Doing Business with Argentina

1. Research Market Demand

   • Identify the demand for your product in Argentina.
   • Analyze competition and local market conditions.

2. Understand Export Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with Argentina’s import regulations and tariffs.
   • Ensure compliance with international trade laws.

3. Product Classification

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your product.

4. Documentation Preparation

   • Prepare necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

5. Find a Local Partner

   • Identify a local distributor or agent to navigate local logistics and regulations.

6. Register with Argentine Customs

   • Ensure your business is registered with Argentina’s customs authorities.

7. Comply with Standards

   • Adhere to Argentina’s product standards and labeling requirements.

8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider familiar with Argentine imports.
   • Decide on the mode of transport and manage insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your local partner to manage customs clearance upon product arrival.

10. Payment and Financing

    • Establish a secure payment method.
    • Consider export insurance or financing options if needed.

Key Contacts

• Argentine Customs (AFIP)
  • Website: AFIP
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
  • Website: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Argentina Chamber of Commerce
  • Website: Cámara Argentina de Comercio

Here’s a general guide on how to import goods into Argentina:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand Argentina’s import laws and tariff classifications.
   • Check for any restrictions on your products.

2. Obtain Import Licenses

   • Determine if your products require specific import licenses or permits.

3. Register with Argentine Customs

   • Ensure your business is registered with Argentina’s customs (AFIP).

4. Classify Your Goods

   • Use the Harmonized System (HS) code to classify your goods correctly.

5. Find a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with documentation and regulations.

6. Prepare Required Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin.

7. Ensure Compliance with Standards

   • Meet Argentina’s standards and labeling requirements for your products.

8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and arrange for transportation and insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your customs broker to ensure smooth customs clearance.

10. Payment of Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties, taxes, and fees.

Key Contacts

• Argentine Customs (AFIP)
  • Website: AFIP
• Ministry of Production and Labor
  • Website: Ministry of Productive Development
• Argentine Chamber of Importers
  • Website: Cámara de Importadores de la República Argentina

Here’s a guide on how to incorporate a company in Argentina:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of entity (e.g., SRL, SA).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Check and reserve your company name with the Office of Corporations (IGJ).

3. Draft the Bylaws

   • Prepare the company’s bylaws with the help of a notary.

4. Deposit Initial Capital

   • Open a bank account and deposit the minimum capital required.

5. Register with the Public Registry

   • Submit the bylaws and incorporation documents to the IGJ.

6. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (CUIT)

   • Register with the Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP).

7. Register for Social Security

   • Register your company for social security and pensions.

8. Obtain Municipal Licenses

   • Apply for any necessary local business licenses.

9. Register Employees

   • Enroll employees in the social security system.

Costs

• Notary Fees: Varies, generally around $1,000 to $2,000 USD.
• Initial Capital Requirement: Depends on the type of company; typically around $300 USD for SRL, higher for SA.
• Registration Fees: Approximately $100 to $500 USD.

Key Contacts

• Office of Corporations (IGJ)
  • Website: IGJ
• Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP)
  • Website: AFIP
• Ministry of Production and Labor
  • Website: Ministry of Productive Development

Here’s a guide on how to set up a manufacturing plant in Argentina:

1. Conduct Feasibility Study

   • Analyze the market, costs, and location benefits.

2. Choose a Legal Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity (e.g., SRL, SA).

3. Register the Company

   • Follow incorporation steps: reserve name, draft bylaws, register with IGJ, and obtain CUIT.

4. Select a Location

   • Choose a strategic location considering logistics, access to resources, and workforce availability.

5. Acquire Land and Permits

   • Purchase or lease land and obtain necessary construction and environmental permits.

6. Design and Build the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and construct the plant.

7. Install Machinery and Equipment

   • Purchase and set up manufacturing equipment.

8. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled labor and provide necessary training.

9. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

   • Adhere to safety, environmental, and labor regulations.

10. Register with Relevant Authorities

    • Register with municipal authorities and obtain operational licenses.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Productive Development
  • Website: Ministry of Productive Development
• Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP)
  • Website: AFIP
• National Institute of Industrial Technology (INTI)
  • Website: INTI

Here’s a guide on how to register a trademark in Argentina:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check for existing trademarks to avoid conflicts using the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) database.

2. Prepare Application

   • Gather necessary information: trademark name, logo, class of goods/services.

3. Submit Application

   • File the application with INPI online or in person.

4. Pay Fees

   • Pay the required application fee, approximately $50 to $100 USD, depending on the trademark class.

5. Examination Process

   • INPI examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication in Official Bulletin

   • If approved, your trademark is published for opposition, allowing third parties to contest.

7. Opposition Period

   • Wait for a 30-day period for any oppositions. If opposed, legal proceedings may ensue.

8. Registration and Issuance

   • If no opposition, or once resolved, INPI registers your trademark and issues a certificate.

9. Renewal

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Key Contacts

• National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI)
  • Website: INPI

Here’s an overview of key factors related to doing business in Argentina:

Social Factors

• Language: Spanish is the official language. Understanding local dialects and business jargon is beneficial.
• Business Culture: Personal relationships are important. Building trust and networking are crucial for success.

Cultural Factors

• Work Ethic: Punctuality is valued, but meetings may start later than scheduled. Face-to-face meetings are preferred.
• Communication Style: Argentinians are generally warm and expressive. Non-verbal communication plays a significant role.

Political Factors

• Government Structure: Argentina is a federal presidential constitutional republic.
• Regulations: Frequent changes in regulations can impact business operations. Staying informed is essential.

Economic Factors

• Foreign Exchange: The Argentine peso can be volatile. Currency fluctuations may affect costs and pricing.
• Inflation: Historically high inflation rates can impact purchasing power and financial planning.

Legal and Regulatory Environment

• Rule of Law: Legal processes can be slow. It’s important to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Intellectual Property: Protecting intellectual property can be challenging. Register trademarks and patents with INPI.

Additional Considerations

• Infrastructure: While urban areas are well-developed, rural regions may lack infrastructure.
• Market Access: Argentina is part of Mercosur, offering access to regional markets.

Relevant URLs

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI): INPI
• Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP): AFIP