Investing in Argentina
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in tourism has shown an upward trend over the past two decades. Between 2004 and 2024, 60 tourism projects were announced for a total of US$ 939 million.
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“Investment in tourism is a key driver for economic growth and job creation. Argentina, with its geographical and cultural diversity, is consolidating itself as a strategic destination thanks to an investment environment that is undergoing a transformation and solid domestic demand. Recent economic reforms are creating new opportunities and are strengthening confidence for the development of the sector.”
Zurab Pololikashvili,
Secretary-general, UN Tourism
TOURISM DOING BUSINESS INVESTING IN ARGENTINA
Economic outlook
Argentina has established itself as one of the great destinations for international arrivals in Latin America, with 7.3 million visitors in 2023 and a recovery of 98.5% compared to pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, it received 6.6 million tourists, strengthening its role as a gateway to South America. Tourism accounts for 5.3% of national exports and about a third of services exports, underscoring its macroeconomic impact and its role as a key driver of Argentina's trade balance. The “open skies” policy and the signing of 14 new bilateral agreements expand air connectivity and seek to reduce logistical costs, supported by a network of 57 airports throughout the country.
Development of Foreign Direct Investment
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in tourism has shown an upward trend over the past two decades. Between 2004 and 2024, 60 tourism projects were announced for a total of US$ 939 million. In the last five years, Argentina managed to attract 13 projects valued at US$ 140 million, which shows the country's sustained attractiveness for international investors in the tourism sector. The pro-investment regulatory environment, marked by economic liberalization, the progressive elimination of exchange rate controls and specific frameworks such as the incentive regime for large investments (RIGI), strengthens confidence and drives the flow of capital towards strategic projects.
Value proposition
Argentina has a mature accommodation and gastronomy platform, with more than 20,000 registered lodging establishments, 248,000 rooms and more than 67,000 restaurants. Buenos Aires and Mendoza stand out as gourmet hotspots, with up to 90 restaurants included in the Michelin Guide. The country is the main wine producer in the region and the seventh worldwide. This industry combines quality, tradition and innovation, which has driven the development of wine tourism as an increasingly sought-after experience. In addition, the country boasts the largest ski infrastructure in the southern hemisphere and a diverse heritage with twelve UNESCO sites, allowing for year-round tourism experiences.
Green investment outlook
Argentina is internationally positioned as a responsible destination thanks to its sustainability efforts. Six villages have been recognized by UN Tourism in its Best Tourism Villages initiative for their authenticity and sustainable management. This reinforces the country’s image as an ideal recipient for green investments in tourism, especially in projects that prioritize environmental sustainability and the protection of natural and cultural heritage.
Competitive landscape
Argentina’s talent is highly competitive: it ranks second in English proficiency in Latin America and has qualified human resources in tourism, technology and business. The country is a regional innovation hub, with eleven tech unicorns and an expanding venture capital market. Public policies promote digital transformation and position Argentina as a potential regional leader in travel-tech and hospitality-tech. In addition, almost all provinces offer specific incentive schemes to attract tourism investment, thus strengthening national competitiveness vis-à-vis other markets.