Argentina closed a week with significant developments in economic, social, and political matters. According to official data, the economy continues to grow, there was a significant decrease in poverty and indigence levels, and new control and transparency policies were implemented in various areas of the State.
Sustained economic growth
According to INDEC figures, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) showed strong growth: 6.1% in the first quarter of 2024 and 8.1% in the second. This economic boost was also reflected in social data.
Sharp drop in poverty
According to a report by the Argentine Catholic University (UCA), poverty decreased by 17% and indigence by 13.1% in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the last quarter of 2023.
Overseas voting by postal mail
Argentines residing abroad will be able to vote by postal mail. The measure seeks to guarantee the civil rights of those living outside the country, "respecting the essential principle that citizenship doesn't expire by residing outside the national territory's borders."
More clarity in purchase receipts
Since April, all businesses in the country are required to itemize the tax cost on their receipts. This decision aims to provide greater transparency to consumers.
Import tariffs on clothing reduced
The Government reduced import tariffs on clothing, footwear, and fabrics. The measure aims to reduce the final price of these products for Argentine consumers.
Restructuring in electric transportation
The Federal Electric Transportation Trust Fund was dissolved, following an audit by SIGEN that detected non-compliance, delays in works, unaudited financial statements, and lack of inflation adjustment. From now on, the tasks will be absorbed by the Energy Secretariat.
Electric cars: strong demand and zero tariff
The first call for the import regime of hybrid and electric vehicles with zero tariff closed. Requests were submitted for more than 30,000 units, which will begin entering the country during 2025. It is estimated that the models will reach the market with prices starting at USD 21,000.
Funding cut to million-dollar human rights fund
The Government suspended funding to a fund managed by 13 human rights organizations that handled 3 billion pesos annually without controls or oversight.
Community Feeding Program with more control
The Ministry of Human Capital renewed the Community Feeding Program, adding digital tools, simplified processes, and more control mechanisms. Among them are virtual verification visits and a geolocation app that allows checking the existence and operation of community kitchens.
Automotive investment: Volkswagen's bet
The automaker Volkswagen announced an investment of 580 million dollars for the production of a new pickup in Argentina. The model will be exported to Latin American markets, and its production is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Energy: new pipeline from Vaca Muerta
The company Oldelval inaugurated a pipeline connecting Vaca Muerta with Puerto Rosales. The fully private investment will allow exporting up to 315,000 additional barrels of oil per day.
Milei honored the fallen in Malvinas and was awarded in the U.S.
President Javier Milei led the ceremony for the 43rd anniversary of the Malvinas War in Plaza San Martín, where he paid tribute to veterans and the fallen. Days later, he participated in the "American Patriot" gala in the United States, where he received the "Lion of Liberty" award for his defense of liberal ideas.
