Argentine businessman José Luis Manzano, president of Integra Capital, participated in the Third edition of the Latam Forum, organized by the International Economic Forum of the Americas (IEFA), where he highlighted the direction of Javier Milei's government, advocated for the elimination of currency controls, and emphasized the potential of the Argentine economy, especially in the mining sector, for achieving sustained growth. During the event, Manzano shared his optimism regarding Argentina, noting that the country has resources like oil and gas, a government that seeks to attract investments, and stable rules that encourage the arrival of capital.
In response to questions from moderator Rahim Bapoo, executive director in Metals, Mining, and Critical Minerals at BMO Capital Markets, Manzano expressed: "We have reasons to be optimistic about Argentina. We have the oil and gas to sustain ourselves, and we have a government that works to attract investments." He also emphasized the importance of fiscal discipline and the support of various governors for the agreement with the IMF, highlighting the need for the opening of the financial market and the mid-term elections to accelerate economic growth.
The businessman highlighted the unprecedented visibility that Argentina has gained thanks to the momentum given by Milei through changes in policy and fiscal consistency. Additionally, he identified four engines in the Argentine economy: agriculture, Vaca Muerta, the mining industry, and the technology sector. Manzano also emphasized Argentina's potential for trade with the United States, especially in critical minerals.
Regarding the trade war stemming from the tariffs imposed by the United States, Manzano urged caution and pointed out the importance of maintaining balance amid the growing energy demand, which also impacts the demand for critical minerals. He highlighted Argentina's role on the international stage, positioning it as a strategic option for various sectors.
