Argentina Facts and Figures

Geography and Key Cities in Argentina

Argentina, located in the southern part of South America, stretches across varied terrains, from the Andes Mountains in the west to the expansive Pampas plains and Patagonian region. Its capital, Buenos Aires, serves as a cultural and economic center, known for its European-style architecture and bustling metropolitan life. Other significant cities include Córdoba, Rosario, and Mendoza, each contributing to Argentina’s diverse landscape and economy. Argentina’s international presence includes its membership in organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (joined in 1995), and the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR), which it co-founded in 1991.

Historical and Economic Transformations

Argentina has experienced pivotal events shaping its political and economic landscape. The 20th century saw the rise of Peronism, a political movement led by Juan Domingo Perón, which has profoundly influenced the nation’s governance and social policies. The economic crisis of 2001 marked one of the country’s most transformative periods, resulting in severe economic decline and social unrest but ultimately sparking financial reforms that helped stabilize the economy. In recent decades, Argentina has focused on economic diversification, and while challenges remain, this transformation highlights the country’s resilience and capacity for growth amidst adversity.

Demographic Insights

Argentina's population reached 46.65 million in 2023, growing at 0.9%, with a population density of 17 people per square kilometer. The country's striking 92.5% urbanization rate in 2023 reflects a predominantly city-dwelling society, shaping economic patterns and infrastructure needs. The working-age population comprises 65% of the total, providing strong economic potential, while the median age of 32 years in 2024 indicates a relatively youthful demographic. Despite these advantages, the fertility rate of 1.9 in 2022 remains below replacement level, raising concerns about long-term population sustainability. Health metrics demonstrate ongoing progress, with life expectancy at 76 years, while the crude death rate of 8.6 per 1,000 people and infant mortality rate of 8.4 per 1,000 live births in 2022 suggest room for continued healthcare improvements.

Economic Overview

Argentina’s economy displayed significant dynamics in 2023, with a GDP of $640.6 billion, positioning it 22nd globally. Despite a GDP growth rate of 5.0%, inflation surged from 133.5% in 2023 to 249.8% in 2024, challenging purchasing power and cost management. The nation recorded a trade deficit of $6.9 billion in goods, with imports at $73.7 billion and exports at $66.8 billion. Unemployment saw slight improvement, declining to 6.1% in 2023 from 6.8% in 2022, signaling job recovery efforts. Sectoral contributions reveal economic structure: agriculture represents 6.6% of GDP, manufacturing 16.1%, industry 24.2%, and services a dominant 53.1% as of 2022. Market research in Argentina can assist businesses in navigating the shifting economic landscape, especially given the complex interplay between inflation and trade deficits.

Fiscal Overview

Argentina’s Net Official Development Assistance (ODA) reached 0.1% of its Gross National Income (GNI) in 2022, underscoring limited dependency on foreign aid. Meanwhile, the government’s net lending/borrowing balance registered at -4.25% of GDP in 2023, widening from -3.85% in 2022. In terms of public debt, the. central government debt was reported at 84.47% of GDP in 2022, a significant increase from 40.44% in 2012.

Defense Allocation

Argentina’s military employed 74,000 personnel as of 2016, representing 16.9% of the population, a relatively modest force in size. In 2022, military spending accounted for just 0.4% of GDP, indicating restrained defense allocation compared to global standards. This minimal expenditure suggests prioritization of other sectors over defense, possibly due to Argentina’s stable geopolitical stance and economic constraints.

Conclusion

Argentina’s diverse economy, demographic trends, and evolving digital landscape present unique opportunities and challenges for businesses. Understanding the dynamics of these sectors is essential for informed decision-making and strategic planning. Partnering with a market research agency in Argentina provides valuable insights into consumer preferences, market conditions, and competitive landscapes. This collaboration allows organizations to leverage local knowledge, ensuring they can navigate the complexities of the Argentine market effectively. With comprehensive data at their disposal, companies can identify growth opportunities, refine their strategies, and enhance their overall market presence in this dynamic environment.