced by
real wage increases, a partial reentry of personal credit, and rising employment levels.
However, the increases in consumption should be seen in the context of Argentina’s still
high levels of poverty (approximately 23.4 percent according to the Statistics and
Census Institute (INDEC), and a significant amount of this growth coming exclusively
from the upper economic classes.
While industrial activity, as well as consumption expanded rapidly, this expansion cycle
is expected to moderate since is predicted to have reached its peak in some industry
sectors, mostly due to increased costs of production and energy deficits. Limited access
to local financing and inability to access foreign credit may limit the expansion plans of
local companies.
Some industry sectors have benefited from Argentina's devaluation through increased
export competitiveness. This has presented new opportunities for U.S. companies. This
information is detailed in Chapter 4: Leading Sectors for U.S. Export and Investment.
For several years, Argentina had the second highest GDP in Latin America and the
highest in South America. Several factors that have helped Argentina attract the
attention of U.S. companies include long life expectancy, a large middle class, and a
highly literate population. U.S. companies intent on exporting to Argentina should
consider economic, demographic, and cultural characteristics that distinguish it from
other Latin American countries.
The population and economic activity are highly concentrated in the Greater Buenos
Aires area. The population is of largely European descent and continues to have strong
ethnic, cultural, and business ties with Europe. Consumer preferences tend to resemble
those of Europeans more than those of other Latin America nationals. However,
revenues are highly dependent on MERCOSUR trade, especially with Brazil, and the
regional economic situation.
In many sectors, European competitors of U.S. firms are already present in the market,
and may be well entrenched. Nevertheless, the U.S. is Argentina's second largest
trading partner after Brazil, and competes with Spain for the top investment spot. Many
U.S. firms have been very successful in this market. The U.S. lifestyle and consumption
habits are increasingly influential. U.S. products have a strong reputation for quality and
technological innovation, but U.S. firms are sometimes viewed as lacking commitment to
the market. It is important to be prepared for a competitive market environment before
doing business in Argentina.
3/4/2008

As in many countries, personal relationships are fundamental when doing business in
Argentina. Success requires taking the time to develop a close personal relationship with
the representative, agent, or distributor. Marketing U.S. products and services in
Argentina requires a higher level of research, preparation, and involvement than
marketing products domestically.
U.S. firms handicap themselves if their company’s product literature labels, manuals,
and other written materials are not distributed in Spanish. When preparing Spanishlanguage
materials, care should be taken to ensure the meaning is consistent for all
Spanish-speaking markets in which they will be used. For example, Argentine Spanish
differs from Mexican or Chilean Spanish. Unintended -and sometimes embarrassingmeanings
therefore result when a translator is not familiar with variations in the language
from market to market. Always use a professional translator, and if possible, have a
native Argentine speaker, such as your agent or distributor, review any materials before
using them in the Argentine market. Any official document to be presented before the
Argentine government authorities that is not in Spanish requires attachment of an official
translation into Spanish by a Sworn Public Translator (Traductor Publico), as well as
certification by the Translators Association.
Due to payment chain problems and virtual lack of credit as a result of the economic
meltdown of 2002, price and financing terms have become more important selling
factors than marketing. Purchases are concentrated in simple or critically needed
products with a minimum marketing component.
However, Argentine end users, who have become much more demanding and
knowledgeable during the past open-import decade, will still look for a balance between
price, quality, and after-sales service.
Some practical tips to successfully approach Argentine consumers are the following:
3/4/2008
Appoint a representative or distributor
Have Spanish language capacity in firm
Furnish materials in Spanish
Have a long-term outlook
Personalize your approach
Be consistent in attention to service and delivery
Provide fair credit terms
Dot your I's and cross your T's (i.e., consult as appropriate with lawyers and
accountants)
Protect your trademarks
Do not take no for an answer/ frequent visits and follow-ups
Many fax numbers are both voice and fax lines. When sending a fax to Argentina be
prepared to say: "Linea de fax, por favor", when hearing an inquiring voice answering
the call.
Electronic Commerce Return to top

The first wave of Internet business conceived in Argentina was mainly B2C (business to
consumer) activity. These sites were essentially related to information, entertainment,
and small retail services. The second wave in early 2000, however, entailed
development and expansion of B2B (business to business) portals.
The Argentine economic collapse, accompanied by the global Internet crisis has had an
enormous impact on local virtual communities, causing the shutdown of over 394 portals
of the 484 that were on-line in 2000. Only 18.6 percent have survived. Leading sectors
encompassing 60 percent of the Argentine dotcom activity include entertainment,
information, and tourism. To a lesser degree, other sectors include financial services,
health, agriculture, job search, and real estate.
Argentina reportedly hosts 11 of the top 15 most visited Spanish-language sites.
Approximately half of the 700 Internet start-up companies in Latin America are based in
Argentina.
Growth of e-business will likely continue to drive change in most industries. As
technology transforms business processes, consulting firms are leading the way in
setting international standards to protect electronic transactions conducted online and
through wireless communications and electronic payment systems. However, there is
still a generalized lack of confidence in the culture of Argentine e-consumers regarding
online transactions. Although 85 percent of online retailers accept electronic
transactions, only 15 percent deliver a first class electronic payment "customer
experience".
According to a Boston Consulting Group report, Latin America's top 25 sites generate
over 90 percent of online sales in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. The top 10 hold over 70
percent, and, in Argentina and Brazil, the top three hold over 70 percent of electronic
sales revenues.
Trade Promotion and Advertising Return to top
An important component of the marketing-mix is promotion. Companies are encouraged
to visit or exhibit at local and regional trade shows, and to visit trade shows in the U.S.
attended by Argentine buyers. (See Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade
Events, for a list of upcoming events.)
Single Company Promotions, a trade event service offered by the U.S. Commercial
Service in Buenos Aires, provides a good means for a single company to launch its
product, make technical presentations, or identify and cultivate key market makers.
Argentina has many advertising agencies and management consultants, but only the
largest firms offer complete services. The leading agencies are members of the
Argentine Association of Advertising Agencies (Asociacion Argentina de Agencias de
Publicidad). Many major U.S. advertising agencies have branches or affiliates among
the leading agencies.
Advertising in the print media is the most widely used method, although television, cable
TV, and radio advertising are highly effective and most generally aimed at the Buenos
Aires market. Many daily newspapers are published in greater Buenos Aires, including
3/4/2008

"Clarin", "La Nacion", and "Ambito Financiero". Industry-focused publications are an
effective mechanism for advertising.
Internet advertising, though in its beginning stages, is growing in popularity and use
among advertising firms.
Major Daily Newspapers:
AMBITO FINANCIERO
Av. Paseo Colon 1196
C1063ACY Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4349-1500
Fax: (5411) 4349-1505
E-mail: redaccion@ambito.com; publicidad@ambito.com.ar
Internet: www.ambitoweb.com
Established: 1976
Frequency: Daily, except Saturday & Sunday
Circulation: 140,000
BUENOS AIRES ECONOMICO
F.J.S.M. de Oro 1744 3P.
C1414 DBB Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4011-1200
Fax (5411) 4011-1237
E-mail: info@baedigital.com.ar
Internet: www.infobae.com
Established: 1997
Frequency: Daily, except Saturday & Sunday
BUENOS AIRES HERALD NEWS
Azopardo 455
C1107ADE Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4342-8476/77/78
Fax: (54-11) 4334-7917
Contact: Drey Spaulding
E-mail: info@buenosherald.com
Internet: www.buenosairesherald.com
Advertising: adv@buenosairesherald.com
Established: 1876
Frequency: Daily
Comment: English-language newspaper.
CLARIN
Tacuari 1842
C1139AAN Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4309-7500
Fax: (5411) 4309-7319
E-mail: clasificados@claringlobal.com.ar
Internet: www.clarin.com.ar
Established: 1945
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Frequency: Daily
Circulation: 780,000 (1 million Sunday circulation)
CRONICA
Av. Juan de Garay 140
C1063ABO Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4361-1001/1051
Fax: (5411) 4361-4237
E-mail: editor@cronica.com.ar
Established: 1963
Frequency: Daily
Circulation: N/A
Comment: Published by Editorial Sarmiento S.A.
EL CRONISTA
Honduras 5663
C1414BNE Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4778-6789
Fax: (5411) 4775-0531
E-mail: publicidad@cronista.com
Internet: www.cronista.com
Established: 1908
Frequency: Daily
Circulation: 68,000
LA NACION
Bouchard 557
(1106) Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4319-1600
Fax: (5411) 4319-1611/2
E-mail: diario@lanacion.com.ar
Internet: www.lanacion.com.ar
Established: 1870
Frequency: Daily
Circulation: 250,000 (300,000 Sunday circulation)
LA RAZON
Rio Cuarto 1242
C1168AFF Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4309-6000
Fax: (5411) 4309-6000, ext. 3
E-mail: lcantero@lazon.com.ar
Internet: www.larazon.com.ar
Established: 1992
Frequency: Daily
Circulation: N/A
Comment: Afternoon paper
Business Magazines:
APERTURA
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Av. de Mayo 605, Piso 3
C1084AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4331-6505
Fax: (5411) 4331-5208
E-mail: cartas@apertura.com
Internet: www.apertura.com
Established: 1983
Frequency: Every two months
Circulation: 18,000
Comments: Mind Opener S.A.
MERCADO
Av. Rivadavia 877, Piso 2
C1002AAG Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (5411) 4346-9400
Email: info@mercado.com.ar
Internet: www.mercado.com.ar
Established: 1969
Frequency: Monthly
Circulation: N/A
Comments: Published by Coyuntura S.A.
NEGOCIOS
Azopardo 579
C1107ADG Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4331-4591
Fax: (54-11) 4346-0202
E-mail: negocios@atlantida.com.ar
Internet: www.negocios.com.ar
Established: 1991
Frequency: monthly
Circulation: N/A
Comments: Published by Editorial Atlantida S.A.
The public and private sectors operate radio and television stations. Argentina has 46
television broadcasting stations, 180 relay stations, and about 1600 closed-circuit TV
systems. Some eight million TV sets are in use, with a potential audience of about 21
million. Argentina has 170 AM stations and 2000 FM radio stations. Nearly 12 million
radio sets are in use, with an estimated weekly listener audience of 21 million. In
addition, 200 cable companies operate throughout the country.
Services Offered by the U.S. Commercial Service Argentina
The U.S. Commercial Service Argentina (CSA) offers the services described below to
assist exporters of U.S. goods and services in doing business in Argentina:
Customized Market Research: We provide customized market research for companies
wishing to have specific questions answered such as: the overall marketability of a
product or service; market trends and size, customary distribution and promotion
practices; market entry requirements; regulations; product standards and registration;
3/4/2008

key competitors, and potential agents, distributors, or strategic partners. You have the
flexibility to design your own question/set of questions. Price is dependent on level of
detail, availability of information, and time required to conduct the research. The
average cost ranges from $250-US$1,500, and will be quoted to the company prior to
providing the service. We will normally provide the information requested in two to ten
business days.
Customized Contact List: Using a variety of resources, including in-country databases
and local expertise, we will prepare a customized list of Argentine companies in the
sector of your choice. This list will contain company name, address, phone/fax numbers,
a contact name, e-mail address, web site, and a description of the firm and
products/services offered. We will provide the list within two to 10 business days from
receipt of notification from the pertinent U.S. Export Assistance Center that the $250 fee
has been paid.
International Partner Search: We will conduct a pre-screened search to identify up to
five qualified potential representatives, distributors, licensees, franchisees, or other
strategic partners interested in your product or service. The preferred method for
showing your products and company information to Argentine firms is your web site or
electronic catalog/brochure. If a web site or electronic catalog is not available, we will
require 20 sets of product literature. The cost for this service is US$500; turnaround
time is 30 business days.
Gold Key Matching Service: This service allows U.S. firms to efficiently and effectively
travel to Buenos Aires for face-to-face meetings with potential business partners. We
will prepare a customized schedule of appointments with pre-screened potential agents,
distributors, or other business contacts, according to your needs. The cost for this
service is $685 the first day, $320 each additional day of appointments. Six weeks
advance notice is required.
Video Gold Key Matching Service (VGK): The VGK offers all the advantages of the
Gold Key Service (GKS), without the expense of travel. We will arrange for prescreened
potential agents, distributors, or other business contacts to come to our offices
for video meetings. The service includes at least three quality meetings with prescreened
potential Argentine firms, up to four hours of video interaction (including a
briefing with Commercial Service staff). Please contact us for price and payment
method.
Platinum Key Service: This service is intended for U.S. firms active in a key industry
sector, involved in bidding on a major project, or seeking commercial intelligence to
achieve their business goals. A senior staff member will actively monitor and seek out
information and intelligence in your area of interest. You will receive up-to-the-minute
privileged market intelligence, trade leads, insights and major projects news or
developments. These reports, via e-mail or through confidential periodical telephone or
videoconferences with the Embassy Commercial Specialist, will discuss political,
strategic, financial and competitive developments in your firm's sector or in any number
of specific projects in Argentina. In short, you can now access the perfect tool to know -or
double check-- what your foreign competitors, colleagues, customers, private and
government clients are doing and how it affects your competitive position. This ongoing
service is available for six months, one year, or a specified timeframe based on the
mutually agreed-upon scope of work. Price will be quoted prior to initiation of service.
3/4/2008

Business Facilitation Service: CS Argentina provides low-cost logistical and
administrative support to its U.S. clients to facilitate insertion in this market. This may
include pick-up and delivery of bid documents, single company promotions, providing
information on foreign government tenders, videoconferencing facilities, courier services,
invitations to targeted members of the local business community, and/or targeted
commercial presentations. Price will be quoted prior to providing the service.
Payment Methods: If you would like to order any of the services described above, please
provide your American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa credit card information,
so we may start working on your request immediately. Please indicate credit card type
and number, holder name, and card expiration date. Our telephone number is 54-11-
5777-4753, our fax number is 54-11-5777-4203; our e-mail address is
Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov
Please keep in mind that to qualify for U.S. Government assistance your product/service
must have at least 51 percent U.S. content. We would appreciate your confirming that
your product or service meets this requirement when ordering any of our services.
In addition, we encourage you to contact the nearest U.S. Department of Commerce
Export Assistance Center, where trade specialists can provide you with guidance on
entering the Argentine or other international markets. Please call 1-800-USA-TRADE (1-
800-872-8723) to locate the one nearest you or visit the U.S. Government Export Portal
at www.export.gov/comm_svc/eac.html.
MONEY BACK GUARANTEE:
The success of your ventures in Argentina is important to us. We are committed
to providing timely and quality service. If you are not satisfied with the quality of
our work, we will gladly refund your money.
Pricing Return to top
Please refer to the Cost Breakdown example in Chapter 5: Trade Regulations and
Standards.
Customized services and products can still charge price premiums demanded by the
high end of the population in certain geographical areas. Even though Argentina has
been traditionally characterized by high prices, high costs, and relatively low competitive
pressures due to highly concentrated markets, particularly during the past few years,
exchange rate comparisons, inflation, relative prices and a decreased purchasing power.
Argentine products are more economically priced than a decade ago. A prime example,
Buenos Aires, traditionally ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, is
now one of the most inexpensive cities for tourists.
In order to compete locally, U.S. exporters should take into account that locally
manufactured products, though mostly of inferior quality, have become more competitive
in terms of pricing due to reduced labor costs. Due to the peso's devaluation, imports
have become almost three times more expensive since 2002. Additionally, U.S.
exporters should consider that virtually no trade finance is available for potential
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importers, although some firms have access to offshore dollar accounts. Since foreign
exchange controls have been lifted, purchases are more often made with cash upfront.
Sales Service/Customer Support Return to top
Customer service is becoming a differentiating factor when selling a product. Argentine
consumers are paying increased attention to home delivery and after-sales service,
emphasized by a need to repair and maintain existing equipment and machinery, rather
than replacing it with new imports. Therefore, the availability of spare parts and
maintenance services are particularly important for electronic equipment, while capital
goods are a plus for entering and serving this market.
Protecting Your Intellectual Property Return to top
Introduction
Several general principles are important for effective management of intellectual
property rights in Argentina. First, it is important to have an overall strategy to protect
IPR. Second, IPR is protected differently in Argentina than in the U.S. Third, rights must
be registered and enforced in Argentina, under local laws. Companies may wish to seek
advice from local attorneys or IP consultants. The U.S. Commercial Service can often
provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
It is vital that companies understand that intellectual property is primarily a private right
and that the US government generally cannot enforce rights for private individuals in
Argentina. It is the responsibility of the rights' holders to register, protect, and enforce
their rights where relevant, retaining their own counsel and advisors. While the U.S.
Government is willing to assist, there is little it can do if the rights holders have not taken
these fundamental steps necessary to securing and enforcing their IPR in a timely
fashion. Moreover, in many countries, rights holders who delay enforcing their rights on
a mistaken belief that the USG can provide a political resolution to a legal problem may
find that their rights have been eroded or abrogated due to doctrines such as statutes of
limitations, laches, estoppel, or unreasonable delay in prosecuting a law suit. In no
instance should USG advice be seen as a substitute for the obligation of a rights holder
to promptly pursue its case.
It is always advisable to conduct due diligence on partners. Negotiate from the position
of your partner and give your partner clear incentives to honor the contract. A good
partner is an important ally in protecting IP rights. Keep an eye on your cost structure
and reduce the margins (and the incentive) of would-be bad actors. Projects and sales
in Argentina require constant attention. Work with legal counsel familiar with Argentine
laws to create a solid contract that includes non-compete clauses, and
confidentiality/non-disclosure provisions.
It is also recommended that small and medium-size companies understand the
importance of working together with trade associations and organizations to support
efforts to protect IPR and stop counterfeiting. There are a number of these
3/4/2008

organizations, both Argentine or U.S.-based. These include:
- The U.S. Chamber and local American Chambers of Commerce
- National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
- International Intellectual Property Alliance (IIPA)
- International Trademark Association (INTA)
- The Coalition Against Counterfeiting and Piracy
- International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition (IACC)
- Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA)
- Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)
- Directorate General of Copyright, Argentina
- National Institute of Industrial Property, Argentina
IPR Resources
A wealth of information on protecting IPR is freely available to U.S. rights holders. Some
excellent resources for companies regarding intellectual property include the following:
- For information about patent, trademark, or copyright issues -- including
enforcement issues in the US and other countries -- call the STOP! Hotline: 1-866-
999-HALT or register at www.StopFakes.gov.
- For more information about registering trademarks and patents (both in the U.S. as
well as in foreign countries), contact the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
at: 1-800-786-9199.
- For more information about registering for copyright protection in the US, contact
the US Copyright Office at: 1-202-707-5959.
- For US small and medium-size companies, the Department of Commerce offers a
"SME IPR Advisory Program" available through the American Bar Association that
provides one hour of free IPR legal advice for companies with concerns in Brazil,
China, Egypt, India, Russia, and Thailand. For details and to register, visit:
http://www.abanet.org/intlaw/intlproj/iprprogram_consultation.html
- For information on obtaining and enforcing intellectual property rights and marketspecific
IP Toolkits visit: www.StopFakes.gov. This site is linked to the USPTO
website for registering trademarks and patents (both in the U.S. as well as in
foreign countries), the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website to record
registered trademarks and copyrighted works (to assist customs in blocking imports
of IPR-infringing products) and allows you to register for Webinars on protecting
IPR.
- The U.S. Commerce Department has positioned IP attachés in key markets around
the world. You can get contact information for the IP attaché who covers Argentina
at: dorian.mazurkevich@mail.doc.gov.
IPR Climate in Argentina
Argentina remains open to foreign investment. However, continuing legal uncertainties
surrounding creditor, contract and property rights in Argentina, and the changing
regulatory environment, have diminished the country’s attractiveness for foreign
investors, at least in the short term.
The government of Argentina adheres to most treaties and international agreements on
intellectual property and belongs to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
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and the World Trade Organization (WTO). The Argentine Congress ratified the Uruguay
Round agreements, including the provisions on intellectual property, in Law 24425 on
January 5, 1995.
While effective measures to reduce imports of counterfeit goods have been introduced,
and seizures of pirated optical media have increased, overall IPR enforcement remains
uneven. Argentina has been on the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative's
intellectual property rights "Priority Watch List" since 1996. Patent law is the weakest
element in Argentina's intellectual property rights regime, and extension of adequate
patent protection, particularly for pharmaceuticals, has been a contentious bilateral
issue.
It is strongly recommended that a local attorney review any agreements before they are
signed. (To have legal standing in Argentina, documents must be either written in
Spanish or translated by a Sworn Public Translator. Be sure the Spanish and English
versions of any document are carefully reviewed for concordance, so that both parties
fully understand the content)
See Chapter 6: Investment Climate – for a complete report on the Protection of Property
Rights in Argentina, and http://www.wipo.int/directory/en/urls.jsp for more information.
Due Diligence Return to top
Companies interested in the Argentine market should always conduct their own due
diligence before entering into business ventures or other commercial arrangements.
The U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires has discontinued the International
Company Profile (ICP) service based on availability of adequate commercial information
and financial reporting at a reasonable cost from the private sector. However, there is a
list of firms in the U.S. and in Argentina that provide due diligence reports on foreign
companies (Please refer to Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade Events).
The U.S Commercial Service in Buenos Aires does not endorse or recommend these
firms, but will provide the list only to assist U.S. companies identify commercial reporting
firms on Argentine companies.
Local Professional Services Return to top
Market Research
While demand for consulting services has grown at an accelerated pace over the last
decade, to remain competitive, accounting firms have shifted resources into consulting
services to help global clients understand and improve their business performance. In
this sense, most consulting firms in the country have created, and in some cases
expanded, their market research departments.
U.S. consulting firms with local subsidiaries, as well as major local players, provide a
wide scope of business solutions that include IT consulting, tax work, and M&A duediligence,
and usually offer competitive intelligence (market research) as part of their
seamless business solutions. (A brief list of consulting and market research firms is
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available in Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade Events.)
The U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires prepares Industry Sector Analysis (ISA)
and other market research reports on an ongoing basis. Industry Highlights reports on
best prospect sectors are available on the website at U.S. Commercial Service in
Buenos Aires (See also Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research and Trade Events for a
list of available reports).
The U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires offers Customized Market Research
(CMR) for companies that wish to have specific questions answered such as: the overall
marketability of a product or service; market trends and size, customary distribution and
promotion practices; market entry requirements; regulations; product standards and
registration; key competitors, and potential agents, distributors, or strategic partners.
Price is dependent on level of detail, availability of information, and time required to
conduct the research. The average cost ranges from $250-US$1,500, and will be
quoted to the company prior to providing the service. We will normally provide the
information requested in two to ten business days.
Web Resources Return to top
For additional information and useful links please visit the following websites:
Directorate General of Copyright, Argentina: www.jus.gov.ar/registros/autor.shtml
National Institute of Industrial Property, Argentina: www.inpi.gov.ar
U.S. Commercial Service – Argentina: www.BuyUSA.gov/argentina/en
The American Chamber of Commerce in Argentina: www.amchamar.com.ar
Importers and Exporters Association (Asociación de Importadores y Exportadores)
(Spanish): www.aiera.org
Cámara de Importadores de la República Argentina (Spanish): www.cira.org.ar
Cámara Argentina de Comercio (Spanish): www.cac.com.ar
U.S. Chamber of Commerce: www.uschamber.com/default.htm
U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Argentina: www.amchamar.com.ar
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 4: Leading Sectors for U.S. Export and
Investment
Commercial Sectors
3/4/2008
Agricultural Machinery, Equipment and Parts
Electric Power Systems
Food Processing and Packaging Equipment and Parts
Information Technology
Medical Equipment and Supplies
Mining Machinery and Equipment
Pleasure Boats
Plastics Production Machinery
Security and Safety Equipment
Travel and Tourism Services
Telecommunications Equipment and Services
Agricultural Sectors

Agricultural Machinery, Equipment and Parts
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 1,095 1,640 1,950
Total Local Production 780 1,115 1,400
Total Exports 55 73 150
Total Imports 370 598 725
Imports from the U.S. 65 71 95
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate: 1 USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos
Sources: Instituto Nacional de Estadistica y Censos-INDEC (National Statistics and Census
Institute) and CAFMA (Cámara Argentina de Fabricantes de Maquinaria Agrícola).
2007 import market share: Brazil: 77.7%, U.S.: 13 %, Germany: 3.1%, Uruguay 2.1%. Other:
25.9%.
Argentina is one of the largest producers and a leading exporter of agricultural produce.
In spite of the fact that agriculture has long been Argentina's leading economic sector
and there are many local manufacturers of agricultural machinery established a century
ago, this sector will continue to offer opportunities for selected U.S. suppliers of parts for
agricultural machinery and some specialty equipment for specific crops during the next
several years. Much of the locally produced equipment relies on parts supplied from
abroad. Argentine farms are generally large; therefore, they are ideally suited to
incorporate a wide range of American technology. Demand for agricultural equipment to
improve the quality and yield of crops and to reduce costs will continue to be in demand.
Argentina has many climates, from temperate to tropical, that yield a wide variety of
crops, including fruits, cotton, peanuts, and citrus products.
In terms of import market share for parts and components, the United States is the
largest supplier after Brazil with a 13 percent market share. Regarding agricultural
machinery, in recent years U.S. firms started supplying Argentina from their Brazil-based
subsidiaries, to benefit from the MERCOSUR customs union. Imports from Brazil are
not subject to import duties nor taxes and Brazil’s market share for ag machinery is
almost 80 percent. The market for parts and components can be estimated at 30 million
dollars in 2007.
Best Prospects/Services Return to top
Sales opportunities for U.S. exporters exist since exports of locally made agricultural
machinery grew 77 percent in 2007. Specific products include: specialty crop harvesting
equipment (grapes, sugar, apples and pears, potato, olives, stone fruits, citrus, etc.),
equipment for precision agriculture, global positioning systems, devices to measure
harvested outputs, advanced turbine sprayers and associated pumps, and critical parts
for general agricultural machinery such as transmissions, electronics, etc. Demand for
3/4/2008

parts should grow in line with increased utilization of aging machinery. The average age
of tractors and harvesters is eight years.
Opportunities Return to top
Demand for higher quality imported parts, components and specialized accessories
should grow as the level of sophistication by local manufacturers increases. Joint
ventures with domestic manufacturers and licensing could also be an option for some
U.S. exporters interested in pursuing business opportunities in Argentina.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/-
EPallares/Agricultural_Machinery/Agricultural_Machinery_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Electric Power Systems
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 1,610 1,878 2,554
Total Local Production 1,000 1,100 1,300
Total Exports 38 52 86
Total Imports 648 830 1,340
Imports from the U.S. 133 130 240
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate: 1 USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data and
other sources.
2007 import market share: U.S.: 17.9%, Germany: 18.6%, China: 15.4%, Brazil: 15.1%, U.K.:
6.7%, others: 26.3%
The electric power sector in Argentina was particularly affected by the economic crisis of
2001/2002. Rates had been virtually frozen in 1998, when the government suspended
adjustments based on the U.S. PPI, and no alternate adjustment formula was offered.
The private operators of public utilities found themselves collecting devalued pesos, and
paying for equipment and supplies and serving their debt in hard currency. This
situation seriously affected the private operators’ ability to keep up with maintenance and
expansion programs. Continued pressure from the GOA will force the power companies
to partially resume their investment, in order to keep their assets in working condition.
However, the lack of investment in new assets in the past six years may result in a
temporary inability of the system to accommodate growing demand, especially during
peak use periods. Two combined cycle plants to be financed by several of the
generating companies will be built by Siemens, with start-up date in mid/late 2009. A
coal-fired power plant is to be built at the site of a coalmine in Rio Turbio, Santa Cruz.
Transener, operator of the principal 500 KvA lines, is investing in some expansions to
the National Grid, but has gone on record saying that substantial additional investment
will be needed, both in the grid and in generation. Renewable energy sources are being
mentioned with growing emphasis as a partial solution to growing demand and stagnant
supply. Wind power seems particularly promising given the current potential in several
regions although Spanish, Danish, and German suppliers have to date taken the lead in
the supply of equipment to a very small wind generation market.
Best Prospects/Services Return to top
Specific types of equipment showing the best potential are generators and gen sets,
including used and refurbished units, transformers, turnkey combined cycle plants, gas
turbines, steam turbines, transmission line telecontrols, electronic frequency converters,
reclosers, and switchgears, as well as the aforementioned wind power equipment.
Opportunities Return to top
3/4/2008

There are opportunities in various upcoming projects, such as the expansions to the
power transmission grid mentioned in the overview, as well as several smaller thermal
projects in Cordoba, Chubut, Neuquén and various other provinces. There is demand for
boilers, turbo-generators and generator sets, particularly refurbished units. Renewable
energy also offers opportunities, particularly for suppliers of wind generators.
Resources Return to top
Electric Power Sector Specialist at the U.S. Embassy in Argentina:
Alvaro.Mendez@mail.doc.gov
Ministry of Planning, Public Investment, and Services (the Secretariat of Energy is
subordinate to this Ministry): www.minplan.gov.ar
Federal Council on Electric Power: (Consejo Federal de la Energía Eléctrica): a
consulting body under the Secretariat of Energy, with representatives of all the
Provinces: www.cfee.gov.ar - cfee@cfee.gov.ar
Association of Power Generators (Asociación de Generadores de Energía Eléctrica
de la República Argentina): www.ageera.com.ar - secretaria@ageera.com.ar
Association of Power Distributors (Asociación de Distribuidores de Energía Eléctrica
de la República Argentina): www.adeera.com.ar - adeera@adeera.com.ar
Association of Power Transportation Companies (Asociación de Transportadores de
Energía Eléctrica de la República Argentina): www.ateera.com.ar
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/amendez/energy_electric_power/energy_electric_power_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Food Processing and Packaging Equipment and Parts
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 165 190 198
Total Local Production 80 95 90
Total Exports 64 79 72
Total Imports 149 174 180
Imports from the U.S. 21 23 21
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate: 1 USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on INDEC (Census and Statistics
Institute) and Argentine Customs data, as well as industry specialists.
2007 market share: US: 11.7%; Brazil: 11%; Italy: 26 %; Germany: 13%
2006 market share: US 13%; Brazil: 12%; Italy 26%; Germany: 15%
2005 market share: US: 14%; Brazil: 14; Italy: 25%; Germany: 12%
Argentina’s traditional strength in agricultural and food products provides opportunities
for U.S. exporters of food processing and packaging equipment in several market
niches. Businesses tied to agribusiness and exports in Argentina continue as one of the
most active industry sectors in Argentina.
While the import levels have reached those traditional marks that occurred in the 90’s,
consolidating the expansion trend noticed during the past two years, the industry
continues to grow despite the high level of installed capacity. This is tied to larger food
export demands by food companies.
The composition of imports has changed in the past years, with imports from Brazil
receding, despite their intra-Mercosur competitive advantage. The U.S. continues to be
strong in exports of food processing equipment, while imports of packaging equipment
are mainly led by Italy and Germany.
Best Prospects/Services Return to top
Imports of food processing and food packaging equipment from U.S. recovered market
leadership during 2005 and 2006, obtaining a 13 percent import market share in this
niche, while imports from neighboring Brazil receded sharply. Statistics in 2007 show a
slight decrease in imports from the US. Imports compose almost 90 percent of the total
market.
U.S. exports may continue to find opportunities in niche industries such as fat and oil
vegetable processing, meat and poultry processing equipment, and beverageprocessing
equipment. Parts for food processing equipment are also a good prospect
for U.S. exports, given the current trend to repair existing machines due to the rising cost
in peso terms of imports, and the virtual lack of local credit for capital goods.
3/4/2008

Opportunities Return to top
The food processing and packaging equipment market in Argentina relies heavily on
imports from large domestic food processing companies and food exporters. Market
growth is largely tied to investment in technology and the expansion strategies of these
companies. Several agribusiness companies in Argentina announced investments in the
food processing industry. However, the lack of local financing and the inability to access
foreign credit as well as electrical power capacity limits that Argentina is experiencing
may jeopardize the expansion plans of these companies.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/-
LPaz/Food_Processing_Packaging/Food_Proc_Packaging_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Information Technology
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 928 1.141 1.426
Total Local Production 230 276 331
Total Exports 15 17 19
Total Imports 711 881 1.076
Imports from the U.S. 135 123 123
Argentine Market for Hardware & Consumables
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate: 1 USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos
Sources: Embassy projections based on Argentine Customs data (Nosis) and Prince & Cooke.
* Local production means local assembly of PC from imported components.
Argentina has the third largest population of Internet users in Latin America, with over 17
million users, and Internet use is growing at a 40% annual rate. Broadband access
doubled in 2006, and grew 87% in 2007 in terms of subscribers.
Since 2004, investment in technology has been soaring after years of low investment.
Trends Consulting estimated an average increase of 21% for 2007 for the IT market. In
2007, China led the imports of IT products (35%), followed by the U.S. (14%) and Brazil
(12%). Imports from Mexico, Manaus (Brazil Free trade zone) and Japan each account
for 5% of the import market.
Argentina’s IT market – including hardware, software and services - reached US$ 3.2
billion in revenues, a 25% increase from 2006. In 2008, the market is expected to
increase 21%. The software and services sectors accounted for the majority of the
growth with a 49.3% increase. Hardware sales increased 34% in 2006 and 42.5% in
2007. Prince & Cooke projects that hardware will grow around 40% in 2008, led by PCs
and Notebooks. The sale of desktop computers in increased 28% in 2007, bringing the
market to 8.5 million units installed. The number of PC units sold in 2007 reached 1.6
million and is expected to increase by 30% in 2008. Printer sales also increased 20% in
2007 while other peripherals increased 35% and consumables 8.3%. Likewise, the sale
of notebooks grew 50% in 2007 and is expected to increase 50% in 2008, outdoing
sales of desktop PCs. State-of-the-art small computers and communication devices,
such as smart phones and PDAs, followed the same two-digit growth trend. Moreover, a
direct relationship exists between the purchases of such items and the exponential
increases in demand for broadband/Internet access.
In 2007, the total revenue for the software market increased by 20%, reaching
approximately US $480 million. Prince & Cooke projects an increase of 21% in 2008. In
addition, IT service revenues reached US$1.1 billion in 2007. The packaged software
market grew approximately 40% in 2007 with the U.S. being the largest exporter of
packaged software into Argentina.
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In reference to IT Services, outsourcing of IT-related solutions continues to be the main
practice and a popular option for companies. Current market realities require companies
to reduce costs, concentrate on core business, improve quality and productivity, and
increase flexibility. This subsector increased 20% in 2007.
Best Prospects/Services Return to top
Branded PCs, notebooks, super-notebooks (with 20 hour batteries, folding mice, etc),
wireless PCs (with 26 “ monitors), printers, servers and multi-user systems are the major
source of foreign hardware imports, and are consequently best prospects. In addition,
consumer electronics, such as digital cameras, MP3, MP4, PDAs, CD/CD W, DVD
players/creators, digital storage devices and Pen Drives are expected to see increased
demand for the next two years.
In reference to IT Services, sub-sectors with major prospects for U.S. companies include
network implementation, management and maintenance, legacy applications, wireless
LANs, RTE (real time infrastructure) implementations, remote operation processing,
back-up, critical mission services, disaster recovery systems, internet and network
security systems, document digitalization, digital asset management, storage, utility
computing, and information systems for rural areas (traceability, RFID, etc).
Regarding software, large projects in the areas of security solutions or business
intelligence will have opportunities in 2008/9.
Opportunities Return to top
Five main factors will keep demand for IT hardware, software and services high in
2008/2009:
- new investments in the country in a number of industries (e.g. tourism)
- the majority of the systems installed need upgrading
- the growth of Internet access
- the increasing complexity and convergence of technologies
- highly educated and tech-savvy population
In hardware, servers and multi-systems present good opportunities. The Compaq-HP
merger opened some additional market share, which was partly taken over by Intel
servers. The sale of servers grew 60 % in 2006 and in 2007 and the trend is expected to
continue throughout 2008. In 2007, the United States was the major exporter of servers
with 40 percent of total imports, followed by Brazil (25%) and Mexico (12%).
PC components will also be in high demand since locally assembled PCs (clones)
account for over 60% of the PC market. Local assembly targets the residential/SOHO
clone PC segment, where the cost of lower cost labor (resulting from devaluation) has a
major impact on the final price. In the corporate segment, the cost benefit from local
assembly does not outweigh the guarantee offered from an original vendor.
The increased demand for broadband access has also driven the demand for notebooks
and mobile devices. According to IDC Argentina, the sale of notebooks for homes in the
first semester of 2005 was the highest number registered in the history of Argentina.
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Other market conditions will foster growth in IT services throughout 2007/2008, including
the constant price reduction of IT hardware, local salary increases, and the availability of
financing options from retail chains. The increased use of e-banking, electronic
commerce and E-Government has increased awareness of Information Technology
security needs. Recent investments in software development centers by companies
such as Motorola, Intel, EDS and IBM will continue to create good opportunities for U.S.
companies. The best clients for U.S. companies will be medium-to-large corporations,
manufacturing/industrial companies, as well as exporters.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_Editable/-
SYaber/Computers/Computers_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Medical Equipment and Supplies
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 414 479 541
Total Local Production 180 190 185
Total Exports 92 96 93
Total Imports 326 418 449
Imports from the U.S. 118 118.5 132
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate: 1 USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data and
other sources.
Market share 2007: United States 29%, Germany 12%, China 9%; Japan 8%; Brazil 5%
Market share 2006: United States 28%, Germany 11%, U.K: 16%, China 6%; Japan 5%
Market share 2005 United States 36%, Germany 10.5%, U.K.: 7%, Brazil 6%, Japan 5%
Healthcare expenditures in Argentina amount to approximately US$6.1 billion (versus
US$24 billion in 2000), or 4.5 percent of GDP. This dramatic decrease in annual
expenditures is largely due to the currency devaluation in 2002, as the exchange rate
now stands at approximately three pesos to one dollar. While the healthcare market has
not completely recovered, strong economic growth is stimulating imports of goods that
cannot be supplied by the local market.
Imports in the healthcare sector experienced a severe downturn due to the devaluation
of the Argentine peso in January 2002. To alleviate the cost burdens of the sector, the
national government passed Law 25590 and Decree 486/02 (Healthcare/Sanitary
Emergency in force from 2002 extended until December 31, 2008). This legislation
exempts from taxes and duties imports of some critical new medical products that are
not manufactured in Argentina.
Best Prospects/Services Return to top
Niche opportunities for U.S. exports include: ultrasound diagnostic equipment, implants,
stents, cardiac valves, pacemakers, hearing aids, specialized disposables (catheters,
cannulae, electrodes, hemodialysis filters, surgical instruments), intraocular lenses.
Components and medical equipment parts offer a strong sales-potential, in large part
because of the fact that the market conditions require the reconditioning of equipment
already in use.
Opportunities Return to top
In a sector that is highly supplied by imports, the United States continues to lead the
import market, and currently holds 29 percent of the market share, particularly in higherend
technology products. Imports in the overall medical product sector have traditionally
accounted for almost 75 percent of the total market. U.S. companies that offer high
quality products at competitive prices can still find niche opportunities in the Argentine
3/4/2008

market.
The market has been growing rapidly in the past three years, and is gradually
approaching pre-devaluation import levels, when imports amounted to US$475 million as
in 2000. Total market size has though decreased in dollar terms due to the devalued
peso. Imports were estimated to account for approximately $449 million in 2007, with
the U.S. comprising $132 million of this segment. The rising trend of imports from the
U.S. that started with a peak growth in 2005 (a 65% growth versus 2004 figures) will
continue although at a lower and more stable rate during 2008.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_Editable/-
LPaz/Healthcare_Medical_Eq/Healthcare_Medical_Eq_Main.asp.
3/4/2008

Mining Machinery and Equipment
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 517 666 918
Total Local Production 86 106 155
Total Exports 22 28 37
Total Imports 453 588 800
Imports from the U.S. 164 196 230
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data,
NOSIS, and other sources.
2007 import Market Share: U.S.: 28.7%; Brazil: 19.4%; Japan 18%; China: 10%; S. Korea 8%;
Canada: 4.1%, Finland 3%; others 8.8%
The mining industry in Argentina has expanded exponentially in the last fifteen years, as
several world-class mines were built in a country that had never paid much attention to
its mining potential. Changes in general investment legislation, and in specific miningsector
legislation in the early nineties led to a significant increase in foreign investment in
mining activities. This growth has been accompanied by an increase in local demand for
mining equipment. Recent changes in the tax burden on mineral exports will slow the
rate of growth, but it is likely that several additional mines will be built in the next few
years. The best opportunities for U.S. suppliers are to be found in heavy equipment,
particularly earth-moving equipment.
Major players in the exploration side of the business are principally Canadian “juniors”,
while in the operation/production area the principal actors are Xstrata, Barrick, Rio Tinto,
the Lundin Group, Silver Standard Resources, Anglo Gold Ashanti, FMC Lithium,
Hochschild Mining, Coeur D’Alene, Pan American Silver, Yamana Gold, and Intrepid
Mines.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Demand for imported goods is somewhat evenly distributed between large digging,
leveling, scraping, excavating, quarrying and earth moving equipment (HS 8430), and
equipment for sorting, screening, separating, washing, crushing, and grinding (HS 8474),
including healthy volumes of parts and tools (HS 8431 and 8207).
Opportunities Return to top
U.S. suppliers continue to be the dominant force in this market, however Brazilian,
Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Canadian companies are gaining steadily.
Resources Return to top
3/4/2008

Mining Sector Specialist at the U.S. Embassy in Argentina:
Alvaro.Mendez@mail.doc.gov
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/amendez/mining/mining_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Pleasure Boats
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 125,1 150,12 168,1
Total Local Production 21,9 26,3 29,5
Total Exports 21,4 25,7 28,8
Total Imports 120 144 161,3
Imports from the U.S. 21,2 25,4 28,5
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3.10 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data,
NOSIS, and other sources.
Argentina’s pleasure boat, ship-building and boating equipment industry continues to
expand after a decade of stagnation. The industry’s golden years, between 1960 and
1980, were followed by a decade of import substitution. During the 1990s, the exchange
rate of one Argentine Peso to the U.S. Dollar favored imports of boats, equipment and
parts at very competitive prices. As a result, local industries had to either close down or
diversify into other lines of business in order to survive.
There are several variables that can account for the industry’s growth. These include the
currency exchange rate of three Pesos to the U.S. Dollar, competitive costs of labor,
high quality of final products, and most importantly, increasing demand from international
markets for Argentine products. This represents a window of opportunity for U.S.
suppliers providing equipment, accessories and services that are not produced locally.
After a robust market growth of approximately 500% between 2002 and 2004, the
market continues to expand at a smaller yet still impressive rate. It is expected to grow
approximately 9% in 2008.
Pleasure boating is concentrated around the city of Buenos Aires, on the Parana River
delta and its estuary, called River Plate or Rio de la Plata. Over 75 percent of the
marinas, moorings, and nautical clubs as well as 85 percent of manufacturing and retail
distribution takes place within a 20-mile radius of the City of Buenos Aires and its
coastline suburbs.
According to the Argentine Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval), a total of 600,000 people
are involved in boating and related industries, and the total number of pleasure boats
registered in Argentina is 76,757, however the number of pleasure boats in use is
estimated to be 120,000. Prefectura Naval, through the Registro de Embarcaciones y
Yates (REY) is the government agency that manages the registry of vessels and issues
the registration number. During 2007, there were 2,216 new registrants, an 80%
increase since 2001.
Although the market is currently relatively small, industry experts predict that there is
market potential for 150,000 units within the next five years. The market in Argentina is
3/4/2008

significantly smaller than in the U.S.: Argentina features 335 nautical clubs and
approximately 80 marinas nationwide.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Despite the 70 percent devaluation of the local currency in 2002, U.S. products have
good market potential. Local manufacturers solicit U.S. suppliers for high tech
navigational equipment and nautical accessories that are not manufactured within
Mercosur. Argentine exporters of pleasure boats acknowledge that the quality of U.S.
products makes their final product highly marketable in the global marketplace. As
Argentina’s pleasure boats exports continue expanding, the market will continue to offer
business opportunities to U.S. suppliers.
Opportunities Return to top
Products with the highest sales potential include: inboard/outboard engines, outboard
engines, global positioning system receivers, marine communications, direct dial marine
communication systems, fluxgate compasses, electronic charting products, versatile
screen displays, and interfacing. Other types of less sophisticated boat parts, equipment,
and supplies also enjoy a strong sales potential, especially for local motor and sailboat
builders.
During the 1990s, the market for new yachts grew significantly. Currently, owners seek
innovative and cost effective products to update the vessels’ decoration, mechanics and
electronics. This is an interesting niche, particularly given the nonexistence of local
products.
The equipment and accessories market is expected to continue to grow due to the
ongoing development of new nautical gated communities. This trend represents a
strategy of businesspeople within the boating industry to attract new clients who
appreciate the combination of facilities and conveniences offered by country clubs, gated
communities and marinas. These new developments further consolidate the leading role
of the Greater Buenos Aires area in the water sports market.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit: www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/-
MAmden/Pleasure_Boats/Pleasure_Boats_Main.asp.
3/4/2008

Plastics Production Machinery
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 300.6 322.8 337.5
Total Local Production 200 220 232
Total Exports 13.0 15 19.5
Total Imports 113.6 117.8 125
Imports from the U.S. 5.8 13.2 16
Millions of USD. Rate of exchange: US$1=AR$3
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data, CAIP
(Argentine Plastics Association) and industry specialists.
There are approximately 2,700 plastic processing plants in Argentina, employing some
32,000 people. Most of these companies are small, while only a handful are world-class.
Over the past 15 years, the production of plastics has remained practically unchanged in
terms of GDP (1 percent in 2006). The use of installed production capacity for the
rubber and plastics industries has grown steadily during the last four years to reach 72.2
percent in November 2007.
Imports of machinery, equipment, and molds for the plastics industry continued to
recover robustly in 2006, totaling 117.8 million, which represents a 3.7% increase
against 2005 figures. Considering the high GDP growth for 2006 and that the plastics
sector supplies many other industries, it is expected that imports have grown
considerably in 2007 (around 5 percent) and will continue to grow steadily during 2008.
The demand for imported machinery is largely explained by the more stable
macroeconomic situation and the increasing industrial output. Machinery constituted
around 50 percent of all capital goods imported for the industry into Argentina in 2006.
Capital Goods Imported - Plastics Industry - Argentina:
Capital Goods 2006
Machinery 49.6%
Molds and Matrixes 15.1%
Equipment* 9.7%
Parts and Pieces 25.6%
* mills, cutters, etc.
It is important to note that imported machinery used to process plastics and rubber, as
well as other capital goods, enter duty-free due to a regulation that aims to foster the
acquisition of state-of-the-art technology in Argentina.
Best Products/Services Return to top
3/4/2008

A gradual recovery has taken place in the area of injection equipment and blow molding
equipment for the soft drink and bottled water industry, which makes these subsectors
attractive for U.S. exports. However, U.S.-made machinery is mostly imported into
Argentina for extrusion processes.
Opportunities Return to top
With installed production capacity above 70 percent and demand growing, especially in
the packaging, construction, automotive and agricultural sectors, the plastic industry
continues to experience an increasing necessity for investment in machinery that permit
Argentine companies to expand their business. Additionally, the current depreciation of
the U.S. dollar against the Euro represents an excellent opportunity for U.S. suppliers to
become more aggressive in the Argentine market, given that local companies are more
open to considering alternative quality options to European equipment.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_Editable/-
MPerez/plastics_industry/plastics_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Security and Safety Equipment
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 1,500 1,600 1,700
Total Local Production 250 350 400
Total Exports 200 230 250
Total Imports 1,300 1,600 1,700
Imports from the U.S. 140 200 230
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data and
other sources.
The electronic security sector market in Argentina was valued at approximately US$1.7
billion in 2007, making it a relatively large and growing sector for U.S. firms. Argentina is
a fast-growing market for electronic security-related products, equipment, and services
and is heavily reliant on imported products.
Local trade contacts further estimate an annual growth rate of 15% in 2008, attributing
this market expansion to the rising crime rates in Argentina, the high levels of perceived
insecurity, and the increasing priority of improving workplace safety. This expansion has
been seen in all sub-sectors of products and services of electronic security, especially
on CCTV and access control equipment that together totaled more than 60% of
Argentine electronic security imports. The electronic security sector grew by more than
20% in 2006.
There are currently 1,350 companies in the Argentine electronic security industry,
including importers, manufacturers and software developers that combined employ over
9,100 people in this industry, 60% of which are engineers and technical experts.
U.S. manufacturers compete successfully in Argentina, holding an approximate 30
percent share of the import market for electronic security equipment. Nevertheless,
Brazil, China and Southeast Asian countries are entering the market aggressively,
offering similar products at lower prices.
The Argentine electronic security market composition follows: Imports: 80%, Local
Production: 20% and Exports: 15%.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Hi-tech imports play a significant role in the overall security market as domestic
manufacturing is primarily focused on the production of basic security equipment and
safety supplies. Therefore, the hi-tech security equipment market presents more
opportunities for U.S. companies. The niche sale opportunity for U.S. exporters is in
CCTV and access control equipment on IP networks.
3/4/2008

Best sales prospects for U.S. electronic security firms include:
Access Control: biometrics on IP networks
Anti-theft Electronic Systems and Alarms: over cellular and wire-line telephone
networks, including cameras, monitors, indicator panels and signaling devices
CCTV on IP networks, especially for upcoming public surveillance projects.
Opportunities Return to top
Market growth in recent years is largely attributed to the rising crime rate in Argentina.
However, high levels of perceived insecurity by the population and the increasing priority
of improving workplace safety and security have contributed to the growth in this sector.
This expansion has been seen in all sub-sectors of products and services for industrial
security as well as for personal security.
Regarding imports, one bright spot is in the field of components, which are being used,
in locally manufactured products. High-tech imports play a significant role in the overall
security market, as domestic manufacturers hasten to satisfy a niche that, until recently,
was supplied almost in its entirety by imported goods. These firms will continue to import
high-tech components and products to be used in the production of anti-theft electronic
systems and alarms over cellular and wire-line telephone networks, including cameras,
monitors, indicator panels and signaling devices and also CCTV (specially on IP
networks) and other related areas, since local firms do not manufacture these types of
products. This is in contrast to safety equipment (i.e., items such as gloves, helmets,
masks, etc.), which is well-served by domestic production. Thus, while high-tech
security remains a priority in Argentina, there will be a shift in the opportunities that this
demand creates for U.S. companies.
Resources Return to top
Security & Safety Sector Specialist at the US Embassy in Argentina:
Marina.Millet@mail.doc.gov
Argentine Chamber of Electronic Security (Camara Argentina de Seguridad
Electronica, CASEL): www.casel.org.ar
Argentine Chamber of Industrial Security (Camara Argentina de Seguridad, CAS):
www.cas-seguridad.org.ar/gral.htm
Argentine Security Institute (Instituto Argentino de Seguridad, IAS): www.ias.org.ar
Argentine Association of Private Security (Asociacion Argentina de Seguridad
Privada, AASPRI): www.aaspri.org.ar
Argentine Association of Security and Investigation Companies (Camara Argentina
de Empresas de Seguridad e Investigacion, CAESI): www.caesi.com.ar
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
3/4/2008

succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_editable/-
Jcoronado/safety_security_eq/safety_security_eq_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Travel and Tourism Services
Overview Return to top
3/4/2008
Year Total Passengers # Average expenditure
per passenger
2000 533,936 US$ 1,600
2001 443,134 US$ 1,600
2002 164,658 US$ 1000
2003 150,719 US$ 1000
2004 169,219 US$ 1000
2005 188,865 US$ 1000
2006 212,096 US$ 1000
Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on industry sources.
The Argentine economy has recovered significantly in the past five years and with it the
demand for travel, which has grown on average 12% annually for the past three years.
The industry is expected to continue to grow at a similar rate in 2007.
Although tourism to the United States fell 60 percent in 2002, the market is growing
rapidly and Argentine travelers spend US $1,000 (excluding air tickets), which is twice
that of the average European tourist for an average ten-day visit. In addition, the
approval rate for visas for Argentines traveling to the United States is approximately
90%, one of the highest rates in the Western Hemisphere.
Historically, Argentines have traveled often to the United States. Argentine tourism in
the United States increased 124% from 1992-1999, placing Argentina within the top ten
travel markets for U.S. tourism. During their visits to the United States, Argentines spent
$1,600 per traveler, excluding air tickets. Traveling is part of the Argentine lifestyle, and
Argentines look for value “high-end” vacations, regardless of destination.
The total amount of passengers to the United States grew immensely in 2007. The US
Department of Commerce’s statistics are very promising:
Year 2007 Count Change 2006
First Quarter 64,983 25.8 %
Second Quarter 63,683 21.7 %
Third Quarter 77,246 35.9 %
Year-to- date 205,912 27.0 %
Sources: U.S. Travel Industry Association and U.S. Department of Commerce

The top destinations visited by Argentines are the State of Florida, the City of New York,
Boston, the State of California, Chicago, Washington DC, Atlanta and Las Vegas.
Best Products/Services Return to top
A segment in the travel and tourism industry showing consistent growth is business
travel. Many Argentines are visiting trade shows and exhibitions in almost all industry
sectors.
Opportunities Return to top
The launching of a new flight in December 2007 that opened a gateway to Chicago, in
addition to existing flights to Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Miami, New York and Washington
D.C., has been a key factor in increasing Argentine tourism to the United States. Flights
to all U.S. gateways are generally full and booked well in advance.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_Editable/dbrandon/travel_tourism/travel_tourism_main.asp.
3/4/2008

Telecommunications Equipment and Services
Overview Return to top
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Imports 1,630 1,756 1,956
Total Local Production 80 82 87
Total Exports 41 46 50
Total Market Revenues 1,669 1,792 2,190
Imports from the U.S. 72 66 66
Exchange Rates 3.1 3.1 3.1
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data (Nosis).
The Argentine telecommunications sector has shown significant investments and growth
since 2004. The sector as a whole grew 20% in 2006 and 22.5% in 2007. Total sector
revenues, including equipment and services, reached approximately US$ 7.5 billion in
2007. The market is expected to continue growing by 20% in 2008 and 19% in 2009.
The highlight of 2007 was the launching of 2.5G services by cellular operators.
Statistics from December 2007 show a 22% telephone line penetration rate (9 million
telephone lines installed); 36 million cellular subscribers (85% penetration --projections
for 2008 are for a 20% increase) and 16 million Internet users (42% penetration).
Argentina has the highest cable TV penetration in Latin America -- 70 percent in the
Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area and 45 percent nationwide.
According to Prince & Cooke, Internet access services as a whole (broadband, dial-up,
and free Internet access) represented 40% of the growth from 2006-07. Broadband
access increased 100% in 2006 and 95% in 2007, reaching 2.8 million users – growth
projections estimate an additional 80-100% in 2008. The cellular market followed with a
42% increase in number of subscribers (approximately 60% of users are pre-paid).
International voice traffic increased by 20%, while local phone calls increased by 6%.
Telecom equipment/infrastructure increased 12% in 2007 reaching $1.9 billion and
accounted for approximately 20% of total sector revenues. An investment increase of
20% is expected for 2008, mainly in 3G services for the GSM network.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Best prospects for 2008/9 are broadband Internet access; broadband wireless access
networks (including point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, Wi-fi, Wireless LANs and Wi-Max),
cellular services, data transmission, SMS (short messaging services), broadband and
multimedia applications for cellular services, cellular phones, IP Phones, VoIP networks,
VPNs and IP VPNs., NGN and internet and network security products.
3/4/2008

Opportunities Return to top
Investments in 2008 will be focused in three areas - the deployment and enhancement
of the cellular GSM network (towards 3G), the expansion of broadband Internet access
via ADSL, cable modem, Wi-fi, Wi-Max and other wireless technologies and the
migration to IP networks (NGN) and IP telephony.
The wireless market represents one of the greatest opportunities. Specifically,
broadband wireless solutions for rural areas appear to be a promising sub-sector due to
increased demand from rural exporters. To this end, telecom operators have announced
investments and are deploying networks with Wi-Max technology.
The devalued peso has provided incentives for many niche areas, such as re-routing
services, VoiP, call and contact center services, and pre-paid calling cards. The
exchange rate has made labor and interconnection costs suitable for developing these
types of services. These areas will continue to grow during 2008/9. Furthermore, cybercafes
and public Internet pay cabins/outlets (“Locutorios”) experienced significant growth
in 2007 due to a change in the Internet access pattern.
Major telecom companies are optimistic about the future and are announcing new
investments and new services for 2008-9 and beyond.
Resources Return to top
For additional information on this industry such as trade events, useful links, and the
products and services that the U.S. Commercial Service can provide to help you
succeed in the Argentine market, visit www.comerciousa.org/argentina_Editable/-
SYaber/Telecommunications/Telecommunications_main.asp
3/4/2008

Agricultural Sectors Return to top
Animal Genetics (Bovine Semen)
Overview Return to top
3/4/2008
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 15.5 18.0 21.8
Total Local Production 8.6 9.5 11.0
Total Exports 0.6 1.0 1.2
Total Imports * 7.6 9.5 12.0
Imports from the U.S.
2.5 3.1 4.3
**
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: Official Argentine Customs statistics and industry contacts
* Market price; ** FOB value
Argentina has over 50 million head of cattle. Approximately 2.2 million cows are dairy
and roughly 20.8 million are of beef breeds. While local beef cattle are of very good
quality, dairy cows need to continue to improve to meet high quality standards. Of the
imported semen, more than 95 percent is from dairy breeds (96 percent Holsteins; 3
percent Jerseys; 1 percent Brown Swiss). Beef genetic imports are primarily Black and
Red Angus. The U.S. accounts for approximately 70 percent of the total imported
market, followed by Canada.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Holstein semen accounts for the largest share by far, but beef breeds semen have also
good potential growth.
Opportunities Return to top
The local dairy industry needs to continue using high quality genetics in order to produce
efficiently, especially with the new trend of moving towards free stall production systems.
Therefore, the use of imported Holstein semen will continue to be strong. Local semen
distributors, representing foreign companies, foresee good opportunities in the beef
sector as well, as there is much to improve in the use of semen with production data
(EPDs). This market is big, but efforts in educating breeders will be key. Black and Red
Angus, Braford and Hereford semen have the greatest market potential.
Resources Return to top
National Association of Animal Breeders: www.naab-css.org
Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Fishing and Foods: www.sagpya.mecon.gov.ar

National Service of Agricultural Food Health and Quality (SENASA, Servicio
Nacional de Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria. Provides information on import
requirements for agricultural products: www.senasa.gov.ar
Argentine Chamber of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction: www.cabia.org.ar
3/4/2008

Food Ingredients
Overview Return to top
3/4/2008
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 100 110 135
Total Local Production 50 55 65
Total Exports N.A. N.A. N.A.
Total Imports 50 55 70
Imports from the U.S. 24 27 25
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on industry specialists.
Argentina’s food processing industry continues to grow as a result of record exports and
a very strong recovery of the domestic market. A strong dollar vis-à-vis the peso caused
a rapid substitution of many high-value imported goods for locally manufactured
products, which increased the use of food ingredients. In addition, larger local food
manufacturers have been shifting imports of food ingredients from Europe to the U.S.
due to the high value of the euro compared to the dollar.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Soy proteins, ingredients for functional foods, nutraceuticals, fibers, natural extracts,
additives, natural flavors, sweeteners, algae omega 3, flavor extruders for baked
products, ingredients for the juice industry, nutritional and health ingredients, natural
antioxidants.
Opportunities Return to top
The use of imported food ingredients is expected to continue to recover as many local
companies are very competitive in world markets and are focusing on increasing
production and expanding exports. In addition, because many food ingredients are not
produced locally, they must be imported, especially those which are tailor-made or used
to manufacture more sophisticated products.
Resources Return to top
Institute of Food Technologists: www.ift.org/cms (IFT)
National Association of Flavors and Food-Ingredient Systems:
(http://naffs.mytradeassociation.org/) (NAFFS)
Food Ingredients South America (FISA) (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
Various food industry contacts, primarily participants of USDA/FAS Buenos Airessponsored
trade missions to the IFT Annual Food Expo.

Planting Seeds
Overview Return to top
Planting seeds is one of the most important agricultural products imported into Argentina
from the United States, totaling $19 million in 2006.
2005 2006 2007 (estimated)
Total Market Size 779 808 845
Total Local Production 740 770 800
Total Exports 56 83 110
Total Imports 39 38 45
Imports from the U.S. 19 19 21
Millions of USD. Exchange Rate 1USD=3 Argentine Pesos.
Sources: The above statistics are unofficial estimates, based on Argentine Customs data and
industry contacts.
Best Products/Services Return to top
Alfalfa continues to be the primary seed imported from the U.S., followed by yellow corn,
clover, rye grass, and fescue. Likewise, seeds from vegetable crops and lawn grass
seed have been in demand.
Opportunities Return to top
Off-season production of corn and soybean seed has generated positive returns in the
last years. Exports of corn and soybean seed to the United States have been $12.5 and
$16 million in respectively. However, in 2006 these exports to the United States are
estimated to reach $43 million out of a total $46 million. In 2007 these exports of
planting seeds are estimated at $45 millions.
The new development of marginal areas for beef and dairy industries will mean that
demand for quality forage seeds will remain high. There is a strong demand for grasses
suitable for sub-tropical regions in the northern part of the country.
Resources Return to top
Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Fishing and Foods: www.sagpya.mecon.gov.ar
Argentine Association for the Protection of Plant Property Rights (ARPOV):
www.arpov.org.ar
Argentine Agricultural Research Institute (INTA): www.inta.gov.ar
Chamber of Seed Producers of the Argentine Grains Exchange Stock:
www.argenseeds.com.ar
Argentine Seed Producers Association (ASA)
Contact: Juan Roque Erdmann,
Phone: +54 11 4516-0070
E-mail: juanerdmann@asa.org.ar
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Pioneer Argentina: www.pioneer.com/argentina
Monsanto Argentina: www.monsanto.com/argentina
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 5: Trade Regulations and Standards
3/4/2008
Import Tariffs
Trade Barriers
Import Requirements and Documentation
U.S. Export Controls
Temporary Entry
Labeling and Marking Requirements
Prohibited and Restricted Imports
Customs Regulations and Contact Information
Standards
Trade Agreements
Web Resources
Import Tariffs Return to top
Since January 1, 1992, the Argentine tariff classification system --Harmonized Schedule
(HS)-- has been used to specify tariff classifications. The HS was implemented on
January 1, 1992 and is aligned with the WTO Customs Classification Code adopted in
1979.
On January 1, 1995, Argentina implemented the MERCOSUR Common Nomenclature,
known as the Nomenclatura Comun del MERCOSUR (NCM), which is consistent with
the U.S. Harmonized System for tariff classification.
Ad-valorem duties are assessed on the CIF (Cost+Insurance+Freight) value of the
imported merchandise (at the Argentine port or airport of entry). The average tariff is
approximately 14 percent.
Specific duties are applied to certain products, and are expressed in monetary terms per
unit of measurement. A combination of both ad-valorem and specific duties ("mixed
duties") is used in some cases.
Minimum Specific Duties (DIEM)
The application of minimum specific duties (DIEM) was initially enforced in December
1995 to protect domestic industry. DIEM applies to some products under the following
categories:
Textiles and apparel classified under Chapters 51 to 63, until December 31,
2010.
Footwear until December 31, 2010.
Toys, classified under Chapter 95 of the MERCOSUR Tariff Schedule until
December 31, 2010.

Average Tariff Rates by Type of Products
According to the MERCOSUR Common Nomenclature, these are the average tariff rates
for some of the Chapters*:
Chapter 1: Live Animals; Animal Products: 2.5% ad-valorem;
Chapter 28: Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of
rare-earth metals, of radioactive elements or of isotopes: 5% ad-valorem;
Chapter 31, Fertilizers 2.8% ad-valorem;
Chapter 38, Miscellaneous chemical products: 10.2%;
Chapter 39, Plastics and articles thereof: 14.7% ad-valorem;
Chapter 48, Paper and paperboard; articles of paper pulp, of paper or of paperboard:
14% ad-valorem;
Chapter 49, Printed books, newspapers, pictures and other products of the printing
industry; manuscripts, typescripts and plans: 6.4% ad-valorem;
Chapter 61, Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted: 20% advalorem;
Chapter 62, Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted: 20%;
Chapter 70, Glass and glassware: 12.4% ad-valorem;
Chapter 94, Furniture; bedding, mattresses, mattress supports, cushions and similar
stuffed furnishings; lamps and lighting fittings, not elsewhere specified or included;
illuminated sign illuminated nameplates and the like; prefabricated buildings: 17.8% advalorem;
Chapter 95, Toys, games and sports requisites; parts and accessories thereof: 19.8%
ad-valorem.
*Tariff rates provided by AFIP (Federal Public Revenue Administration) as of December 2006,
corresponding to import duties applied by Argentina to products imported from non-MERCOSUR
countries.
Minimum Import Prices
In May 2001, the Government of Argentina (GoA) introduced minimum import
prices/reference values on several products covered by specific HS codes to avoid
under-invoicing. When there is a difference between the minimum import price and the
declared value at Customs, the importer must make a deposit for taxes due on the price
differential to take merchandise out of customs. This deposit will be held during the
period of investigation on the "real/market" import price. These minimum import prices
apply when goods are imported for consumption.
In determining the minimum import price, Argentine Customs takes into consideration
information derived from:
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Argentine Customs records on goods imported for consumption
Available public and private databases
Services of specialized firms hired to that effect
In 2005, in an attempt to continue adjusting mechanisms against fiscal evasion in import
operations, the GoA issued Resolutions 1907 and 1908. These regulations created a
new system to determine reference import values (“valores criterio”) for products to be
compared with the value declared at Customs by the importer, and impose stricter

conditions to import when the declared unitary FOB value represents less than eighty
percent (80%) of the reference value. In these cases, the import process will continue,
but the importer will bear additional restrictions such as:
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Increase on Valued Added Tax (VAT) and Income Tax paid on imports, reaching
21% and 11% respectively, depending on the type of product.
Loss of tax benefits such as exemption or deferment of VAT and Income Tax
payments.
Perception of a guarantee equivalent to the difference between the reference
value and the declared value. Deposit/guarantee policies are no longer accepted
for these cases. Only cash, bank collaterals, or public debt bonds will act as a
guarantee to allow the import transaction.
Customs Notes 55, 57 and 58 in 2007 updated and expanded the list of
minimum/reference prices, and required importers of any goods from designated
countries which are invoiced below the reference prices to have the invoice validated by
both the foreign customs agency and the appropriate Argentine Embassy or Consulate.
At the same time, the Argentine Customs Bureau announced that there would be
specific Customs checkpoints, which will control imports of certain types of product
categories such as textiles, apparel, footwear and toys. These items are traditionally the
most affected.
For a complete list of the U.S.-made products for which minimum import prices have
been established, please contact the U.S. Commercial Service Buenos Aires at
Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Trade Barriers Return to top
The basic legislation affecting import and export transactions is contained in the
Customs Code (Law 22,415), which came into force in September 1981, and has been
modified and complemented several times through subsequent laws, resolutions and
other regulations.
In the 1990s, the GoA eliminated most non-tariff barriers (through government
procurement and investment regime reform) and specific duties, and made major
progress in reducing traditional border barriers (such as tariffs and import licensing).
Trade was opened to all potential exporters and importers, making Argentina one of the
most open economies in the world.
In the year following the January 2002 collapse of Argentina’s currency board, a 70
percent nominal devaluation of the peso led to a 56 percent drop in imports and a three
percent decline in exports (the latter due to general post-crisis uncertainty and lack of
financing). Since that time, the nation’s exchange rate policy has been based on a
managed float, targeting a nominal exchange rate in the ARP 3 per U.S. dollar range.
Market analysts consider the peso’s real exchange rate broadly undervalued, a factor
that (along with historically high global commodity prices) has contributed to a significant
increase in the volume and value of Argentine exports. 2005 Argentine worldwide goods
and services exports totaled $46.2 billion, up an accumulated 58.8 percent since 2002.

In 2006, there was a significant increase in the regulation of goods and capital flows by
the GOA. The most significant changes include product-specific export restrictions;
variations in tariffs on key export commodities; the extension of an Argentina/Brazil
automotive managed trade regime that had been due to expire in 2006; the
implementation of government-promoted private sector agreements to limit intra-
MERCOSUR trade in sensitive sectors including textiles and shoes; and more extensive
regulations of capital movement.
There are currently no restrictions on cash withdrawals from local bank accounts, or
payment delays for the release of foreign exchange. Foreign companies are allowed to
send profits abroad. Export proceeds, on the other hand, still must be repatriated to
Argentina. Repatriation deadlines vary based on product categories, and eventually
could become more flexible as the economy continues to evolve favorably.
Companies located in Argentina wishing to import must be registered in the National
Registry of Importers and Exporters. Registration is free of charge and procedures are
relatively simple.
Antidumping and Countervailing Measures
Regulations define "dumping" to exist when the export price of imported merchandise is
lower than the comparable sales price in normal commercial operations of identical or
similar goods destined for consumption in the domestic market of the country of origin.
Imported goods for consumption that benefit from a subsidy abroad may also be subject
to a compensatory duty when they cause, or threaten to cause, serious damage or delay
to the commencement of a productive activity in Argentina. Argentine fair trade laws are
based on Article VI of the WTO under Resolutions 281/97 and 622/95.
Argentina has set antidumping and countervailing measures at various opportunities,
some of which still remain currently in force.
Tariff Barriers
MERCOSUR (Common Market of the South), created in 1991, gradually eliminated
almost all non-tariff restrictions and other limitations to trade among its members
(Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay). As of 2006, over 99% of all MERCOSUR
tariff lines had been reduced to zero. Sugar has not yet been incorporated into
MERCOSUR’s internal free trade regime, and certain other products such as autos and
auto parts, while officially incorporated, are actively managed, including by the use of
quantitative restrictions.
For countries outside the MERCOSUR area, Argentina and its MERCOSUR partners
established the MERCOSUR common external tariff (CET) on January 1, 1995. The
CET currently ranges from zero to 20 percent for most products. However, some
products in the automotive sector can reach 35 percent.
There is a list of sensitive products temporarily exempted from the CET. The first group
includes very sensitive products such as Information Technology and Capital Goods. At
the same time, the MERCOSUR countries can set an import duty different from the CET
until December 31, 2010 for specific products, using the so-called Exceptions List
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(pursuant to Decision 59/07 CMC MERCOSUR). The list of exempted products may be
obtained from the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires
(Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov).
The CET for capital goods was implemented on December 30, 2000 for Argentina, and
was fixed at 14 percent. However, the Argentine Government negotiated with
MERCOSUR members and applied a zero percent import duty for capital goods
produced in non-MERCOSUR countries (Resolution 8/2001 by the Ministry of Economy).
The exception will remain in effect until January 1, 2009. A list of capital goods under
this regime may be obtained from the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires
(Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov).
Information and telecommunications-related (IT) products are regulated by a separate
tariff schedule, which expires on December 31, 2008. After this date all import duties will
begin to converge among MERCOSUR members according to a fixed schedule.
Additionally, Decision 61/07 CMC MERCOSUR asks for revision of the CET for
information and telecommunication-related products that must be applied starting
January 1, 2011. Duty levels for IT products may be obtained from the U.S. Commercial
Service in Buenos Aires (Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov).
Also, some goods not produced within MERCOSUR such as newsprint and books, and
certain petroleum products pay zero percent import duties.
The tariffs on imports apply to the declared CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value in
Argentina. In addition to the tariffs, the following fees and taxes are applied:
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0.5 percent statistics fee on the CIF value, with some exceptions. This fee is not
levied on MERCOSUR intra-zone trade.
21 or 10.5 percent (depending upon the product) of Value Added Tax (VAT) on
the CIF value plus tariff plus statistics fee.
10 or 5.5 percent (depending upon the product) of advanced VAT on CIF plus
tariff and statistics fee on all goods imported for resale. Goods imported directly
by end-users are exempted.
3 percent anticipated profits tax on all retail goods, except for goods imported
directly by users. Individuals pay 11 percent.
The CIF value plus the duty and the import statistics fee form the base for the application
of domestic taxes. For this reason, imports must be supported by the foreign supplier's
invoice. VAT and Profits Tax are deductible from gross income tax.
Domestic taxes (i.e. excise taxes) are levied on tobacco, alcoholic beverages, soft
drinks, syrups, extracts and concentrates, television sets, tape recorders, record players,
and microwave appliances, among other products. Excise taxes are paid on the basis of
sworn returns or through stamps affixed to the product. Rates vary considerably,
reaching up to 60 percent of the retail price in the case of cigarettes.
Decree 690/2002 specifies exceptions to the payment of the statistics fee, which include:

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Certain imported goods for animal or vegetable reproduction, which pay a zero
percent CET.
Certain imported mineral products that pay zero percent CET.
Imported books, brochures, and newsprints.
New imported capital and information and telecommunications-related goods.
Goods imported under the temporary import regime
Import Duties on Capital and Consumer Products
The Government of Argentina (GOA) has reduced the import duty for a broad range of
new capital goods to zero percent. Products classified under approximately 700
harmonized system numbers were affected by this reduction. Most of these goods fall
under chapters 84, 85, 86, 87, 89, 90 and 94. This reduction applies only to imports of
new equipment.
In March 2002, the Argentine Government (GOA) lowered import duties on many
consumer products. The new duties range from 12 to 22 percent. The approximately
1,500 harmonized system codes affected include meat, milk, edible oils, canned
tomatoes, canned meat, canned fish, juices, fruits, alcoholic drinks, tobacco, wood
products, apparel, textiles and footwear, as well as household appliances such as
vacuum cleaners, freezers, shavers, stereos, and telephones. Consumer goods
represented 11 percent of all products imported by Argentina during 2007.
For a complete list of products affected by these regulations contact the U.S.
Commercial Service in Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Illustrative Study of Direct Import Costs
(In U.S. dollars)
A- The following example illustrates the import of industrial furnaces or ovens (HS
8417.10.10) by a private company, for resale. Imports of capital goods benefit from a
reduction on import duties as well as on the VAT rate.
FOB Base Price US$10,000.00
Freight * 8% US$ 800.00
Insurance * 1% US$ 108.00
CIF = Dutiable Base US$ 10,908
Import Duty 0% US$ 0
Statistics Fee 0% US$ 0
SUBTOTAL US$ 0
VAT Dutiable Base US$ 10,908
VAT 10.5% US$ 1,145.34
VAT (additional) 5% US$ 545.40
Profits Tax (advance) 3% US$ 327.24

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SUBTOTAL US$2,017.98
Total after taxes US$ 12,926
Port Costs (on CIF) * ** 6% US$ 791.92
Customs Broker Fees (on CIF) 1.5% US$ 197.98
* **
Bank Charges (on FOB) * ** *** 2% US$ 242.00
SUBTOTAL US$1,231.90
LANDED COST US$14,158
Notes:
* Average. Actual costs depend on type of merchandise, mode of transportation, and the
value/weight or volume ratio. Please consult a freight forwarder, an insurance company,
a port terminal, or a customs broker for exact costs.
** These amounts include 21 percent VAT (Value Added Tax), charged on these
services.
*** Bank charges assume letter of credit.
Please note that VAT and Profits Tax are deductible from gross income tax.
B- The following example illustrates the import of plastic furniture (HS 9403.70.00) by
a private company, for resale. High import duties are applied to imports of consumer
products.
FOB Base Price US$10,000.00
Freight * 8% US$ 800.00
Insurance * 1% US$ 108.00
CIF = Dutiable Base US$ 10,908
Import Duty (DIE) 19.5% US$ 2,127.06
Statistics Fee 0.5% US$ 54.54
SUBTOTAL US$ 2,181.60
VAT Dutiable Base US$ 13,089
VAT 21% US$ 2,748.81
VAT (additional) 10% US$1,308.90
Profits Tax (advance) 3% US$392.69
SUBTOTAL US$4,450.39
Total after taxes US$ 17,540
Port Costs (on CIF) * ** 6% US$ 791.92
Customs Broker Fees (on CIF) * ** 1.5% US$ 197.98
Bank Charges (on FOB) * ** *** 2% US$ 242.00
SUBTOTAL US$1,231.90
LANDED COST US$ 18,772
Notes:
* Average. Actual costs depend on type of merchandise, mode of transportation, and the
value/weight or volume ratio. Please consult a freight forwarder, an insurance company,
a port terminal, or a customs broker for exact costs.
** These amounts include 21 percent VAT (Value Added Tax), charged on these
services.
*** Bank charges assume letter of credit.

Please note that VAT and Profits Tax are deductible from gross income tax.
The following offices are responsible for drafting customs rules, regulations and tariffs:
3/4/2008
National Tax Bureau, Ministry of Economy:
Direccion Nacional de Impuestos
Ministerio de Economia
Hipólito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 9, Of. 903
(C1109ADA) Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel: (54-11) 4349-6968/70
Fax: (54-11) 4349-6965
Contact: Cpn. Daniel Martin, National Director
E-mail: pmagli@mecon.gov.ar
Technical Administration, Argentine Customs Bureau:
Subdireccion General Técnico Legal Aduanera
Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA)
Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos - AFIP
Azopardo 350, Piso 2
C1107ADD Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4338-6736 / 6738
Fax: (54-11) 4338-6739
URL: www.afip.gov.ar
Contact: Dr. Jorge Alberto De Cicco, Deputy Director General for Customs
E-mail: mtirabassi@afip.gov.ar
Non-Tariff Barriers
Generally, there are no preliminary requirements for imports, and document
requirements are relatively simple. However, certain types of goods may only be
imported into Argentina with a permit from the pertinent authority. In addition,
Government officials have used phytosanitary rules, safeguard measures involving
specific duties, anti-dumping investigations and other practices to inhibit imports and
protect domestic industry. Argentina continues to delay issuance of health certificates
that would allow the resumption of exports of poultry meat and products from the United
States; Argentina imposes a number of trade restrictions, including safeguard provisions
on Brazilian color televisions; Argentina currently imposes anti-dumping duties on
imports of U.S. polyvinyl chloride. Most recently, the government imposed new nonautomatic
licenses on toys, soccer balls, footwear parts, some used equipment, and
bicycle tires and tubes, requiring importers to obtain an import certificate reviewed by
Argentine government authorities.
Prior government approval is required for imports of sensitive goods such as
pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, insecticides, veterinary products, medical devices, and
defense materials, cosmetics and toiletries, and others. Many such products are subject
to registration, presentation of a sanitary certificate issued by a competent authority in
the exporting country or other requisites to protect human, animal or plant health. Also

certain type of special vehicles, publications, shoes, carpets, paper and automobiles to
be used as prototypes require prior government approval to be imported into Argentina.
Many food-related and agricultural imports, such as livestock, plants, bulbs, cuttings,
rhizomes, roots, grains, and plant products, require a sanitary certificate issued by a
competent authority in the exporting country. Products destined for human consumption
must fulfill certain specifications and be labeled and packed accordingly.
In addition, certain sensitive products must be imported through specifically identified
customs points of entry. Such products include drugs, medicines, vines and their parts
for experiment or research purposes, and cotton fiber and seeds.
Quotas
There is a quota system and special regime for auto parts. The bilateral auto agreement
between Argentina and Brazil establishes preferential market access treatment for both
countries to protect the MERCOSUR automobile industry. A complicated system of
reciprocal obligations exists between Argentina and Brazil. Currently, there is a tradebalancing
scheme that determines import levels for auto assemblers. The Argentine
government separately sets annual quotas for official distributors of foreign cars and
auto dealers, as well as for other firms and individuals. Foreign auto manufacturers
(including U.S. firms) in MERCOSUR countries receive national treatment.
In addition, temporary quotas exist on organic chemicals (HS code 2915.90), fluoride of
aluminum (2826.12), and petroleum resins (3911.10) affecting U.S. exports.
For further details on products affected by quotas contact the U.S. Commercial Service
in Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Import Requirements and Documentation Return to top
Import Licenses
On February 8, 1999, the Argentine Government implemented an automatic import
license regime. Pursuant to resolution MEOSP 17/99, later modified numerous times,
the Government of Argentina requires the presentation of an import license (Licencia
Automatica de Importacion - LAPI) for the purpose of customs clearance. This measure
was designed to provide Argentine customs officials with a lead-time to identify potential
problems (i.e., possible under-invoicing or other unfair trade practices) and to obtain
data about sensitive sectors.
While a subsequent resolution is required for any specific tariff line, most products are
potentially subject to automatic licensing. The following are exemptions to this
regulation (Resolution SICM 150/1999):
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Import transactions of less than FOB US$800
Goods imported under the "Postal Regime"
Goods imported under the "Sample Regime"
Goods imported under the "Automotive Industry Regime" to be included in a
production process

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Goods covered by Decree 732/72 "Science, Art, Technical and Human Health",
and donations covered by Law 23.871, Article 17.
If you are interested in finding out if your product requires an import license, please
contact the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires at
Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
To receive customs clearance, the application form must be registered with the Under
Secretariat of Foreign Trade Management at the Secretariat of Industry, Commerce, and
Small & Medium-Size Enterprises (SMEs). As a rule, approval takes 48 hours for both
air and maritime shipments. However, for imports of sensitive products, subject to
monitoring, the procedure may take up to ten days. If the Under Secretariat does not
reply within the specified ten-day timeframe, the importation is considered automatically
approved. This procedure is considered an automatic system of authorization, and it
complies with the WTO. Neither importers nor exporters must pay a fee for this license,
which is valid for 60 days from the approval date. Only clean and complete original
copies are accepted; corrections, manual markings, edits or additions will result in nonacceptance.
If discrepancies exist between this form and other relevant customs
documentation, the Under Secretariat will not authorize the required license, and the
registration process must be restarted. Each Harmonized Schedule (HS) Code; i.e.
each distinct product, must be covered by a separate form.
Documentation Requirements and Restrictions
In 1997 the Argentine government put in place greater certificate of origin and
consularization requirements on a broad range of imports generally covering but not
limited to consumer goods, textiles, apparel and footwear, printing machines, and
machine tools.
Import/Export Documentation
Maritime Shipments
The following documents are required for all maritime shipments, regardless of value:
Commercial invoice (original and three copies)
Bill of lading (minimum of one negotiable copy for customs purposes)
Packing list (not generally required for bulk commodities or for articles that are
identical in kind, characteristics, composition, weight, etc.)
Insurance certificate (if insurance coverage is purchased by the exporter)
Air Cargo Shipments
These documents are always required for air cargo shipments, regardless of value:
Commercial invoice (original and three copies)
Airway bill (number of copies depends on requirements of the importer and of the
airline used)
Packing list.

Freight forwarding and/or agents' fees cannot be shown on airway bills on a freight
collect basis; i.e., the fees must be prepaid.
Commercial Invoices
Commercial invoices must be presented in Spanish (one original and three copies), with
the caption "Original Invoice". Carbon copies, printed copies, or photocopied invoices
will not be accepted in place of the original. In addition, a properly authorized member of
the firm must provide an original signature in ink on each copy of the invoice presented
(i.e., the original and three copies). This member of the firm is to be identified by the
typing of the full name directly underneath the signature, followed by the typing of his
title or position in the firm. Where these commercial invoices are handled or in any way
completed by the shippers or agents, a responsible representative should sign as well,
and identify the signature in the same manner, giving the full name of the firm as agents
for the exporter or manufacturer. All agents and shippers countersigning and completing
invoices for exporters or manufacturers should add their telephone numbers after the
name of the firm.
The invoice should contain:
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Invoice number
Place and date of execution
Full name and address of the exporter
Full name and address of consignee and name and address of the agent (freight
forwarder), if any quantity, indicating measuring units invoiced
Name and description of goods (in Spanish)
Unit price and total
Currency used in transaction
Terms of payment and delivery, using INCOTERMS
Origin and place/port of export of the merchandise
Means of transport (specifying via ocean or air or parcel post)
Port or place of entry into Argentina
If the invoice is in English, the common practice is to show the Spanish translation just
below the English text.
The invoice must contain the following declaration in Spanish:
"DECLARO BAJO JURAMENTO QUE LOS PRECIOS CONSIGNADOS EN
ESTA FACTURA COMERCIAL SON LOS REALMENTE PAGADOS O A
PAGARSE, Y QUE NO EXISTE CONVENIO ALGUNO QUE PERMITA SU
ALTERACION, Y QUE TODOS LOS DATOS REFERENTES A LA CALIDAD,
CANTIDAD, VALOR, PRECIOS, ETC., Y DESCRIPCION DE LA MERCADERIA
CONCUERDAN EN TODAS SUS PARTES CON LO DECLARADO EN LA
CORRESPONDIENTE SHIPPER'S EXPORT DECLARATION."
(Unofficial Translation: "I swear under oath that the prices on this commercial invoice are
those really paid or to be paid, and that no agreement exists that permits their
modification, and that all data pertaining to quality, quantity, value, prices, etc., and
description of the merchandise agree in all their parts with what was declared in the
corresponding Shipper's Export Declaration.")

A fax of the commercial invoice may be used as a working copy for customs, but the
original must be presented in order to complete entry.
Bill of Lading
The bill of lading should be issued (at minimum) in one negotiable copy; additional
negotiable copies may be required by the importer, bank, steamship line, or other
interested party (follow instructions from the importer or those given in the letter of credit
or other contractual arrangement). Bills of lading must indicate the weight and volume of
each package, as well as the total weight and volume of the shipment. All bills of lading
must also show the amount of freight and a statement "Freight Paid," or "Freight Payable
at Destination" as appropriate.
The bill of lading must show the following:
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Name of the ship
Name of the ship's captain
Port of registry and registered tonnage (weight and volume)
Name of the charter or the shipper
Name of the consignee (unless it is "to the bearer" or "to order")
Number of packages, as specific description of the contents, the quantity, quality
and marks of the goods
Port of loading and unloading, with a declaration of the port of call, if any
Freight amount
Place, method and date of payment
Date of preparation of the document and signature of the captain and of the
shipper (signature of the shipping company and shipper should be signed
manually, facsimile signatures are not acceptable)
Container and seal number, and terms of shipment
Invoice number suggested
Packing Lists
Packing lists are necessary for customs clearance in Argentina and must describe the
contents of each package. Where the contents of a parcel are the same as those in
other parcels of the same lot, one description on the packing list covering the lot will be
sufficient. The packing list preferably should be in Spanish.
No packing list is necessary for goods imported in bulk, such as coal, petroleum, sand,
etc., or for articles identical in kind, characteristics, composition, weight, etc.
It is suggested that the packing list be included in every air shipment.
Insurance Certificate
The U.S. exporter needs to be concerned about this document when purchasing
insurance and should act according to the details provided by the importer. Marine
insurance can be obtained from any insurance company.

Certificate of Origin
The certificate of origin is a document required by Argentine Customs under various
circumstances:
Control of Preferential Origin
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To claim preferential import duties when the country of origin has signed a trade
agreement endorsing these preferences, as is the case of imports from member
countries of MERCOSUR or ALADI, the Latin American Integration Association.
The Argentine Customs authorities will require this document to grant preferential
treatment at the importer’s request.
Control of Non-Preferential Origin
To control trade policies that are not related with preferential treatment, such as:
Antidumping Duties
Countervailing Measures
Safeguard Measures
Import Quotas
Trade Statistics
The government of Argentina also requires a certificate of origin for certain products,
such as textiles and footwear, regardless of their country of origin (Resolution MEOSP
39/96).
For information on products requiring certificate of origin, please contact the U.S.
Commercial Service in Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
U.S. Export Controls Return to top
An export license grants permission to conduct a certain type of export transaction. It is
issued by the appropriate licensing agency after a careful review of the facts surrounding
the export transaction.
Not all exports require a license. In fact, a relatively small percentage of all U.S. export
transactions require licenses from the U.S. government.
An exporter must think of the transaction as the element that may or may not require a
license. However, the characteristics of the product are key elements of any transaction.
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce is
responsible for licensing products that are “dual-use,” or have both commercial and
military or proliferation applications. The first step to establishing whether a dual-use
product requires a license is to find the product’s Export Control Classification Number
(ECCN) on the Commerce Control List (CCL). BIS’s Office of Exporter Services in
Washington, DC, (202-482-4811) or in Newport Beach, CA, (949-660-0144), can guide

you through this process. You may also find guidance on this process in a previously
published Export America article entitled “Export Control Classification Numbers-ECCN,”
which is on the Trade Information Center’s Web site
http://www.export.gov/exportbasics/ticredirect.asp.
Once the ECCN number is determined, the specialists at BIS can also help you navigate
the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to find out whether you must apply for a
license and how to submit the requisite application. An excellent explanation of how to
understand the Export Administration Regulations is available on the BIS Web site.
If the product to export does not fall into one of the specific categories listed in the EAR,
EAR 99 is a designation for dual-use goods that are covered by the EAR but are not
specifically listed on the Commerce Control List. EAR 99 items can be shipped without a
license to most destinations under most circumstances. In fact, the majority of
commercial exports from the United States fall into this category. Exporters of most
consumer goods, for instance, may find their product listed under EAR 99.
Other U.S. Government agencies regulate certain specialized articles. For instance, the
export of defense articles falls under the purview of the Directorate of Defense Trade
Controls at the U.S. Department of State. Licensing nuclear materials and equipment for
export is the responsibility of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The Office of Imports
and Exports under the Office of Fossil Energy in the Department of Energy regulates the
export of natural gas and electric power. The Department of Energy’s Office of Export
Control Policy and Cooperation authorizes the use of nuclear technology and technical
data for nuclear power, as well as special nuclear materials. The U.S. Drug Enforcement
Administration regulates the export of controlled substances and precursor chemicals.
For the relevant contact information regarding export controls issues at any of these
agencies, call the Trade Information Center at (800) USA-TRADE.
But what if the product does not fall into any of the categories mentioned above or is
EAR 99? Two other elements of the transaction must be considered:
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The item’s destination, and
The recipient’s intended end-use of the item.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the U.S. Department of Treasury
enforces economic sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals,
which are set forth by Congress. In the case of a few countries, like Iran, Libya, Cuba
and Sudan, the United States maintains comprehensive trade sanctions, which means
that the export of most goods to these countries is prohibited. However, licensing
programs for the exportation of agricultural goods, medicine, and medical products are in
place for Iran, Libya, Cuba, and Sudan. OFAC licenses exports of allowable products to
Iran, Libya, and Sudan, while BIS licenses exports of products to Cuba. Limited
sanctions programs are in place against other countries, or groups within those
countries. Detailed information on these sanctions is available on the OFAC Web site at
http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/. U.S. sanctions programs change
frequently. Exporters are encouraged to monitor U.S. sanctions programs on the OFAC
Web site on a daily basis. For questions regarding U.S. sanctions programs, contact
OFAC at (800) 540-6322.

Exporters should screen all parties involved in an international transaction against the
four “Prohibited Parties Lists,” of entities with which an exporter is prohibited from doing
business under most circumstances:
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The Specially Designated Nationals List, or SDN List, is published by OFAC on
the Internet (http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/) as well as in the
Federal Register. SDNs are individuals or entities located throughout the world
that are blocked pursuant to various sanctions programs. SDNs can be front
companies, quasi-government organizations, or individuals determined by the
U.S. government to be owned, controlled by, or acting on behalf of, targeted
countries or groups. They may also be specifically identified individuals, such as
terrorists, narcotics traffickers, or banks and other institutions owned or controlled
by the government of Burma. U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in any
transactions with SDNs and must block any property under their control in which
an SDN has an interest.
The Denied Persons List contains the names of persons who are subject to a
denial order by BIS. In general, U.S. exporters are prohibited from dealing with
denied persons in export transactions involving U.S. items. The list is accessible
via http://www.bis.doc.gov.
The Entity List, also maintained by BIS, is composed of foreign end-users
engaged in proliferation activities. Based on these proliferation concerns, exports
to these entities may require a license when the export transaction is within the
parameters found in Part 744, Supplement 4, of the Export Administration
Regulations. This list can be accessed through the BIS Web site at
www.bis.doc.gov.
The Debarred Parties List is maintained by the State Department. It lists the
names of individuals denied export privileges under the International Traffic in
Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Trade restrictions often change as a result of shifts in geopolitics and the need to adapt
U.S. foreign policy. In the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks, President
Bush issued Executive Order 13224 for the purpose of “blocking property and prohibiting
transactions with persons who commit, threaten to commit, or support terrorism.” This
order created a new category of Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs), called Specially
Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs), expanding the list of parties with which U.S.
companies are not permitted to do business. Due to the frequency of additions to the
SDN list and changes to sanctions programs, U.S. persons are encouraged to check the
US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Web site at
http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/ on a daily basis for updates.
Penalties For Violating Export Control Laws
Millions of dollars in civil penalties are imposed each year by the federal government for
violating export control laws. The BIS Web site contains examples of civil penalties that
have been imposed in the past. Civil penalties assessed by OFAC are $11,000 per
prohibited transaction for violations of most sanctions programs, but they can exceed $1
million if the transaction involves narcotics kingpins. In cases where criminal intent to

violate export control laws is found, criminal penalties can be imposed, resulting in
significant corporate or personal fines and/or imprisonment.
For any other questions about this section, or about exporting in general, please call the
Trade Information Center (TIC) at (800) USA-TRADE and “Ask the TIC.”
Temporary Entry Return to top
The Temporary Admission Regime (TAR) allows duty free admission of goods such as
commercial samples, packaging, pallets, containers and goods for exhibits. The exports
must be completed within the stipulated time as set by customs in accordance with the
type of imported merchandise. Failure to re-export goods will result in a fine.
Merchandise may suffer changes, which increase or lower its value, but no export
charges will be levied when goods remain unchanged. If value is increased, charges will
apply to the added value. The transfer of property, possession, or use is not permitted.
A bond is required to cover the value of import charges for the goods. The bond will be
refunded when the goods are re-exported.
Resolution 392/2006 SICPyME modifies Decree 1439/96, and regulates the import of
primary and intermediate goods into Argentina for use in export production. The finished
goods must be exported within 360 days from the date of temporary admission; however
this deadline may be extended for additional 360 days. There are special permissions
for long-term projects, for which the maximum stay under the TAR is 1080 days.
Argentina is not included in the A.T.A. (Temporary Admission) Carnet program of the
U.S. Council for International Business, which allows the importation of goods, display
booths, and literature for display in local trade shows for subsequent re-export. The
TAR regime should be used for this purpose. Many trade show organizers, however,
obtain a special waiver from the Ministry of Economy by declaring an event "of national
interest".
Decree 1001/82 and Disposition 34/98 of the Argentine Customs Bureau (Direccion
General de Aduanas - DGA) include imports of new or used capital goods destined to
production under the Temporary Admission Regime. The importer must fulfill the
following requirements:
A) Present a contract accrediting:
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Ownership of the equipment by a third party in the exporting country
Mandatory re-exportation of the equipment
Contract length, up to three years, renewable for another three-year period
Certification by the Argentine Consulate, if signed in the exporting country, or
notary public, if signed in country.
B) Present a sworn statement attesting that a temporary higher demand exceeds
present production capacity or that lack of adequate technology prevents him/her from
satisfying that temporary demand. If the equipment is to be used for public works (e.g.
infrastructure projects), the importer must present a certificate issued by the awarding
authority.

The Argentine Customs Bureau established a program allowing duty free admission of
primary and intermediate goods into Argentina for use in export production or for
applying finishing touches on goods destined for re-exportation. This regime, known as
the Temporary Admission for Re-export (TAR) provides opportunities for Argentine
manufacturers of exportable goods to reduce costs by not paying tariffs, VAT, or
anticipated profits tax on imported inputs. This also is important for Argentine
businesses that make repairs on goods that are shipped from other countries. Between
1999 and 2003 temporary imports have increased by 65%, while imports in general have
fallen by 16%. Nearly one-fifth of all Argentine exports are related in some way to this
regime. U.S. exporters of processed and unprocessed inputs into Argentine export
production can take advantage of the Temporary Import Regime. This is especially
attractive since Argentine exports are surging since the devaluation of the Peso in
January 2002. This regime will be phased out beginning January 1st, 2006.
Decree 1439/96 for the duty free admission of primary and intermediate goods for use
in export production, as well as exemption from VAT, statistics fee and anticipated profits
taxes. Argentine manufacturers that use imported processed and unprocessed inputs,
auxiliary elements, packaging and bottling materials that are involved in the production
process are exempt from tariffs and taxes if the final good is exported to a third country.
This regime also benefits repair service providers who receive goods shipped from
abroad. These finished goods must be exported within 180 days, although extensions for
an additional 180 days are permitted. A bond is required to cover the value of import
charges for the goods, which will be refunded when the goods are re-exported. The
more a company pays in import duties on its inputs the more incentive it has to take
advantage of this regime.
Goods are considered eligible for the TAR program if they are substantially transformed
in an industrial process that has the end goal of producing an export. Examples of
“transformation” include: manufacturing, combination, mixture, dosage, repair,
rehabilitation, assembly, or installation within a more complex final product. This
includes products that are consumed either completely or partially in another process, as
with oils and combustibles, disposable materials used in a production process,
machinery parts, packaging and bottling, etc. Damaged goods in need of repair can also
enter the country under this program to undergo repairs, contingent upon their
subsequent re-exportation.
These goods may remain in Argentina without paying tariffs for a one-year period, or in
the case of inputs for the production of capital goods that are listed as “non-serialized”
by the MERCOSUR Common Nomenclature System. Failure to re-export goods will
result in a fine.
The sectors that take advantage of this regime are automotive, chemical, basic
metallurgy, food and beverage, machinery and equipment, leather, petrochemical, and
paper. The usage of this regime is highly concentrated: approximately 10% of the firms
that have used this regime import 90% of the goods that qualify.
Timeframes for merchandise imported into the country.
a) For general merchandise:
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Initial period: 1 year
Extension: 1 additional year
b) For “non-serialized” production goods (Annex 1 - Decree 1439/96. Examples:
custom made boats, industrial machines, bridges, etc.)
Initial period: 2 years
Extension Period: 1 additional year.
c) Prolonging the extension period (due to natural or manmade disasters that
make re-export impossible): 1 additional year.
Entry bonds
A- The bond equivalent for the amount of import duties, domestic taxes, statistics fees
plus an additional 24% bond must be paid upon entry of the goods into customs. If
the goods admitted under TAR are re-exported unaltered, the entirety of the bond will
be returned. Otherwise, this bond will be returned upon export of the goods that the
TAR goods formed part of. If the goods that are imported are subject to antidumping
duties, a corresponding bond will also be required upon entry. This bond will also be
returned upon re-export of the goods.
B- The bond may be paid in cash, by bank guarantee, or through an insurance bond.
The following is an example of the amount of bonds that must be paid to customs
FOB Base Price US$10,000.00
Freight * 5% US$ 500.00
Insurance * 0.2% US$ 200.00
CIF = Dutiable Base US$ 10,700
Additional Import Duty 24.00 US 2568.00
Import Duty (DIE) 10.0 US$ 1070.00
Statistics Fee 0.5% US$ 53.50
SUBTOTAL
VAT Dutiable Base
3781.50
VAT 21% US$ 3022.15
VAT (additional) 10% US$1,439.2
Profits Tax (advance) 3% US$431.75
SUBTOTAL 4893.10
BOND US$ 8,674.60
Importing for Consumption
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US$
14391.50
If the goods that were admitted for entry under the TAR regime are imported into
Argentina for consumption, payment must be made not only of the corresponding duties
and taxes, but an additional 2% will be charged per month (since the entry date) on the

value of the merchandise. This charge will be calculated from the month of temporary
importation until the month when the goods were imported for consumption, which will
be no less than 12% of the value of the goods in customs unless said value is
determined to be less than when the goods were admitted for temporary importation.
Labeling and Marking Requirements Return to top
Under Argentine law 22,802/83, the Direccion de Lealtad Comercial, establishes labeling
requirements for products in Argentina. The law requires that product labels bear all the
information that the customer needs, and that information is true and valid. The
Secretariat of Industry in the Ministry of Economy ensures transparency in all business
transactions and enforces the labeling regime.
Law 22,802 of 1983, known as the Merchandise Marking Act, supersedes Law 11,275 of
1923. The current law states the general and basic labeling requirements for domestic
or imported products, as follows:
Article 1: - All packaged products sold in Argentina will bear the following information on
a printed label in a visible manner on the package or container:
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a) Name (description of product)
b) Country of origin
c) Quality, purity, or blending description
d) Net weight
All non-packaged products commercialized in country will have to comply with
requirements a), b) and c), as stated above.
Article 2: - Products manufactured in country will bear a mark that reads "Industria
Argentina". If products have been manufactured with foreign raw material, or any other
element that does not modify the nature of the product, it will still be considered an
Argentine product. Indication of the foreign origin of the component/s of the final product
is allowed; however, it has to be smaller than the original label.
Article 3: - Imported products that undergo a final local process of assembly and
finishing that does not modify the nature of the product will be considered of foreign
origin. It is optional to indicate that such a process has occurred on the product label.
Imported products manufactured with elements of different countries will be considered
as originating from the country in which it acquired its nature.
Article 4: - Labels of all products commercialized in country should be in Spanish, with
the exception of foreign words/phrases of common usage in trade. Imported products
may keep the original label of country/language of origin but should have a sticker/label
attached to the package in Spanish with the information requested in Article 1 (above).
Article 5: - The use of words, phrases, descriptions, trademarks, product literature,
brochures, etc. that may lead to error, deceit, or confusion regarding the nature, origin,
quality, quantity, etc. of the product, its features, and usage is completely forbidden.

Article 6: - Importers, manufacturers and assemblers will be responsible for the
truthfulness of the information stated on the labels.
This law has many complementary regulations from different Ministries according to the
nature of the product. Industry sectors such as medical, fine chemicals, fertilizers,
hazardous materials, food, beverages, textile and apparel, and footwear have more
detailed specifications for labeling requirements.
Law 19,511 establishes the use of the metric system in the Argentine Republic.
Regulation 100/83 of the Ministry of Economy provides that the indication of net content
in labeling must be in the metric system.
The Direccion de Lealtad Comercial of the Secretariat of Industry, Ministry of Economy,
works together with the other Ministries (or corresponding Argentine government
agency) in the development of in-depth labeling requirements for each industry/product.
For further inquiries, please contact:
DIRECCION DE LEALTAD COMERCIAL
Secretaria de Coordinacion Tecnica
Ministerio de Economia y Produccion
Av. Julio A. Roca 651, Piso 4, Of. 26
(C1067ABB) Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4349-4075/76/77
Fax: (54-11) 4349-3755
Contact: Prof. Fernando Carro, Director
Comments: Government agency under the Ministry of Economy.
In some cases, the Government Regulatory bodies of each industry provide information
on the corresponding labeling requirements.
For example, for information on labeling requirements for the medical industry, hygiene
and food products etc, the ANMAT (the equivalent of the USFDA, the regulatory body of
the Ministry of Health) provides additional information to the general rules for a specific
product.
Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica (ANMAT)
Av. de Mayo 869, Piso 3
C1084AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4340-0899; 4340-0800
Fax: (54-11) 4342-4578
E-mail: postmaster@anmat.gov.ar
URL: www.anmat.gov.ar
Contact: Manuel Limeres, Director a.i.
There is no general regulation for labeling of hazardous materials. The Direccion de
Lealtad Comercial and the Ministry of Health are currently discussing the terms on
labeling requirements of hazardous materials. For information on labeling requirements
of hazardous materials, please contact the ANMAT (above) with your request including
the product's HS number.
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Argentina has adopted the U.N. recommendations for the labeling and packing of
hazardous materials. For more information please refer to the International Maritime
Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code).
Prohibited and Restricted Imports Return to top
Prohibited Imports
The Government of Argentina has prohibited importation of the following products:
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Used automobiles (with some exceptions, Decree 110/1999)
Used motorcycles and velocipedes (Resolution 790/1992, Ministry of Economy)
Used equipment and its parts, as indicated by Decree 690/2002, Appendix XIV
and its modifications (Resolution 89/2003 ME, article 7°)
Worn clothing and accessories (MERCOSUR Tariff Codes 6309.00.10 &
6309.00.90) until June 30, 2010. (Resolution ME 367/2005)
All types of dangerous residues (Law 24051)
Certain dangerous substances (Resolutions 750/2000, 845/2000, 182/1999, etc.)
Telephone terminals that operate in a band between 1880 Mghz-1900 Mghz
(Resolution SC 1994/1999)
Used and recapped tires (MERCOSUR Tariff Codes 4012.10.00 & 4012.20.00,
Law 25,626 8/8/2003)
Used equipment, instruments, parts and transportation material (Resolution
MEOSP 909/94, article 4°, and modifications). Resolution MP 37/2003 exempted
donations of used goods over 5 years old made to governmental institutions and
registered religious entities
Raw cotton (not carded or combed, harsh or rough) as per Res. SENASA 208/03
Additionally, ANMAT (Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y
Tecnologia Medica), the regulatory equivalent of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
within the Ministry of Health, regulates and prohibits imports of certain toxic substances
contained in products such as pharmaceutical products and cosmetics. SENASA
(Servicio Nacional de Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria), National Service of
Agricultural Food Health and Quality, provides information on import regulations for
agricultural products.
For additional information on the mentioned products, please contact the U.S.
Commercial Service in Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Used Capital Goods
The Government of Argentina places restrictions on imports of used products, including
medical equipment, to facilitate market entry for well-established and qualified suppliers
and to bar unreliable suppliers, who have sold improperly refurbished machines or
equipment without suitable after-sales support.
As a general rule, used capital goods must be refurbished in the country of origin or the
country of export. The machinery must have been overhauled (repaired or

emanufactured) and certified by a "technical organization" in the country of origin. The
Commercial Section of the Argentine Embassy or an Argentine Consul in the U.S. must
then validate the certification. Used goods may also be refurbished in Argentina by the
importer, who is the end user of the goods.
Decree 690/2002 lists used equipment subject to this regime, as well as used equipment
banned from import. Products not mentioned in the decree (as either permitted or
prohibited) are considered as new for tariff purposes.
Specific rules apply to imports of used production lines (Resolution ME 511/2000 and
modifications). The special regime for imports of used production lines was implemented
in 2000, and comprises those “items whose main component is used imported
machinery, as part of an investment project for industrial production.” The regime aims to
facilitate access to goods not manufactured in Argentina, whose price is not affordable to
local SMEs currently suffering the lack of accessible credit lines. The regime is currently
in force until December 31, 2008. An import duty of 6 percent applies for the used
production lines imported. Additionally, these imported goods do not pay Verification of
Destination Fee.
For additional information, please contact the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires
at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Customs Regulations and Contact Information Return to top
At a national level, the General Customs Bureau (Dirección General de Aduanas, DGA)
applies, collects and controls taxes under the Argentine Customs Code. Additionally, it
regulates other taxes on import and export transactions on behalf of other entities. In
general, the DGA applies and controls import and export transactions.
The DGA depends on the Federal Public Revenue Administration (Administracion
Federal de Ingresos Públicos, AFIP). AFIP is an autonomous authority in the
administrative level, under the general supervision and legal control of the Ministry of
Economy. It executes the tax and customs policies set by the Executive Branch.
For Customs-related information or questions, contact:
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Administracion Federal de Ingresos Públicos, AFIP
Phone: 0810-999-2347 (0810-www-AFIP) (Spanish)
Mo-Fr 8am-7pm
Contact Information
FEDERAL PUBLIC REVENUE ADMINISTRATION
(Administracion Federal de Ingresos Públicos, AFIP)
Mr. Alberto Abad
Federal Administrator
Hipólito Yrigoyen 370 (C1086AAD)
Phone: (54) (11) 4347-2000

3/4/2008
GENERAL CUSTOMS BUREAU
(Dirección General de Aduanas, DGA)
Mr. Ricardo Echegaray
General Director
Azopardo 350 (C1107ADD)
Buenos Aires
Phone: (54) (11) 4338-6400/6640
Fax: (54) (11) 4338-6644
For online Customs-related information, please visit the AFIP/DGA’s website at
www.afip.gov.ar/Aduana/ (Spanish).
For Customs regulations, visit the AFIP’s online library at: http://biblioteca.afip.gov.ar/
(Spanish).
Standards Return to top
Overview
Standards Organizations
Conformity Assessment
Product Certification
Accreditation
Publication of Technical Regulations
Labeling and Marking
Contacts
Overview Return to top
A 1994 decree created the legal framework (Decree 1474/94) for standardsrelated
activities in Argentina.
As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Argentina signed the
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), affirming its obligations relative
to technical regulations and conformity assessment procedures. IRAM has
signed the WTO TBT Code of Good Practice for the Preparation, Adoption and
Application of Standards. Responsibilities under the TBT agreement include the
establishment of a national inquiry point to serve as a central location for
information on standards-related issues, including proposed mandatory
regulations. The Argentine inquiry point is in the Secretariat of Industry,
Commerce and SMEs (see Information Sources below). The U.S. inquiry point is
the National Center for Standards and Certification Information (NCSCI), located
at National Institute of Standards and Technology (see Information Sources
below).
Standards and Regulations in MERCOSUR
Argentina, as an active MERCOSUR member, participates in the development of
MERCOSUR standards and regulations. The MERCOSUR Standards
Association, AMN (previously known as the Comite MERCOSUR de

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Normalizacion) --composed of the standards institutes of Argentina, Brazil,
Paraguay, and Uruguay-- develops and harmonizes standards. The Executive
Secretariat of the AMN is located in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Voluntary standards are
developed in 16 technical committees and deal mostly with steel products,
cement and concrete, and electrical safety. Several hundred standards are at
different stages of preparation or in the work plan.
Regional technical regulations are developed and/or harmonized by the
MERCOSUR governments in Sub Working Group 3 in the following fields:
automotive, foods, metrology, safety issues for electrical products, toys, and premeasured
products. Separate working groups, such as those on
telecommunications and health issues, also focus on mandatory technical
requirements for their particular sectors. Approved MERCOSUR regulations are
not automatically adopted in each country. To be applicable, harmonized
MERCOSUR regulations must be adopted by each country. The four countries
generally adopt all MERCOSUR regulations though at different speeds.
Agricultural and Health-related Products
Please note that agricultural and health-related products are subject to specific
and different voluntary standards and mandatory technical regulations. Medical
devices, pharmaceuticals, and foods are the purview of the National
Administration of Drugs, Food and Medical Technology (Administracion Nacional
de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica - ANMAT).
Standards Organizations Return to top
There are two private sector organizations that work under the National System
for Standards, Quality and Certification. The Argentine Standardization Institute
(Instituto Argentino de Normalizacion - IRAM) is the official national standards
body for the Republic of Argentina. The Argentine Accreditation Organization
(Organismo Argentino de Acreditacion - OAA) is the accreditation body. These
are the only organizations that carry out standardization and accreditation in
Argentina.
NIST Notify U.S. Service
Member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO) are required under the
Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) to report to the
WTO all proposed technical regulations that could affect trade with other Member
countries. Notify U.S. is a free, web-based e-mail subscription service that offers
an opportunity to review and comment on proposed foreign technical regulations
that can affect your access to international markets. Register online at Internet
Internet: www.nist.gov/notifyus
Conformity Assessment Return to top
IRAM, created in 1935, is the only developer of national voluntary standards in
Argentina. Reliance on international standards as a basis for developing national
standards continues to be a strong trend in Argentina. While many IRAM
standards are compatible with U.S. standards, many others are patterned after

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requirements of various European countries and may place U.S. products at a
significant disadvantage.
IRAM is also a certification organization, both for products and systems. Its
product certification mark, the "Sello IRAM" is widely recognized in the country as
indicating conformity to an IRAM voluntary standard. See below for the
mandatory safety mark.
In Argentina, most standards are voluntary. The buyer and seller share
responsibility in determining what product standard is applicable. Products
conforming to U.S. standards may or may not be acceptable. Reflecting longstanding
tradition and practice, products that meet European requirements are
often preferred. This preference may be expressed in procurement
specifications, in customary design and construction practices, or as market
issues.
Given the growing importance of standards and conformity assessment in
expanding U.S. exports, a standards expert is assigned to work in the U.S.
Commercial Service office at the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia, with regional
responsibilities for South American countries, including Argentina.
Product Certification Return to top
Mandatory Testing and Mandatory Product Certification
Regulated products must display an official safety "S" mark to show they conform
to the regulations. However, as described above and due to implementation
issues, it is difficult to state with certainty at this time the products that must be
tested, certified, and marked as required by the resolutions.
Non-Mandatory Testing and Product Certification
There is no legal mandate to retest non-regulated products that have been
approved in their country of origin. For non-regulated products, some U.S.
trademarks and product certifications are well known and accepted in Argentina.
As with standards, any certification that may be required for non-regulated
sectors is a contractual matter to be decided between the buyer and the seller.
However, it is important to be aware that market conditions and preferences may
impose the use of particular standards, certification, or trademarks.
Traditionally, product certification in Argentina has been mostly voluntary with
few active organizations including IRAM. However, this has changed due to the
partial implementation of regulations that mandate product certification. A
number of U.S. certification bodies are now active in Argentina, along with
several multinationals and new local entities.
INTI, the National Institute of Industrial Technology (Instituto Nacional de
Tecnologia Industrial) is a government agency that participates in standards
development and performs product testing and certification. Due to the

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continuing shortage of independent laboratories in Argentina, INTI is viewed as a
prime testing and calibration laboratory for the country.
INTI's position attracts interest and substantial technical support and cooperation
from foreign countries, most notably Germany, Japan, and the U.K. These, and
other countries such as France, regularly offer scholarships for long and mediumterm
training courses abroad. Other Argentine private and public organizations
also benefit from third country largesse.
To facilitate the acceptance of U.S. products in the Argentine market,
agreements between U.S. and local certifiers and testing houses are
encouraged. This could provide recognition of existing certifications. Also, there
is no impediment for U.S. certification organizations to be established and
accredited in Argentina.
Accreditation Return to top
Entities that engage in certification for regulated products must be accredited by
the Argentine Accreditation Organization (Organismo Argentino de Acreditacion,
OAA) and recognized by the Government. Testing laboratories must similarly be
accredited and recognized.
Organismo Argentino de Acreditación
Av. Julio A. Roca 651
Piso 5 – Sectores 8 y 9 (1067)
Buenos Aires
Tel./Fax: 4349-3962/63/64
Internet: www.oaa.org.ar
Publication of Technical Regulations Return to top
In 1998, the Argentine government embarked on a new path of issuing
regulations mandating that certain products meet safety requirements. The trend
has slowed down considerably and, generally, implementation schedules have
been postponed.
Low voltage electrical equipment was the first product category subjected to
safety regulations and mandatory certification (Resolution 92/98). Regulations
have also been issued for toys, shoes, gas appliances and products, construction
steel, elevators, energy consumption and noise labeling of appliances, closures
for dangerous products, and personal protective equipment. Since the end of
1999, efforts have been concentrated in implementation rather than in adding
new categories of product to safety regulations. Full-phased implementation of
most regulations is not following original schedules.
Resolution 92/98 originally covered all low voltage electrical equipment, but
subsequent modifications have excluded various categories of products.
However, the vast majority of electrical and electronic products in the consumer
marketplace are still subject to this regulation. Evidence of compliance with the
regulation is mandatory through product certification. Resolution 92/98 provided

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for a phased three-stage implementation, with different dates depending on the
product. Phase 1 calls for a sworn declaration of conformity, phase 2 provides
for a type-certification, and phase 3 requires full third-party certification with mark
of conformity.
Safety regulations for other products are at different stages of implementation.
For more information visit the following website: www.resolucion9298.com.ar
Labeling and Marking Return to top
Resolution 197/2004, published in the Boletin Oficial on January 7 th , 2005
establishes the requirements for certification by mark (ISO 4), type (ISO 5), or
batch (lot-ISO 7). Type and lot requirements will apply after June 28 th , 2005,
while mark stamps will be required starting January 7 th , 2005. Manufacturers and
importers of the products affected by these requirements (electric apparatus over
50 volts, toys, personal protection equipment, elevators, steel, lighters, and
bicycles) can choose among the three-certification criteria (steel products can
only be certified by mark or batch). Products certified by type or lot must bear a
seal that includes the certification number. The latter must also consign batch
number information.
Labeling requirements include safety information, voltage, fire safety, and child
safety information. Canned and bottled food labeling requirements include
ingredients, identification of manufacturer/importer, and manufacturing/expiration
dates. Pharmaceuticals must indicate the name of the responsible technical
director of the pharmaceutical laboratory, as well as the ingredients by
weight/volume.
On July 6, 2005 the Government revised Resolution 197 and passed a new
Resolution (109) that incorporated all of the changes the industry requested. An
unofficial translation is below:
Quote
Secretariat of Technical Coordination/Ministry of Economy and Production of the
Argentine Republic
Commercial Loyalty
Consumers Defense
Resolution 109/2005
Resolution No. 197/2004, which refers to the mandatory Certification Regime in
force in compliance with safety requirements, is hereby amended.
Buenos Aires, July 5, 2005
Whereas:

3/4/2008
Record No. S01:0116093/2005 of the Registry of the Ministry of Economy and
Production
The Secretariat of Technical Coordination of the Ministry of Economy and
Production, being the Authority that enforces the mandatory Certification Regime
can assess the technical and legal requirements of such regime.
Resolution 197 dated December 29, 2004 passed by the Secretariat of Technical
Coordination of the Ministry of Economy and Production established the
requirements in force for certification by type (ISO 4) or batch (lot-ISO 7) for
specific products in compliance with security requirements, as established in
Resolution No. 799 dated October 29, 1999 passed by former Secretariat of
Industry, Trade and Mining of former Ministry of Economy, Public Works and
Services, that establishes the requirements for certification by mark (ISO 5).
The above mentioned resolution established the requirements for certification i.e.
all affected products must have a symbol (mentioned above) on their packaging
which shows compliance with the safety requirements of the certification regime
Taking into consideration the practical aspects of this process, it would be
advisable to adjust the requirements for identification by means of a symbol
based on the physical characteristics of the affected products, and to limit the
amount of mandatory information needed to identify the bodies of certification for
the respective products.
The Legal Affairs Office of the Ministry of Economy and Production has
intervened in the aspects incumbent on it and proceeds to act, according to
Articles 11 and 12, Section b) of Bill No. 22.802; Article 43, Section a) of Bill No.
24.240 and Decrees No. 1283 dated May 24, 2003, Decree No. 25, dated May
27, 2003 and Decree No. 1359 dated October 5, 2004.
Therefore the Secretary of Technical Coordination resolves:
Article 1: Article 6 of Resolution No. 197 dated December 29, 2004, of the
Secretariat of Technical Coordination of the Ministry of Economy and Production
should be replaced by the following text:
Article 6: the symbols required for identification, mentioned in Articles 4 and 5 of
this Resolution and described in Resolution 799 dated October 29, 1999 of
former Secretariat of Industry, Trade and Mining, of former Ministry of Economy
and Public Works shall be exhibited on all affected products.
Such symbol on all affected products will be visible and inerasable when such
products are sold commercially. If the product is too small and the symbol is
illegible it will have to be exhibited on the packaging or rating label.
All symbols exhibited, as mentioned in abovementioned articles must be
accompanied by the corresponding certificate listing the type of product.
Article 2: Any infringement of this Resolution will be subject to sanctions pursuant
to Bills No. 22.802 and 24.240, as it applies.

3/4/2008
Article 3: This Resolution shall be in force after its publication in the Official
Bulletin.
Article 4: Be it published, filed and passed on to the Official Registry Office.
Contacts Return to top
For information on Argentine and MERCOSUR standards, contact:
IRAM, Instituto Argentino de Normalizacion
Peru 552/556
C1068AAB Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 43 46 06 00
Fax: (54-11) 43 46 06 01
E-mail: iram@iram.org.ar
Internet: www.iram.org.ar
Contact: Ing. Jose Francisco Lopez, Director General
Comments: Argentine Standardization Institute
AMN, Asociacion MERCOSUR de Normalizacion
Av. Auro Soares de Moura Andrade 664
01156-001 Sao Paulo - SP (Brazil)
Phone: (55-11) 3823-4603
Fax: (55-11) 3826-3724
E-mail: secretaria@amn.org.br
Internet: www.amn.org.br
Comments: MERCOSUR Standards Association
For information on the WTO-TBT inquiry point, contact:
Direccion Nacional de Comercio Interior
Secretaria de Comercio Interior
Ministerio de Economía y Produccion
Av. Julio A. Roca 651, Piso 4, Sector 22
C1067ABB Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4349-4051/4052
Fax: (54-11) 4349-4038
E-mail: dirnaci@mecon.gov.ar
Contact: Prof. Fernando A. Carro, Director a.i.
Comments: National Domestic Commerce Bureau, Ministry of Economy
For medical products, contact:
ANMAT, Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia
Medica
Av. de Mayo 869, Piso 3
C1084AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4340-0899; 4340-0800
Fax: (54-11) 4342-4578
E-mail: direccion@anmat.gov.ar

3/4/2008
Internet: www.anmat.gov.ar
Contact: Manuel Limeres, Director a.i.
Comments: National Administration of Pharmaceuticals, Foods and Medical
Technology
For information on accreditation, contact:
Organismo Argentino de Acreditación
Av Julio A. Roca 651
Piso 5 – Sectores 8 y 9 (1067)
Buenos Aires
Tel./Fax: 4349-3962/63/64
Internet: www.oaa.org.ar
For information in the U.S., contact:
National Center for Standards and Certification Information (NCSCI)
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Phone: (301) 975-4038
Fax: (301) 926-1559
E-mail: ncsci@nist.gov
Internet: www.ts.nist.gov/ncsci
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
11 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
Phone: (212) 642-4900
Fax: (212) 398-0023
Internet: www.ansi.org
Trade Agreements Return to top
ALADI
Argentina is a founding member of the Association for Latin American Integration
(ALADI-Asociación Latinoamericana de Integración), which was created with the longterm
goal of establishing a Latin American Common Market. Bolivia, Brazil, Chile,
Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela are also founding
members; Cuba attained full membership in 1999. Under the ALADI, member countries
sign regional and bilateral agreements that allow partial trade liberalization that can then
be extended to other members. In the 25 years since its creation, Argentina has signed
several regional, multilateral and bilateral arrangements. The Internet address for
ALADI is: www.aladi.org.
MERCOSUR
Argentina is a member of the Common Market of the South (MERCOSUR-Mercado
Común del Sur), which entered into force in January 1991. MERCOSUR member
countries originally include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Bolivia, Chile,

Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela* joined the pact as associate members. By
1995, about 75 percent of tariff categories were included in the Common External Tariff
(CET) and the remaining categories will be phased-in by 2015. MERCOSUR represents
70 percent of the South American territory and 64 percent of its population. The Internet
address is as follows: www.mercosur.int.
*MERCOSUR-Venezuela
In July 2006, MERCOSUR members accepted Venezuela’s request to become a
MERCOSUR full member. Venezuela must adapt to MERCOSUR Common External
Tariff scheme within a four-year timeframe, and will gradually lose its benefits from being
part of the Andean Community of Nations. Final acceptance is still pending ratification
by the Brazilian and Paraguayan legislatures.
MERCOSUR negotiations with other economic blocs and countries:
MERCOSUR-European Union
The two blocs had made the commitment of reaching an agreement in the process of
integration by October 2004, but several differences between the blocs impeded final
negotiations. These are broad and include goods, services, investments, government
procurement, and intellectual property rights, among other issues.
MERCOSUR-Andean Community of Nations (Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru,
and Venezuela)
The agreement took place in October 2004 and contemplates the liberalization of 80
percent of trade between the blocs within the next ten years, beginning in 2005.
MERCOSUR-Mexico
In July 2004, Mexico was accepted by MERCOSUR as an “observer country” within the
bloc, toward its inclusion as associate member.
For additional information on trade regulations, customs and standards, visit the U.S.
Commercial Service in Buenos Aires (CSBA) web site at
http://www.buyusa.gov/argentina/en or contact CSBA at
Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Web Resources Return to top
Ministry of Economy: www.mecon.gov.ar
Ministry of Foreing Affairs, International Trade and Worship: www.mrecic.gov.ar
Central Bank: http://www.bcra.gov.ar/. National self-governed institution, whose
primary and fundamental mission is to preserve the value of the Argentine currency.
It formulates and implements the monetary and financial policy and is officially not
3/4/2008

subject to the orders, guidelines or instructions of the National Executive branch of
government.
National Comission of Foreign Trade (Comision Nacional de Comercio Exterior):
www.mecon.gov.ar/cnce. National Bureau under the Secretary of Industry,
Commerce and Small and Medium Enterprises (www.indcompyme.gov.ar). Applies
legislation international trade-related and as a research and information center for
international trade y trade policy.
National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC):
www.indec.gov.ar/indec/ingles.asp. Technical government agency responsible for
the coordination and supervision of all public statistical activities taking place in the
Argentine territory.
Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica
(ANMAT): www.anmat.gov.ar. Equivalent of the USFDA, the regulatory body of the
Ministry of Health. It provides additional information to the general rules for a specific
product.
Federal Public Revenue Administration, (AFIP): www.afip.gov.ar. National tax
collection agency that executes the tax and customs policies set by the National
Executive Branch.
Association for Latin American Integration, (ALADI): www.aladi.org
Common Market of the South, (MERCOSUR): www.mercosur.int
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 6: Investment Climate
3/4/2008
Openness to Foreign Investment
Conversion and Transfer Policies
Expropriation and Compensation
Dispute Settlement
Performance Requirements and Incentives
Right to Private Ownership and Establishment
Protection of Property Rights
Transparency of Regulatory System
Efficient Capital Markets and Portfolio Investment
Political Violence
Corruption
Bilateral Investment Agreements
OPIC and Other Investment Insurance Programs
Labor
Foreign-Trade Zones/Free Ports
Foreign Direct Investment Statistics
Web Resources
Openness to Foreign Investment Return to top
Argentina remains open to foreign investment, hosting approximately 450 U.S.
companies that currently employ about 155,000 people. Five consecutive years of real
GDP growth over 8 percent have attracted considerable U.S. and other international
investor interest in exploring new opportunities in the Argentine market. The
government of Argentina, in turn, has signaled its desire to see foreign direct investment
(FDI) expand significantly to enhance the nation’s productive capacity and sustain high
levels of real GDP growth. However, the attractiveness of some sectors for foreign
investors is affected by uncertainties concerning creditor and contract rights, as well as a
perception of unpredictable regulatory changes.
In 1991, the government of Argentina (GOA) pegged the Argentine peso to the U.S.
dollar at a 1:1 exchange rate (“convertibility”) with the aim of breaking the back of
hyperinflation and adopted far-reaching market-based policies, including dismantling a
web of protectionist trade and business regulations, and reversing a half century of
statism by implementing an ambitious privatization program. Argentina subsequently
received significant increases in investment, with FDI inflows among the highest in Latin
America through most of the 1990s. While convertibility defeated inflation, over time the
rigidity that it imposed on exchange rate policy, combined with lack of fiscal discipline
and poor governance, undermined Argentina's export competitiveness and created
chronic deficits in the current account of the balance of payments, which were financed
by massive borrowing. The contagion effect of the Asian financial crisis of 1998
precipitated an outflow of capital that contributed to a four-year recession that
culminated in a financial panic in November 2001.

In January 2002, the government ended convertibility and defaulted on roughly $82
billion in privately held debt and over $6 billion in debt to official government creditors
(including approximately $360 million owed to the U.S. government). In February 2005,
private investors holding 76 percent of Argentina's defaulted debt accepted an Argentine
government offer of approximately 30 cents on the dollar of old debt. Some remaining
"holdout" private bondholders are still actively seeking redress but, as of this writing, the
GOA has declined to engage with private bondholders who chose not to participate in
the 2005 restructuring. Of the over $6 billion owed to official government creditors, over
$4 billion consists of arrears and past-due interest. The GOA has indicated interest in
normalizing its relationship with official government creditors.
Argentina posted real GDP growth of 8.8 percent in 2003, 9.0 percent in 2004, 9.2
percent in 2005, 8.4 percent in 2006, and an estimated 8.5 percent in 2007. This
impressive economic recovery, which has also led to improvements in key socioeconomic
indicators, can be attributed to a number of factors. These include Argentina’s
post-crisis move to a flexible exchange rate regime, sustained global and regional
growth, a boost in domestic aggregate demand via monetary, fiscal and income
distribution policies, favorable international commodity prices, and interest rate trends.
New taxes, better collecting efforts, and the recovery's strong impact on revenues have
allowed the government to record primary fiscal surpluses in recent years. The 2006
federal primary surplus amounted to 3.5 percent of GDP, and is estimated at 3.3 - 3.48
percent of GDP in 2007. The government projects a primary fiscal surplus of about 3.5
percent in 2008.
Argentina should continue to perform well, with the Central Bank of Argentina’s
consensus survey forecasting 6.6 percent real GDP growth for 2008. Economic experts
have identified potential challenges to sustaining high levels of growth in the future,
including: capacity constraints; the need for new investment in infrastructure; potential
energy shortages in the face of high growth and domestic price controls; an increasingly
tight labor market as the economy moves closer to full employment; and inflation,
including the public debate over its level and policies to address it, as well as the
resulting pressure on domestic wages. Potential investors with an interest in these
issues are encouraged to review the international and Argentine financial press, which
cover them extensively.
The industrial sector has performed well, growing from 16 percent of GDP in 2001 to
22.3 percent in 2006. Illustrative of this industrial expansion, the domestic car industry
had its best year in history in 2007, with production reaching 544,647 units, up 26% from
2006. Automotive exports reached 316,410 units in 2007, also an all-time record, and
comprising about 58% of total production. In 2007, the automotive industry accounted
for almost 20% of Argentina's manufacturing output and 36% of all manufacturing
exports, measured by value.
Argentina’s economic expansion continues to create jobs, and unemployment continues
to decline, down from a 21.5 percent peak in 2002 to 8.8 percent during the third quarter
of 2007 according to official government statistics. Investment in real terms, according
to consensus forecasts published by the Central Bank, was estimated to have increased
13.8 percent in 2007. Meanwhile, the move from convertibility to a managed float
exchange rate regime and high global commodity prices have lifted the value of exports
to record levels. A substantial foreign exchange reserve cushion ($46 billion as of
3/4/2008

December 2007) has also helped insulate the economy from external shocks. In
January 2006, the GOA used reserves to cancel its $9.5 billion debt to the IMF.
Argentina’s Central Bank has managed monetary and currency policy in support of the
economic expansion, maintaining an undervalued or “competitive” exchange rate and
negative real interest rates. However, many observers argue that the policy has
contributed to a rise in the level of inflation in recent years. To help the majority of
Argentine citizens cope with the economic crisis and control inflation, the government
largely froze key public utility rates since 2002, and since 2005, has negotiated price
stabilization agreements on a number of essential consumer goods.
Private sector bank balance sheets, which deteriorated significantly during the economic
crisis, are recovering, with improving levels of liquidity, net exposure to the public sector
significantly reduced, and credit – primarily to the private sector – increasing at a faster
pace than nominal GDP growth. According to private rating agencies, most private
banks (which hold approximately 55 percent of total financial system deposits and
67percent of loans) have returned to solvency. The ratio of private bank non-performing
loans has fallen to an historic low of approximately 2.5 percent, and profits for the overall
banking system are among the highest levels achieved in over a decade. According to
central bank regulatory authorities, public banks, which hold the remaining assets, are
also solvent and liquid. However, system-wide, new lending is mostly short-term, as
access to long-term financing is limited and borrowers are reluctant to borrow long-term
at variable rates. Some financial sector analysts argue that uncertainty about the levels
of long-term inflation will continue to complicate GOA and private sector efforts to
develop a long-term fixed interest rate market, without which it will be difficult to deepen
Argentina’s financial markets or support large-scale project finance. Government
officials have acknowledged the lack of medium- and long-term credit facilities needed to
support the expansion of domestic productive capacity and, according to media reports,
are considering whether and how to structure a state-supported long-term financing
vehicle.
Decree 1853/1993 governs foreign investment in Argentina. According to this decree,
foreign companies may invest in Argentina without registration or prior government
approval, and on the same terms as investors domiciled in Argentina. Investors are free
to enter Argentina through merger, acquisition, greenfield investment, or joint venture.
Foreign firms may also participate in publicly financed research and development
programs on a national treatment basis.
A Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between Argentina and the United States entered
into force in October 1994. The BIT provides protections against capital movement
restrictions, expropriations, and performance requirements; it also establishes effective
means for the settlement of investment disputes. The BIT lists a few sectors in which
Argentina maintains exceptions to national treatment for U.S. investors: real estate in
border areas, air transportation, shipbuilding, nuclear energy, uranium mining, and
fishing. U.S. investors must obtain permission from the Ministry of Defense's
Superintendency for Frontiers to invest in non-mining activities in border areas.
Foreign and Argentine firms face the same tax liabilities. In general, taxes are assessed
on consumption, imports and exports, assets, financial transactions, and property and
payroll (social security and related benefits.
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The GOA has established a number of investment promotion programs. Those
programs allow for VAT refunds and accelerated depreciation of capital goods for
investors (although a number of firms reported difficulties and delays in obtaining
expected VAT refunds in the wake of the economic crisis); offer tariff incentives for local
production of capital goods; and include sectoral programs, free trade zones, and a
Special Customs Area (SCA) in Tierra del Fuego, among other benefits. A complete
description of the scope and scale of Argentina’s investment promotion programs and
regimes can be found at http://www.industria.gov.ar and http://www.prosperar.gov.ar.
Information about programs that specifically apply to small and medium businesses may
be found at http://www.sepyme.gov.ar.
According to the World Bank’s latest “Doing Business” survey, Argentina in 2007 ranked
109 out of 178 nations and territories surveyed in overall “ease of doing business. The
survey considered issues such as: starting a business; dealing with licenses; employing
workers; registering property; getting credit; protecting investors; paying taxes; trading
across borders; enforcing contracts; and closing a business.
Conversion and Transfer Policies Return to top
Until the end of 2001, Argentine law offered a number of protections for free capital and
currency transfers. Law 21382, Article 5 (as implemented by Decree 1853/1993) allows
foreign investors to repatriate capital and remit earnings abroad at any time. Article V of
the United States-Argentina BIT also provides for free, prompt transfers related to
investments. In the wake of the 2001-2002 crisis, however, the GOA instituted and
subsequently modified an array of emergency transfer and currency conversion
restrictions.
The Argentine Ministry of Economy and the Central Bank have issued various new or
revised foreign exchange transaction regulations in an attempt to normalize the foreign
exchange market and to limit the peso's appreciation. In nominal terms, the Argentine
peso depreciated 70 percent in 2002, following the financial crisis that began in
December 2001. The peso subsequently appreciated 15 percent against the USD in
nominal terms in 2003, and slightly depreciated by two percent in 2004, two percent in
2005, one percent in 2006, and three percent in 2007.
Argentina imposed limited capital controls in July 2003 through Decree 285/2003, which
establishes a regime for capital inflows and outflows. The decree obliges investors to
keep foreign currency inflows in the country for a period of at least 180 days. In June
2005, the government further tightened capital controls through Decree 616/2005. The
decree increased the minimum holding period for capital inflows from 180 to 365 days
and established that some capital inflows are subject to a 30 percent unremunerated
reserve requirement to be deposited in a local bank for 365 days. This deposit must be
denominated in U.S. dollars and the proceeds cannot be used as collateral. The
remaining 70 percent is free to be invested, but is subject to the 365-day minimum
holding period. Capital inflows related to trade transactions, foreign direct investment, or
to primary public offerings of stock or bonds (from both the private and public sector) as
well as inflows from International Financial Institutions are exempt from controls. Decree
616 diverged from previous regulation, as it increased the cost of bringing capital into the
country.
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A resident individual or company is allowed to purchase up to USD 2 million per month
of foreign currency without Central Bank authorization. Any excess is subject to a 30
percent reserve requirement and 365-day minimum investment period. In December
2006, the Central Bank established that capital inflows and outflows must be registered
under a person’s or business’s name instead of the name of the local
brokerage/exchange house. There are special rules regulating the purchase of foreign
currency to settle financial debt, and for the private issuance of bonds denominated in
foreign currency.
The Central Bank intervenes frequently in the foreign exchange market, with the
objective of maintaining a competitive peso.
Expropriation and Compensation Return to top
Article 4 of the United States-Argentina BIT states that investments shall not be
expropriated or nationalized except for public purpose upon payment of prompt fairmarket
value compensation. However, some U.S. investors claim the January 2002
pesification of dollar-denominated contracts amounted to a form of expropriation of their
investments and have filed international arbitration claims against the government of
Argentina (see Dispute Settlement Section).
Dispute Settlement Return to top
The GOA accepts the principle of international arbitration. The United States-Argentina
BIT provides for binding international arbitration of investment disputes that cannot be
settled through amicable consultation and negotiation between the parties. The
Government of Argentina is a party to the International Center for the Settlement of
Investment Disputes (ICSID), the United Nations Commission on International Trade
Law (UNCITRAL), and the World Bank's Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency
(MIGA). Companies that seek recourse through Argentine courts, however, may not also
pursue recourse through international arbitration.
In April 2003, the GOA issued Decree 926/2003, which created two new agencies to
carry out negotiations under bilateral investment treaties, including the United States-
Argentina BIT. The "Amicable Negotiations Federal Council" (ANFC) made up of
representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy and the
Federal Treasury Attorney, had a mission to devise the government's strategies and
policies in negotiations with foreign investors and could approve proposals made during
negotiations. However, in July 2003, that body was replaced by the "Unit for the
Renegotiation and Analysis of Utility Contracts" (UNIREN), which was created to serve
essentially the same function, but which is presided over jointly by the Ministers of
Planning and Economy. The other entity created by Decree 926/2003 is the "Amicable
Negotiations Proceedings Body," which works under the Federal Treasury Attorney. It
receives investor complaints, gathers information and carries out negotiations with
foreign investors.
In a December 2006 decision on the 2002 pesification decree, the Supreme Court
ordered banks to reimburse depositors in local currency the total value of deposits
originally held in U.S. dollars that had earlier been frozen. The decision also upheld the
3/4/2008

legality of this pesification decree, which froze bank deposits and forcibly converted
dollar savings into devalued pesos. The ruling ordered banks to compensate depositors
at 3.08 pesos to the dollar -- equal to the pesified deposits they would now hold under
the original decree, and applying a currency conversion rate of 1.40 pesos per dollar,
adjusting for inflation and adding a four percent annual interest rate to be applied
retroactively since the pesification began.
Domestic investment dispute adjudication is available through local courts or
administrative procedures. However, independent surveys indicate that public
confidence in the Argentine judiciary remains weak. Many foreign investors prefer to
rely on private or international arbitration when those options are available. Argentina
has a strict bankruptcy law similar to that of the United States. However, initiating
bankruptcy proceedings is more difficult in Argentina. Creditors can participate in a
Chapter 11-like procedure to determine the best means of recovering debts from a
bankrupt firm. Company directors are personally and criminally responsible in cases of
fraud, although severe punishment for white-collar crime is not common.
A number of U.S. investors have filed ICSID arbitration claims against the government of
Argentina. Most of these investors consider the January 2002 pesification of dollardenominated
contracts, and/or the ex post facto prohibition on contracts linked to foreign
inflation indices, to be a de facto expropriation of their investments. Prior to pesification,
some U.S. investors engaged in disputes with provincial governments over unforeseen
changes in tax laws and liabilities. Customs treatment and the freeze on public utility
rate changes have also provoked investment disagreements. There were 33 pending
cases involving Argentina before the ICSID tribunal as of mid-December 2007, with total
potential liabilities of over USD 13 billion. Fourteen of these pending ICSID cases were
filed under the U.S. BIT. Over the past three years, several ICSID claimants who
represent a substantial share of total claims against Argentina have suspended their
ICSID proceedings to facilitate further negotiation with the government. A number of the
pending cases are reaching their final conclusion and, in one case, a final judgment of
over $100 million against Argentina has been upheld. Government payment to the U.S.
claimant under this ICSID final award remains pending.
Performance Requirements and Incentives Return to top
No performance requirements are aimed specifically at foreign investors. Government
incentives apply to both foreign and domestic firms. The Ministry of Economy
administers a complex trade-balancing regime involving quotas and tariffs for auto
manufacturers including minimum-content and other requirements. Special regimes also
apply to mining, oil and gas, and other natural resource sectors. The special regimes
allow producers to keep all (as in the case of mining) or 70 percent of their foreign
exchange revenues off-shore (as in the case of oil and gas).
Right to Private Ownership and Establishment Return to top
Foreign and domestic investors have free and equal rights to establish and own
businesses, or to acquire and dispose of interests in businesses without discrimination.
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Protection of Property Rights Return to top
Secured interests in property, including mortgages, are recognized and common in
Argentina. Such interests can be easily and effectively registered. They also can be
readily bought and sold. However, in February 2002, the government of Argentina
established an extended moratorium prohibiting financial institutions from foreclosing on
delinquent mortgages on primary residences and implemented a special procedure for
both parties to reach an agreement for repaying the mortgage. This special procedure is
only applied when delinquency in payment occurred from January 2001 to September
2003.
The government of Argentina adheres to most treaties and international agreements on
intellectual property and belongs to the World Intellectual Property Organization and the
World Trade Organization (WTO). The Argentine Congress ratified the Uruguay Round
agreements, including the provisions on intellectual property, in Law 24425 on January
5, 1995. However, as in most countries, combating violations of intellectual property
rights is a challenge in Argentina. Argentina is on the Office of the U.S. Trade
Representative's intellectual property rights "Priority Watch List.”
Patents: Patent protection is an ongoing problem in Argentina's intellectual property
rights regime, and extension of adequate patent protection to pharmaceuticals and GMO
seeds has been a contentious bilateral issue. In April 2002, the United States and
Argentina reached an agreement with respect to most of the claims in a World Trade
Organization (WTO) dispute brought by the United States with respect to Argentina's
implementation of its TRIPS obligations. Two issues, including the critical issue of data
protection, remain unresolved. The United States and Argentina have agreed to leave
these issues within the WTO dispute settlement mechanism for action. New patent
legislation implementing part of the April 2002 agreement was passed in December
2003. However, some U.S. and European pharmaceutical firms are concerned that
some provisions in the legislation limit their ability to protect patented products via the
use of judicial injunctions to prevent patent violations.
Copyrights, Trademarks, Trade Secrets, and Semiconductor Chip Layout Design
Despite the fact that Argentina’s copyright law dates to 1930, it provides a generally
good legal framework to protect intellectual property such as books, films, music, and
software. However, the economic crisis of 2002 led to an increase in the use of
unlicensed software and optical media. Piracy rates of CDs, DVDs, and software are
estimated at over 60 percent. Enforcement continues to be sporadic and pirated
products are widely available in the market. That said, Argentine authorities began in
late 2004 to be more proactive in combating product piracy. Specifically, the
government of Argentina passed laws designed to allow authorities to mount undercover
operations for the first time; to electronically flag suspect shipments; to facilitate the
seizure and detention of suspect merchandise; and to more frequently rotate customs
personnel, among other provisions. A January 2005 law which allowed Customs
officials to seize shipments which violate IP rights – and detain them based on the
presumption of IP violations, pending a formal decision – has not been implemented yet.
The government has also improved the process for trademark registration, decreasing
the time needed and increasing the rate at which trademarks are registered. However,
in the view of many industry observers, the trademark law, passed in 1980, provides
non-deterrent civil damages, and in criminal cases the judiciary is reluctant to impose
3/4/2008

deterrent penalties such as prison sentences. Argentina has no specific law on trade
secrets, although penalties for unauthorized revelation of secrets are applied to a limited
degree under commercial law. Argentina has signed the WIPO Treaty on Integrated
Circuits, but has no law dealing specifically with the protection of layout designs and
semiconductors.
Transparency of Regulatory System Return to top
During the 1990s, the GOA eliminated virtually all restrictions on domestic and foreign
trade of goods and services, as well as on financial markets. These policies increased
competition in many industries and sectors. Argentine authorities, including the Ministry
of Economy and a number of quasi-independent regulatory entities, have also generally
acted to foster competition and protect consumers, though not always in a transparent
fashion.
A number of regulatory changes in 2002 affected creditors. The GOA announced in May
2002 that an emergency decree passed in late 2001 had voided the presidential decree
that authorized oil and gas companies to keep 70 percent of their foreign exchange
revenues offshore. The decree formed the financial basis for most foreign investment in
the Argentine oil sector. The measure came at a time when the GOA was worried about
its access to foreign exchange and the steep devaluation of the peso. When the peso
began to appreciate in late 2002/early 2003, the government of Argentina issued a new
decree that gave the industry the same right to withhold 70 percent of revenues starting
January 1, 2003, but companies remained liable for failing to repatriate 100 percent of
their revenues during the 13-month period from December 2001 and December 2002.
The Central Bank opened proceedings against some oil and gas producers in 2004 for
alleged criminal breach of the exchange regime. According to the Central Bank, as of
December 2007, one judgment in these cases has been rendered in favor of the
involved company. Remaining cases are still pending.
The GOA issued a decree “depesifying” foreign currency-denominated contracts of
foreign firms doing business in Argentina in 2003, but then withdrew the decree and said
it was a mistake. In the energy sector, the GOA took measures to avoid energy
shortages that arose from the increase in demand for natural gas and electricity in 2004,
including ordering reductions in natural gas exports to Chile and electricity exports to
Uruguay; importing natural gas from Bolivia and electricity from Brazil; raising tariffs for
industrial users; providing incentives to small users to save energy; and intervening in
the wholesale markets for natural gas and electricity.
The GOA has also encouraged companies to invest in the expansion of natural gas
pipelines, and has encouraged power companies to invest compensation owed them by
the GOA in new power generation plants. There is concern in the energy industry and
among energy analysts that the aforementioned GOA actions, coupled with the GOA's
efforts to control retail prices of fuels, have created disincentives for companies to invest
in energy exploration and infrastructure. Inadequate investment in those areas could, in
turn, result in energy supplies not keeping pace with demand generated by Argentina's
rapid economic growth.
In response to significant energy shortages during Argentina’s July/August 2007 winter
season, the GOA mandated several weeks of cutbacks in electricity and gas
3/4/2008

consumption by major wholesale consumers. This action caused a slight decrease in
industrial production, rolling blackouts in major urban areas, and cutbacks in the
availability of compressed natural gas used by many automobiles and most taxis. In
December 2007, President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner announced a National
Energy Saving Plan with measures that include seasonal time changes, regulation of
energy use in public buildings and incentives for consumers to adopt more energyefficient
home appliances.
In November 2007, the GOA moved to end export tax exemptions for several mining
companies, and imposed a federal levy on mineral exports, ranging from five percent to
ten percent. A number of industry participants have characterized the action as a
significant departure from Argentina's 1993-era mining law, which guaranteed tax
stability for 30 years, and several are seeking redress through the courts.
In general, national taxation rules do not discriminate against foreigners or foreign firms
(e.g., asset taxes are applied to equity possessed by both domestic and foreign entities).
Nevertheless, a number of these taxes may affect their investment decisions. In June
2003, the government of Argentina announced that it would review more closely the tax
declarations of foreign corporations operating in Argentina. The professed aim of this
measure is to crack down on the use of offshore shell corporations to shelter profits and
assets from taxation.
At the national level, there are four major taxes: value-added tax (VAT), income tax,
export taxes, and a financial transactions tax. The income tax is assessed on income
earned by companies, at a rate of 35 percent, and on individuals at a rate ranging from 9
percent to 35 percent. The income tax law presumes that every company earns a profit,
and based on this presumption, all firms are required to pay one percent of the value of
their assets. If a company is later able to establish that it did not earn a profit, the
company will be reimbursed within five years. Export taxes are tariffs imposed on the
export of goods, with rates from five percent to 45 percent. The financial transactions
tax imposes a 1.2 percent on checking and savings account transaction within the
national banking system. The VAT is set at 21 percent for most products. The VAT is
10.5 percent for interest and commissions on debts taken by public transportation
companies, fruits, vegetables, honey, newspapers and magazines, and some capital
goods. The VAT is 27 percent for natural gas, electricity, water, and sewage services.
Exporters are entitled to receive VAT rebates, but many companies report that delays
are common in their receipt of rebates.
At the provincial level, the system of provincial sales taxes has encouraged vertical
integration of firms. Some companies have expressed concern over the incidence of
municipal "supply taxes." The Argentine constitution gives municipalities the right to set
fees for the services that they provide, including supply fees. Many investors allege that
the supply fees charged by municipalities do not correspond to the services provided.
Municipalities have levied fees on the food industry, in particular, through a range of
sanitary controls that occasionally overlap national and provincial regulations. Supply
tax fees have affected other industries as well. Municipalities in Buenos Aires and
Cordoba provinces have been the most active in implementing these revenue measures.
Many municipalities have also begun imposing fees on any advertising visible from the
public street, including in-store promotion materials.
Efficient Capital Markets and Portfolio Investment Return to top
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Law 17811 of 1968 regulates public securities offerings. The Argentine Securities and
Exchange Commission (Comision Nacional de Valores) is the federal agency that
regulates securities markets offerings. Securities and accounting standards are
transparent and consistent with international norms.
U.S. banks, securities firms, and investment funds are well represented in Argentina and
are dynamic players in the local capital markets. In July 2003, the government began
requiring foreign banks to disclose to the public the nature and extent to which their
foreign parent banks guarantee their branches or subsidiaries in Argentina. The private
pension fund system -- consolidated in 1995 -- provided a growing base for capital
markets until the 2001-2002 economic and financial crises. Following the government’s
2005 debt restructuring, private pension funds have again become significant players in
domestic capital markets.
In October 2007, the government introduced new regulations requiring the private
pension funds (the AFJPs) to gradually repatriate their investments in Mercosur
countries (the majority of which are in Brazilian financial assets) in a move apparently
designed to increase the liquidity and depth of domestic capital markets. According to
previous rules governing investments, AFJPs could invest ten percent of their portfolios
in foreign assets. However, investments in Mercosur countries were excluded from this
ten percent limit, meaning that AFJPs could account for them as domestic assets. To
preclude sudden large foreign exchange inflows, the government resolution calls for the
gradual reduction of Mercosur investments, beginning with a cap of eight percent of total
assets in December 2007, falling to six percent in April 2008, four percent in August
2008, and ending at two percent in December 2008. By December 2008, returned funds
should total about 8 billion pesos (roughly $2.5 billion), according to local analysts.
Political Violence Return to top
Since the 2001/2 economic crisis, protests, marches, and roadblocks directed at the
national, provincial and municipal governments, as well as some companies, have been
commonplace in Argentina, but their number, size, and the likelihood of accompanying
violence have decreased significantly since the crisis. There have been no cases of
overtly political violence since the April 2003 national presidential election. In 2005,
there were approximately 20 incidents in which local groups were involved in small
bombings, attempted bombings, or arson, mostly against U.S. businesses (Citibank,
Bank Boston, Blockbuster, and McDonald's in particular). Anti-U.S. pamphlets or graffiti
were found at most of the 2005 incidents, none of which resulted in injury or death.
Since these 2005 incidents, no other such events have occurred.
In protest against the construction, and the October 2007 completion, of a $1.2 billion
pulp mill on the Uruguayan side of a river that defines the Argentine/Uruguay border,
Argentine citizens have since December 2006 completely blocked one of three bridges
that connects the two nations, and periodically blocked the other two bridges that
connect them. The pulp mill project is being financed and insured by World Bank
agencies. The Mercosur trade bloc’s arbitral tribunal found in 2006 that the blockade
had impeded trade and violated the right of Mercosur citizens to freely travel between
these nations, but imposed no sanctions (and lacks enforcement authority). The
Governments of Argentina and Uruguay have asked the International Court of Justice for
3/4/2008

an opinion on whether construction of the plant violated a 1975 Argentine-Uruguayan
treaty dealing with its shared river. A decision is expected in 2008.
Corruption Return to top
Government corruption and private sector business fraud are sometimes the subjects of
complaints from some U.S. investors. They also argue that their adherence to the letter
of the tax and regulatory codes at times places them at a competitive disadvantage.
Transparency International (TI) has a local chapter in Argentina. In the latest TI
Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) that ranks countries and territories by their perceived
levels of corruption, Argentina ranked 105 out of 180 countries and territories, below the
average among Latin American countries. Transparency International’s 2007 Corruption
Perceptions Index (CPI) can be found at
http://transparency.org/policy_research/surveys_indices/cpi/2007. Such surveys have
contributed to more open debate in Argentina about corruption and fraud. There are
indications that the GOA is trying to reduce tax evasion by stepping up enforcement
efforts and encouraging the use of credit card purchases while at the same time using
the media to increase public awareness of tax obligations and to shame evaders. While
Argentina’s growing economy has contributed substantially to the government of
Argentina’s solid fiscal performance, anti-evasion efforts played a key role in the federal
government’s record tax collections of about 200 billion pesos in 2007, up from around
163 billion in 2006 and 150 billion in 2005.
In 2007, a major corruption investigation involving alleged bribe payments by employees
of a foreign multinational corporation working on a gas pipeline expansion project to
government authorities was widely reported in the press. Also in 2007, a federal
congressman denounced an attempt by a foreign multinational to pay a bribe in
exchange for supporting legislation favorable to the company's future business. Media
reports that the Foreign Ministry plans to take this latter case to the OECD Anti-
Corruption Committee.
Argentina is a party to the OAS Anti-Corruption Convention and ratified the OECD Anti-
Corruption Convention in 2001. Argentina has signed and ratified the UN Convention
Against Corruption (UNCAC). It is an active participant in UNCAC’s Conference of State
Parties and is participating in the pilot review of the implementation of UNCAC. It is also
an active participant in the Mechanism for Follow-up on the Implementation of the Inter-
American Convention Against Corruption (MESICIC). The government has regulations
against bribery of government officials, but many observers feel that enforcement is
uneven. An anti-corruption office under the Ministry of Justice reviews the financial
disclosure statements that are now required of all senior public officials. The Anti-
Corruption Office (ACO) also carries out investigations into cases of alleged corruption
involving Executive branch officials or in matters involving federal funds, except for funds
transferred to the provinces. Although nominally a part of the judicial branch, the ACO
does not have authority to independently prosecute cases, but can refer cases to other
agencies or serve as the plaintiff and request a judge to initiate a case. Most high-profile
corruption cases, however, are investigated by individual judges. These judges,
however, may request assistance from the ACO in gathering or analyzing evidence,
especially when related to complicated financial transactions.
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A recent ACO investigation of GOA public purchases between 2002 and 2005 revealed
that about 75 percent were accomplished via direct contracts, often with a sole provider,
and not via public tenders. The ACO report expressed concern that this process can
facilitate corruption and does not allow competition among providers. The ACO report
noted that some GOA officials defended this practice, claiming that many contracts were
below the legally-mandated limit of 10,000 pesos (about USD 3200), under which
tenders are not required. GOA officials also claimed that sometimes only one provider
was able to meet contract specifications. In response, the ACO report noted that GOA
officials often avoided the 10,000 peso limit by disaggregating contract components so
that no part exceeded this limit, that contract specifications were sometimes written so
that only one provider could meet the requirement, or failed to widely advertise tenders
so that other providers could be made aware of them. This report can be found at
http://www.anticorrupcion.gov.ar/.
Inefficiencies in the Argentine judicial system limit the effectiveness of efforts to stem
corruption. Anti-corruption experts point to various shortcomings, which make corruption
difficult to prosecute and make convictions rare.
Bilateral Investment Agreements Return to top
The governments of Argentina and the United States signed a BIT in 1991. The
agreement was amended, ratified by the Congresses of both countries, and entered into
force on October 20, 1994. The Argentina-United States BIT can be found on the
following site: http://www.state.gov/documents/organization/43475.pdf.htm. Argentina
does not have a bilateral tax treaty (Treaty for the Mutual Avoidance of Double Taxation)
with the United States.
At present, the GOA has signed and ratified bilateral treaties for the protection and
promotion of investment with all of its major trade and investment partners. More
information regarding Argentina's bilateral tax and investment treaties is available at
www.infoleg.gov.ar.
Argentina has valid double taxation treaties with the following countries: Australia, United
Kingdom, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Austria, France, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland,
Spain, Canada, Chile, Bolivia, Brazil, Finland, Norway, and the Netherlands. In addition,
a number of treaties concerning the exemption of income from international transport are
in force.
OPIC and Other Investment Insurance Programs Return to top
The government of Argentina signed a comprehensive agreement with the Overseas
Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) in 1989. The agreement allows OPIC to insure
U.S. investments against risks resulting from expropriation, inconvertibility, war or other
conflicts affecting public order. OPIC programs are currently used in Argentina.
Argentina is also a member of the World Bank's Multilateral Investment Guarantee
Agency (MIGA).
3/4/2008

Labor Return to top
Argentine workers are among the most highly educated in Latin America. Argentine
workers were relatively well paid by international standards prior to the peso devaluation
in January 2002. While high inflation following the 2002 devaluation significantly eroded
the purchasing power of wages, sustained government-promoted increases in public and
private sector nominal wage levels from 2003 have reversed this trend. Wages in dollar
terms remain competitive, even taking into account Argentina's relatively high social
security charges and other taxes. As of the third quarter of 2007, the unemployment
rate was 8.1 percent, down from a 21.5 percent peak in 2002, but this number excludes
recipients of government assistance to unemployed heads of households. If those
recipients were included, unemployment would be approximately 8.8 percent. According
to the Ministry of Labor, about 44 percent of workers 14 years and older work in the
informal sector.
Organized labor continues to play a strong role in Argentina. Sector-specific
negotiations between unions and industry, although largely market-driven, have often
been influenced by government suasion on behalf of unions. In the 2002-2004 period, a
number of general wage increases were mandated by presidential decree.
Argentine law provides unions with the right to negotiate collective bargaining
agreements and to have recourse to conciliation and arbitration. The Ministry of Labor,
Employment, and Social Security ratifies collective bargaining agreements, which
covered roughly 75 percent of the formally employed work force. According to the ILO,
the ratification process impeded free collective bargaining because the ministry
considered not only whether a collective labor agreement contained clauses violating
public order standards but also whether the agreement complied with productivity,
investment, technology, and vocational training criteria. However, there were no known
cases during the year of government refusal to approve any collective agreements under
these criteria. There are no special laws or exemptions from regular labor laws in the
foreign trade zones.
With the unemployment rate now below nine percent, employers have begun to
comment about the increasing tightness in the labor market, especially for some kinds of
skilled labor in high demand. The GOA passed a modest labor reform law in 2000 to
address rigidities in the labor market (i.e., increasing collective bargaining flexibility,
extending trial employment periods, and lowering payroll taxes for new permanent
hires). However, the anticipated growth in employment did not materialize, as the
reforms coincided with a deepening of the economic recession produced by foreign and
domestic factors. Following the acceleration of the financial crisis beginning in
December 2001, many workers left the formal labor force and instead began to work
informally, as employers sought to avoid high pension, social security, and other taxes
on formal employment. In an effort to avoid massive layoffs during the 2002 financial
crisis, severance payments were doubled. This "double indemnification" labor
termination policy was ended in September 2007 when official unemployment dropped
below ten percent. According to the World Bank’s “Doing Business” survey compiled
before this double indemnification policy was ended, the cost of terminating an employee
in Argentina averaged 139 weeks of wages, almost double the Latin American average
of 59 and more than four times the OECD average of 31.
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Foreign-Trade Zones/Free Ports Return to top
Argentina has two types of tax-exempt trading areas: Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs),
which are found throughout the country; and the more comprehensive Special Customs
Area (SCA), which covers all of Tierra del Fuego Province and whose benefits apply
only to already established firms.
Law 24331 of 1994 establishes the FTZ regime for Argentina. Argentine law defines an
FTZ as a territory outside the “general customs area” (GCA, i.e., the rest of Argentina)
where neither the inflows nor outflows of exported final merchandise are subject to
tariffs, non-tariff barriers, or other taxes on goods. Goods produced within a FTZ
generally cannot be shipped to the GCA, unless they are capital goods not produced in
the rest of the country. The labor, sanitary, ecological, safety, criminal, and financial
regulations within FTZs are the same as those that prevail in the GCA. Foreign firms get
national treatment in FTZs.
Under the current law, the GOA may create one FTZ per province, with certain
exceptions. More than one FTZ per province may be allowed in sparsely populated
border regions (although this provision has not been fully utilized). Thus far, the GOA
has permitted FTZs in most of the 24 Argentine provinces. The most active FTZ is in La
Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires Province.
Merchandise shipped from the GCA to a FTZ may receive export incentive benefits, if
applicable, only after the goods are exported from the FTZ to a third country destination.
Merchandise shipped from the GCA to a FTZ and later exported to another country is
not exempt from export taxes. Any value added in FTZs and re-exports from FTZ is
exempt from export taxes.
Law 19640, passed in 1972, codifies the Special Customs Area (SCA) rules for
Argentina. Unlike FTZ-manufactured goods, products manufactured in an SCA may
enter the GCA free from taxes or tariffs. In addition, the government may enact special
regulations that exempt products shipped through an SCA (but not manufactured
therein) from all forms of taxation except excise taxes. The SCA program provides
benefits for established companies that meet specific production and employment
objectives.
The SCA program applies only to Tierra del Fuego Province. The government reduced
some SCA benefits in the early 1990s. Some of these benefits were later reestablished,
but only for those firms previously established in Tierra del Fuego Province. The SCA
program is scheduled to expire at the end of 2013. In late 2006, Economic Ministry
Resolution 776 abolished export tax exemption enjoyed by oil companies operating in
Tierra del Fuego Province.
Foreign Direct Investment Statistics Return to top
According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
World Investment Report 2007, the total stock of FDI in Argentina at the end of 2006
was estimated at $58.6 billion. Spain, the United States, and France remain the top
3/4/2008

three investors. Other important sources of investment capital include Brazil, Canada,
Mexico, U.K., Italy, Chile, the Netherlands and Germany.
Also according to UNCTAD, Argentina received 1.3 percent of foreign direct investment
(FDI) inflows to developing countries, and 5.7 percent of FDI inflows to Latin America
and the Caribbean in 2006. Both of these shares are well below Argentina's average
FDI share from the pre-crisis 1992-2000 period. Total FDI inflows in 2006 were
estimated at $4.8 billion. The stock of U.S. FDI in Argentina in 2006 was estimated at
$13 billion. U.S. investment is concentrated in financial services, agribusiness, energy,
petrochemicals, food processing, household products, and motor vehicle manufacturing.
Many U.S. firms substantially wrote down the value of their Argentine investments in
response to the devaluation and pesification of previously dollar-denominated contracts.
Argentine firms increasingly invested abroad during the 1990s (particularly in Brazil,
Paraguay and Uruguay), although the country has remained a net recipient of foreign
direct investment. In 2006, according to UNCTAD, its outward FDI amounted to $2.0
billion.
The Argentine Ministry of Economy (http://www.mecon.gov.ar) and the Investor's
Information Service for Argentina (http://www.infoarg.org) have additional detailed
information on foreign direct investment in Argentina.
Web Resources Return to top
Ministry of Economy (http://www.mecon.gov.ar/default_english.htm)
Central Bank (http://www.bcra.gov.ar/hm000000_i.asp): National self-governed
institution, whose primary and fundamental mission is to preserve the value of the
Argentine currency. It formulates and implements the monetary and financial policy and
is officially not subject to the orders, guidelines or instructions of the National Executive
branch of government.
National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (http://www.indec.gov.ar/indec/ingles.asp)
(INDEC): Technical government agency responsible for the coordination and supervision
of all public statistical activities taking place in the Argentine territory.
Federal Public Revenue Administration (http://www.afip.gov.ar/) (AFIP): National tax
collection agency that executes the tax and customs policies set by the National
Executive Branch.
Infoleg (www.infoleg.gov.ar): Documentation and Information Center, Ministry of
Economy: Database of Argentine regulations.
Center of International Economy, Ministry of Foreign Relations, International Trade and
Worship (http://www.cei.gov.ar/html/english.htm): Provides economic a trade reports,
and regional and international statistics.
Ministry of Federal Planning, Public Investment and Services (www.minplan.gov.ar)
Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security (www.trabajo.gov.ar)
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Argentine Parliament (www.diputados.gov.ar)
Argentine Senate (www.senado.gov.ar)
National State’s website (www.argentina.gov.ar)
National Presidency’s website (www.presidencia.gov.ar)
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 7: Trade and Project Financing
3/4/2008
How Do I Get Paid (Methods of Payment)
How Does the Banking System Operate
Foreign-Exchange Controls
U.S. Banks and Local Correspondent Banks
Project Financing
Web Resources
How Do I Get Paid (Methods of Payment) Return to top
Letters of credit (L/Cs) may be used to pay for U.S. exports to Argentina. However,
commercial bankers consulted report that only large companies importing products for
huge amounts of money are now opening irrevocable letters of credit with a foreign
bank. Even though Argentina has not yet returned to pre-crisis levels, some local banks
are starting to open letters of credit once the line of credit has been approved for that
Argentine company. Multinational firms and large Argentine companies are still the
primary customers for these L/Cs.
Another payment option may be direct payment from Argentine importers’ overseas
bank accounts. Bank drafts and documentary collections are also being used. While
they do help safeguard the U.S. exporter's title to goods until payment has been
received, all credit and country risk remains with the exporter. There is no obligation for
the bank to cover these risks. Consequently, documentary collections are less costly
than letters of credit and, where the exporter is comfortable with these risks, they offer a
practical and efficient solution, particularly for Argentine subsidiaries of U.S. companies.
Local bankers report that now the majority of sales to Argentine importers are currently
taking place on open account. At present small and medium size Argentine companies
are extremely liquid, allowing them to upgrade production lines by for example acquiring
new machinery. As a result, open account sales generally take place between small and
medium size firms. U.S. exporters should consider open account payment terms only if
they feel confident in the Argentine client's ability and willingness to pay.
How Does the Banking System Operate Return to top
In Argentina, Law No. 21,526 of 1977 governs banking activities. Under this law,
Argentina’s Central Bank (BCRA) is the implementing authority and the regulatory body,
which issues standards and controls activities of financial institutions included in the law
(authorization and operating conditions within the banking industry; definition of
permitted, prohibited and limited transactions; monetary controls; meeting certain
operating ratios; information; accounting and control systems; dissolution and liquidation;
etc.). Holdings of foreign (nonresident) individuals and legal entities in local banking
institutions with foreign capital are to exceed 30 percent of capital stock (either directly or
indirectly), or the foreign shareholder must be able to control a sufficient number of votes
to impose its decisions at shareholders’ meetings. It is also required to register with the

Registry of Foreign Investments. Foreign banks may only do business in Argentina as
investment or commercial banks and must have the BCRA prior authorization in order to
open branches in Argentina. In addition, there are minimum capital requirements for
these entities to be allowed to do business.
Features of the Argentine Financial System
Classification
• Commercial banks
- Government-owned: federal, provincial and municipal.
- Private local banks with Argentine capital: cooperative banks and noncooperative
banks.
- Foreign banks: private local and local branches of foreign banks.
• Investment banks
- Government-owned provincial banks.
- Local banks with foreign capital.
• Mortgage banks
• Development banks
• Savings banks
• Finance companies
• Savings and loan associations for building homes or other real estate property
• Credit associations
• Representative offices
Funding Systems. Main Transactions
Financial transactions are basically made in pesos (legal tender), in US dollars and in
Government securities. The segments making up Argentina's financial system are: peso
segment, foreign currency segment and liquid network (the banks own capital - all the
banks in the financial network).
The main transactions are:
• Overdraft
• Promissory notes
• Discount of bills
• Mortgage loans
• Collateral loans
• Consumer loans
• Credit cards
• Demand deposits
• Certificates of deposit
• Common savings deposits
• Deposits in Argentine-government securities
• Interbank transactions
• Swaps
• Banker's acceptances
• Spot exchange transactions
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• Forward exchange transactions
Within the context of a healthier and more liquid financial system and several years of
sustained GDP growth, increasing exports, and a historical record of fiscal surplus,
banks are compelled to expand their portfolio of services in order to capture new clients
and increase market-share.
In the late nineties there were 120 banks operating in Argentina, whereas there are
currently 67 in business today. The financial system is perceived to be healthier than it
was in the last decade. Most financial institutions in Argentina plan to continue
expanding operations in order to achieve greater financial margins.
Although access to credit for SMEs at reasonable interest rates is scarce, the demand
for mortgage and personal loans is increasing. Argentina’s re-industrialization is one of
the driving forces that will lead to growth in the sector, and eventually greater access to
credit, particularly for SMEs.
Some public banks have improved management quality, and as a result, benefited from
a significant increase in deposits. Banks currently enjoy higher-quality client-portfolios
than in the pre-crisis scenario. Better clients translate into lower credit risk, and as the
perception of risk decreases, credit is expected to become more accessible in the short
term. Credit represents nearly 2% of Argentina’s GDP, compared to 40% in Chile, an
indicator that there is still room for growth in the marketplace.
Foreign-Exchange Controls Return to top
The Argentine Central Bank lifted all restrictions on release of foreign exchange and
allows advance payment for imports. For advance payments, Argentine importers must
submit customs clearance documents to their commercial bank within 360 days from
payment as proof that the goods have indeed entered the market. If products are
brought into Argentina as a temporary import, importers must submit within 90 days, a
“suspensive” destination document for temporary import.
Another payment option may be direct payment from Argentine importers’ overseas
bank accounts. Bank drafts and documentary collections are also being used. While
they do help safeguard the U.S. exporter's title to goods until payment has been
received, all credit and country risk remains with the exporter. There is no obligation for
the bank to cover these risks. Consequently, documentary collections are less costly
than letters of credit and, where the exporter is comfortable with these risks, they offer a
practical and efficient solution, particularly for Argentine subsidiaries of U.S. companies.
Letters of credit (L/Cs) may be used to pay for U.S. exports to Argentina. However,
commercial bankers consulted report that only large companies importing products for
huge amounts of money are now opening irrevocable letters of credit with a foreign
bank. Even though Argentina has not yet returned to pre-crises levels, some local banks
are starting to open letters of credit once the line of credit has been approved for that
Argentine company. Multinational firms and large Argentine companies are still the
primary customers for these L/Cs.
3/4/2008

Local bankers report that the majority of sales to Argentine importers are currently taking
place on open account. At present small and medium size Argentine companies are
extremely liquid, allowing them to upgrade production lines by acquiring new
machineries. As a result, open account sales generally take place between small and
medium size firms. U.S. exporters should consider open account payment terms only if
they feel confident in the Argentine client's ability and willingness to pay.
In an attempt to foster increased demand for dollars, the Argentine government has
recently relaxed remaining restrictions to import payments related to the purchase of
foreign currency, raising the ceiling on purchases of foreign exchange by businesses
and individuals to US$2 million per month. With this further relaxation of foreign
exchange accessibility, Argentine companies can now make import payments in 4
different ways:
1) advance payments: before the merchandise is shipped. The commercial bank
requests from the Argentine importer the pro forma invoice and exchange purchase
ticket. The local buyer has 360 days from shipment date to present the Customs
clearance to its commercial bank.
2) sight payments: when the merchandise was already shipped and payment is made
against documents. The Argentine importer has 90 days from shipment date to present
the commercial bank the clearance for Customs.
3) credit payments: delayed payment. The commercial bank requests that the Argentine
importer presents the clearance for Customs to keep track of merchandise
imported, payments already made and payments still due.
4) anticipate the credit payment: delayed payment. The local buyer decides to cancel all
quotas in one single payment. The commercial bank requests that the Argentine
importer presents the clearance for Customs to keep track of merchandised imported
and all payments made.
Since 2002, Government of Argentina (GOA) regulations require that all exports be
assigned a value and that foreign exchange revenues be returned to Argentina. Thus,
barter transfers of goods between exporter and importer are not possible. While
bartering does not involve a sale per se, the GOA would still expect to see foreign
exchange delivered to a local bank based on the value of the goods exported.
For further details or updates on this topic, please contact the U.S. Commercial Service
in Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
U.S. Banks and Local Correspondent Banks Return to top
U.S. Banks in Argentina: Citibank is the only U.S.-controlled bank operating in Argentina
within the retail segment. American Express Bank, Wachovia Bank, J.P. Morgan Chase,
The Bank of New York, and First International Bank are other U.S. banks with
subsidiaries or representatives in Buenos Aires. Contact info can be obtained from the
U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires.
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Most Argentine banks maintain correspondent arrangements with U.S. banks. (See
Chapter 9: U.S. and Country Contacts, for a list of Argentine banks with branches in the
U.S.).
Project Financing Return to top
Even though the economic crisis in Argentina and default on the country's public debt is
almost over, financing options are still nearly nonexistent. External lines of credit
continue to be cut off and new money entering the local market is primarily used to
finance Argentine export transactions. Local banks have stressed that the supplierimporter
relationship is key and that the vast majority of financing options have been
reduced to financing offered by the foreign supplier. Nevertheless, there may be some
options available to support trade finance for U.S. exports to Argentina, as detailed
below.
The U.S. Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im)
Ex-Im Bank is open for short and medium-term financing for U.S. exports only to private
sector clients in Argentina. Long-term (15 years) financing is available for environmental
projects on a case-by-case basis. Bank officials express optimism about Argentina and
will continue to monitor the marketplace, in order to consider future provisions of export
financing for U.S. goods and services.
Ex-Im Bank will consider structured financing arrangements such as some project
finance, asset-based aircraft leases, and other financing arrangements that offer a
reasonable assurance of repayment, including reliable access to adequate foreign
exchange.
In addition, coverage under the Working Capital Guarantee Program may be available
for a transaction that is supported by an irrevocable Letter of Credit issued by a bank
and/or due from a buyer located in a country where Ex-Im Bank is open without
restrictions for short-term transactions.
There are many ways to contact Ex-Im. Visit the Ex-Im Internet site at www.exim.gov for
24-hour access to Ex-Im and its programs, or call their toll free telephone number (800)
565-EXIM. For more information and to get on their mailing list, log on to www.exim.gov
to fill out an information form. Ex-Im has five regional offices in New York, NY; Miami,
FL; Houston, TX; Chicago, IL; and Long Beach, CA.
Small Business Administration
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has an Export Working Capital Program to
support small and medium-sized exporters. For information about this program and to
find your local SBA district office, call 1-800-U-ASK-SBA or search the SBA web site at
www.sba.gov. The U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEAC) can also provide
information on this program. For a list of USEACs call 1-800-USA-TRADE or go to
www.Export.gov.
Multilateral Development Bank Operations
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The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD or World Bank)
provides funding for projects in Argentina. It also provides technical assistance and
policy advice. IBRD raises money through the sale of AAA-rated bonds in international
capital markets. Loans are made only to governments or to agencies that can obtain a
government guarantee. The IBRD also provides partial risk or partial credit guarantees
(with a counter-guarantee from their government) to private lenders on development
projects. The interest rates are variable, set at half a percentage point above the Bank's
average cost of borrowing or LIBOR. Repayment is usually between twelve and fifteen
years, including a grace period of three to five years. Opportunities exist for U.S.
companies to supply goods and services financed by these loans.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is an affiliate of the World Bank and also
provides project financing for private investment in Argentina. IFC offers long-term loans,
equity investments, and other financing services. IFC will generally invest up to 25
percent of the total project cost. Besides project finance, IFC also provides legal and
technical assistance to private enterprises. Unlike the IBRD, the IFC does not require
government guarantees. U.S. companies seeking direct investment funds should contact
the IFC.
The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) was established in April 1988 to
help investors address problems of political risk. Investors' concerns about political risk
slowed the flow of foreign direct investment, which in turn slowed the creation of jobs
and the transfer of modern technology. MIGA's purpose is to promote the flow of foreign
direct investment among member countries by insuring investments against noncommercial
(political) risk and by providing promotional and advisory services to help
member countries create an attractive investment climate. U.S. companies seeking
investment guarantees should contact MIGA. NOTE: The Overseas Private Investment
Corporation (OPIC) also provides investment guarantees - more information below).
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) also provides financial support to projects
in Argentina at similar interest rates and with similar repayment terms. The relationship
between the Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) and the IDB is similar to that of
the IFC and the World Bank.
For contact information on multilateral development bank representatives in Argentina
see Chapter 11: U.S. and Country Contacts.
See active World Bank-funded projects for Argentina:
http://web.worldbank.org/external/projects/main?menuPK=225435&theSitePK=40941&p
agePK=223716&piPK=95917&query=&status=ALL&regioncode=&countrycode=AR&sec
tor=ALL&majorsector=ALL&prodline=ALL&lendinstrtype=ALL&lendinstr=ALL&majorthe
meid=ALL&themeid=ALL&goalid=ALL&metathemeid=ALL&startyr=ALL&endyr=ALL&env
=ALL&sortby=BOARDSORTDATE&pagesize=10&sortorder=DESC&match=all
World Bank Officers for Argentina.
Country Officer:
Mrs. Veronica Salatino
Phone: 4316-0600
Economist:
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Mr. Paul Levy, Lead Economist and Sector Leader Phone: (202) 473-0124
U.S. Department of Commerce Liaison Officers
At each of the multilateral development banks, the U.S. Department of Commerce has a
liaison officer who advocates for U.S. firms and counsels them on multilateral bank
opportunities. They are a valuable source of information on Multilateral Development
Bank funded projects in Argentina.
The following is the contact information for the U.S. Commercial Service liaisons at the
World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank:
U.S. Commercial Service Liaison to the World Bank
Bill Crawford, Director, Commercial Liaison Office
E-mail: WCrawford@WorldBank.org
Eric Henderson, International Trade Specialist
E-mail: Ehenderson@WorldBank.org
Office of the US Executive Director
1818 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20433
Phone: (202) 458-0120/0118
Fax: (202) 477-2967
U.S. Commercial Service Liaison to the IDB
Ms. Emily Willeford, Director, Commercial Liaison Office
E-mail: Emily.Willeford@mail.doc.gov
Mr. Americo Tadeu, Senior Commercial Officer, Commercial Liaison
E-mail: Americo.Tadeu@mail.doc.gov
Office of the US Executive Director
1300 New York Ave., NW
Mail Stop E 0209
Washington, DC 20577
Phone: (202) 623-3821/3822
Fax: (202) 623-2039
Overseas Private Investment Corporation
The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) offers assistance to U.S. private
investors in the form of political risk insurance, as well as loans and loan guarantees for
their direct investment in Argentina. OPIC's main programs are:
Investment Insurance: Provides insurance against the risks of currency inconvertibility,
expropriation, and the loss of assets or income caused by political violence. Coverage is
available for new investments and for investments to expand or modernize existing
operations.
Investment Programs: Medium to long-term financing for sound overseas investment
projects is made available through loan guarantees and direct loans. Loan guarantees
generally range from US$10 million to US$75 million, and direct loans generally range
from US$2 million to US$10 million. Direct loans are reserved for projects involving small
businesses or cooperatives. OPIC's financing commitment may range from 50 percent of
3/4/2008

total project costs for new ventures to up to 75 percent for expansions of existing
operations with maturities of five to twelve years (and in some cases longer).
Contact: Internet: www.opic.gov. Information officer: (202) 336-8799, Fax: (202) 408-
5155. There is an automated information service via a fax retrieval line: (202) 336-8700.
U.S. Trade and Development Agency
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) has invested nearly US$7 million in
Argentina for feasibility studies and other activities that support infrastructure
development and modernization projects. Companies should consult the TDA web site
at www.tda.gov or call TDA for more information (703) 875-4357. The following are
some projects with TDA involvement:
Scanner Technology for Customs Inspections: A Grant to the National Customs
Administration to finance studies leading to the implementation of non-intrusive
inspections of containers and trucks at frontier posts to fight contraband.
Oil Patch Technologies: Two separate Grants to Tecpetrol and PeCom Energia to
partially finance feasibility studies for the implementation of high-tech reservoir
development and management practices.
Andean Highway Passes project: US$695,400 grant through the Inter-American
Development Bank Evergreen Fund for a feasibility study on the Andean Highway
Passes project to be carried out by Argentina's National Directorate of Roads.
ITS Architecture Project: US$315,000 Grant to OCRABA (Agency for Control of Access
Roads to Buenos Aires) to study the feasibility of an Intelligent Transport System on the
main highways and toll roads into Buenos Aires.
TDA also helps develop enhanced opportunities for U.S. companies in infrastructure
development projects in Argentina by inviting Argentine officials in charge of the projects
to visit the U.S. on orientation visits to meet with potential U.S. bidders. Examples of
such Orientation Visits paid by TDA include:
· Neuquen Mining-Industrial Projects in October/November 2001. A delegation of
Neuquen Province officials visited several mining operations and held one-on-one
meetings with U.S. counterparts during a visit to Utah. Promoting the development of
several non-metallic mineral deposits and processing plants was the main objective of
the visit.
· Vessel traffic System (VTS) in June of 1999. The delegation, including the
Argentine Government's Under Secretary for Ports and Waterways, presented plans for
an integrated vessel management system in the port of Buenos Aires, in Hidrovia on the
Parana River, and in Riovia on the Uruguay River. Potential U.S. exports are estimated
at US$40 million.
· Air Space Control System. TDA offered to train air traffic controllers at FAA
facilities if a project to modernize the national radar system favors a U.S. supplier.
· Airport Privatization. Following the privatization of 33 airports, TDA financed four
studies by specialized consultants to assist the Airport Regulatory Agency in defining its
internal structure and its role in the management of 25 airports that remain under
3/4/2008

government control.
Leasing
The passage of Leasing Law No. 25.248 in 2000 raised the stature of leasing as a
financing option. Currently, leasing operations in Argentina account for US$800 million,
mostly of equipment leasing operations. Leasing activities increased approximately 50%
year-on-year, and industry experts forecast a similar increase during 2008. Furthermore,
leasing operations account for only three percent of investment in Argentina, which
represents a significant opportunity for growth. Some of the perceived advantages of
leasing entail: installments which are fully deductible from capital gains taxes, no
property taxes or taxes on interest, VAT applied proportionately on installments rather
than up-front, and accelerated depreciation.
Web Resources Return to top
Export-Import Bank of the United States: www.exim.gov
Country Limitation Schedule: www.exim.gov/tools/country/country_limits.html
OPIC: www.opic.gov
Trade and Development Agency: www.tda.gov
SBA's Office of International Trade: www.sba.gov/oit
USDA Commodity Credit Corporation: www.fsa.usda.gov/ccc/default.htm
U.S. Agency for International Development: www.usaid.gov
Inter-American Development Bank www.idb.int
Return to table of contents
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Return to table of contents
Chapter 8: Business Travel
3/4/2008
Business Customs
Travel Advisory
Visa Requirements
Telecommunications
Transportation
Language
Health
Local Time, Business Hours and Holidays
Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings
Web Resources
Business Customs Return to top
U.S. businesspeople seeking to be successful in Argentina should take the time to
develop a close personal relationship with their agent, representative, distributor or other
business partner and maintain it with regular visits.
Argentine business and customs are generally more formal than those in the U.S.
Business dress, appearance, and general demeanor are more conservative. Courtesy is
very important, and efforts to rush a business deal are unlikely to meet with success. No
encounter starts with a business discussion. To establish trust, some time spent
discussing family members or sports and social activities is fundamental to the
development of a solid business relationship. It is important to shake hands with
everyone in the room upon arriving and leaving. Among Argentines, it is customary for
men to kiss women they meet for the first time on the right cheek. However, Americans
should shake hands with Argentine women, until a friendly relationship has been
established.
Contacts and introductions are important; therefore use the services of the U.S.
Commercial Service at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, or other organizations such
as the American Chamber of Commerce, industry associations and other contacts rather
than a direct "cold call" approach. The "Gold Key Matching Service" offered by the U.S.
Commercial Service is an excellent way to find the right contacts. The U.S. Commercial
Service will have a schedule of meetings set up in advance of your visit.
It is important that you be prompt to business meetings, though your Argentine contact
may be slightly late, and always have a pre-arranged appointment. Be sure to have an
ample supply of business cards. Although not essential, it is beneficial to have cards
printed in Spanish, as well as English.
One cultural note is that it is better form not to say you are from "America." In Latin
America, the term "America" denotes both North and South America, not just the United
States. Therefore, it is better to call yourself a North American (norteamericano), from
the United States. Saying you are from the United States (de los Estados Unidos) is

clearer. Another note to consider is that Argentina claims the islands it refers to as the
"Malvinas" and which Great Britain calls "the Falklands."
Currency
The Argentine currency is the peso and is signified by the same symbol ($) as the U.S.
dollar. ATM machines are widely available in Buenos Aires, allowing travelers with a
variety of credit or debit cards to withdraw funds automatically in local currency.
Although usually accepted at most hotels, traveler’s checks are often refused by
business establishments and can be difficult or expensive to change at banks. So, be
sure to bring an ATM card.
Travel Advisory Return to top
Buenos Aires is a high crime area. Therefore, U.S. visitors and residents should take the
same precautions they would take in any major U.S. and foreign metropolis. There are
no specific threats directly against American visitors at the present time. It is
recommended, however, that due caution be exercised when traveling about the city,
including avoiding wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.
Pickpockets and thieves abound even on busy streets and are especially common in
areas frequented by tourists. These areas include Florida Street, shopping malls, public
conveyances, hotel lobbies, airports, etc. Because of many cases of robberies in false
taxis, as noted above, visitors should, whenever possible, call radio taxis or arrange for a
remise, instead of flagging passing taxis on the street.
Consult the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs web site for general
travel information and the site's section on Travel Warnings for country-specific
information which can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/warnings_consular.html.
Electric Current
Unlike in the United States, the electric current in Argentina is AC 220 volts, 50 cycles in
the case of one phase; AC 380 volts, 50 cycles for three phase. In addition, business
travelers should be aware that outlets in Argentina are shaped differently than in the
U.S. Electric plug configurations are usually two round-tipped straight pins or 2-3 flat
pins with the top two slightly angled to form a "Y" shape. Business travelers are
therefore advised to carry adapters and/or transformers.
Visa Requirements Return to top
Visas
Visas are not required for U.S. citizens traveling to Argentina for up to 90 days of tourism
or business, except holders of U.S. Diplomatic and Official passports. Visitors may
request an extension of stay up to 90 days from the Argentine Immigration Service at:
Dirección Nacional de Migraciones
Av. Antártida Argentina 1355, Edificio 1, Piso 1
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C1104AC) Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4311-7695 or 4313-2777
Fax: (54-11) 4313-1778
As a result of Argentina’s suspension from the U.S. Visa Waiver Program in February
2002, Argentine citizens traveling to the U.S. for any purpose must for apply for and
receive a U.S. visa. For more information on U.S. visa application procedures, visit
http://unitedstatesvisas.gov.
Work and other Extended Visas
Although it is theoretically possible to arrange a work permit following arrival in
Argentina, the process is much more complicated and time consuming than applying for
the work visa abroad, and one may not legally begin remunerated employment until
permission has been granted. Therefore, it is important to begin the work visa process
as early as possible by applying at an Argentine consular office in the U.S. or abroad.
This process can still be quite lengthy and require many civil documents (e.g., birth and
marriage certificates) and police certificates. U.S. civil documents submitted to Argentine
consular offices do not require Argentine consular certification. The government of
Argentina requires only a Hague Convention apostille certificate from the Secretary of
State of the U.S. state where the document was issued or from the U.S. Department of
State for U.S. federal government-issued documents.
Argentine immigration law provides for the following temporary and permanent resident
categories and conditions:
· Transitory residents, tourists, and students are not allowed to carry on a
remunerated or profitable activity unless expressly authorized by the immigration
authorities.
· Temporary residents may perform such activities during their authorized stay if
they obtain a work permit. The work permit can be obtained from the immigration
authorities at the Immigration Office, upon prior file of relevant documentation. The
permit authorizes a stay from one to three years.
· Permanent residents may perform any type of remunerated or profitable activity,
either as employees or self-employed.
There are special immigration provisions for some foreign professional, scientific or
technical research personnel hired abroad to render services in Argentina for a
maximum of two years. They must not be a resident in Argentina and must be covered
for contingencies such as old age, disability or death by the law of their own country.
For more information, contact an Argentine consular office in the U.S.
State Department Visa Website: http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html
United States Visas.gov: www.unitedstatesvisas.gov
U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States
should be advised that security options are handled via an interagency process. Visa
applicants should go to the following links.
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State Department Visa Website: http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html
United States Visas.gov: www.unitedstatesvisas.gov
Consular Section, U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires:
http://buenosaires.usembassy.gov/general_information5.html
U.S. Companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States
should be advised that security options are handled via an interagency process. Visa
applicants should go to the following links.
State Department Visa Website: http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html
United States Visas.gov: www.unitedstatesvisas.gov
Telecommunications Return to top
Telephone service, both international and local are adequate. The owners of the
privatized telephone system have vastly improved operations. Many business people
use cellular telephones to make their work more efficient. Both domestic and
international long distance calls in Argentina are notably expensive, doubly so from
hotels. AT&T, MCI, and Sprint have local numbers that halve costs, but may be difficult
to connect with during business hours. Callback services are available for established
businesses.
Buenos Aires has numerous local television channels that broadcast Spanish language
programming. There is also a wide range of cable television channels available,
including CNN International, CNN en Español, FOX, WB, Sony, MTV, and channels from
Brazil, Chile, Mexico, France, Germany, Italy, and others.
International papers and magazines, including a wide range from the U.S., are widely
available at the numerous kiosks to be found around Buenos Aires. The Buenos Aires
Herald is an English-language daily newspaper published in Buenos Aires.
Transportation Return to top
U.S. carriers flying to Argentina include American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air
Lines and United Airlines. The primary gateways are Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami,
New York, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The Argentine carrier, Aerolineas Argentinas,
also flies between the U.S. and Argentina. In country travel, and travel between
Argentina and other South American countries, is widely available from a variety of
Argentine and foreign carriers. Two main airports serve Buenos Aires. One is
Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, which is located near downtown. All domestic flights and
some regional flights to Uruguay, and Paraguay leave from Aeroparque. All other
international flights, including those from the United States, land at Ezeiza International
Airport, which is a 45-minute drive from downtown Buenos Aires.
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Buenos Aires has a large number of bus routes and an extensive subway system. Taxis
are plentiful and fares are reasonable, and are generally the most effective way of
moving around Buenos Aires. A widely available type of private car service, called
"remise", is also available and is the recommended method of travel from Ezeiza
International Airport into Buenos Aires. Remise services have counters at the airport. For
security reasons, the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires recommends that travelers use
either remises or radio taxis, rather than hailing taxis on the street.
Railroad travel is available from several stations in downtown Buenos Aires. Commuter
trains link Buenos Aires with most suburban areas, and long-distance trains connect
most large cities. Travel outside Greater Buenos Aires can be accomplished by train,
bus or car, although air travel is recommended for many trips to the provinces because
of the distances involved.
Automobile rental is available throughout the country, although it is quite expensive
compared to U.S. rental costs. Travelers should be aware that Argentina has a high rate
of auto accidents, and driving is not recommended for travelers in country for short visits.
Language Return to top
Spanish is the national language of Argentina, although many businesspeople speak
English and other European languages as well. Do not assume, however, that your
contacts will speak English. For U.S. businesspeople that already speak Spanish, note
that Argentina has distinct differences in pronunciation, cadence, and vocabulary. As
noted in Chapter 3 (Selling U.S. Products and Services), any printed matter translated
into Spanish should be reviewed first by a native Argentine to assure its suitability in
Argentina.
It is wise as well as courteous to hire an interpreter to assist in business meetings,
unless you are certain that all parties speak English fluently. A list of interpreters is
available upon request from the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires. Many large
business hotels can also provide this service.
Almost all business in Argentina is transacted in Spanish, and all documents and
records must be in that language to constitute valid evidence. Business documents in a
foreign language should be translated by a certified public translator to be presented for
legal purposes to Argentine authorities A list of certified public translators is available
upon request from the U.S. Commercial Service in Buenos Aires.
Health Return to top
Buenos Aires has no particular health risks and no special precaution need to be taken.
Sanitary conditions are good. Tap water is safe. Many competent doctors, dentists, and
specialists are available in Buenos Aires. Outside of Buenos Aires or other major cities,
basic precautions, such as drinking bottled water, are recommended.
Local Time, Business Hours, and Holidays Return to top
3/4/2008

Argentina is three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (UTC). Argentina recently
decided to observe daylight savings time. As a result, Argentina is + 2 hour U.S.
Eastern Daylight Time (Summer Time) and +3 hours Eastern Standard Time. The 24hour
system is generally used rather than the 12-hour a.m./p.m. system. For example,
3.00 p.m. is referred to as 15.00 hours. There is only one time zone for all of the territory
of Argentina. Click here for the current time in Argentina.
Business office hours are generally Monday through Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.
(two hours earlier for factories) with a one-hour lunch break. Work luncheons are
frequent for business executives and they generally extend from 1.00 to 3.00 p.m.
Business dinners, and dinners in general, do not begin until 9.00 p.m., therefore it is
common to return home or to the hotel to sleep for a few hours before going out.
Because evenings start late and end late, the early evening nap is the secret to being
functional the next day. It is advisable to not schedule morning meetings before 10.00
a.m. Business breakfasts are not common, although they are increasing.
Most retail stores are open from 9.00 or 10.00 a.m. to between 6.00 and 9.00 p.m.,
Monday through Saturday. Banks are open to the public form Monday through Friday
from 10.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
Holidays
Argentine national holidays for 2008 include the following:
- New Year’s Day Tuesday, January 1
- Good Friday Friday, March 21
- National Memorial Day Monday, March 24
- Malvinas’ Veteran and Memorial Day Wednesday, April 2
- Labor Day Thursday, May 1
- Revolution Day Sunday, May 25
- Flag Day (actual date: June 20) Monday, June 16
- Independence Day Wednesday, July 9
- Death of San Martin (actual date: August 17) Monday, August 18
- Columbus Day Sunday, October 12
- Immaculate Conception Monday, December 8
- Christmas Day Thursday, December 25
In addition, Government offices, banks, insurance companies and courts are closed on a
number of "non-work days", but closing is optional for business and commerce, such as
Holy Thursday (immediately before Easter). The U.S. Embassy closes on all U.S.
Federal holidays in addition to Argentine holidays.
Argentina is located in southern South America and has a total area of approximately
1,500,000 square miles, including the mainland and the Argentine Antarctica and South
Atlantic Islands. It is the eighth largest country in the world, approximately the size of the
U.S. east of the Mississippi River. Topography and climate vary significantly, with the
high Andes mountains in the west, subtropical climate in the northeast, temperate
climate in the middle part of the country, and semi-arid and cold in the southern part.
The middle third of the country, which includes Buenos Aires, contains the greatest part
of the population, as well as most of the economic activity and agricultural production.
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Travelers should note that since Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons
are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer in the U.S. is winter in
Argentina, and vice versa. School summer vacations take place from approximately
Christmas to March, instead of June through August and there is usually an
approximately two-to-three week winter school vacation in mid-July. It is often difficult to
conduct business in Argentina in January since most businesses are either closed or
working on a limited schedule. Ask your business contacts when it is best to come, and
plan travel times and clothing accordingly. Summer, particularly the months of January
and February, is hot and humid in Buenos Aires. In the summer, there are few people to
do business with, since most Argentines take vacations in January and February. In
winter, the coldest months are July and August, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s.
The best months for business travel to Argentina are March through November.
Temporary Entry of Materials and Personal Belongings Return to top
Personal working elements such as laptop computers or other tools must be registered
at Customs at the time of entry and again on departure from Argentina. Samples brought
into the country by a traveling salesperson are admitted free of duty provided they have
no commercial value. Otherwise, the traveler may be required to deposit a 90-day bond
that is refunded when the goods leaving the country.
Argentina is not a party to the A.T.A. (Temporary Admission) Carnet program of the U.S.
Council for International Business to import goods, display booths, and literature for
display in local trade shows for subsequent re-export. The Argentine Temporary
Admission Regime (TAR) allows duty free admission of goods such as commercial
samples, packaging, pallets, containers, and goods for exhibits. These items must be reexported
within the timeframe stipulated by Customs on entering the country. Many
trade show organizers are able to obtain a special waiver from the Argentine
government on a case-by-case basis.
Web Resources Return to top
Business Travel Info:
www.comerciousa.org/argentina/en/Content_pages/businesstravelinfo.asp
Argentina Secretariat of Tourism: www.sectur.gov.ar/eng/menu.htm
ArgentinaTuristica.com: www.argentinaturistica.com/2datosargen.htm
Consular Information Sheet: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1130.html
City of Buenos Aires Undersecretariat of Tourism:
www.bue.gov.ar/home/index.php?lang=en
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 9: Contacts, Market Research, and Trade
Events
3/4/2008
Contacts
Market Research
Trade Events
Contacts Return to top
U.S. AND COUNTRY CONTACTS
U.S. Embassy Trade Related Contacts
U.S. EMBASSY IN ARGENTINA
Av. Colombia 4300
C1425GMN Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5777-4533
Internet: http://usembassy.state.gov/buenosaires
U.S. Department of State
Earl Anthony Wayne, Ambassador
Thomas Kelly, Deputy Chief of Mission
Douglas Climan, Counselor for Economic Affairs
Alex Featherstone, Counselor for Political Affairs
Robert Banks, Counselor for Public Affairs
Susan Abeyta, Consul General
Mailing Address:
U.S. Embassy
Unit 4334,
APO AA34034
U.S. Department of Commerce
Brian Brisson, Senior Commercial Officer
Charles Ranado, Commercial Attaché
Mailing Address:
U.S. Commercial Service
U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires
3130 Buenos Aires PL
Washington, D.C. 20521-3130
Phone: (54-11) 5777-4753
Fax: (54-11) 5777-4203
E-mail: Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov

Internet: www.buyusa.gov/argentina/en
Sectors Sector Specialist Phone Number
Agricultural Eugenio Pallares (54 11) 5777-4754
Apparel/Footwear/Textiles Liliana Paz (54-11) 5777-4519
Audio/Visual Equipment Silvia Yaber (54-11) 5777-4325
Automotive Eugenio Pallares (54-11) 5777-4754
Aerospace Eugenio Pallares (54-11) 5777-4754
Books & Periodicals Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Chemicals Mariangeles Perez
Manoileff
(54-11) 5777-4456
Computers Silvia Yaber (54-11) 5777-4325
Construction Eugenio Pallares (54-11) 5777-4754
Household Consumer
Goods
Marina Millet (54-11) 5777-4851
Cosmetics and Toiletries Josette Fiore (54-11) 5777-4683
Education and Training
Services
Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Electronic Components Silvia Yaber (54-11) 5777-4456
Energy Alvaro Mendez (54-11) 5777-4419
Environmental Alvaro Mendez (54-11) 5777-4419
Employment, Financial,
Investment, Leasing &
Insurance Services
Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Food
Processing/Packaging
Liliana Paz (54-11) 5777-4519
Forestry/Woodworking
Machinery
Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Franchising Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Furniture Marcela Carello (54-11) 5777-4765
General Consumer Goods Marina Millet (54-11) 5777-4851
General Industrial
Equipment
Josette Fiore (54-11) 5777-4683
General Services
(Advertising, Retailing,
Artwork, etc.)
Liliana Paz (54-11) 5777-4519
Healthcare/Medical Equip. Liliana Paz (54-11) 5777-4519
Hotel/Restaurant Equip. Diana Brandon (54-11) 5777-4509
Jewelry Josette Fiore (54-11) 5777-4683
Scientific Laboratory Equip. Marina Millet (54-11) 5777-4851
Lawn & Garden Equipment Marcela Carello (54-11) 5777-4765
Management Consulting
Services
Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Metalworking Equipment Alvaro Mendez (54-11) 5777-4419
Mining Alvaro Mendez (54-11) 5777-4419
Paper & Pulp Machinery Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Plastics Mariangeles Perez
Manoileff
(54-11) 5777-4456
Pleasure Boats Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
3/4/2008

Pollution Control Equipment Alvaro Mendez (54-11) 5777-4419
Ports & Ships Eugenio Pallares (54-11) 5777-4754
Processed/Pet Foods Josette Fiore (54-11) 5777-4683
Safety & Security Equip. Marina Millet (54-11) 5777-4851
Software Silvia Yaber (54-11) 5777-4325
Sporting Goods Marcelo Amden (54-11) 5777-4509
Note: If at any time you are unable to reach a Sector Specialist, please call the Buenos
Aires Commercial Service main number (54-11) 5777-4753 for assistance.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
David Mergen, Counselor for Agricultural Affairs
Dwight Wilder, Agricultural Attaché
Phone: (54-11) 5777-4627
Fax: (54-11) 5777-4216
E-mail: andrea.yankelevich@usda.gov
Internet: http://argentina.usembassy.gov/contact4.html
In the U.S.:
U.S. Department of State
Commercial and Business Affairs
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street, NW, Room 2318
Washington, D.C. 20520-7512
Phone: (202) 647-1625
Fax: (202) 647-3953
Internet: www.state.gov
U.S. Department of Commerce
Office of Market Access and Compliance
John Andersen, Director, Office of South America
ITA/MAC/OWH/OLAC - Room 3023
1401 Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
Phone: (202) 482-0477
Fax: (202) 482-4157
E-mail: cbaweb@state.gov
Internet: www.ita.doc.gov
Alexander Peacher, Argentina Desk Officer
ITA/MAC/OWH/OLAC - Room 3025
1401 Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
Phone: (202) 482-3872
Fax: (202) 482-4157
E-mail: Alexander_Peacher@mail.doc.gov
Internet: www.ita.doc.gov
3/4/2008

U.S. Department of Commerce
Trade Information Center
1401 Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20230
Phone: 1-800-USA-TRADE
Fax: (202) 482-4473
E-mail: TIC@ita.doc.gov
Internet: www.trade.gov/td/tic
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Foreign Agricultural Service
Trade Assistance and Promotion Office (TAPO)
1400 Independence Ave., NW
USDA South Building
Washington, D.C. 20250 - 1052
Phone: (202) 720-7420
Fax: (202) 690-4374
E-mail: tapo@fas.usda.gov
Internet: www.fas.usda.gov
Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA)
Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Administrative Secretariat
8 Oriente No. 1006
Paseo San Francisco
Centro Historico, Puebla 72000
Mexico
Internet: www.ftaa-alca.org/alca_e.asp
NAFTA and Inter-American Affairs
U.S. Department of Commerce
International Trade Administration
Office of NAFTA and Inter-American Affairs
Suite 3024
14th and Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: (202) 482-0393
Fax: (202) 482-5865
Internet: www.mac.doc.gov/nafta/index.htm
AmCham and/or Bilateral Councils
CAMARA DE COMERCIO DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS EN ARGENTINA
(American Chamber of Commerce in Argentina)
Juan Bruchou, President
Alejandro Diaz, CEO
Viamonte 1133, Piso 8
C1053ABW Buenos Aires
3/4/2008

Phone: (54-11) 4371-4500
Fax: (54-11) 4371-8400
E-mail: amcham@amchamar.com.ar
Internet: www.amchamar.com.ar
Country Trade or Industry Associations
ASOCIACION DE IMPORTADORES
Y EXPORTADORES DE LA REPUBLICA ARGENTINA (AIERA)
(Association of Argentine Importers and Exporters)
Mr. Horacio Consolo, President
Av. Belgrano 124, Piso 1
C1092AAO Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4342-0010
Fax: (54-11) 4342-1312
E-mail: aiera@aiera.org.ar
Internet: www.aiera.org
BOLSA DE COMERCIO DE BUENOS AIRES
(Buenos Aires Stock Exchange)
Mr. Adelmo J.J. Gabbi, President
Sarmiento 299, Piso 1
C1041AAE Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4316-7000
E-mail: presidencia@bcba.sba.com.ar / cau@bolsar.com
Internet: www.bcba.sba.com.ar / www.bolsar.com
CAMARA ARGENTINA DE COMERCIO
(Argentine Chamber of Commerce)
Mr. Carlos Raul De la Vega, President
Av. Leandro N. Alem 36
C1003AAN Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 5300-9000
Phone: (54-11) 5300-9082
Fax: (54-11) 5300-9059
E-mail: cac@cac.com.ar
Internet: www.cac.com.ar
CAMARA DE COMERCIO EXTERIOR DE CORDOBA
(Chamber of Foreign Trade of Cordoba)
Mr. Ercole Jose Felippa, President
Rosario De Santa Fe 231, Piso 4, Of.9
5000 Cordoba
Phone: (54-351) 421-4804/2715
Fax: (54-351) 424-3869
E-mail: cacec@cacec.com.ar
gerencia@cacec.com.ar
Internet: www.cacec.com.ar
CAMARA DE IMPORTADORES DE LA REPUBLICA ARGENTINA
3/4/2008

(Argentine Chamber of Importers)
Mr. Diego Perez Santisteban, President
Av. Belgrano 427, Piso 7
C1092AAE Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4342-1101/0523
Fax: (54-11) 4345-3003
E-mail: cira@cira.org.ar, gg@cira.org.ar
Internet: www.cira.org.ar
SOCIEDAD RURAL ARGENTINA
(Argentine Farmers' Association)
Mr. Luciano Miguens, President
Florida 460
C1005AAJ Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4324-4711/4700
Fax: (54-11) 4324-4733
Email: sra@ruralarg.org.ar
Internet: www.ruralarg.org.ar
UNION INDUSTRIAL ARGENTINA (UIA)
(Argentine Manufacturers' Association)
Mr. Juan Carlos Lascurain, President
Av. de Mayo 1147/57
C1085ABB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4124-2300
Fax: (54-11) 4124-2301
E-mail: uia@uia.org.ar
Internet: www.uia.org.ar
Argentine Government Agencies
SECRETARIA DE TURISMO DE LA NACION
(Secretariat of Tourism)
Sr. Enrique Meyer, Secretary
Suipacha 1111, Piso 23,
C1008AAW Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4311-4696
Internet: www.sectur.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE AMBIENTE Y DESARROLLO SUSTENTABLE
(Secretariat of Environment and Sustainable Development)
Ms. Romina Picolotti, Secretary
San Martín 451
C1004AAI Buenos Aires
Phone:(54) (11) 4348-8200
Fax (54) (11) 4348-8300
Internet: www.ambiente.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE ECONOMIA Y PRODUCCION
(Ministry of Economy and Production)
3/4/2008

Lic. Martin Lousteau, Minister
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 5, Of. 550
C1086AAB Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4349-5000
Phone: (54-11) 4349-8801/02/03/05/60
E-mail: edinfpub@mecon.gov.ar / secpriv@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: www.mecon.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE POLITICA ECONOMICA
(Secretariat of Economic Policy)
Lic. Gastón Leonardo Rossi, Secretary
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 5, Of. 526
C1086AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-5762/5760/5770
Fax: (54-11) 4349-5763
E-mail: spe@mecon.gov.ar / pinsau@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: www.mecon.gov.ar/prgmacri.htm
SECRETARIA DE FINANZAS
(Secretariat of Finance)
Hugo Luis Secondini, Secretary
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 10, Of. 1020
C1086AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-8116/18/16/23
Fax: (54-11) 4349-5212
E-mail: mibelt@mecon.gov.ar / mrosal@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: www.mecon.gov.ar/finance
SECRETARIA DE AGRICULTURA,
GANADERIA, PESCA Y ALIMENTOS
(Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, & Food)
Dr. Javier de Urquiza, Secretary
Av. Paseo Colon 982, Piso 1
C1063ACW Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-2500 / 4349-2000
Fax: (54-11) 4349-2504
E-mail: vdanti@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: www.sagpya.mecon.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE INDUSTRIA, COMERCIO Y DE LA PEQUENA Y MEDIANA
EMPRESA
(Secretariat of Industry, Commerce, and SMEs)
Cont. Fernando Javier Fraguío, Secretary
Av. Julio A. Roca 651, Piso 2, Of. 204/206
C1067ABB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-3000/3408/3407
Fax: (54-11) 4349-3477
E-mail: privadasicyp@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: www.mecon.gov.ar/sicym
MINISTERIO DE PLANIFICACION FEDERAL, INVERSION PUBLICA Y SERVICIOS
3/4/2008

(Ministry of Federal Planning, Public Investment and Services)
Arq. Julio De Vido, Minister
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 11 Of. 1112
C1109AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-5000/6969/6963/6961
Internet: www.minplan.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE OBRAS PUBLICAS
(Secretariat of Public Works)
Mr. Jose Francisco Lopez, Secretary
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 11, Of. 1121
C1109AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-5710/5712
E-mail: jflope@minplan.gov.ar / infoobras@minplan.gov.ar
Internet: www.obraspublicas.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE ENERGIA
(Secretariat of Energy)
Ing. Daniel Omar Camerón, Secretary
Av. Paseo Colon 171, Piso 5 Of. 504
C1063ACBW Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-8018/8004
E-mail: spriva@mecon.gov.ar
Internet: http://energia.mecon.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE COMUNICACIONES
(Secretariat of Communications)
Arq. Carlos Lisandro Salas, Secretary
Sarmiento 151, Piso 4 Of. 402
C1000ZZA Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4347-9412 / 4318-9427/9428/9429/9433/9462
Fax: (54-11) 4347-9432
E-mail: agonzalez@secom.gov.ar
Internet: www.secom.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE TRANSPORTE
(Secretariat of Transportation)
Ing. Ricardo Raul Jaime, Secretary
Hipolito Yrigoyen 250, Piso 12, Of. 1220
C1109AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4349-7252/54/55
Fax: (54-11) 4349-7201
Internet: www.transporte.gov.ar
E-mail: sectrans@minplan.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE RELACIONES EXTERIORES, COMERCIO INTERNACIONAL
Y CULTO
(Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship)
Canciller Jorge Enrique Taiana, Minister
Esmeralda 1212, Piso 13
C1007ABR Buenos Aires
3/4/2008

Phone: (54-11) 4819-7317/8
Switchboard: (54-11) 4310-8100; 4819-7000; 5555-8900; 5166-8400
E-mail: btc@mrecic.gov.ar (secretary)
Internet: www.mrecic.gov.ar / www.cancilleria.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE RELACIONES EXTERIORES
(Secretariat of Foreign Affairs)
Amb. Roberto García Moritan, Secretary
Esmeralda 1212, Piso14
C1007ABR Buenos Aires
Phone. (54-11) 4819-8238/8239
E-mail: coa@mrecic.gov.ar / eks@mrecic.gov.ar / tje@mrecic.gov.ar
Internet: www.cancilleria.gov.ar
SECRETARIA DE COMERCIO Y RELACIONES ECONOMICAS INTERNACIONALES
(Secretariat of Trade and International Economic Affairs)
Amb. Alfredo Vicente Chiaradia, Secretary
Esmeralda 1212, Piso 8
C1007ABP Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4819-7227/7001/7109
Fax: (54-11) 4819-7226
E-mail: vtc@cancilleria.gov.ar
Internet: www.cancilleria.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE DEFENSA
(Ministry of Defense)
Dr. Nilda Garré, Minister
Edificio Libertador Gral. San Martin
Azopardo 250, Piso 11
C1107ADB Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4346-8800
Phone: (54-11) 4346-8802//07
Fax: (54-11) 4343-4570
E-mail: arcucci@mindef.gov.ar
Internet: www.mindef.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE SALUD
(Ministry of Health)
Lic. María Graciela Ocaña, Minister
Av. 9 de Julio 1925, Piso 2
C1073ABA Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4379-9000
Phone: (54-11) 4379-9010
Fax: (54-11) 4381-6075
E-mail: spministro@msal.gov.ar / consultas@msal.gov.ar
Internet: www.msal.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE EDUCACION, CIENCIA Y TECNOLOGIA
(Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology)
Lic. Juan Carlos Tedesco, Minister
Pizzurno 935, Piso 1, Of. 113
3/4/2008

C1020AC Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4129-1000/1030
Phone: (54-11) 4129-1010
Fax: (54-11) 4129-1020
E-mail: umin@me.gov.ar
Internet: www.me.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE JUSTICIA, SEGURIDAD Y DERECHOS HUMANOS
(Ministry of Justice, Security and Human Rights)
Dr. Anibal Domingo Fernandez, Minister
Sarmiento 329
C1041AAG Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4328-3010/19
Phone: (54-11) 4328-6030/39
Fax: (54-11) 4328-6030/39
E-mail: secretariaprivada@jus.gov.ar
Internet: www.jus.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DEL INTERIOR
(Ministry of the Interior)
Cont. Florencio Randazzo, Minister
25 de Mayo 101
C1002AAB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4339-0800 / 4331-4571/6756/9951
Fax: (54-11) 4345-3336
E-mail: dgonzalez@mininterior.gov.ar
Internet: www.mininterior.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE TRABAJO, EMPLEO Y SEGURIDAD SOCIAL
(Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Security)
Dr. Carlos Tomada, Minister
Av. Leandro N. Alem 650, Piso 13
C1001AAO Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4310-6005/6
Phone: (54-11) 4310-6317/6322/6324
Fax: (54-11) 4310-6315
E-mail: mares@trabajo.gov.ar (secretary)
Internet: www.trabajo.gov.ar
MINISTERIO DE DESARROLLO SOCIAL
(Ministry of Social Development)
Doc. Alicia Margarita Kirchner, Minister
Av. 9 de Julio 1925, Piso 14
C1073ABA Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4379-3648/49; 4383-3021;
Phone: (54-11) 4379-3667 4384-5810/4381-8464
Fax: (54-11) 4381-0935
E-mail: privadaministro@desarrollosocial.gov.ar
Internet: www.desarrollosocial.gov.ar
DIRECCION GENERAL DE ADUANAS (DGA)
3/4/2008

(Argentine Customs Bureau)
Lic. Ricardo Echegaray, Director General
Azopardo 350
C1107ADD Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4338-6400/6640
Phone: (54-11) 4338-6640/6642
Fax: (54-11) 4347-3651
E-mail: dga-privada@afip.gov.ar
Internet: www.afip.gov.ar
COMISION NACIONAL DE COMUNICACIONES (CNC)
(National Communications Commission)
Ing. Ceferino Namuncurá, Trustee
Peru 103 Piso 19
C1067AAC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4347-9321/9323/9343
Fax: (54-11) 4347-9332
E-mail: dcasado@cnc.gov.ar / ihernandez@cnc.gov.ar
Internet: www.cnc.gov.ar
COMITE FEDERAL DE RADIODIFUSION (COMFER)
(Federal Broadcasting Committee)
Lic. Julio Donato Barbaro, Trustee
Suipacha 765 Piso 6
C1008AAO Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4320-4912/13/29
Fax: (54-11) 4320-4935
E-mail: csquassini@comfer.gov.ar
Internet: www.comfer.gov.ar
Market Research Firms in Argentina
A&C GROUP CONS. DE EST. Y MARKETING
Dr. Carlos Kaplan, President
Salta 1007
C1074AAU Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4307-3423 / 4304-7106 / 4304-7753
E-mail: ayc-cons@act.net.ar
ANALOGIAS S.R.L.
Mrs. Analia Del Franco, Director
Av. Callao 66, Piso 5
C1022AAN Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5811-1930
Fax: (54-11) 5811-1932
E-mail: info@analogias.com.ar
Internet: www.analogias.com.ar
ERNST & YOUNG - PISTRELLI HENRY MARTIN y ASOCIADOS S.R.L
CPN. Jorge Verruno, General Manager
3/4/2008

25 de Mayo 487, primer piso
C1002ABI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4311-6644
Fax: (54-11) 4318-1777/4510-2220
Internet: www.ey.com/global/content.nsf/Argentina/Home
IFOP ASECOM LATIN AMERICA S.A.
Mrs. Valeria Forwe, General Manager
Av. Corrientes 640, 2do piso
C1043AAT, Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4393-2229
Fax: (54-11) 4393-2240
E-mail: research@asecom.com.ar
Internet: www.ifop.com
CICMAS
Mr. Rafael Bustamante, Partner and Chief Executive Officer
Teodoro García 1721
C1426DMC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5166-1000
Fax: (54-11) 5166-1001
E-mail: cicmas@cicmas.com.ar
Internet: www.cicmas.com.ar
GRUPO CONVERGENCIA
Mr. German H. Rodriguez, Director
Venezuela 637, PB
1095AAM Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4345-3036/ 3037
E-mail: info@convergencia.com.ar
clagrotta@convergencia.com.ar
Internet: www.convergencia.com.ar
Comments: Market research firm specialized in telecom and IT. Grupo Convergencia
has three publications on Telecommunications, IT, and CATV industries; sectors of all
Latin America or country specific.
IDC Argentina S.A.
Mr. Alejandro Oliveros, Presidente
Ing. Butty 240, Piso 6
C1001AFB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5353-9500
Fax: (54-11) 5353-9501
E-mail: aoliveros@idc.com
Internet: www.idclatin.com/argentina
A.C. NIELSEN ARGENTINA S.A.
Mr. Arturo García Castro, General Manager
Tucumán 348
C1049AAH Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4891-1100
Fax: (54-11) 4891-1120
3/4/2008

E-mail: argentina@acnielsen.com
Internet: www.acnielsen.com
PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS
Mr. Hernando Fortini, Partner
Edificio Bouchard Plaza
Bouchard 557 - Piso 7
C P (C1106ABG)
Tel.: (54-11) 4850-0000
Fax: (54-11) 4850-1800
E-mail: andrea.maure@ar.pwc.com
Internet: www.pwc.com
PRINCE & COOKE
Mr. Alejandro Prince, President
Ayacucho 1435, Piso 1 "B"
C1111AAM Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4811-5522
Fax: (54-11) 4811-5522
E-mail: aprince@princecook.com / mail@princecooke.com
Internet: www.princecooke.com
Comments: Market research and consulting firm specialized in telecom and IT
industries. Company publishes a weekly newsletter and also conducts human resources
searches in the industry.
Country Banks
U.S. Commercial Banks in Argentina
AMERICAN EXPRESS BANK LTD. S.A.
Mr. Agostino Iosue, Representative
Av. Del Libertador 602 17P. "A"
C1058AAH Buenos Aires
Phone (54-11) 4312-9034
Fax (54-11) 4313-0079
E-mail: agostino.n.iosue@aexp.com
Internet: www.americanexpress.com
BNY - THE BANK OF NEW YORK S.A.
Mrs. María de la Cruz Solares, Representative
25 de Mayo 195, Piso 6
C1002ABC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4331-1111
Fax: (54-11) 4342-8830
E-mail: snavedo@bankofny.com
Internet: www.bankofny.com
CITIBANK S.A.
Mr. Juan Jose Bruchou, President
Bartolome Mitre 530
3/4/2008

C1036AAJ Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4329-1000
Fax: (54-11) 4329-1032
E-mail: Zulma.bianchi@citigroup.com
Internet: www.citibank.com.ar
WACHOVIA BANK
Mr. Santiago Andres Elizondo, Representative
25 de Mayo 555, Piso 11
C1002 ABK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4311-7744/ 4313-9090
Fax: (54-11) 4314-0822
E-mail: maria.august@wachovia.com
Internet: www.wachovia.com
J.P. MORGAN CHASE & CO.
Mr. Facundo Gómez Minujin, General Manager
Av. Eduardo Madero 900, piso 23
C1043AAE Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4325-8046
Fax: (54-11) 4348-7262
E-mail: paula.albin@jpmorganpartners.com
Internet: www.jpmorgan.com
SAFRA NATIONAL BANK OF NEW YORK
Mr. Raymond Kassin, Representative
Av. Leandro N. Alem 855, Piso 33
C1001AAD Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4875-5555
Fax: (54-11) 4875-5550
E-mail: sandra.bohrer@safra.com
Internet: www.safra.com
FIRST INTERNATIONAL BANK
Dr. Miguel E. Barca, Representative
Cerrito 228, Piso 7
C1010AAF Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4384-0550
E-mail: barcam@barcaauditores.com
Internet: www.barcaauditores.com
Argentine Commercial Banks with Offices in the U.S.
BANCO GALICIA
Antonio Roberto Garces, President
Tte. J.D. Perón 407
C1038AAI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 6329-0000
Fax: (5411) 6329-6100
E-mail: bancogalicia@bancogalicia.com.ar
Internet: www.bancogalicia.com.ar
3/4/2008

Comments: Branch in New York City.
BANCO DE LA NACION ARGENTINA
Lic. Mercedes Marco del Pont, President
Bartolomé Mitre 326
C1036AAF Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4347-6105
Fax: (54-11) 4331-6109
E-mail: jmaolo@bna.com.ar
Internet: www.bna.com.ar
Comments: Branch in New York City.
BANCO DE LA PROVINCIA DE BUENOS AIRES
Mr. Guillermo Francos, President
San Martin 137
C1004AAC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4348-9456
Fax: (54-11) 4348-9438
E-mail: rartacho@bpba.com.ar
Internet: www.bapro.com.ar
Comments: Branch in New York City.
SANTANDER RIO
Mr. Enrique Cristofani, President
Bartolome Mitre 480
C1036AAH Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4341-1000
Phone: (54-11) 4341-1565
Fax: (54-11) 4341-1021
E-mail: vsaenz@bancorio.com.ar
Internet: www.bancorio.com.ar
Comments: Branch in New York City.
Multilateral Development Bank Offices in Argentina
INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Mr. Daniel Oliveira, Representative
Esmeralda 130, Pisos 19
C1035ABD Buenos Aires
Switchboard: (54-11) 4320-1800
Phone: (54-11) 4320-1803
Fax: (54-11) 4320-1830
E-mail: cos/car@iadb.org, danielol@iadb.org
Internet: www.iadb.org
INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CORPORATION
IFC FIELD OFFICE
Ms. Yolande Duhem, Senior Manager
Bouchard 680, Piso 11
C1106ABG Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4315-1666/4114-7200
3/4/2008

Fax: (54-11) 4312-7184
E-mail: mdemartini@ifc.org
Internet: www.ifc.org
WORLD BANK FIELD OFFICE
Mr. Axel Van Trotsenburg, Director
Edificio Bouchard
Bouchard 547, Piso 28
C1106ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4316-9700/9744
Fax: (54-11) 4313-1233
E-mail: avantrotsenburg@worldbank.org
Internet: www.worldbank.org
In the U.S. Department of Commerce:
U.S. Commercial Liaison to the World Bank
Will Center, Director, U.S. Commercial Service Liaison Office
Office of the US Executive Director
1818 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20433
Phone: (202) 458-0120/0118
Fax: (202) 477-2967
E-mail: WCenter@worldbank.org
U.S. Commercial Service Liaison to the IDB
Mr. Miguel Romano, Director Business Liaison
Phone: (202) 623- 2598
E-mail: mromano@iadb.org
Ms. Barbara White, Deputy Director
Phone: (202) 623-3822
E-mail: barbaraw@iadb.org
Office of the US Executive Director
1300 New York Ave., NW
Mail Stop E 0209
Washington, DC 20577
Phone: (202) 623-3821/3822
Fax: (202) 623-2039
Country Law Firms
Law Firms with Offices in the U.S.
ALLENDE & BREA
Dr. Teodosio Brea, Partner
Maipu 1300, Piso 10
C1006ACT Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4318-9900
Fax: (54-11) 4318-9999
E-mail: lex@allendebrea.com.ar
3/4/2008

Internet: www.allendebrea.com
Comment: Offices in Miami, FL and Rosswell, GA
BAKER & MCKENZIE
Dr. Gonzalo Cáceres, Managing Partner
Av. Leandro N. Alem 1110, Piso 13
C1001AAT Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4310-2200 / 5776-2300
Fax: (54-11) 4310-2299 / 5776-2399
E-mail: gonzalo.caceres@bakernet.com
Internet: www.bakernet.com
Comments: Associated to Baker & McKenzie, Chicago (IL)
ESTUDIO CIAMPOLI ABOGADOS
Dr. Luis Angel Ciampoli, Owner
Reconquista 1017, Piso 5
C1003ABU Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4313-0642
Fax: (54-11) 4313-0658
E-mail: ciampoli@interserver.com.ar
Internet: www.estudiociampoli.com
Comments: Correspondent law firms in Cincinnati (OH), Minneapolis (MN), Hilton Head
(SC), Chicago (IL), Wilmington (DE), and Buffalo (NY)
MARVAL, O'FARRELL & MAIRAL
Dr. Ernesto O'Farrell, Partner
Av. Leandro N. Alem 928, Piso 7
C1001AAR Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4310-0100
Fax: (54-11) 4310-0200
E-mail: marval@marval.com.ar
Internet: www.marval.com.ar
Comments: Branch office in New York (NY)
A list of additional Law Firms (English-speaking) in Argentina is available upon request.
Telecommunications Attorneys
ESTUDIO AGUIAR MARSIGLIA
Dr. Henoch Aguiar
Address: Zenteno 3175
C1425CCB Buenos Aires
Phone/fax: (5411) 4807-4555
E-mail: henochaguiar@yahoo.com
OYANARTE & FARGOSI
Dr. Alejandro Fargosi
Av. Alvear 1580 1ro
1014 Buenos Aires
Ph: (5411) 4815-7650
Fax: (5411) 4815-1084
3/4/2008

E-mail: fargosi@fibertel.com.ar
BASILICO, SANTURIO Y ANDRADA
Dra. Bibiana Chimeno
Marcelo T. de Alvear 684 Primer piso
C1058AAH Buenos Aires
Ph: 5411-4310-3900
Fax: 5411-4310-3928
E-mail: bchimeno@bsalex.com.ar
NEGRI & TORRES ABOGADOS
Ronaldo A. Negri
Paraná 425, Piso 10
Ciudad de Buenos Aires
Republica Argentina
Phone/fax: 5411- 6775 5000
E-mail: ronaldo@negri-torres.com.ar
ESTUDIO O'FARRELL ABOGADOS
Dr. Pablo Schmukler, Partner
Av. De Mayo 633, Piso 5
C1084AAB Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4346-1000
E-mail: ofarrelju@estudio-ofarrell.com.ar
Internet: www.ofarrell-schmukler.com
Consultants
Technical Telecommunications Consultants
ATLANTIC CONSULTING
Ing. Jorge Crom, President
Suipacha 868, Piso 2
C1008AAR Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5217-4195
E-mail: info@atlantic.com.ar
Internet: www.atlantic.com.ar
ING. LEONARDO J. LEIBSON
IT & Communications
Charcas 3497, Piso 5 "B"
C1425BMS - Buenos Aires
Phone: 5411-4827-1537
E-mail: leo@leibson.com.ar
BARRIONUEVO
Abel Barrionuevo
Bartolome Mitre 1970, 3 B
C1039 Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4951-2583 o (54-11) 4953-0977
3/4/2008

E-mail: barrion@fibertel.com.ar
Intellectual Property Consultants
APELLANIZ ASOCIADOS
Dr. Ignacio de Apellaniz
Florida 15, Piso 10, Of. 32
C1005AAA Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (54-11) 4343-5784
Fax: (54-11) 4343-5329
E-mail: estudio@deapellaniz.com.ar
G. BREUER
Dr. Alejandro Miguel Breuer Moreno, Partner
25 de Mayo 460
C1002ABJ Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4313-8100 / 4312-5678
Fax: (54-11) 4313-8180 / 4311-4199
E-mail: gbreuer@gbreuer.com.ar / info@gbreuer.com.ar
Internet: www.gbreuer.com.ar
NOETINGER & ARMANDO
Mr. Fernando Noetinger, Associate
25 de Mayo 489, Piso 8
C1002ABI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4315-9200
Fax: (54-11) 4315-9201
E-mail: fnoetinger@noetar.com.ar
ESTUDIO MILLE
Dr. Antonio Millé, Partner
Bartolomé Mitre 226, Piso 5
C1036AAD Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4331-8191
Fax: (54-11) 4334-0203
E-mail: antonio@mille.com.ar / estudio@mille.com.ar
Internet: www.mille.com.ar
HERNAN ECHEGARAY
Dr. Hernan Echegaray
San Martín 981, primer piso of. 26
C1004AAT, Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: 54-11-4313-0005
Cell Phone: 15-5451-6035
E-mail: heechegaray@hotmail.com
Customs Brokers in Argentina
NEWTON S.A.
Mr. Marcelo F. Newton, Director
3/4/2008

Bolivar 332, Piso 6
C1088AAH Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4331-1625
Fax: (54-11) 4331-0050
E-mail: newton@newtonsa.com.ar
Internet: www.newtonsa.com.ar
ORIOLA Y ASOCIADOS S.A.
Mr. Norberto E. Oriola, President
Av. Belgrano 687, Piso 1, Of. 6
C1092AAG Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4342-4148 / 4331-9456 / 4342-4678 / 4342-8435
Fax: (54-11) 4345-6227
E-mail: oriola@interserver.com.ar
SAINT GERMAIN
Mr. Carlos Clausi, General Manager
Av. Rivadavia 1645 P.2º Of. 21
C1033AAG Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4383-6790/6778/6781
E-mail: cclausi@sgbue.com
Internet: www.saintgermainsa.com
INTERGAP S.R.L.
Mr. Eduardo Fusco & Mr. Gastón Posadas, Managing Partners
Maipú 812, 10º ¨H¨
C1006ACL Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4314-3160
E-mail: gposadas@intergap.com.ar, efusco@intergap.com.ar
Internet: www.intergap.com.ar
Freight Forwarders
ARGENTINA INTERNATIONAL MOVING S.R.L.
Mr. Leonardo Amejeira – Partner/Manager
Suipacha 612, 3 rd floor A
C1008AAN Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4325-0500
Fax: (54-11) 4322-2297
E-mail: argenmove@argenmove.com.ar
Internet: www.argenmove.com.ar
CORDOBA INTERNACIONAL S.R.L.
Mr. Ricardo Orchanski, General Manager
Av. Las Heras 68
X5000FMN Cordoba
Phone: (54-351) 422-3492
Fax: (54-351) 424-0586
E-mail: rorchans@cordobaintl.com.ar
Internet: www.cordobaintl.com.ar
3/4/2008

DELFINO CARGAS AEREAS/DELFINO AIRFREIGHT SERVICE
Mr. Antonio Maria Delfino, President
San Martin 439, Piso 2
C1004AAI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 6320-1000
Fax: (54-11) 4394-5379
E-mail: admin@delfino.com.ar
Internet: www.delfino.com.ar
LIFT-VAN INTERNATIONAL CO S.A.
Tom Evans, Director Comercial
Ruta 202 N° 3449
B1611ABG Don Torcuato – Provincia de Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4741-7447 / 7667
Fax: (54-11) 4741-7211 / 0758
E-mail: liftvan@liftvan.com
Internet: www.liftvan.com
SCHENKER ARGENTINA S.A.
Mr. Enrique Valera, General Manager
Tucumán 117 Piso 6º,
(C1049AAC)
Capital Federal
Buenos Aires - Argentina
Phone: (54 11) 4310-1200
Fax (54 11) 4315-7755 / 7766
E-mail: info.argentina@schenker.com
Internet: www.schenker.com.ar
Maritime Agencies
A.M. DELFINO S.A.
Mr. Enrique Elliot, Commercial Manager
San Martin 439, Piso 2
C1004AAI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 6320-1000
Fax: (54-11) 4394-5379
E-mail: admin@delfino.com.ar
Internet: www.delfino.com.ar
AGENCIA MARITIMA ROBINSON S.A.
Mr. Andres Jorge Robinson, President
25 de Mayo 277 - P. 8
(1002), Capital Federal
Phone: 4331-1696 / 1482
Fax: 4334-0109
E-mail: robinson@robinson.com.ar
AGENCIA MARITIMA SUDOCEAN S.A
3/4/2008

Mr. Klaus Bertram, President
25 de Mayo 555, Piso 19
C1002ABK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4310-2300
Fax: (54-11) 4313-3244
E-mail: baimk@sudocean.com.ar
Internet: www.sudocean.com
CP SHIPS
Susana Graefe, Director Assistant
Bouchard 557, Piso 23
C1106ABG, Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4323-1000
Fax: (54-11) 4334-1177
E-mail: susana.graefe@hlag.com
Internet: www.hapag-lloyd.com
Bonded Warehouses
DEFIBA SERVICIOS A CONTENEDORES
Ms. Silvia Melchiori, President
Av. Pedro de Mendoza 2957
C1169ABA Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4303-3447
Fax: (54-11) 4301-1500
E-mail: info@delfiba.com.ar
Internet: www.defiba.com.ar
DEPOSITOS FISCALES S.A.
Mr. Andres Torre, General Manager
Benito Correa y Joaquin Rivas
C1107AOE Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4362-1083
Fax: (54-11) 4361-3760
E-mail: info@defisa.com.ar
Internet: www.defisa.com.ar
DICCSA (EX MERCOSUR CONTAINERS SERVICE S.A.)
Mr. Alfredo Jorge Enriques, President
Carlos Pellegrini 3800
B1822 Valentin Alsina – Prov. de Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4208-0426/2710
Fax: (54-11) 4228-2586
E-mail: diccsa@dicc-sa.com.ar / aenriques@dicc-sa.com.ar
SERVICIOS DE ALMACEN FISCAL ZONA FRANCA Y MANDATOS S.A.
Mr. Osvaldo Villaverde – Commercial Manager
Lafayette 585
1281 Buenos Aires
Phone: (54 11) 4303-2545
3/4/2008

Fax: (54 11) 4301-1237
E-mail: bue@safweb.com, info@safweb.com
Internet: www.safweb.com
SERVITRUCK S.A.
Mr. Santiago Calé, Manager Director
Ruta Nacional 193 y Ruta Nacional 12
2800, Zárate, Pcia de Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-3487) 421845/46
E-mail: info@servitruck.com
Internet: www.servitruck.com
Port Terminals
TPR-TERMINALES RIO DE LA PLATA S.A. (P&O PORTS)
Mr. Roberto Triay – Commercial Department
Av. Ramón Castillo y Comodoro Py, Zona Portuaria, Ciudad de Buenos Aires
Tel.: (05411) 4319-9500
C1004 Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4319-9500
Fax: (54-11) 4315-2700/2850
E-mail: roberto.triay@trp.com.ar / info@trp.com.ar
Internet: www.trp.com.ar
TERMINALES PORTUARIAS ARGENTINAS S.A. (TERMINAL 3 - ex-TPA)
Mr. Ricardo Ferreyra
Av. De Los Inmigrantes y Edison (Acceso Maipú)
C1104 Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4317-0600
Fax: (54-11) 4314-1022 / 4314-0995
E-mail: ricardo.ferreyra@trp.com.ar
BUENOS AIRES CONTAINER TERMINAL SERVICES S.A. (Hutchison Port Holdings
Group)
Mr. Jorge Marin, Director General
Calle 8 y Av. Tomas Edison, Terminal 5
C1104 Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4510-9800
Fax: (54-11) 4510-9821
E-mail: florencia.rodriguez@bactssa.com.ar
Internet: www.bactssa.com.ar
CONSORCIO DE GESTION PUERTO DE BAHIA BLANCA
Mr. Jorge O. Scoccia, President
Av. Dr. Mario Guido
B8000 Ingeniero White – Prov. de Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-291) 457-3213/14/15/46
E-mail: secretaria@puertobahiablanca.com.ar
Internet: www.puertobahiablanca.com
3/4/2008

EXOLGAN TERMINAL PORTUARIA S.A.
Mr. Alfredo Roman, President
Manuel Alberti 1780
B1871ESF Dock Sud
Phone: (54-11) 5811-9346
Fax: (54-11) 4229-0096
E-mail: cfs-commercial@exolgan.com
Internet: www.exolgan.com
CONSORCIO DE GESTION DEL PUERTO LA PLATA
Eng Rodolfo Rocca, General Manager
St.G.Gaggino y Ortiz de Rosas
Ensenada (1925) – Prov. de Buenos Aires
Phone: 54 221 460 0203 / 0233
Fax: 54 221 460-0203
E-mail: secretaria@puertolaplata.com
Internet: www.puertolaplata.com
Airline Companies
AEROLINEAS ARGENTINAS
Mr. Lorenzo Ubes, Sales Manager
Bouchard 547
C1106ABG Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4340-7800
E-mail: arsistem@satlink.com
Internet: www.aerolineas.com.ar
AMERICAN AIRLINES
Mr. Carlos Harrington, Sales Manager
Suipacha 1111, Piso 23
C1008AAW Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4318-1000/1111
Fax: (54-11) 4318-1110 / 1113
E-mail: carlos.harrington@aa.com
Internet: www.aa.com
DELTA AIRLINES
Mr. Javier Díaz, Country Manager
Carlos Pellegrini 1141, Piso 12
C1009ABW Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4894-8184
E-mail: javier.h.diaz@delta.com
Internet: www.delta.com
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES
Mr. Diego García, General Manager
Carlos Pellegrini 1141, Piso 5
C1009ABW Buenos Aires
Phone: (5411) 4393-3057
3/4/2008

Internet: www.coair.com
LAN CHILE
Mr. Francisco Vidal, General Manager
Cerrito 866
C1010AAR Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4378-2200
Fax: (54-11) 4378-2298
Internet: www.lanchile.com
LLOYD AEREO BOLIVIANO
Mr. Pablo Iriart, Administrative Manager
Carlos Pellegrini 137, Piso 2
C1009ABC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4323-1900
Fax: (54-11) 4326-4273
E-mail: ventaslab@labairlines.com.ar
Internet: www.labairlines.com
UNITED AIRLINES
Ms. Rolf Meyer, General Sales Manager
Av. Eduardo Madero 900, Piso 9
C1106ACV Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4316-0777/4744
Fax: (54-11) 4315-1172
E-mail: rolf.meyer@united.com
Internet: www.united.com.ar
VARIG - PLUNA
Mr. João Roberto Lacerda Sabino, Director for South America
Av. Cordoba 972, Pisos 4
C1054AAV Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4329-9200/9210/9211
Fax: (54-11) 4329-9230
E-mail: bdb@varig.com
Internet: www.varig.com.ar
Couriers
DHL INTERNATIONAL S.A.
Mr. Ricardo Sacco, Commercial Manager
Larrazabal 2255
C1440CVB Buenos Aires
Phone/Fax: (54-11) 4630-1000
Fax: (54-11) 4630-1036
Internet: www.dhl.com.ar/publish/ar/es.high.html
FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP. (FEDEX)
Mr. Ricardo Gimenez Zapiola
Maipu 753 Lobby
3/4/2008

C1006ACI Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4630-0300
Fax: (54-11) 4480-9041/54
Internet: www.fedex.com/ar
TNT EXPRESS WORLDWIDE/ANDREANI S.A.
Mr. Alan Gecenschatz, General Manager
Av. Osvaldo Cruz 3201
C1293ADK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4301-2002/ 4309-0909
Fax: (54-11) 4302-5799
E-mail: alan.gecenschatz@tnt.com
Internet: www.tnt.com
UPS DE ARGENTINA S.A.
Mr. Gonzalo Barreiro, General Manager
Bernardo de Irigoyen 974
C1072AAJ Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4339-2877/2811
Fax: (54-11) 4307-2182
E-mail: rfernandez@ups.com
Internet: www.ups.com
Hotels in Argentina
ALVEAR PALACE HOTEL
Av. Alvear 1891
C1129AAA Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4808-2100
Fax: (54-11) 4804-0034/9246
E-mail: info@alvearpalace.com.ar
Internet: www.alvearpalace.com
Comments: Five Stars
ASPEN SUITES
Esmeralda 933
C1007ABK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4313-9011
Fax: (54-11) 4313-8059
E-mail: sales@aspensuites.com.ar
Internet: www.aspensuites.com.ar
Comments: Apart Hotel
ASPEN TOWERS HOTEL
Paraguay 857
C1057AAK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4313-1919
Fax: (54-11) 4313-2662
E-mail: sales@aspentowers.com.ar
Internet: www.aspentowers.com.ar
3/4/2008

Comments: Five Stars
BUENOS AIRES SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS
San Martin 1225/1275
C1104AKC Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4318-9000
Fax: (54-11) 4318-9346
E-mail: reservas@sheraton.com.ar
Internet: www.sheraton.com/buenosaires
Comments: Five Stars
CEASAR PARK BUENOS AIRES
Posadas 1232
C1011ABF Buenos Aires
Phone (54-11) 4819-1100
Fax (54-11) 4819-1120
E-mail: hotel@caesar-park.com
Internet: www.caesarpark.com.ar
Comments: Five Stars
CLARIDGE HOTEL S.A.
Tucumán 535
C1049AAK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4314-2020/7700
Fax: (54-11) 4314-8022
E-mail: reservations@claridge-hotel.com
Internet: www.claridge-hotel.com.ar
Comments: Five Stars
CROWNE PLAZA PANAMERICANO BUENOS AIRES
Carlos Pellegrini 525/551
C1009ABK Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4348-5000
Fax: (54-11) 4348-5250
E-mail: hotel@crowneplaza.com.ar
Internet: www.buenosaires.crowneplaza.com
Comments: Five Stars
EL CONQUISTADOR HOTEL
Suipacha 948
C1008AAT Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4328-3012/ 1-800-44-UTELL(88355)
Fax: (54-11) 4328-3252
E-mail: mailhotel@elconquistador.com.ar
Internet: www.elconquistador.com.ar
Comments: Four Stars
EMPERADOR BUENOS AIRES
Av. Del Libertador 420
C1001ABR Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4131-4000
3/4/2008

Fax: (54-11) 4131-3900
E-mail: info@hotel-emperador.com.ar
Internet: www.hotel-emperador.com.ar
Comments: Five Stars
ETOILE HOTEL
Pte. Roberto M. Ortiz 1835
C1113ABA Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4805-2626
Fax: (54-11) 4805-3613
E-mail: reservas@etoile.com.ar
Internet: www.etoile.com.ar
Comments: Four Stars
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BUENOS AIRES
Posadas 1086
C1011ABB Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4321-1200
Fax: (54-11) 4321-1201
E-mail: reservations.bue@fourseasons.com
Internet: www.fourseasons.com/buenosaires
Comments: Five Stars
HILTON BUENOS AIRES
Macacha Güemes 351
C1106BKG Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4891-0000
Fax: (54-11) 4891-0001
E-mail: reservations.hilton@imsa.com
Internet: www.buenosaires.hilton.com
Comments: Five Stars
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
Av. Leandro N. Alem 770
C1001AAP Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4311-5200
Fax: (54-11) 4311-5757
E-mail: reservas@holiday.com.ar
Internet: www.hiexpress.com
Comments: Four Stars
HOTEL PARK PLAZA/CENTRAL PARK PLAZA
Av. Roque Séenz Peña 1174
C1035AAT Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 6777-0300
Fax: (54-11) 6777-0330
E-mail: reservas@parkplazahotels.com
Internet: www.parkplazahotels.com
Comments: Four Stars
PARK HYATT BUENOS AIRES – PALACIO DUHAU
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Av. Alvear 1661,
C1014AAD, Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 5171-1234
Fax: (54-11) 5171-1235
E-mail: reservations.phbuenosaires@hyattint.com
Internet: www.buenosaires.park.hyatt.com
Comments: Five Stars
INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL
Moreno 809
C1091AAQ Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4340-7100
Fax: (54-11) 4340-7199
E-mail: reservas@interconti.com.ar
Internet: www.interconti.com.ar
Comments: Five Stars
MARRIOTT PLAZA HOTEL
Florida 1005
C1005AAU Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4318-3000
Fax: (54-11) 4318-3008
E-mail: reservations@marriott.com.ar
Internet: www.hoteles.marriott.com.ar/marriott-plaza-hotel-buenos-aires/
Comments: Five Stars
PARK HYATT MENDOZA & REGENCY CASINO MENDOZA
Chile 1124
M5500EOJ Mendoza
Phone: (54-261) 441-1234
Fax: (54-261) 441-1235
E-mail: mailto:phm-reservas@hyattintl.com
Internet: www.mendoza.park.hyatt.com
Comments: Five Stars - Province of Mendoza
REGENTE PALACE HOTEL
Suipacha 964
C1008AAT Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4328-6800
Fax: (54-11) 4328-7460
E-mail: reservas@reservas.com.ar
Internet: www.regente.com
Comments: Four Stars
SHERATON LIBERTADOR HOTEL
Avenida Cordoba 690
C1054AAS Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-11) 4321-0000 / 4322-8800
Fax: (54-11) 4322-9703
E-mail: sheraton@libertador-hotel.com.ar
Internet:
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www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1195
Comments: Five Stars
SHERATON CORDOBA HOTEL
Av. Duarte Quiros 1300
X5000ALZ Cordoba
Phone: (54-351) 526-9000
Fax: (54-351) 526-9150
E-mail: reservas@sheratoncordoba.com
Internet:
www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=108
Comments: Five Stars - Province of Cordoba
SHERATON PILAR HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER
Panamericana Km 49.5
Gral. M.M. De Guemes & Los Almendros
B1629 Pilar, Buenos Aires
Phone: (54-2322) 47-4400
Fax: (54-2322) 47-4450
E-mail: reservas@pilar.sheraton.com.ar
Internet:
www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1286
Comments: Five Stars - Province of Buenos Aires
SHERATON MAR DEL PLATA
Av. Alem 4221
B7602DXC Mar del Plata
Phone/Fax: (54-0223) 414-0000 / 4999000
E-mail: reservas@mardel.sheraton.com.ar
Internet:
www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=113
Comments: Five Stars - Province of Buenos Aires
For additional listings or to make corrections to this list, please contact the U.S.
Commercial Service Buenos Aires at Buenos.Aires.Office.Box@mail.doc.gov.
Market Research Return to top
To view market research reports produced by the U.S. Commercial Service please go to
the following website: www.export.gov/mrktresearch and click on Country and Industry
Market Reports.
Please note that these reports are only available to U.S. citizens and U.S. companies.
Registration to the site is required, but free of charge.
Trade Events Return to top
Please click on the link below for information on upcoming trade events.
3/4/2008

www.export.gov/tradeevents
Return to table of contents
3/4/2008

Return to table of contents
Chapter 10: Guide to Our Services
The U.S. Commercial Service offers customized solutions to help your business enter
and succeed in markets worldwide. Our global network of trade specialists will work
one-on-one with you through every step of the exporting process, helping you to:
3/4/2008
Target the best markets with our world-class research
Promote your products and services to qualified buyers
Meet the best distributors and agents for your products and services
Overcome potential challenges or trade barriers
For more information on the services the U.S. Commercial Service offers U.S.
businesses, please click on the link below.
www.comerciousa.org/Argentina/en/Content_Pages/Our_Products_Services_2.asp
Return to table of contents
U.S. exporters seeking general export information/assistance or country-specific commercial
information should consult with their nearest Export Assistance Center or the U.S. Department
of Commerce's Trade Information Center at (800) USA-TRADE, or go to the following website:
http://www.export.gov
To the best of our knowledge, the information contained in this report is accurate as of the date
published. However, The Department of Commerce does not take responsibility for actions
readers may take based on the information contained herein. Readers should always conduct
their own due diligence before entering into business ventures or other commercial
arrangements. The Department of Commerce can assist companies in these endeavors.