English 
Spanish 
4 min read 
2 comments 
Argentines flock to Brazilian stores! With the appreciation of the peso, products in Brazil are up to 60% cheaper. The increase in tourism boosts trade, benefiting large retailers. Understand how this exchange rate change is impacting the economy and what to expect in the coming months!
The winds of the economy change quickly, and when they do, the effects can be felt across a range of sectors.
In the case of Brazil, a curious phenomenon has attracted attention: Argentine tourists are crossing the border and taking advantage of tempting offers in local stores.
What explains this growing movement and how does it impact the Brazilian market?
- Who really controls agriculture? Find out who finances rural production in Brazil and how this affects your pocket!
- While the US deports Brazilians, the Brazilian Senate approves visa exemption for citizens of the US, Canada and Australia
- Vale launches mass layoffs despite meeting targets and investing billions
- Chinese state-owned company lands in Brazil and wins bid to buy 44 trains for the São Paulo Metro for billions
According to a report by XP Investimentos, the appreciation of 150% of the Argentine peso in relation to the real since the end of 2023, it has transformed Brazil into a shopping paradise for its southern neighbors.
This strengthening of the Argentine currency has resulted in significantly lower prices for those crossing the border.
The increase in the flow of tourists was significant: 33% more Argentines came to Brazil in the fourth quarter of 2024, with the South region being the main destination, concentrating 60% of this movement.
Purchases with up to 60% discount in Brazil
As reported by Veja magazine, with the new exchange rate, products in Brazil became much more accessible for Argentines.
The XP Investimentos survey highlights that clothing and durable goods in Brazil they can cost between 50% and 60% less than in Argentina.
The significant difference has encouraged a large volume of purchases, especially in cities close to the borders.
The phenomenon is easily noticed in shopping malls and commercial centers in cities such as Foz do Iguaçu, Uruguaiana and Chuí.
Clothing, electronics and supermarket stores recorded an increase in sales, driven by foreign demand.
For many Argentines, the opportunity to buy quality products at competitive prices has been irresistible.
In addition to large stores, small businesses also benefit. In municipal markets and fairs, it is increasingly common to hear the Argentine accent among customers.
The sale of cosmetics, footwear and sporting goods also saw significant growth with the arrival of tourists.
Impact on the Brazilian market
The movement of foreign tourists in search of better prices not only boosts trade, but also boosts companies listed on the stock exchange.
As pointed out in the XP Investimentos report, Stores Winner and Panvel stand out as direct beneficiaries of this flow, as they have a strong presence in the southern states.
Besides them, Carrefour and Magazine Luiza also appear as strategic players in the retail sector, due to their great exposure to the region.
For retail chains, the arrival of Argentines represents a financial breathing space after periods of internal economic challenges.
With the intense movement, some companies are already studying reinforce stocks and expand offers to meet the new demand.
Companies in the tourism sector are also feeling the positive impact of this flow.
Hotels and guesthouses recorded higher occupancy rates, while restaurants saw a significant increase in foreign clientele.
Application drivers and tour guides also report increased demand, reinforcing the positive impact on the local economy.
The future of currency exchange and shopping tourism in Brazil
Experts warn that the appreciation of the Argentine peso could be volatile, depending on the economic policies adopted by the government of Javier Milei.
If the trend continues, shopping tourism could become established as a new source of revenue for Brazilian trade, stimulating investments in the sector.
However, currency fluctuations can quickly impact this advantage.
Meanwhile, Brazilian businesspeople are closely following the movement and seeking to adapt their strategies to keep this new consumer audience engaged.
If the scenario remains favorable, Brazil could become an even more attractive shopping destination for Argentines in the coming months.
With the possibility of new economic adjustments and political changes in Argentina, the scenario remains uncertain.
Even so, Brazilian traders continue to take advantage of the moment and invest in strategies to attract even more foreign buyers.
Possible future challenges and opportunities
Although the increase in Argentine purchases is a positive factor, some challenges appear on the horizon.
Increased demand may generate pressure on stocks, raising prices for local consumers.
Furthermore, the need for logistical adaptation can represent extra costs for traders.
On the other hand, the arrival of the Argentines reinforces the importance of strategies aimed at shopping tourism, a sector that could become stronger if the situation continues.
Some cities are already studying actions to attract even more foreign visitors, such as tax incentives and improvements in transport and accommodation infrastructure.
If the peso's appreciation continues, Brazil could consolidate itself as one of the main shopping destinations for Argentines, benefiting not only large retailers, but the entire local economy.
Argentina is going downhill and “taking a leap in the economy”. The Internet is just manipulating **** people.
Good as long as it lasts, just don't hang it up.