ARCA denied an increase in controls and sanctions for purchases on Shein

In recent days, a false news story began circulating on social media and some media outlets, causing concern among thousands of Argentine consumers. According to that version, the Revenue and Customs Control Agency (ARCA) would apply new strict controls on purchases made on platforms such as Shein or Temu, even going so far as to "block" and "hold" shipments that do not comply with this rule.

However, ARCA categorically denied this information. Through an official statement, the agency clarified that no changes have been implemented in the controls on foreign purchases through courier services, and that the viralized news is "completely false."

"The news that is circulating is FALSE, the process remains the same. No additional control requirement has been caused for this type of shipment," the agency stated.

The false news claimed that ARCA would begin to block those purchases on Shein that do not meet the agency's requirements. The supposed measure only applied to packages sent by Correo Argentino.

Supposedly, the procedure had to be carried out after receiving the purchase at their homes, and it had to be the notification that the order was received, which had to be done within "30 days after receipt." If that step was not completed, ARCA could prohibit making further orders on Shein, something that turned out to be completely false.

Far from tightening controls, ARCA carried out a simplification of the Courier Regime, the system that allows importing products from abroad quickly and simply. This change aims to further increase transparency in operations and facilitate imports for individual consumers.

According to current regulations, products can be received by courier with a value of up to USD 400 without paying import duties or statistical fees. Only Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied and, if applicable, internal taxes.

This measure directly benefits those who purchase clothing, accessories, or household items from digital stores such as Shein, Temu, Amazon, or similar, as long as they respect the limits established by the simplified regime.

ARCA also recommended that citizens get information only through official channels, such as its website, and avoid spreading content without verifying its accuracy.