Argentine Ministry of Economy Announces Industry and Commerce Initiatives

This document outlines the implementation of a simplified import regime for small shipments of native merchandise produced under a specific industrial regime (Law No. 19,640) in argentina.Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Core Decree and its Purpose:

Decree No. 334 (May 19, 2025): This decree establishes a simplified import regime for small shipments of native merchandise.
Target Audience: These shipments are destined for individual persons in the continental national territory for their personal use and consumption only. Commercialization is prohibited.
Eligibility: Only companies that have adhered to the extension provided by Decree No. 727/21 (and its amendments) are eligible to participate in this simplified regime. Product requirement: The products included in these shipments must also be attached to the regime provided for in Decree No. 727/21.

Key Requirements and Authority:

Origin Accreditation: A crucial aspect of this regime is that the imported merchandise must have corresponding accreditation of origin.This is in line with the requirements of Law No. 19,640 and its complementary regulations.
Authority of Application: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce of the Ministry of Economy is empowered as the implementing authority for Law No. 19,640.
Determining Marketable Merchandise: This Ministry is responsible for determining which merchandise can be marketed under the simplified import regime.

Procedural Basis:

Resolution No. 4.712 (November 10, 1980): This resolution from the National Customs Administration, specifically its Annex XIV, establishes the procedure for accrediting the origin of products manufactured in the special customs area.
Synergy: The document emphasizes that the simplified import regime’s origin accreditation must align with the procedure outlined in Resolution No. 4.712/80 to ensure traceability,transparency,and compliance with the customs promotional Regime.The Resolution Issued:

Article 1: This article establishes the specific list of merchandise that can be imported under the simplified regime. This list is detailed in an Annex (IF-2025-69658093-APN-DPAYRE#MEC) which is an integral part of the resolution. It reiterates that origin must be obtained in accordance with Resolution No. 4.712/80.
Article 2: This states that the resolution comes into effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette.
Article 3: This covers the administrative steps of communication, publication, notification to the National Directorate of the Official Registry, and filing.

In essence, this document is a regulatory measure that further defines and operationalizes a specific, simplified import process within Argentina, focusing on small shipments of locally produced goods for personal consumption, with a strong emphasis on origin verification to ensure compliance with wider industrial and customs regulations.

What specific sectors, beyond the automotive industry, are targeted for growth thru these new initiatives?

Boosting Argentinian Manufacturing: New Credit Lines & Export Incentives

Buenos Aires – Today, the Argentine Ministry of Economy unveiled a comprehensive package of initiatives designed to stimulate industrial production and bolster international trade. These measures, announced July 18, 2025, aim to address ongoing economic challenges and position Argentina for sustained growth in key sectors. The core of the plan revolves around increased access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and enhanced incentives for exporters.

key Components of the Economic Plan

The Ministry outlined several crucial elements of the new program:

expanded ProCredit lines: A significant increase in available credit lines specifically tailored for industrial SMEs. These lines offer preferential interest rates and extended repayment terms, focusing on modernization, technological upgrades, and working capital.The initial funding allocation is set at $500 million USD, with potential for expansion based on demand.

export Incentive program (PIE 2.0): A revamped version of the existing Programa de Incentivos para Exportaciones (Export Incentive Program). PIE 2.0 offers increased reimbursement rates for export-related costs, including logistics, marketing, and certification.This is especially aimed at value-added exports, encouraging diversification beyond primary commodities.

Investment in Infrastructure: A commitment to invest in critical infrastructure projects – including port modernization, road improvements, and energy grid upgrades – to reduce logistical bottlenecks and lower the cost of doing business.

Streamlined Regulatory Processes: The Ministry pledged to simplify bureaucratic procedures for businesses, reducing red tape and accelerating the approval process for new investments and export licenses. This includes a digital platform for streamlined permit applications.

Focus on Strategic Sectors: prioritization of support for sectors identified as having high growth potential,including:

Agribusiness: Expanding processing capacity and promoting exports of value-added agricultural products.

Renewable Energy: Incentivizing investment in solar, wind, and bioenergy projects.

Technology & Innovation: Supporting the growth of Argentina’s burgeoning tech sector through grants and tax breaks.

Automotive Industry: Modernization programs and incentives for electric vehicle production.

Impact on Argentinian Businesses: A Sector-by-Sector Breakdown

the initiatives are expected to have a varied impact across different sectors of the Argentinian economy.

Agribusiness: The enhanced export incentives will be particularly beneficial for agricultural exporters,allowing them to compete more effectively in international markets. Expect increased investment in food processing facilities and a rise in exports of processed foods.

Manufacturing: The ProCredit lines will provide much-needed capital for manufacturers to upgrade their equipment, improve efficiency, and expand production capacity. This is crucial for revitalizing the industrial sector and creating jobs.

Technology Sector: The focus on innovation and technology will attract investment in startups and established tech companies, fostering the development of new products and services. Argentina has a growing reputation as a hub for software development and IT outsourcing.

renewable Energy: The incentives for renewable energy projects will accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy mix and reduce Argentina’s reliance on fossil fuels.This aligns with global sustainability goals and creates opportunities for green investment.

Financing Details & Eligibility Criteria

The ProCredit lines are administered through a network of participating banks. Eligibility criteria include:

1. SME Status: Businesses must be classified as small or medium-sized enterprises according to Argentinian regulations.
2. Tax Compliance: Applicants must be fully compliant with all tax obligations.
3. Project Viability: A detailed business plan outlining the proposed project and its financial projections is required.
4. Collateral: Depending on the loan amount, collateral may be required.

the PIE 2.0 program offers reimbursement rates of up to 10% of the value of eligible export costs. Detailed details on eligibility criteria and request procedures can be found on the Ministry of Economy’s website. [Link to official website would be inserted here]*

Real-World Example: Automotive Industry Revitalization

In 2024, the Ministry implemented a pilot program offering tax incentives for the production of electric vehicles. This resulted in a 20% increase in EV production within six months, demonstrating the potential of targeted incentives to drive growth in strategic sectors.The current initiatives build upon this success, aiming to replicate it across a wider range of industries.

Benefits for Foreign Investors

These initiatives create a