Argentines are scooping up Lego sets, Apple computers and Stanley thermoses from abroad, as libertarian president Javier Milei’s efforts to open the closed economy prompt a flood of foreign goods.
Total consumer goods imports jumped 55% in 2025 on the previous year, reaching a record high of $11.4bn, according to official data. Argentines also bought around three times more goods from overseas via international ecommerce platforms in 2025 than in 2024, reaching a record $955mn, as companies such as Amazon, Shein and Temu gained a foothold in the country for the first time.
The increase comes as Milei cuts tariffs and a web of import restrictions introduced by previous governments to protect domestic industries, which made foreign goods rare and expensive in Argentina.
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Argentines are scooping up Lego sets, Apple computers and Stanley thermoses from abroad, as libertarian president Javier Milei’s efforts to open the closed economy prompt a flood of foreign goods.
Total consumer goods imports jumped 55% in 2025 on the previous year, reaching a record high of $11.4bn, according to official data. Argentines also bought around three times more goods from overseas via international ecommerce platforms in 2025 than in 2024, reaching a record $955mn, as companies such as Amazon, Shein and Temu gained a foothold in the country for the first time.
The increase comes as Milei cuts tariffs and a web of import restrictions introduced by previous governments to protect domestic industries, which made foreign goods rare and expensive in Argentina.
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Victoria – FT social team