Argentina – Market Opportunity Overview

Argentina is the world’s 23rd largest economy. It is a valuable trade and investment partner for the UK due to its diverse economy, rich natural resources and strategic location in South America. The two countries have established strong bilateral agreements, including a double taxation agreement and an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, which facilitate smoother business operations and investment flows.

Argentina’s new president, Javier Milei, is implementing sweeping reforms aimed at revitalising the economy and attracting inward investment and international trade. His administration has passed significant legislation to reduce public spending, cut subsidies, privatise state owned companies and deregulate the economy, granting private firms greater flexibility in hiring and firing workers. These reforms include tax breaks and incentives for foreign investors, designed to create a more business-friendly environment. In addition, Milei’s policies focus on reducing the fiscal deficit, transferring public works to the provinces and boosting investor confidence – despite facing substantial political opposition and public protests. By aligning Argentina’s foreign policy more closely with Western nations, Milei aims to open new avenues for international trade.

Argentina’s growing market offers numerous opportunities for UK businesses to expand their exports, in sectors including:

• Infrastructure – rail, ports, water and airports; climate adaptation and innovative finance solutions for the infrastructure sector;
• Security – cyber, technology, drones, systems for private security;
• Mining – where lithium is the big opportunity, alongside large deposits of Copper, Gold and Silver.

The UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) supports an ongoing dialogue between the UK and Argentina, aimed at enhancing trade links and uncovering new investment opportunities. We are delighted to welcome DBT colleagues to share insights on Argentina’s strategic priorities and resulting opportunities for UK plc.