Economy Country March 17, 2025

Official Dollar in Argentina: exchange rate and purchases until March 2025

The official dollar in Argentina is at $1.088. The volatility of the dollar has been lower in the last year. Find out how to buy MEP dollar and the PAIS tax.


Official Dollar in Argentina: exchange rate and purchases until March 2025

The official dollar price in Argentina is calculated by dividing the value in pesos by the dollar quotation. Some banks allow this operation through their home banking platforms, although it is important to check if they apply commissions for this. The process involves logging into home banking, selecting the 'Investments' or 'MEP dollar' option, choosing the amount in pesos, reviewing the details, and confirming the transaction.

At the opening of the markets on Monday, March 17, 2025, the official dollar price at Banco de la Nación Argentina was $1,088, maintaining a variation of 0 compared to the previous day. In the last week, the volatility of the official dollar was 0.91%, significantly lower than the annual volatility of 1.25%, indicating more stable behavior in the last year.

Regarding the annual variation of the dollar, in the last year it reached a maximum value of $1,088 and a minimum of $1,052.5. It is recorded that six months ago, the official dollar quotation was $985.0. To acquire MEP dollars, it is necessary to buy bonds in pesos and then trade them for dollars. However, dollars may take up to two business days to be credited due to the 'parking' period imposed by the National Securities Commission (CNV).

The Tax for an Inclusive and Solidary Argentina (PAIS) was established in 2019 during Alberto Fernández’s administration and applies to various foreign currency transactions. This tax primarily affects the purchase of foreign currency for savings, credit card purchases abroad, international flight tickets or tourist packages, among others. The rate is 30%, plus an additional 30% for Income and Personal Assets taxes. Additionally, it applies to the subscription of international digital services with specific rates.

It is essential to check if the financial institution allows these transactions and to know the operating hours, as there may be delays in the process.