Additional measures to encourage competition
Along with the tariff reduction, the Government eliminated several customs regulations that increased import costs:
The Executive emphasized that the measure seeks to align tariffs with those of neighboring countries like Uruguay
Along with the tariff reduction, the Government eliminated several customs regulations that increased import costs:
From the Secretariat of Industry and Commerce, they stated that these decisions aim to promote competition and reduce inflation, in line with the policies implemented during 2024.
From the Argentine Industrial Union (UIA), they expressed their concern, pointing out that the measure was applied without a complementary agenda to strengthen "local competitiveness."
"In recent months, we have warned of the need to reduce internal costs that hinder competition. With the current levels of tax pressure, informality, and lack of access to credit, competing with imports under these conditions is unequal and unfair", they indicated from the UIA.
Regarding the impact on prices, they noted that in January, the textile sector increased by only 0.6%, while clothing rose by 1%, well below other sectors.
The national Government announced a reduction in import tariffs for textiles, footwear, yarns, and fabrics, with the aim of promoting competition and reducing prices in the local market, which are among the highest in the region and the world.
Through Decree 236/2025, the tariffs were set as follows:
A report from the Secretariat of Commerce, which compared prices in Argentina with England, Spain, Mexico, Uruguay, the U.S., France, Brazil, and Chile, revealed that the country has the most expensive clothing in the region.
Examples from the survey:
The Executive highlighted that the measure seeks to align tariffs with those of neighboring countries like Uruguay, where imports pay 20% plus a 5% consular fee, and Paraguay, which applies a 10% tariff on clothing and footwear imports.
