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Argentina announces new measure for direct import of cars for individuals
The government of Argentina announced a new measure that allows the direct import of new cars by individuals. With this initiative, consumers will be able to purchase vehicles directly, without the need for intermediaries, guaranteeing access to the same tax benefits offered to the main business entities in the automotive sector in the country, such as Cidoa (Chamber of Automobile and Related Importers) and Adefa (Association of Automobile Factories of Argentina).
This change could significantly impact the country's automobile market, making prices more competitive and expanding access to electrified vehicles.
Purpose of direct import of new cars by individuals
The measure's main objective is reduce the prices of new vehicles, an issue that the government had already been discussing with automakers. In February, some reductions occurred due to the reduction of internal taxes, but not all brands passed these benefits on to consumers.
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Now, the initiative will focus on more affordable vehicles, allowing natural persons directly import models without intermediaries, which can avoid the absorption of tax benefits by distributors and resellers.
Legal basis and rules for direct import of vehicles in Argentina
The regulation of this new policy is defined in the Decree 49 / 2025, published in 31 January 2025. The decree establishes a annual quota of 50 electrified vehicles that can be imported without charging the 35% import tax.
The initial validity of the measure will be five years, totalizing 250 thousand imported units during this period. However, the rules will follow the guidelines of the Mercosul and could only be changed if Argentina left the economic bloc.
Which vehicles are eligible for direct import into Argentina?
Initially, the quota of 50 thousand vehicles would be entirely allocated to companies in the Adefa and Cidoa. However, a modification in the final text of the regulation reserved part of this total for direct import by consumers. According to government sources, this change will serve as a test to measure demand and, if there is significant interest, the volume may be increased in the future.
Vehicles eligible for this benefit must be electrified, Ou seja, models powered exclusively by combustion will not be accepted. The following are eligible for import:
✅ Eletric cars
✅ hybrid models
✅ Fuel cell (hydrogen) vehicles
Additionally, automobiles need to meet minimum requirements, As:
- Weight over 400 kg (without batteries)
- Minimum power of 20 hp
- Autonomy of at least 80 km
- Compliance with current safety standards (ABS brakes, front airbags, Isofix anchorage for child seats and ESP stability control)
Maximum price of imported cars
To qualify for the new rule, imported vehicles must have a FOB value (price without taxes and before import) of less than US$ 16.000 (approximately R$ 93.000).
Although they are exempt from 35% import tax, the models will continue to be subject to other local taxes.
How to participate in the direct import program?
Consumers who wish to import a vehicle through this new program will need to register on an official online platform. According to the Argentine government, the initial process may be bureaucratic, but adjustments will be made as needed.
Additional details on the bureaucratic procedures and specific requirements will be released in the coming days in a official bulletin.
Impacts of direct import of electrified cars
The Argentine government believes that this measure may modernize the national fleet, encourage the adoption of more sustainable technologies and offer consumers more purchasing options. In addition, direct competition may pressure automakers to reduce prices and expand the supply of electrified vehicles in the country.
With the possibility of expanding the quota and adjusting the regulations, the direct import of new cars could become a milestone in the transformation of Argentine automotive sector.
Stay tuned for upcoming updates on the program and see how this measure could impact the vehicle market in South America!
I think it will be interesting because it will bring renewal with a fleet that meets sustainability requirements, less polluting, silent vehicles and without the presence of intermediaries that increase the value of vehicles by more than 30%. And the impression that one gets at first glance is that it will be of great importance to Argentine citizens.
A great idea, the consumer stops being a slave to multinationals and concessionaires in the country, there should be a way to do this with electric light EOS fuel in Brazil, direct purchasing platforms for food, fuel and electricity, and the battlefield, the only thing that matters is victory, winning and winning and winning, I win Sergioguedes, congratulations President of Argentina, a real president.