Argentina's Economy Minister Luis Caputo defended the opening of the automotive market, stating it is a measure that benefits 'all Argentines.' The official responded to statements by Deputy Miguel Ángel Pichetto, who criticized the import of 7,000 electric vehicles arriving from China. 'Only 2 car models are produced in our country (Peugeot 2008 and Fiat Cronos). China's industry is subsidized by its central bank, and no one can compete with a subsidized industry,' the legislator stated. Pichetto speculated that 'we will have problems with the Americans.' Argentina essentially produces pickups, and 70% of that production is exported,' Caputo noted in a social media post. The minister emphasized that 'the import of hybrid or electric cars without tariffs was agreed upon with the automotive industry itself and has a limit of 50,000 cars per year.' 'Of that quota, only half can come from Chinese brands, representing less than 5% of car registrations in 2025,' added the minister. Caputo also highlighted that this measure helped car prices in the country converge with those of neighboring countries (even lower in some cases) and spurred the development of electric infrastructure, encouraging projects for electric pickup manufacturing. 'Additionally, it allowed Argentines to choose from a wider variety of cars with different technologies and lower maintenance costs,' said Caputo. Finally, he concluded: 'In conclusion, it has been a measure that has benefited all Argentines.'
