Our Market

From soybeans to petrochemicals, livestock to cars, Argentina has it all. With a rich and diverse economy — and a highly literate, skilled population — this proud country has weathered the recent economic storms, and has tremendous prospects for the future. Argentina’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in the Americas for the last decade, with more growth forecasted as its neighbors catch up.

Argentine richness and diversity starts with its stunning geography, as it spans both the Southern and Western Hemispheres. This unique positioning gives rise to a variety of climates and cultures for each. The country can be roughly divided into four parts

• The fertile plains in the heart of the country, which is the source of Argentina’s agricultural wealth.
• The subtropical flats of the north.
• The rugged Andes mountain range rising along the western border (with Chile).
• The flat to rolling oil-rich plateau of Patagonia in the southern half.

Argentina’s raw material production is the base of the country’s growing economy; it is the world’s leading exporter of soy oil and soy meal, the number-two exporter of corn, and the third-largest soybean exporter. In fact, the Argentine economy grew before and during the global economic downturn, thanks to a soybean export boom — and a record soybean crop is predicted for 2013.

In addition, with approximately 60 million head of cattle, Argentina’s beef is world-renowned. Argentina is also the world’s fifth-largest wine producer, from the Mendoza region on the western border.

A visit to the subtropical climate of the Gran Chaco in the north, appropriately named “The Impenetrable,” is a model of conservation. This unique ecosystem is home to indigenous peoples and an incredible diversity of animals and plants, including many endangered species. Recently, the Gran Chaco has suffered environmental degradation and extensive habitat destruction. But Argentina, in cooperation with Bolivia and Paraguay, has been aggressive in trying to conserve this valuable land. The overall environmental benefits will be reduced rates of deforestation, regeneration of native vegetation and strengthening of conservation areas that contribute to the recovery of ecosystem functions and services, including water availability. Most important, achieving environmental balance will help the inhabitants of the Gran Chaco to enjoy improved livelihoods.

The Andes, the highest mountain range outside of Asia, is one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations. It has tremendous economic value as well, with rich mineral deposits such as copper, tin, lead, zinc, gold, silver, and uranium. There are also plans to build tunnels through the Andes to link train and trucking hubs on both sides — a project that could result in an economic boom, with millions saved in cargo fees, reduced time to market, and more competitive trade for all involved.

The economic climate of Argentina is rapidly changing, and Argentine businesses are poised for success. Executives can find opportunities to contribute to this success if they align with a local partner — like Boyden.  We have been a presence in Buenos Aires for over two decades, and are owned and managed by Argentinians themselves with access to Boyden’s global resources.  We look forward to introducing you to this diverse and exciting country.

Links of Interest

Worldbank: Argentina

Central Bank of Argentina

Argentina Ministry of Tourism