The tax specialist, Dr. Laura María Valle, indicated that Trump's protectionist measures could be a catalyst for Argentina to diversify its markets, modernize productive sectors, and strengthen its economy against future global scenarios. Imports from the United States could be affected if Argentina imposes reciprocal tariffs on American products in response to Trump's measures.
"Argentina should evaluate whether to keep the United States as its third trading partner or to diversify its markets," Valle emphasized. In the face of rising costs and commercial uncertainty, Argentine entrepreneurs may seek suppliers and customers in other markets to mitigate risks associated with U.S. trade policies, which would generate uncertainty in international trade due to fluctuations in prices and availability of products.
Regarding the free trade agreement with the United States, President Trump has mentioned the possibility of reaching an agreement with Argentina, but a decision has not yet been made. From Valle's perspective, Argentina should prioritize the consolidation and expansion of existing markets to negotiate new accesses and attract investments to the country.
Trump's new measures could raise export tariffs to Argentina, which would impact local productive sectors. In this situation, the specialist suggests that Argentina reduce taxes on imports of goods from the United States to improve the trade balance and strengthen the national economy.
On the strategic positioning of Argentina in this new global context, Valle warns that escalation in the "trade war" with the United States could provoke trade reprisals from the South American country, such as non-tariff barriers. This would generate uncertainty in international trade and discourage investments, according to Dr. Valle.
Despite the challenges that may arise, Trump's tariff policies could drive the local industry to modernize, improve product quality, promote domestic production, and encourage reforms that make the Argentine economy more resilient to external shocks. This could strengthen sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and agriculture, generating employment and increasing domestic production.
