A new report prepared by the Center for Business and Export Research (CIEN), under the direction of Master Gustavo Scarpetta, confirms the marked growth in vehicle imports by Argentina. Based on data from INDEC (National Institute of Statistics and Census), the document highlights that “Car imports grew 160% in May”, which positions this item as the one with the highest volume among imported goods so far in 2025.
According to the CIEN analysis, which Customs News He added, “In the first five months of the year, cars were the most imported product in Argentina, amounting to $1.940 billion, equivalent to 7,6% of the total imported.”
Where do vehicles come from?
The study details that “80% of the cars that Argentina imports come from Brazil.”, the country's main trading partner, followed by Mexico, which represents 5% of the total. In both cases, these are markets with which Argentina maintains trade agreements that “eliminate import tariffs and corresponding fees”.
In third place appears China, which already represents 5,12% of imports, followed by Germany (2,25%), Colombia (1,64%), and the United States (1,23%). The report also highlights that "vehicles arrived from 25 countries, including Japan, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Austria," demonstrating a strong diversification of vehicle origins.
Importation by individuals: advertisements without regulations
The publication also refers to the recent announcement by Minister Federico Sturzenegger, which would allow individuals to import new—and occasionally used—cars directly. However, CIEN warns that “No regulations have been published yet, although industry experts indicate that there have been numerous inquiries regarding the matter.”.
How much does it cost to import a car from China?
One of the highlights of the report is the simulation of the costs involved in importing a vehicle by a private individual. The case analyzed is that of BYD Song model, a hybrid SUV manufactured in China.
"The chosen model is available for $10.000 in China," the document states. However, when international freight, insurance, taxes, nationalization, duties, and logistics services are added, the final price skyrockets. "According to calculations and estimates, a car purchased in China for $10.000 could be sold and nationalized in Córdoba for $28.695."This implies a 180% increase over the original value.
Regulatory and operational challenges for Customs
The CIEN report notes that while this scheme may be attractive to consumers seeking alternatives to local market prices, It will be key to establish a clear regulatory framework, define the necessary customs controls and ensure the traceability of units, especially if the importation of used vehicles is authorized.
Furthermore, questions arise about the impact this opening could have on the local automotive industry, revenue collection, and Customs' operational capacity to handle a potential increase in individual transactions.
Consulted by Customs News due to pending regulatory framework, the Gustavo Scarpetta warned that "Regulatory challenges are significant: without fine print, it is very difficult to move forward.", referring to the lack of clear regulations establishing how the direct import mechanism would work.
In this regard, he raised questions about the technical criteria: ""How are they going to deal with the license? Are they going to simulate models approved in Europe, as happened with medicines?" He added that it could be considered to enable vehicles that already have approval in markets such as "Europe, the United States, Japan, Australia, or Germany."".
Likewise, in order to ensure traceability and prevent irregular maneuvers, Scarpetta suggested applying a restrictive criterion linked to individual ownership: "In addition to the ban on its sale, a quota of one per CUIT could be established. I believe this would reduce the potential for irregular transactions.He said.
Aduana News is the first Argentine customs newspaper to launch its digital version. With 20 years of experience, its publications and initiatives aim to provide the most relevant knowledge on customs issues in order to contribute to safe trade in the region.
