The Government authorizes the importation of used cranes, trucks, and motorhomes

The national Executive Branch officially announced this Friday a long-awaited measure by various sectors: the authorization to import used special-purpose vehicles, including motorhomes or self-propelled recreational vehicles. The decision was established in Decree 293/2025, published in the Official Gazette, and is part of a scheme designed by the Secretariat of Industry and Commerce, headed by Esteban Marzoratti.

The measure replaces a regulation in force since 1999 that prevented the nationalization of used vehicles, except for specific exceptions. With this new resolution, the Government aims to benefit both private users and companies in the mining, construction, logistics, recreation, and events sectors.

Which used vehicles are authorized to enter?

The new regime authorizes the importation of the following vehicles, provided they are used, for special purposes, and meet technical and safety requirements:

• Self-propelled motorhomes: recreational vehicles with an integrated engine, with no need for towing. Traditional trailers without their own traction are not allowed.
• Tractors and heavy vehicles with special traction: 4x4 or 6x6, for specific tasks on difficult terrain.
• Off-road semi-trailer tractors: ideal for mining, agriculture, or large-scale works.
• High-capacity crane trucks: used in large-scale construction projects.
• Heavy-duty trucks (4 or more axles): for transporting up to 20 metric tons (44,092 pounds), including on public roads.
• Self-propelled forestry machines: equipped for logging and timber transport.
• Specialized vehicles for specific services: fire trucks, snowplows, concrete pumps, industrial cleaning vehicles, among others.

What about used cars?

The importation of used cars for private use remains prohibited by the Economic Complementation Agreement No. 14 (ACE 14) signed between Argentina and Brazil within the framework of Mercosur.

This agreement, in force until 2029, prevents the entry of used vehicles between both countries and establishes a common external tariff of 35% for cars from outside Mercosur. For this reason, the project promoted by Federico Sturzenegger to allow the free importation of used cars by individuals did not succeed.

Circulation and registration requirements

Vehicles entering under this regime and authorized to circulate on public roads—such as self-propelled motorhomes—must comply with the National Traffic Law (No. 24,449) and current environmental and road safety regulations.

Additionally, as is the case with brand new cars recently authorized for personal importation, international certifications may be used to facilitate the registration process, which seeks to streamline procedures and reduce costs for users.