Argentina and USA: Historic Agreement on Zero Duties

Argentina and the United States have reached an agreement in principle to eliminate customs duties on a significant portion of Argentina's exports. The initiators of the agreement were Argentine President Javier Milei and former US President Donald Trump. The document envisages zero duties on about 100 categories of goods, including agricultural and industrial products.

Exceptions to the Agreement

Exceptions to the Agreement include steel and aluminium supplies, which will remain subject to a 50% increased duty for reasons of US 'national security'. However, approximately 70-80% of all Argentine exports to the US will now be able to access the US market without restrictions.

This historic trade pact is expected to benefit the Argentine economy by increasing export volumes and creating new jobs, especially in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. It also demonstrates renewed economic ties between the two countries, paving the way for deeper cooperation in areas such as investment, technology and infrastructure. The agreement has already received positive reactions from Argentine exporters and trade associations, who see it as a turning point in the country's global trade strategy.

Secret negotiations

The negotiation process took place in an atmosphere of absolute secrecy. All participants signed confidentiality agreements, and discussions took place in a small group of representatives of the foreign and trade ministries of the two countries. The official signing and presentation of the agreement is expected to take place in the coming days.

Direct Involvement of Leaders

Javier Milei played a key role in reaching the agreement. His close relationship with Donald Trump, as well as the convergence of views on economic and sovereignty issues, helped speed up the process. Argentina's foreign minister, Gerardo Werthein, has conducted several rounds of consultations with US trade representatives, winning concrete concessions for his country.

Benefits for USA and Argentina

The US is seeking to diversify its trading partners in the context of global confrontation with China. Argentina is seen as a reliable source of raw materials, food and industrial components. For Buenos Aires, the agreement opens up access to the world's largest consumer market and boosts confidence in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund, from which Argentina expects a new loan of around USD 20 billion.

Criticism and Doubt

Despite the obvious benefits, the agreement is controversial in Argentina. Opposition politicians believe that an excessive opening of the market could harm local producers. In addition, it is uncertain whether the zero tariffs will be maintained over time, especially in the event of political changes in the United States.

Former Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner has strongly criticised the agreement. She called Milei's visit to the US unnecessary and pointed out that the absence of a joint photo with Trump indicates the real level of bilateral relations.

A New Strategic Alliance

Despite the criticism, Milei's supporters are convinced that the agreement lays the foundation for a new strategic alliance with the US. In a context of economic difficulties and high inflation, any opportunity to expand exports is seen as a step in the right direction.

The agreement represents an important step in the redefinition of Argentina's foreign policy. The bet on free trade and the rapprochement with Washington could open up new economic opportunities for the country, provided the government manages to maintain the balance between global integration and protection of the domestic market.