WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION   
 WT/TPR/M/ 277 
18 July 2013  
 (13-3870 ) 
  Trade Policy Review Body  
20 and 22 March 2013   
 
 
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
ARGENTINA  
 
Minutes of Meeting  
 
Chairperson:  H.E. Sr. Joakim Reiter (Sweden)  
 
 
  Page  
 
I. INTRODUCTORY REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  3 
II. OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F ARGENTINA  4 
III. STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  8 
IV. STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 10 
V. REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF ARGENTI NA AND  ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  44 
VI. CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  50 
 
 
Note:   Advance written quest ions by WTO Members and the replies provided by Argentina  
are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M /277/Add.1  and will be available online 
at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 3 
 
 
  I. INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS BY THE CHAIR PERSON  
1. The fourth trade policy review of Argentina was held on 20 and 22  March  2013 .  
The Chairperson , H.E. Mr Joakim Reiter (Sweden) , welcomed the d elegation of Argentina, headed 
by Ms Beatriz  Paglieri,  Secretary for Foreign T rade in the  Ministry of the E conomy, and Ambassador 
Augusto Costa , Secretary for International Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Relations 
and Worship, and the Discussant, H.E. Mr Trung  Thanh Nguyen ( Viet N am). 
2. The Chairperson recalled the purpose of trade policy revie ws and the main elements 
of the procedures for the meeting .  The report by Argentina is contained in document WT/TPR/G/277, 
and that of the WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/277.  
3. Questions by the following delegations had been submitted i n writing at least two weeks 
in advance a nd had b een transmitted to the d elegation of Argentina :  Australia ;  Colombia ;  Norway ;  
New Zealand ;  C hina;  R epublic  of Korea ;  S ingapore ;  C hile;  S witzerland ;  P akistan ;  
European  Union ;  Hong Kong,  China ;  Costa Rica;   Peru;  Paraguay ;  United States ;  South Africa ;  
Canada ;  Brazil;  Japan ;  India;  and Turkey .  The following delegations had submitted written 
questions after the two -week deadline :  M alaysia ;  U kraine ;  M exico ;  E cuador ;  T hailand ;  
and the Dominican Republic.  
4. During the third trade policy re view of Argentina in 2007, Members congratulated Argentina 
on its remarkable economic recovery and the improvement in its key social indicators since  2003, 
following one of the country's most severe economic crises .  However, various Members expressed 
conc ern about the long -term sustainability of Argentina's economic policy m ix, noting the reliance 
on administrative measures to control inflation, and exhorted Argentina to pursue policies that would 
ensure sustainable growth .  Concerning the investment regim e, a number of Members noted that 
it was generally open, but Argentina was encouraged to enhance investor confidence.  
5. Regarding trade policy measures, in 2007, Members commended Argentina on having 
lowered its average applied tariff since its review in 200 3, but expr essed concern regarding 
the use and impact of export taxes ;  the application of internal taxes ;  and the granting of incentives 
contingent on local content requirements .  In addition to the applicati on of export taxes, a number 
of Members also r eferred to other restrictions on exports of agricultural products applied in 2006, 
and on natural gas.  
6. In its responses in 2007, Argentina emphasized that export taxes were intended to comply 
with financial obligations and that there was no definite target  date for their elimination .  
Argentina  also indicated that imports received national treatment in the application of internal taxes 
and that local content requirements linked to incentive schemes were not mandatory .  
Argentina  pointed out that export rest rictions on agricultural goo ds were no longer in place, 
and described new measures being introduced to prevent increases in the consumer price of certain 
food items .  On fuel -related matters, Argentina explained the reasons for the restrictions on natural gas 
exports, and indicated that domestic demand must be met first.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  II. OPENING  STATEMENT BY THE REP RESENTATIVE OF ARGENTINA  
(AMBASSADOR AUGUSTO COSTA)  
7. I wish first to express my gratitude for the interest show n in the trade policy review 
of Argentina, through  your presence here today and the more than 60 0 questions we have received 
on this subject and which we have tried to answer with the utmost diligence.  
8. I also wish to thank the WTO Secretariat for having worke d painstakingly to produce 
a document which ref lects a vision of different aspects of Argentine trade policy  that is  not necessarily 
shared by myself and other authorities in Argentina, but which does provide valuable information 
to enrich the debate.  
9. It has been pointed out to me that it is not custom ary for del egations coming to Geneva 
for a trade policy review to include two officials of  a grade equivalent to that of Secretary of S tate 
in my country 's administration .  Accordingly, it is a pleasure both for myself and for the Secretary 
for Foreign Tra de, Beatriz Paglieri, and the rest of the Argentine delega tion, to take on this task 
as a demonstration of our interest in the activities of this institution and as a response to the interest 
shown by the large number of questions put to us in writing.  
10. The purpose of this intervention is to set out the main lines of Argentina's trade policy during 
the period under review, in the context of the general economic polic y challenges currently faced 
by our country .  Although this view has already been set forth i n the Argentine Government r eport, 
on this occasion we should like to provide a longer term perspective regarding trends in the Argentine 
economy .  W e understand that it is not possible to make an overall assessment of the rational e, 
the instruments and th e results of the policy under review without taking account of certain 
characteristics of Argentina's historical pattern of development.  
11. In this connection, the historical evidence shows that national development and the living 
conditions of the Argentine population have a direct correlation with advances in the industrialization 
process .  I t is n ot only the Argentine economy that demonstrates this close relationship .  
Both empirical evidence and economic texts  confirm that countries that have experienced  sustained 
periods of economic growth did so on the basis of substantial industrial development, as was the case 
in many of the countries represented here today.  
12. In the case of Argentina, between 1930 and the mid -1970s in dustry experienced a process 
of expan sion, diversification and consolidation which made it possible to integrate the producti on 
fabric and make  substantial advances in the living conditions of Argentines .  As a consequence of this 
process, in 1974 Argentina's per capita GDP was double the wor ld average and 78 % higher than 
the Latin American average .  T he poverty and indigence rates were below 5 %, there was full 
employment and the country's income distribution was among the most equitable in the region.  
13. The neoliberal measures imposed as the on ly possible form of economic policy in the last 
quarter of the 20th century led to an accelerated process of deindustrialization and dis integration  
of the producti on fabric, in the context of severe macroeconomic vola tility, explosive growth 
of the externa l debt and a strong concentration of wealth .  Thus, in early 2002, per capita GDP was 
below its level of a quarter of a century earlier, more than half the population was living below  
the poverty line, one in four Argentines was indigent, unemployment was above 20 % and income 
distribution had suffered a significant deterioration.  
14. Following recognition of the role played by industry in ter ms of living conditions 
for the members of our society, and on the basis of existing industrial  capacity in Argentina 
(despite  the disintegration process that it had undergone), from 2003 the main economic and social 
focus of Argentine public policy was on reindustrializing the country.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  15. The general thrust of the measures implemented was characterized by a coherent 
macroecono mic policy, based on growth in external demand and the domestic market ;  a dynamic 
trade policy ;  strong development of industry and production ;  and an income policy that promoted 
social inclusion.  
16. This set of meas ures, which required the State to play an  active role in the economy – in total 
contrast to the situation prevailing in the previous decade – resulted in a cycle of growth and  improved 
quality of life of unprecedented magnitude.  
17. Between 2003 and 2012, GDP grew at an average rate of 7 % (almost dou ble the global 
average for the period), industrial GDP doubled and the manufacturing s ector began creating jobs 
after 25 years of contraction ;  u nemployment fell to below 7 %, poverty to 6.5 % and income 
distribution recorded significant improvements.  
18. What s tands out in this period is the fact that our policies successfully combined new impetus 
for the domestic, regional and global market, in the context of greater integration in the world arena 
characterized by a significant increase in the volume of trade a nd the economic openness coefficient .  
We aim to continue this integration process by improving our position in the value chains through 
industrial development, which is the only path to sustainable and inclusive development.  
19. Although outstanding results h ave been achieved, Argentina faces a set of challenges whi ch 
require planning and active S tate involvement .  In particular, one structural feature of Argentine 
industry is its foreign exchange deficit .  W hen the economy and ind ustry grow under the impetus 
of domestic demand, the need for imports and imported goods to maintain the expansion process 
increases , and energy requirements  also grow .  Typically , this means the need for amounts of foreign 
exchange larger than those generated by the increase in expor ts that usually also accompanies  periods 
of growth .  T his dynamic pattern of grow th is caused by the existence of a series of gaps 
in a diversified but incomplete production matrix, leaving a long road ahead in the process 
of industrialization .  T hus, thro ughout the economic history of Argentina , we have endured, 
on a cyclical basis, the interruption of growth cycles owing  to problems  associated with the balance 
of payments or external restrictions.  
20. It is essential to correct this  foreign exchange deficit b ias a ffecting domestic industry, 
for the sake of Argentina's development, and this is therefore one of our priority policy objectives .  
Hence the insistence of the authorities on promoting exports, ma naging the external balance 
and ensuring that foreign ex change is directed to development prioriti es, while of course adhering 
to the framework of Argentina's commitments to the multi lateral trading system and WTO r ules.  
This requirement explains why terms such as import substitution or the need to i ncrease local value 
added are part of the official discourse .  Moreover, these terms should not surprise you .  In a context 
of crisis like the present one, the authorities of different countries around the world are often heard 
referring to the importance of job cre ation and increased production .  It could not be otherwise.  
21. In closing, I should like to stress certain aspects of this virtuous cycle in the Argentine 
economy in relation to the global trading system.  
22. First of all, it should be emphasized that, from 2008 onwards, the results achieved came about 
in an adverse international context, one involving an unprecedented global c risis with its epicentre 
in the developed economies .  Thus, the exhortation from WTO Members during the previous trade 
policy review in 200 7 that Argentina should apply policies to ensure sustained growth produced 
successful results in practice, despite the growing difficulties in the international environment.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  23. Secondly, Argentina's economic performance and foreign trade during the period und er 
review made a significant contribution, in the light of its relative size, to sustaining global aggregate 
demand, and the cooperative role played by Argentina, as in the ca se of the emerging economies 
in general, is a factor which we consider is not ful ly appreciated.  
24. During the period under review, Argentina recorded the third highest economic growth figures 
in the G-20, behind China and India, three times average global growth.  
25. Between 2006 and 2011, global imports grew by 48.2 %.  D uring that period, 
Argentina's  exports to the world were practically double that figure (increasing by 80.4 %), but what 
is even more significant is the fact that Argentina's imports from all origins grew by 116 %, 
which  means that they were nearly three times as high as the av erage for global imports during 
the period.  
26. This dynamic trend resulted in an increase in Argentina's share of world im ports, 
from  0.27% in 2006 to 0.40 % in 2011.  
27. Argentina also recorded the highest growth in imports among G-20 members between 
2009  and 201 1 (90.6 %). 
28. In the final analysis, we believe that the simplest and most direct way of demonstrating 
a country's commitment to the collective struggle to overcome the inte rnational crisis is through 
the results of its policies.  
29. Thirdly, Argentina's high gro wth rates during the period und er review are not the result 
of the economic recovery or simply a rebound following an unpre cedented crisis such as that 
in 2001/2002, a point made by some Members in the previous review .  This growth has therefore been 
a mor e laborious one, achieved along the road to full employment, and is accordingly more 
meritorious as well.  
30. Fourthly, the virtuous cycle of Argentina's economic gr owth that has been described 
is genuine and sustainable, having been shaped by the work and eff ort of Argentines, without recourse 
to the quick fix of external indebtedness, learning from the mistakes made in times past .  The gross 
public debt continued its downward trend in the period under review, decreasing from the equivalent 
of 166 % of GDP in 2 002 to 42 % in 2011, with public sector debt accounting for 54 % of the total.  
31. If the Argentine economy has been able to record a noteworthy  increase in imports during 
the period under review, it is because it was capable of substantially raisi ng the level o f its exports 
and because the Government policy mix applied gave a strong boos t to consumption and, hence, 
to production.  
32. In other words, Argentina was able to maintain the autonomy  and manoeuvrability needed 
for the successful implementation of its inclus ive dev elopment policy, preserving 
the balance -of-payments equilibrium, enhancing trade and achieving a higher level of productive 
integration with the region and the world .  The strong growth of industry is in fact the secret that 
explains the  improvement  in all the social and economic indicators .  Consequently, it is not only 
the growth figures that are noteworthy, but the type of growth experienced by the country during this 
period .  A lthough this may not be the right place for this discussion,  it is ess ential to protect 
the margin of manoeuvre and the policy space needed to pursue  these legitimate objectives 
of countries whose stage of development is similar to or below our own.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  33. Finally, I wish to emphasize that we have embarked on an exercise that invol ves reviewing 
not only policy outcomes, but also the instruments that have produced those outcomes .  In fact, 
the great majority of the questions posed refer to those instruments, as is customary .  The responses 
that we have painstakingly prepared in a ver y short time also refer to them .  However, I  have focused 
my introductory remarks on the results because, for those of us who are responsible for public policy, 
as well as for those who work in the private sector, that is the key factor.  
34. Moreover, it is al so through results that the Argentine Gov ernment responsibly assumes 
its commitment to the multilateral trading system and to overcoming the  uncertainty that threatens 
the global economy .  W e understand that, in addition to a system of rul es to facilitate trade, 
what  is needed are active policies to boost growth and to bridge the development divide between 
the members of the international community, together with a joint effort to strengthen global 
aggregate demand, as Argentina has firmly and consistently done.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  III. STATEMENT  BY THE DISCUSSANT  (H.E. MR TRUNG  THANH NGUYEN 
(VIET  NAM))  
Advantages/benefits  
 
35. From the Argentine Government and the Secretariat r eports, I recognize that Argentina 
benefits from rich natural resources, a highly literate population, an exp ort-oriented agricultural sector, 
and a diversified industrial base.  
36. With a GDP of more than US$ 474 billion  in 2012, Argentina is one of the five largest 
economies in South America  and its macroeconomic performance in recent years has been strong .  
Consecu tive years of rapid economic growth enabled the reduction of poverty and unemployment .  
Although affected by the world economic crisis of 2008 -2009, wit h real GDP growth not 
exceeding  0.9% in 2009, the Argentine economy recovered consider ably in 2010 and 2 011, 
reaching  growth rates of 9.2 % and 8.9 %, respectively .  It is noteworthy that the Argentine economy 
continued growing in an international economic context where some important reg ions in the world 
were still in  recession .  This growth was driven in par t by strong domestic demand, and was largely 
owing  to Argentina 's status as a major exporter of primary products .  To prop up growth, Argentina 
also made active use of fiscal, monetary and income policies to stimula te its economy and overcome 
the effects o f the crisis .  H igher international prices for its main exports also contributed to the 
recovery  and were partly behind the doubling of merchandise exports during the period under review.  
37. Argentina makes active use of trade policy measures as an instrument  to attain its long -term 
goals such as promoting overall economic growth by fostering industrialization .  In addition, 
Argentina also makes use of trade policy instruments to achieve short -term objectives such 
as containing inflation and maintaining the balance -of-payments equilibrium.  
38. In accordance with Argentine laws and regulations, with some exceptions, foreign 
investments are welcomed without restriction in almost all sectors .  Foreign investment is generally 
not subject to prior approval .  The Investm ent Law guarantees the righ t to repatriate investments 
and to transfer net and realized profits abroad at any time .  Argentina has a variety of incentive 
schemes at  the national and provincial levels to promote domestic and foreign i nvestment, 
competitiven ess, and  exports .  T hese include horizontal and sectoral programmes to stimulate 
investment in capital goods and technological innovation, to promote the development of SMEs , 
and to facilitate access to  credit at preferential or fixed interest rates.  
39. On th e international front, Argentina enjoys good relations wi th most of the countries 
in the region .  T he country also plays  a leading role in advocating the region 's policy stance 
as it represents Latin America at the G-20, jointly with Mexico and Brazil.  
Challenges  
 
40. The annual rate of GDP growth declined from 9.2 % in 2010 and 8.9 % in 2011 to 3.4 % 
in 2012 .  I am sure we are all interested to hear what steps the Arge ntine Government is planning 
to take to help raise GDP growth again, without triggering more inf lation.  
41. Increasing foreign investment flows into Argentina h as an important role to play 
in developing the manufacturing sector and accelerating GDP growth .  A t present, Argentina 
is implementing a policy of capital controls with a managed exchan ge rate th at can easily lead 
to inaccurate statistics, currency misalignment, higher consumer prices, and shortages of foreign 
currency .  In addition to tight controls of capital inflows and outflows, foreign investors are likely 
to be concerned regarding the stabil ity of contractual rights and the regulatory environment, 
diminishing the attractiveness of long -term prospective investment in the economy.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  42. Inflation is now jeopardizing Argentina 's continued growth, and managing inflation 
expectations and stabilizing pri ces is a priority for Argentina .  This is because inflation causes rising 
payroll costs, in turn raising the prices of Argentina 's non -agricultural exports .  It also makes imports 
more competitive in Argentina 's domestic markets .  At the same time, labour problems stemming from 
inflation might put increasing pressure on the G overnment.  
43. The import substitution policy essentially encourages the re placement of imported goods 
and services by locally  produced ones, and so promotes the deve lopment of local indust ries 
and reduces the country 's import bill .  The aim of this approach may be the creation and protect ion 
of local jobs .  T his policy is pursued applying non -tariff trade b arriers and has led to a ban 
or restriction o n some imports from other  Member countri es. 
44. While the Argentine Government 's recent lift of import licensing is widely welcome, the use 
of a statistical fee or verification tax of the customs value, the increase of some import tariffs 
(although respecting WTO commitments), the use of domestic co ntent conditions, and/or other 
administrative measures relating to imports, etc ., can add to productio n costs, thereby increasing 
the cost of exportable goods .  This may be at odds with Argentina 's ob jective of using exports 
as one of the main tools to ach ieve higher growth .  It would be interes ting to hear what Argentina 
has to share with us in this respect.  
45. The use of such a trade policy to achieve short -term objectives requires constant policy 
adjustments that add to the complexity of the trade regime, m aking it less predictable .  At the same 
time, it generates additional costs for the economy .  G enerally sp eaking, we were wondering 
if it would be sensible to chase too many economic objectives with  one policy instrument, such 
as trade policy .  It would be  useful if the Argentine authorities could share with us to what extent they 
believe that trade policies can play a useful role in tackling short -term macroeconomic challenges 
such as inflation and disequilibri um in the balance of payments .  Traditionally,  those policy objectives 
are usually better served by targeted macroeconomic policies.  
46. Moreover, some of these measures may not be achieving the expected results .  For instance, 
the use of export duties as one of the main sources of tax revenue can sometim es produce opposing 
effects .  On the one hand, they may boost tax revenue and lower the domestic price of exportable 
goods, while on the other they may be undermining the country 's export capacity 
and its competitiveness .  T his may be aggravated when the u se of  export taxes is accompanied 
by administrative measures that might end by discouraging exports, such as registration requirements .  
All this is at odds with other policies seeking to promote export such as the granting of tax incentives.  
47. In conclusion , I would like to see Argentina open its dynamic economy  more , 
further  liberalize its  trade and investment regime, and ensure that the policies applied are consistent 
with the objectives sought without unnecessarily restricting trade .  I look forward to seeing Argentina, 
as one of the founding Members of WTO, continue to play a bigger role in the multilateral trading 
system from which Arg entina will benefit even more.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  IV. STATEMENTS  BY MEMBERS  
AUSTRALIA  
48. Australia and Argentina have a close and cooperative rela tionship in the WTO and more 
broadly, which has been forged, in particular, through our many years of cooperation in the Cairns 
Group in pursuit of agricultural trade reform .  As a prominent M ember of this Organization, Argentina 
continues to play an impor tant role in pressing the case for agricultural reform .  In addition 
to the Cairns Group, our two countries also cooperate in a number of other areas in the WTO agenda 
such as intellectual property, including geographical indications, and the fight against  harmful fish 
subsidies .  Of course there are also areas where we do not always see eye to eye .  But Australia 
nevertheless appreciates the frank and open manner in which we are a ble to discuss such issues, 
and which are underpinned by our shared interest in a strong multilateral trading system.  
49. Australia recognizes the advances Argentina has made in its economic development, 
particularly since the economic collapse of 2001 .  Argentina drew on a range of economic policy tools 
as part of its recovery strateg y, including the temporary adoption of a market -driven exchange rate 
to facilitate international competitiveness, maintain low inflation, create jobs and reduce poverty .  
Australia notes that Argentina weathered the global financial crisis well, with GDP g rowth of 9.2 % 
in 2010 and 8.9 % in 2011.  
50. Australia is conscious that Argentina is still working to counte r certain of the effects 
of the 2001 -2002 crisis and default, and that this has limited Argentina's policy options .  
Nonetheless,  Australia would encour age Argentina to both review its p olicy settings and conclude 
its negotiations with the Paris Club .  Argentina's economic performance in 2012, with growth falling 
to 2.6 %, exports falling by 4.8 % and imports by 5.7 %, and the o ngoing erosion of real wages 
by inflation, suggests Argentina could benefit from reviewing its policies sooner rather than later.  
51. Argentina has the attributes of a country that can thrive through open trade .  It is a relatively 
diversified producer and exporter of primary and manufactu red products with important agricultural, 
mining and fuel sectors .  A rgentina has, in fact, greatly benefite d from its participation 
in the multilateral trading system .  Since its previous review in 2007, for example, Argentina has 
significantly increased its exports .  Y et, over that same period, we have seen its own economy 
becoming increasingly closed.  
52. Since 2007, Argentina has increased distortions in its market, including introducing a number 
of import and export restrictions for goods and services, cur tailing investors' capacity to pay dividends 
overseas and restricting currency movements .  These and similar policies have undermined those 
elements of Argentina's economic policy approach that contributed to its post -2001 recovery .  
If not promptly addres sed, high levels of inflation, currently estimated at around 25 %, risk pushing 
Argentina back into a "boom -bust" cycle.  
53. Argentina's increasingly closed economic model has also had a negative impact on a number 
of its trading partners, Australia included .  For example, mercha ndise exports from Australia 
to Argentina, which include coal, medicaments and specialized machinery and parts, fell by 28.1 % 
from 2011 to 2012 .  A number of Argentina's import policies are currently the subject of dispute 
settlement, in cluding its general and non -automatic import licensing system and trade balancing 
requirements .  A ustralia notes that Argentina has recently tak en steps to remove the need 
for product -specific non -automatic import licences .  However, Australia shares the c oncerns of other 
WTO Members about the impact of Argentina's policies.  
54. Australia would welcome further moves by Argentina to increase transparency 
in the importation of both goods and services .  Australia would also  encourage Argentina to adopt  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  a more open  exchange rate system and to facilitate the transfer of dividend payments to overseas 
investors .  As a Member of the G-20 as well as the WTO, Australia  believes Argentina can play 
an important role in global discussions about policies which affect trade .  In the lead -up 
to the Ninth  Ministerial Conference, Australia looks forward to working closely with Ar gentina, 
in the Cairns Group and elsewhere, to develop outcomes that will suppo rt and help build confidence 
in the multilateral trading system.  
COLOMBIA  
55. On 2 5 May 2003, nearly ten years ago, the then President Né stor Kirchner, 
in his inaugural  address, said some words that appear to have been u sed as a road map 
for Argentina  in the past decade:  
56. "The basic goal of our economic policy will be to ensure st able growth that will allow 
the constant expansion of economic activities and the generation of jobs, without the harsh and abrupt 
fluctuations of recent years .  The result must be the duplication of wealth every 15 years, something 
that will guarantee better income distribution, strengthen our middle class in particular, and pull all 
compatriots out of extreme poverty".  
Economic performance  
57. The Argentine economy recorded noteworthy results during the period under review, 
including an annual average growth rate  of over 7 %, supported by the  outstanding performance 
of its external sector, a favourable international environment for Argentina 's exports, a burgeoning 
domestic market and a substantial increase in investment levels, which reached 17 % in 2011.  
58. This perf ormance was in turn reflected in the doubling of p er capita GDP - which rose 
from  US$5,424 in 2006 to US$10,896 in 2011 - and in a reductio n in the unemployment rate 
from  8.7% to 6.7% over the same period .  V igorous economic growth was accompanied by an 
improvement in various social indicators, as a result of the implementation of complementary policies 
aimed at  protecting the real income of the population .  Mention should be made of the 10 % reduction 
in the poverty rate - which fell from 16 % in 2007 to 6.5 % in 2011.  
59. However, two matters call for attention within this positive scenario .  The first concerns 
the inflationary pressures faced by the economy, which directl y affect efforts to protect 
the population's real income and hence growth with social inclus ion. 
60. The second concerns the growing use of trade policy as part of the above -mentioned strategy 
of protecting real income .  This results in the need to introduce frequent adjustments in order to adapt 
to changing conditions in the international environmen t, as well as the use of more complex measures .  
This could eventually affect the pattern of trade and generate additional costs for economic operators.  
Foreign trade  
61. We appreciate the strong performance of Argentina's foreign trade during the period under  
review .  O verall trade practically doubled, from little more than US$80,500  million  in 2006 
to US$158,000  million  in 2011, thereby contributing to the country 's economic recovery.  
62. As we have already noted, Argentina has made active use of various trade po licy instruments 
in recent years .  In the area of tariffs, the average MFN tariff increased from 10.4 % in 2006 
to 11.4% in 2012 .  There was also a reduction in the number of duty -free tariff lines - from 14.6 % 
of all tariff lines in 2006 to 7.5 % of the tar iff universe in 2012 .  The sectors enjoying the highest tariff 
protection continue to be textiles and clothing, footwear and certain vehicles.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  63. Furthermore, as is made clear by the Secretariat repo rt, the period under review 
was characterized by adjustments  in import and export procedures and t he introduction 
of registration  requirements and new import licences, some of which have been the su bject 
of discussions within the  WTO.  
64. Indeed, the use of non -automatic licences increased during the period under revie w for a broad 
range of products such as textiles, auto -parts, automobiles and various manufactures .  One positive 
step was the elimination, in September  2012, of the prior automatic import licence (LAPI).  
65. Another noteworthy development was the introduction , at the  beginning of last year, 
of the sworn advance import declaration (DJAI) for all imports for home use .  T he Argentine 
authorities have explained that this measure may contribute to trade f acilitation because in terms 
of content it is equivalent to a n electronic single window .  Given its recent introduction, it is advisable 
to maintain careful monitoring to ensure its proper and expeditious operation .  This in turn requires 
close coordination between the government bodies involved and the necessary fe edback from 
economic operators.  
66. Permit me to conclude with a quotation from the same statement that I cited earlier .  
In the words of President Kirchner, "We call for work, effort and creativity, so that we can take charge 
of our future, so that we can giv e effect to the changes needed to fashion a country in earnest, 
a normal country with hope and with optimism" .  Those three elements - work, effort and creativity  - 
will be required if Argentina is to preserve a growing economy and an open and competitive market ;  
and they will also be necessary in the WTO, in the months ahead, if we wish to achieve results that 
permit us to envisage the coming year with optimism.  
NORWAY  
67. Few countries have experienced a default of the same magnitude as the one Argentina wen t 
through in December  2001.  In the midst of the past decade's challenges to the international economy, 
the Argentine recovery has been highly noticeable and we should commend Argentina on the positive 
developments they have forged .  I ndeed, few countries have experi enced growth similar 
to the one Argentina did from 2002 to 2009, a development that has contributed to reduced poverty 
and increased welfare for Argentines.  
68. The Argentine recovery can be explained by several factor s, one of the obvious being 
the political strategy chosen by the Government since the default .  Some of the measures instituted 
by the Argentine Government have been tried by other countries under similar circumstances, 
sometimes with negative economic consequences over time .  N orway ha s, inter alia , taken note 
of the recent price freeze measure affecting various products in Argentina, and measures on imports 
and local production .  It would also be interesting to hear what effects the Government expects this 
measure will have on inflatio n once it is repealed .  We have also asked Argentina to clarify whether 
the current price freeze should be considered as an isolated incident, or whether it is the first 
in a series of similar future policy measures.  
69. Given that Argentina's own WTO report p rovides a very positive description of the country's 
economy and trade policies it would be interesting to know whethe r the Government considers 
that any particular sectors exist where economic fine -tuning may be required.  
70. In the G-20, Argentina has endors ed joint statements against protectionism .  
Nevertheless,  last year we witnessed several WTO Members initiating consultations with Argentina 
under the Dispute Settlement Understanding and additional countries have voiced concerns at various 
trade restricti ng measures .  Norway has reserved its rights as third party in some of these cases.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  71. Argentina is a political system with an expressed policy of active government intervention .  
It has been brought to our attention that there have been occasions when direct  and impromptu 
interventions in the conduct of business, in the form of questions or demands from governmental 
bodies, have been challenging to handle for the individual private company.  
72. We have therefore asked Argentina to provide detailed information on the trade balancing 
requirements and how these measures are communicated to businesses .  W e would also  like 
to indicate that practices of this nature give grounds for concern and do not contribute to a positive 
climate for increased economic exchanges with  the international community.  
73. The level of trade between our countries is rather low .  There is potential for increasing this 
trade owing to the complementary nature of our industrial structure .  W e are however concerned 
that a number of businesses present ly doing business in Argentina report a lack of transparency 
regarding the relevant rules and regulations on both tariffs and non -tariff measures .  This of course 
makes it more difficult than necessary to trade .  We would therefore use this opportunity to encourage 
Argentina to strive towards more transparency in its rules and regulations related to trade.  
74. Few countries have the kind of natural resources Argentina possesses .  W e believe that, 
in order to fulfil its potential, Argentina should strive for a m ore stable and long -term regulatory 
framework that will subsequently spark increased trade and investment.  
NEW ZEALAND  
Positive aspects of Argentina's trade policies  
75. We welcome the fact that Argentina plays an active and constructive role in WTO processes.   
We share Argentina 's desire to work towards the eventual successf ul conclusion of the 
Doha  Round  negotiations.  
76. As a fellow Cairns Group founding member, New Zealand is pleased to note that the 
Secretariat report reco gnizes that Argentina supports " the st rengthening of the multilateral trading 
system through agreeing a working agenda  centred on agricultural reform" .  We further welcome the 
report 's observation that, at the international level, Argentina " is striving for greater liberaliz ation 
of trade in a gricultural products".  
77. As a fellow Friends of Fish member , we also take the opportunity to acknowledge the efforts 
of Argentina in relation to fisheries subsidies reform in the WTO, both within an d beyond 
the Doha  negotiations.  
Areas of concern  
78. Equally, th e Secretariat 's report identifies a number of trade policies and practices that 
are problematic.  We have posed a series of questions to Argentina abo ut specific trade policies 
that are of concern to New Zealand.  
79. New Zealand has, in previous reviews, raise d its concerns that Argentina continues to apply 
trade restrictive measures that serve to protect its domestic industry .  The Secretariat report indicates 
that significant new trade restrictive measures have been implemented during the review period .  
As the Secretariat report notes, Argentina has "implemented inward -looking policies that  could have 
discouraged trade ". WT/TPR/M/277  
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  80. New Zealand notes with concern the Secretariat 's finding that tariff protection in Argentina 
has increased since 2006, with the simple avera ge MFN tariff standing at 11.4 % in 2012.  
Argentina  also continues to burden imports with statisti cal fees or verification taxes.  
81. Similarly, New Zealand notes with concern the report 's finding that Argentina 's use of other 
non-tariff restrictions has incre ased over the review period, primarily in the form of additional 
registration requirements, import and export procedures, and import licensing.  Frequent changes 
to Argentina's import regime create  uncerta inty for exporters.  
82. Tariff protection, import licen ces and related administrative measures disadvantage both 
Argentina 's domestic consumers and Argentina 's export sector.  Such trade measures increase the cost 
of production and thereby increase the cost of exported goods.  
83. We also wish to highlight our conc ern a t Argentina 's continued application of export duties 
to the large majority of its exports.  The Secretariat report indicates that Argentina 's export duties 
increased during the review period and now range from 5 %-100%.  We h ave questioned whether ther e 
is empirical evidence showing that export duties serve their intended purpose of moderating domestic 
price fluctuations.  In our view, such duties are likely to hamper open, free and undistorted trade.  
84. In conclusion, New Zealand encourages Argentina to r e-examine the way it applies its suite 
of trade policy instruments.  We look forward to further discussion of the issues we have raised during 
the course of this review . 
CHINA  
85. China  notes with pleasure that, during the review period, the Argentine economy has 
successfully weathered the global financial crisis and enjoyed high and sustained growth .  
Accordin g to both the Government r eport and the Secretariat r eport, Argentina has achieved 
significant improvements in all the economic and social indicators .  A nnual GDP growth 
averaged  7.1% in real terms between 2006 and 2011, resulting in a doubling of per capita GDP 
in dollar terms .  Although  the economy slowed in 2009 in the wake of the global financial crisis, 
it strongly rebounded in the following years, fu elled by vigorous dome stic demand and a robust 
export  performance.  
86. As the Government report rightly pointed out, the growth -with-social -inclusion mod el 
introduced by the Argentine G overnment in 2003 and its implementation resulted in remarkable 
economic an d social development .  It also reflects Argentina 's proper responses to the crisis 
by promoting its dynamic integration into global trade flows .  D uring the period 2007 -2011, 
Argentina 's imports and exports increased by 65.4 % and 50 % respective ly, thanks t o its ambitious 
and active trade promotion policy .  It is another strong proof of the positive impact o f trade 
on economic growth and employment.  
87. On the bilateral side, China and Argentina are important trading partners for each other, 
with China being Arg entina 's second largest trading partner and Argentina being China 's sixth largest 
trading partner in Latin America .  D uring the review period, we are glad to witness the sound 
performance of our bilateral trade i n both exports and imports despite the impac t of the global 
recession, reflecting the complementary and interdependent nature of our bilateral trade relations .  
In 2011, our bilateral trade recorded US$14.8 billion . 
88. On investment, for the moment China is far from a strong player in the growth of Arg entine 
FDI stock and China 's direct investment in Argentina was only US$450 million  in 2011 .  
That being said, we are glad to notice that the newly increased FDI from China to Argentina in 2012 
reached US$48 million.  S ome large cooperative projects betwee n Chinese and Argentine enterprises  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  on the energy industry and fisher ies have been initiated recently .  This demonstrates that the great 
FDI potential between the two countries is being tapped and that Ch inese investors can play 
a more  active role.  
89. On the multilateral side, like many other Members, we always appreciate Argentina 's firm 
commitment to the multilateral trading system and its active  role in the WTO, 
especially  on agriculture .  Its valuable contribution to this Organization is reflected i n many aspects, 
including participating actively in negotiating groups such as the Cairns Group and the G-20 
and tabling proposals on many subjects under the Doha Development Agenda ( DDA ).  
China  and Argentina hold common views on most issues in the DDA .  We shar e fully and appreciate 
very much what is said in the Argentine Government r eport on the DDA :  "the cent ral objective 
of the trade negotiations cannot be other than to work towards a more open and non -discriminatory 
model of the multilateral trading system  …" 
90. We have put some questions to Argentina in relation to this review and thank 
it for its responses, which will be further studied back in our capital .  W e have some additional 
questions, which we will send to our Argentine colleagues after this meeting .  We remain particularly 
concerned at import restrictions by  Argentina .  As the Secretariat r eport indicated, the use of import 
licensing and other administrative measures relating to imports can add to production costs, thereby 
increasing the cost of expor table goods .  Therefore, we hope that Argentina will take effective action 
to ensure smooth trade flows between Argentina and other Members.  
KOREA  
91. First of all, we are pleased to note that the bilateral econo mic relations between Korea 
and Argentina remain  strong .  The trade volume between the two countries reached US$2.1 billion 
in 2011, and indeed, I hope that it will continue to grow even stronger in the future in a mutually 
beneficial way.  
92. However, regarding the trade policy,  practices and measures of t he G overnment, we would 
like to simply echo what was mentioned by our colleague s, and encourage the Argentine G overnment 
to pay careful attention to the challenges that foreign companies may experience over the course 
of their daily operations.  
93. As we have considered this and other points, Korea submitted advance written questions, 
including those related to Argentine macroeconomic policy, measures directly impacting imports, 
and FDI.  In this regard, we thank the Argentine delegation in advance for providin g answers whic h 
Seoul will carefully review.  
CHILE  
94. Chile and Argentina share the third longest frontier i n the world, extending over  5,300  km.  
History has united the two countries since the first days of independence .  
In fact, Manuel  Blanco  Encalada, Chi le's first President, was born in Buenos Aires to a Spanish father 
and a Chilean mother.  
95. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Chile derived much benefit from the contributions of numerous 
Argentine politicians and intellectuals who, temporarily, chose Chile as their homeland .  
To mention  just a few, we recall the names of Saavedra, Las H eras, Sarmiento, Mitre 
and Juan Alberdi .  The latter went on to become the Governor of Valparaíso,  the biggest commercial 
port on the Pacific at that time, and drafted the Consti tution of Ar gentina when he returned 
to his country in 1853.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  96. When democracy was restored in Chile, Argentina was the first country with which we signed 
a trade agreement in 1991 .  S ubsequently, Chile entered in to the Economic 
Complementarity  Agreement with  MERCOSUR1, which enabled us to obtain associate member status 
without being full members .  This agreement governs the access of go ods, with a few exceptions, 
for example with regard to energy.  
97. Argentina is Chile's seventh largest trading partner, with a l evel of trade approaching 
US$6,000  million  (US$5,945  million ) in 2012 .  A s they are neighbouring countries, this bilateral 
relationship has immense potential and should therefore grow .  History bids us to pursue collaboration 
and integration.  
98. In 2012, Chil e had a negative trade balance with Argentina of almost US$4  billion  
(US$3,799  million ), which was higher than the previous year .  Indeed, in 2012, Argentina was 
the 17th destination for Chile 's exports, accounting for some 1.4 % (1.35) of total exports .  Argentina 
was the fourth largest source of imports, with 6.25 %, after the United States, China and Brazil.  
99. Chilean consignments comprised mainly mineral products,  especially copper, 
followed  by industrial products .  The main imports were intermediate goods,  including in particular 
petroleum and petroleum products, followed by consumer goods.  
100. Effective investment from Argentina ran to around US$500  million  (US$501.1  million ) 
between 1974 and 2011, the main targets being mining, with 34.05 %, followed by electr icity, 
gas and water with 18.4 %, financial services with 9.27 % and communications (8.9 %).2 
101. Argentina remains the most important destination for Chilean investment in the world, 
accounting for around 24 % (23.7 %) of resources effectively invested abroad by C hilean companies .  
Registered investment in 2012 amounted to nearly US$17  billion  (US$16,821  million ). 
102. As the figures show, Argentina is an important trading par tner for Chile, particularly 
in the area of investment, as a number of Chilean companies are ac tive in key sectors of the  Argentine 
economy .  The services sector accounts for 40 % of total Chilean investment, followed by industry 
with almost 30 %, and energy with 18.4 %.  W hen services are disaggr egated, the main components 
are trade (42 %), real estate  (24%) and transport, storage and communications (12.3 %). 
103. Chile therefore lays stress on its fruitful bilateral trading relationship with Argentina .  
The numerous labour bodies that we run jointly enable us to move forward on matters of day -to-day 
concern,  and we hope that this cooperation will continue and be increased and deepened .  All of this 
can only be of direct benefit to the population of both countries.  
104. In the WTO, Chile and Argentina agree on the need to open up markets in agriculture, 
and are making intensive efforts in the Agricultural G-20 and the Cairns Group, as well as in any other 
body that is moving in that direction .  Mention should also be made of our common interest in clear, 
transparent and balanced standards ;  and in a solid dispute se ttlement system .  In addition, we belong 
to major regional integration organizations, such as CELAC, UNASUR and LAIA ;  and Chile 
is an associate member of MERCOSUR.  
                                                      
1 Economic Complementarity Agreement between Chile and Argentina, ECA  No. 16 (1991) 
and ECA  No. 35 (1996), respectively, in the framework of the 1980 Treaty of Montevideo.  
2 Source :  Foreign Investment Committee.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  SWITZERLAND  
105. Argentina has well weathered the impact of the 2008/2009  financial crisis and h as 
shown  impressive growth figures throughout most of the period under review .  
Nevertheless,  important  challenges lie ahead .  Argentina's growth started faltering in 2012 .  The real 
appreciation of the peso has affected the competitiveness of Argentine pr oducts .  Most importantly, 
the current account surplus has decreased significantly during the past three years, reflecting not only 
a faster increase in imports than exports, but also growing outflows of investment income.  
106. It is to be noted that Argentina' s external financial situation  has further improved since 
the previous review in 2007 .  A settlement has been reached with more than 90 % of private creditors .  
Yet, the country needs to regain access to international financial markets by settling the outst anding 
debt with the Paris Club, amounting to US$9  billion.  T his would i ncrease investor confidence 
and thereby help to foster foreign investments.  
107. Switzerland has significant economic relations with Argentina .  W ith a volume of bilateral 
trade amounting to US$630  million  in 2012, Argentina is our third most important partner 
in Latin  America .  The economic slowdown on both sides of the Atlantic notwithstanding, bilateral 
trade grew by 8 % last year .  Numerous Swiss firms are active in Argentina .  With a to tal investment 
stock of US$8  billion, Switzerland is one of the largest foreign investors in Argentina .  Our companies 
thus support more than 24,000 jobs in the country .  Reflecting our sig nificant economic relations, 
we established a bilateral Economic Co mmission in 2011.  
108. Despite this positive development, access to the Argentine market has, unfortunately, 
become  more difficult .  The simple average MFN tariff has increased by 1 % since the previous 
review .  According to the Secretariat report, the applied r ate exceeds the bound level for 32 tariff 
lines .  Despite the assertion by the Argentine authorities that, in practic e, the bound level would not 
be exceeded, Switzerland is concerned at this situation.  
109. In addition, non -tariff measures have increased signi ficantly during past years 
with the introduction of non -automatic import licences for a broad range of tariff lines, trade balancing 
requirements, as well as pre -registration of all imports into Argentina .  Long delays for the issuance 
of import licences a nd discretionary procedures to obtain import approval have been reported ;  
self-sufficiency is one of Argentina's long -term economic policy goals .  S witzerland is deeply 
concerned from a systemic point of view and, as many other WTO  Members, we have expres sed 
our concerns on various occasions.  
110. The recent elimination of non -automatic licensing for a range of products is positively noted 
and welcomed .  We will carefully monitor whether and to what extent this enables easing of import 
procedures in practice, g iven that other trade -restricting measures are still in place.  
111. Furthermore, the protection of intellectual property s eems to have weakened since 
the previous review .  In 2012, Argentina approved new rules on the e xamination of patentability 
for pharmaceuti cal products .  A ccording to our understanding, these rules preclude the patenting 
of inventions with regard to a large number of substances and compositions, as well as certain 
manufacturing processes .  They have raised concerns with research -based compani es as to legal 
security and the attractiveness of investing in Argentina.  
112. As to the WTO, I would like to stress the important role Argentina plays for the Organization 
as a major trading partner .  A  solid rules -based system is crucial for a small, highly -integrated 
and open economy like Switzerland .  W e therefore attach the utmost  importance to full respect 
for WTO rules by our partners, as well as to further development of the multilateral trading system .  
In this respect, we appreciate Argentina's active role in the ongoing negotiations, and would also WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 18 
 
 
  invite Argentina to turn its observer status in the Agreement on Government Procurement into 
full-fledged membership.  
PAKISTAN  
113. Argentina is a progressive market -oriented economy .  M erchandise exports have in creased 
steadily during the period under review, reaching US$84  billion  in 2011, double that of 2006 .  
Its economic growth has largely been agriculture - and export -led. 
114. The global economic crisis resulted in weak demand and lower prices for Argentina's exp orts, 
which decelerated economic growth in 2008 and 2009 .  The G overnment announced a number 
of stimulative measures to mitigate the crisis, including increasing spending on public works, 
providing subsidized credit lines and extending a targeted taxation moratorium .  These measures 
helped in restoring the GDP growth rates to about 9 % in 2010 and 2011.  
115. The Government of President Fernández has pursued vigorous economic policies with 
success, including anti -inflation measures such as domestic price agreement s, export taxes and utility 
tariff freezes, and strong growth in public expenditure .  H owever, the introduction of import 
restrictions has met with criticism from major trading partners, includi ng Japan, the United States 
and Mexico, which complained to th e WTO about the import restrictions.  
116. Since 2006, tariff protection has increased :  the simple av erage MFN tariff increased 
from  10.4% in 2006 to 11.4 % in 2012 .  The World Bank ranked Argentina 90th out of 125 countries 
on the MFN Trade Tariff Restrictivene ss Index with a score of 11.4 %.  However, based on the extent 
of its commitment to trade liberalization in services, Argentina ranked 43rd out of 148 countries 
on the GATS Commitment Index .  The Secretariat report has noted that, during the period under 
review, Argentina's use of non -tariff restrictions increased, mainly related to registration requirements, 
import and export procedures, and import licensing .  Moreover, the clar ity of the regime has tended 
to be undermined by the apparent lack of transparen cy in the application of some measures.  
117. Argentina continues to apply export duties as a tool to offset the effect of exchange rate 
fluctuations on domestic prices .  W ith few exceptions, all exports are subject to export duties .  
The rates have increased ov er the review period .  It is noted that, as A rgentina is a major exporter 
of agricultural products and a leading world exporter of certain products such as oilseed cake, cereals, 
and soya and its byproducts, the application of export duties could ha ve an i mpact on world prices 
of these products.  
118. Several measures, including the re -nationalization of Aerolíneas Argentinas, the introduction 
of strict foreign exchange controls, the approval of legislation to limit the foreign ownership of land, 
and the re -natio nalization of the oil company YPF from its parent Spa in's Repsol, have increased 
the role of the State in the economy, which needs to be balanced.  
119. Argentina has been playing an important role in Doha Round negotiations .  It has also played 
an active role i n the G-20 forum in addressing the global financial crisi s and in identifying reforms 
of the global financial system.  
120. Argentina and Pakistan have maintained stable commercial relations .  O ur traders pursue 
market opportunities in Argentina and to that effe ct a "Pakistan -Argentina Trade Show" 
was organized in Buenos Aires in the House of Mendoza from 4 to 8 March  2013 in collaboration 
with Mendoza province .  Both countries maintain a Joint Economic Committee and the Pak -Argentina 
Business Council .  Still, th e level of trade and economic cooperation  is far below the potential 
and there is wider scope for cooperation to enhance our bilateral trade .  Both countries can enhance  WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 19 
 
 
  cooperation in energy, surgical and sports goods, the textiles, agricultu re, tourism, pharmaceutical 
and marble sectors.  
EUROPEAN UNION  
121. This is the fourth trade policy review of Argentina .  The previous  one took place already 
six years ago .  In 2007, the Chair person,  in his conclusions , stressed the consensus of the 
WTO  membership to congra tulate Argentina at that time for its remarkable recovery from the 
financial crisis .  G rowth has been notably high until recently in Argentina, however, the overall 
situation today is very different from that of 2007 , to a great extent because of the restr ictive trade and 
investment policy adopted by Argentina.  
122. The WTO Secretariat notes in several parts of its report the mar ked policy orientation taken 
by Argentina , which is to privilege national production rather tha n the opening of the economy 
to internat ional trade and investment .  Several incentives are condition al upon local requirements .  
The EU notes that access to foreign exchange has become de facto impossible , which prevents 
a number of foreign traders and investors from doing  business .  A number o f import procedures 
set by the authorities are cumbersome, delay trade and disadvantage importers .  Import and export 
duties ha ve increased during the period.  
123. Recent data seem to show that Argentina may be entering a new phase of economic 
development chara cteriz ed by much lower real growth , given the growing inflation, decreasing 
investment that hampers its capacity to sustain or develo p production and a lessening 
of competiveness .  Stagflation is a threat for the economy and for t he fulfilment of the socia l 
and economi c objectives of the Government.  
124. Let me be very clear on one important element .  The EU does not in any way question 
the right of Argentina to pursue its objective of inclusive economi c growth for the benefit 
of its people .  It is, however, wor ried in particular because the measures adopted by Argentina in order 
to reach its goals only too often run counter to its international commitments and not only in this 
institution but also in the G-20, where leaders have repeatedly reiterated their polit ical comm itment 
to fight protectionism.  
125. Investment and trade are key factors for achieving the growth objectives set by the Argentine 
Government .  However, long -term investment and trade require legal certainty and predictability .  
The abrupt decision of t he Argentine Government to expropriate a 51 % stake of the Spanish company 
Repsol in Yacimientos Petroliferos Fiscales (YPF) and the absence of any proposal for compensation 
from the Argentine authorities for this expropriation more than ten months after su ch a decision 
is a great concern to investors .  T he company has opened various legal proceedings on this 
expropriation, including arbitration proceedings before the Internation al Center for the Settlement 
of Investment Disputes (ICSID) to claim implementat ion of Argentina 's obligations under the bilateral 
investment treaty in force between Argentina and Spain.  
126. The EU advance questions detail a number of measures that are considered and confirmed 
by EU operators as serious obstacles to trade and investment .  I will list only a few of them:  
127. The EU believes that the "import substitution " policy undertaken by Argentina is being 
implemented through measures, often informal, that are inconsistent with the WTO rules .  
Some of these mea sures are the object of a WTO dispute s ettleme nt case launched by the EU, 
the United States  and Japan against Argentina, notably the non -transparent and trade -restrictive 
application of the sworn advance import declaration (DJAI) or the obligation by importers to offset 
their imports i nto Argentina with exports or domestic produc tion. WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 20 
 
 
  128. We are also concerned about the extensive use of local content requirements in several 
Argentine investment incentive programmes .  The increasing restrictions on companies ' payments 
abroad and, as already pointed out, the almost de facto ban on ac cess to foreign exchange 
due to current controls also contribute to the deterioration of the trade and i nvestment climate 
in Argentina.  
129. The EU is also concerned about the poor record of compliance by Argentina with  bilateral 
investment promotion and protection a greements and ICSID arbitral awards, which also undermines 
the predictability and certainty  required by foreign investors.  
130. The EU has also presented a number of advance questions on the functioning of the IPR  
guidelines which, in the area of pharmaceutical s, seem to be inconsist ent with the principles 
of non-discrimination and hamper investment and trade .  In the area of procurement, the EU has raised 
a number of questions in particular on the bias that the po licies introduce in favour of national 
operators and the consistency of such measures with the effort to promote competition and best value 
for money  for the Government's finances.  
131. The EU genuinely hopes that this review  will provide the opportunity to exa mine 
the measures adopted by the G overnment and assess their real impact on the economy of the country 
and on the WTO Members gathered today .  T he EU hopes that t his will also help Argentina 
in reviewing its own policies so as to ensure that they are the m ost efficient for attaining its economic 
and social objectives , while remaining fully compatible with its internati onal commitments 
in this forum.  
132. The EU has expressed particularly serious concerns today with respect to Argentina 's current 
policies and the  impact on trade and investment .  But let me conclude b y stressing that the EU does 
so in the belief that the long -standing and fruitful relation s between  the EU and Argentina allow 
for frank constructive dialogue for mutual benefit when the situation so r equires.  
HONG KONG, CHINA  
General  
133. Argentina is one of our valued trading partners in Latin America.  Bilateral merchandise trade 
reached US$700  million  in 2012 .  Under the right conditions, there is good potential for further trade 
growth and mutual collab oration between the two economies.  
134. Hong Kong, China commends Argentina 's relatively good economic perform ance since 
the previous trade policy review , which has been achieved against the backdrop of the international 
economic and financial crisis in 2008/ 2009, and the generally weak g lobal economy thereafter.  
This notwithstanding, Hong Kong, China is concerned about a number of new trade measures adopted 
by A rgentina since the previous review.  
Investment  
135. We note that Argentina grants national treatment to f oreign investment.  Investors generally 
can invest in all sectors without restriction and , save for a few sectors, there is no need for prior 
approval .  However, we note that since October  2011 Argentina has put in place various restrictions 
on repatri ation of investment money.  
136. Hong Kong, China believes that a sound investment environment is indispensable in attracting 
long-term investment and in promoting economic growth.  We therefore strongly encourage Argentina 
to review and consider relaxing its policy  on repat riation of foreign investment.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  Import licensing  
137. We note that Argentina 's import licensing arrangements ha ve been a subject of extensive 
discussion in the past year, and that a Panel has been established to  rule on the WTO consistency 
of Arge ntina' s import restrictions.  
138. Hong Kong, China has systemic concerns about Argentina 's import restricting policies  
and practices, including i ts import substitution policy .  W hile we welcome Argentina 's decision 
to eliminate the non -automatic import licensing requ irements for cer tain products, we would call 
on Argentina to continue to review and eliminate any trade -restrictive measures which are not 
conducive to the development of bilateral econom ic ties and mutual cooperation.  
Procedures, documentation and registr ation (Trade facilitation)  
139. Hong Kong, China notes an increasing trend in Argentina 's use of non -tariff restrictions, 
mainly related to registration requirements, import and export proced ures, and import licensing.  
We also note that Argentina has introduce d mandatory certification systems for certain products, 
including the symbols that must be displayed on products a nd how they should be marked.  
140. Hong Kong, China is concerned whether such measure s are more restrictive than 
are necessary, hence presenting ob stacles to trade.  To facilitate international trade flow s, we suggest 
Argentina consider simplifying and streamlining its documentation requirements, and ensuring 
that the requirements , as well as clearance and licensing procedures , are published prom ptly 
for traders' information.  
141. Moreover, we are concerned about the pre -registration of importers and the "sworn advance 
import declaration " (DJAI) syste m, which requires prior authoriz ation and a long approval time .  
We urge Argentina to streamline its custom s procedures and consider removing the pre -registration 
system and th e burdensome DJAI requirements.  
Tariffs  
142. Hong Kong, China appreciates that Argentina has bound all its tariff lines and applied only 
ad valorem  duties .  Argentina 's tariff structure has al so been si mplified from 66 tiers to 18.  
143. However, we note that the percentage of duty -free lines out of all Argentina 's tariff lines 
has been reduced from 14.6 % in 2006 to 7.5 % in 2012.  The average applied rate has also increased 
from 10.4 % in 2006 to 11.4 % in 2012.  The international tariff peaks were applied to 27 % 
of Argentina 's tariff lines, which are as high as 35 % for some non -agricultural products such 
as textile s, clothing, leather, rubber, footwear and travel articles.  We understand Argentina 's right 
to raise applied tariff rates within its bound rates to achieve certain policy objectives, like maintaining 
a balance -of-payment s equilibrium.  We would , however , encourage Argentina to consider a more 
outward -looking trade and tariff policy, not least  because Argentina has benefited greatly from open 
trade and the multilateral trading system.  Accordingly we would encourage Argentina to consider 
lowering the MFN applied tariff rates, increasing more duty -free tariff lines, and carving out more 
sectors from  the highest tariff protection.  
Customs valuation  
144. Hong Kong, China remains concerned that Argentina conti nues to implement the system 
of criterion values for any of the goods included in the MERCOSUR Common Nomenclature, and that 
the product lists and the groups of economies subject to criterion values were amended several times WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 22 
 
 
  during the review period.  Hong Kong, China is one of the economies s ubject to criterion values.  
We call on Argentina to discontinue the system of cri terion values for all prod ucts. 
Services  
145. We note that trade in services grew to 62 % of Argentina 's GDP in 2011.  We also appreciate 
that the trade in services regime in Argentina is relatively liberal, though in that light we think 
Argentina may have room to commit more extensively  in the GATS to provide certainty to foreign 
suppliers.  We believe that continued liberaliz ation of trade in services is crucial for the further 
economic development of Members, and would like to encourag e Argentina to further liberaliz e 
its services trad e regime in particular in the area of audiovisual services to allow greater foreign 
participation, and also in telecommunication services , where healthy competition is still lacking 
despite deregulation efforts in recent years.  
PERU  
146. Our delegation apprecia tes the fact that Argentina has expanded its growth with social 
inclusion model and that, since its previous review, it has maintained  positive economic growth 
at an annual average of 6.4 %, despite the global crisis of 2008 .  In 2010 and 2011, Argentina re corded 
impressive growth rates of the order of 9.2 % and 8.9 %, respectively , and foresees a growth rate 
of the order of 5.1 % at the end of 2012 .  T his, according to Arg entina's report, has entailed 
a sustainable improvement in competitiveness and favourable  trends in all social indicators.  
147. Argentina's foreign trade also grew between 2007 and 2011, with exports recording average 
annual growth of 14.1 %, and imports 20.7 %.  In 2010 and 2011, an annual growth rate of 22.6 % 
was recorded for exports, compared with  38.3% for imports, and there was a trade surplus.  
148. The Secretariat report also shows that Argentina has ben efited considerably from 
its participation in the multilateral trading system, having doubled its exports between 2005 and 2011, 
which contributed to  its rapid recovery from the crisis .  T he report i ndicates, in addition, 
that the increase in the international price of its main export products also contributed 
to Argentina's  recovery.  
149. Peru and Argentina have developed substantial political, econ omic an d commercial ties 
in the course of their history, as they are close neighbours in South America and parties to regional 
integration processes such as LAIA, CELAC and UNASUR ;  this review is therefore of great interest 
to us .  T rade relations between Peru a nd Argentina are based on Economic  Complementarity 
Agreement No. 58, one of the goals of which is to create a f ree trade area between Peru 
and MERCOSUR.  
150. There is potential for growth in the area of bilateral trade, considering the ongoing expansion 
of comm ercial relations between Peru and Argentina, especially in view of the fact that trade between 
the two countries amounted to US$2,001  million  in 2012, an increase of 5.5 % over the previous year .  
Of this amount, US$194  million  corresponded to Peruvian expo rts and US$1,807  million to imports.  
151. In 2012, Argentina was the second most important destination for Peruv ian exports 
to MERCOSUR and the ninth in Latin America .  It was also the second most important source 
of imports from MERCOSUR, the third in Latin Am erica and the fifth in the world .  In terms 
of the composition of trade, 75 % of Peruvian exports in 2012 were concentrated in the non -traditional 
sector, and 21 % of these were made up of textiles and clothing, while the main Argentine exports 
were soya oil , yellow flint maize and other forms of wheat.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  152. It should be noted that the growth of Argentine investment i n Peru has been concentrated 
in the trade, industry and transport sectors, amounting to US$33  million  according to the records 
of Proinversíon .  W e expect the level of trade and investment to gr ow, particularly in the area 
of Peruvian exports, as the trade balance currently shows a surplus in favour of Argentina.  
153. In this connection, our delegation has submitted some questio ns on the investment regime 
and on measures directly affecting imports and exports, and border measures in the agriculture, 
forestry and fisheries sectors .  W e thank the Argentine delegation for its responses, which we will 
review attentively.  
154. Before concluding, I wish to express to t he head of the Argen tine delegation our pleasure 
at having him here in our midst, to thank him for his statement setting forth the advances in  Argentine 
trade policy since that country's previous review, and to express the h ope that this review will 
be of benefit to Argentina's development .  I renew our thanks to the Secretariat for the  important 
information that has been supplied in this connection.  
PARAGUAY  
 
155. We appreciate Argentina's participation at a difficult junctu re involving major economic 
and trade  adjustments .  This gives us the opportunity to speak sincerely, honestly and frankly about all 
the implications of these economic and trade adjustments and measu res and how they affect each 
of us, especially Paraguay, a landlocked neighbouring country, fo r which Argentina is one of the main 
outlets providing geographical access to the major world markets.  
156. For Paraguay, as a net exporting country with no access to the sea, any restriction on trade, 
any form of export licensing, unscheduled inspections, or n on-trade barriers, affects its own growth 
and the welfare of its population, and undermines its manufacturing and production industries.  
157. In the period under review, Argentina adopted measures which seriously restricted Paraguay's 
trade, particularly with r egard to access to the Argentine market, and th eir impact was felt in terms 
of employment and the disappearance of exporting firms which, o wing to their dependence 
on the Argentine market, were forced from one day to the next to shut down and lay  off their  
employees .  Nor was the situation helped by our exclusion from MERCOSUR's decision -making 
bodies, and our producers continue to pay a high price .  Out of absolute necessity, we shall continue 
our dialogue with Argentina, in either a multilateral or a bila teral framework.  
158. Paraguay's exports to Argentina amounted to approximately US$120  million  in 2012 .  Imports 
from Argentina were valued at US$1,2  billion.  P araguay has a major national interest in  achieving 
equilibrium in this trade balance .  The length of  our shared borders enc ourages us to  think in terms 
of productive integration in our neighbouring and border regions .  This would stimulate economic 
development and progress for our populations, which have shared ancestry and culture and whose 
production c haracteristics are similar, thus leading to a balance in trade relations that would benefit 
both countries for the simple reason that we would share our value -added chain and enjoy improved 
access to other regional and local markets.  
159. We fully agree with Ar gentina that the decisions taken by MERCOSUR that seriously 
affected Paraguay's sovereignty were unwarranted and should have been included in its trade policy 
review .  W e welcome the implicit recognition of this in the written replies we have received 
to our questions .  W e express the hope that Argentina will benefit from the trade generated 
by its review.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  UNITED STATES  
160. Argentina enjoyed robust economic growth over the past five years, with an enviable average 
annual GDP growth rate of 6.4 % from 2007 to 201 1.  As with many other economies in the global 
system, Argentina' s growth slowed in 2008 and 2009 owing  to the global financial crisis, 
but rebounded to about 9 % in 2010 and 2011.  Argentina ha s benefited enormously from 
its participation in the world econ omy during the period under review.  According to the Secretariat, 
goods exports reached about US$84  billion  in 2011, nearly twice the l evel reported in 2006, 
a factor  that contributed to Argentina 's rapid recovery from the global crisis.  High prices on 
international markets for Argentina 's commodity exports also contributed to strong economic growth.  
161. The United States and Argentina have a robust trade and inve stment relationship.  
We remain  mindful that trade contributes to economic growth, res ulting in i ncreased incomes 
and higher living standards.  Since the time of Argentina 's previous  trade policy review in 2007, 
United States -Argentin a two-way goods trade increased 42 %, from US$10.3  billion  in 2007 
to US$14.7  billion  in 2012.  Two -way services trade i ncreased nearly 83 %, from US$4.1  billion  
in 2007 to US$7.5  billion  in 2011.  
162. Despite our robust bilateral trade and investment relationship, there have been some 
challenges in our relationship as well.  For example, Argentina 's increasingly expansive use of  import 
restrictive measures has been a growing concern since 2008.  As a result, in August of last year, 
the United States requested dispute settlement consultations with Argentina regarding certain aspects 
of its import restrictions.  The United States a nd many other WTO Members repeatedly raised 
concerns  with the Argentine G overnment both bilaterally and in the WTO.  But our concerns have not 
been addressed and we therefore had no other alternative but to pursue this matter formally through 
dispute settl ement proceedings.  This was not a decision we made quic kly or easily.  
Litigation  is a measure of last resort.  We remain open to finding a solution t o this issue that would 
end the  litigation and allow us to focus our attention on improving our bilate ral trade relationship.  
In the meantime, however, we simply cannot accept these types of measures that hurt United States  
exporters, as well as traders in many other countries, and appear so  clearly to us and to other 
WTO  Members to be inconsistent with Arge ntina 's WTO obligations.  Unfortunately, Argentina 's 
repeal of the various product specific non -automatic import licensing requirements in Janua ry does not 
resolve the matter.  
163. While we congratulate Argentina on the strong economic gro wth it has experienced  over 
the past five years, we note that some policy measures are threate ning the sustainability 
of that growth.  As noted by the Secretariat, Argentina has resorted to tr ade policy measures intended 
to achieve short -term objectives , thereby requiring const ant policy adj ustments that add complexity 
to the trade regime, generate costs for the economy, and create considerable uncertain ty for traders.  
The Argentine G overnment has increased its reliance on a growth strategy based heavily on import 
substitution.   To carry out this strategy, Argentina has imposed a range of measures, in addition 
to the use of import licenses, aimed at curbing imports.  These include:  increasing the value  added tax 
on imports of consumer and capital goods ;  requiring a "certificat e of free circulation"  for imported 
food products ;  and increased reliance on local content requirements.  Argentina 's inclination to raise 
tariffs is also concerning, including the most recent tariff increase in January  2013, which affected 
100 products.  The Secretariat highlighted this trend in its report, noting that in 2006 a total of 14.6 % 
of tariff lines were duty  free, whereas in 2012, the duty -free lines accounted for only 7.5 % of the total 
tariff lines.  
164. Argentina imposes taxes on all but a few exp orts, including significant taxes on key 
hydrocarbon and agricultural commodity exports, in order to generate revenue and encourage 
development of domesti c value -added production.  The G overnment also requires major commodities 
to be registered for export,  and retains the authority to reject or delay exports of certain commodities  WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 25 
 
 
  depending on domestic prices and supply conditions.  Exports of wheat, corn, beef, and dairy products 
continue to be subject to periodic restrictions in order t o maintain low dome stic prices.  
165. Since 2001, Argentina has introduced a range of requirements f or the purchase and transfer 
of foreign currency.  These controls have become a central feature of Argentina 's current economic 
policy and are used to boost reserves, manage the exc hange rate, limit private sector foreign currency 
liabilities , and prevent capital flight.  
166. We have submitted a number of specific questions to clarify  individual points on these 
and other issues.  The United States looks forward to reviewing Argentina 's responses to our written 
questions.  We value the opportunity to engage in this dialogue with Argentina, and other Members.  
We look forward to discussing further Argentina 's trade policy regime, not only those issues where we 
are already cooperating well, s uch as in agriculture , biotechnology and efforts to eliminate fisheries 
subsidies, but also on issues where we do not see eye -to-eye.  Th e United States stands ready 
to engage in an op en dialogue with the Argentine G overnment in the hope of re -establishing  a more 
cooperative and productive trade relationship.  
CANADA  
167. Like Canada, Argentina is a trading nation, with much of its e conomic development tied 
to the international flow of goods, services and capital .  T his WTO trade policy r eview serves 
as an opport une moment to reflect on whether Argentina has achieved an appropriate mix of economic 
policies, especially trade policies .  Regrettably, Canada considers that it has not, and moreover, 
is in some cases moving in the wrong direction.  
168. Canada is concerned ab out a number of Argentina 's policies that have impeded 
its international trade flows and undermine efforts to maintain and expand an open and transparent 
trade regime .  For example :  opaque and unpredictable approvals for imports of goods and services 
through the sworn affidavit process ;  a dollar -for-dollar import balancing policy ;  unclear processes 
for obtaining currency exchange permissions for international trade transactions ;  requirements that 
mining projects subm it sourcing plans to Argentine G overn ment authori ties and take concrete steps 
to increase local sourcing of some goods and services ;  a nd informal controls and approvals 
preventing free repatriation of dividends from Argentine subsidiaries to overseas shareholders.  
169. These measures are among th ose that are currently being challenged before the WTO .  
Canada  is on record as sharing many of the concerns of the Parties that have brought these challenges .  
In this context, Canada calls on Argentina to reflect on the value of these measures, not just in terms 
of their WTO -consistency, but also their impact on its own economy and citizens .  The challenging 
global economic context brings a high degree of urgency to this matter.  
170. The "Doing Business 2013 " report of the World Bank and the International Fina nce 
Corporation ranked Argentina 124th out of 185 countries, on a composite measure of ease of doing 
business .  This would suggest the need for Argentina to take steps to improve the transparency 
of its regulatory environment to facilitate the work of the enterprises on which its economy depends.  
171. Canada welcomes Argentina 's par ticipation in international forums , including the WTO .  
Canada notes Argentina 's commitment to the successful conclusion of the Doha Development Round, 
and its constructive engagement  in the a griculture negotiations .  Canada looks forward to increased 
constructive collaboration with Argentina, and indeed many WTO  Members, in other key areas 
of negotiations such as trade facilitation as we work towards the successful completion of a pac kage 
of deliverables for Ministers to endorse at this year 's Ministerial Conference.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  172. Canada notes that Argentina, along with other members of the G-20, reaffirmed through 
the Los Cabos Summit Declaration its commitment to resist protectionis m in all its fo rms, 
and to roll back protectionist measures enacted in recent years .  C anada encourages Argentina 
to respect these commitments.  
173. In conclusion, Canada encourages Argentina to refocus its efforts on policies that enable  
the international flow of goods, serv ices and capital .  W e believe that policies aimed at expanding 
trade and investment will ultimately benefit the citizens of Argentina with increased prosperity.  
174. Canada has submitted written questions and is looking forward with interest to examining 
Argent ina's replies in the hope of having constructive discussions on all aspects of Argentina 's 
trade  policy.  
BRAZIL  
175. It is an honour for Brazil to participate in the fourth trade policy review of Argentina .  
Our countries share a history of friendship and trust , which is reflected in an increasingly strong 
partnership that transcends trade, the main goal being to create better living conditions for our  peoples .  
It is undoubtedly necessary to carry out policies of economic and c ommercial expansion in order 
to achieve greater social inclusion, which means in practice reducing unemployment and poverty.  
176. The Argentine economy has recovered since the outbreak of the current global crisis, 
achieving GDP growth rates of around 9 % in 2010 and 2011 .  As a result, rates of  economic activity 
and formal employment have continued to grow, generating significant social benefits .  
This growth  was driven in part by strong domestic demand and Argentina's status as a major exporter 
of primary products.  
177. Total Argentine exports doubl ed between 2005 and 2011 .  G oods exports amounted 
to US$84  billion in 2011, although they declined in 2012 .  Exports are evenly distributed, with 
agricultural products and fuels constituting approximately one third of the total, processed agricultural 
products accounting for another third, and manufactures the last third .  On the other hand, Argentine 
imports are concentrated in manufactured goods which accounted for roughly 80 % of total imports 
in 2011, compared with 86 % in 2006.  
178. Argentina and Brazil have developed a strategic relationship through trade .  In 2012, 
the Brazilian market absorbed nearly 20 % of Argentina's foreign sal es, and the Argentine market 
is the main destination for Brazilian exports .  B ilateral t rade recorded dynamic growth 
in the past decade, increasing from US$7.1  billion in 2002 to US$39.6  billion in  2011 .  
Despite  a reduction of US$34.4  billion last year, that figure is historically the second  best ever result 
in bilateral trade.  
179. Our bilateral trade relationship is important also in qualitative terms, as it involves above 
all higher value added goods, which gives a good indication of the high level of integration between 
our industries .  Last year, 91 % of Brazilian exports to Argentina consisted of manufactured goods, 
while 81 % of Bra zilian imports from Argentina were manufactures.  
180. Owing largely to the integration of production chains, Brazil wa s the fifth  largest investor 
in Argentina in 2010, when investments exceeded US$5.3  billion, nearly double the level in  2006 .  
Our investments cover a wide range of sectors :  oil and gas, mining, iron and steel, textiles, 
motor  vehicles, agricultural machinery and construction .  B razil's current investment stock 
in Argentina amounts to US$15  billion, and is expected to rise abov e US$20  billion in  the next 
few years.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 27 
 
 
  181. In addition, we set great store by Argentine investment in the Brazilian market, which today 
represents a stock of US$7  billion .  W e wish to continue studying together ways of increasing 
and diversifying investment in both countries, i ncorporating technology and innovation and providing 
greater benefits to SMEs.  
182. Argentina has made an important contribution to discussions on ways of reforming global 
governance and making it more inclusive and fairer, in particular through its participati on in  the G-20 
and the WTO .  In this Organization, Argentina has given proof of its belief in the guiding principles 
of the multilateral trading system and has taken an active part in the work of its  Councils 
and Committees.  
183. We acknowledge Argentina's firm  commitment to the Doha  Round negotiations, with the aim 
of achieving a successful outcome so as to balance and strengthen the multilateral trading system .  
In this connection, mention should also be made of Argentina's active  role in various groups 
such as the G-20, the Cairns Group and NAMA -11. 
184. Brazil agrees that agriculture continues to be a key element of the Doha  Round negotiations, 
owing to its contribution to development, as is recognized in the Doha  Declaration .  It is undoubtedly 
necessary to elimi nate discriminatory and protectionist policies that di stort and adversely affect 
that sector, so as to increase trade opportunities for devel oping countries, especially the  least 
developed  countries.  
185. Argentina has been one of the drivers of regional i ntegr ation in South  America 
and Latin  America, from the time of the establishment of the Latin  American  Integration  Association 
in 1980, up to the establishment of the Union  of South  American  Nations in 2008 
and the Community  of Latin  American and Caribbean  States in 2011.  
186. In the context of subregional integration, MERCOSUR plays  a pivotal role in ensuring 
the welfare of our societies and the competitive integration of our production sectors in the global 
economy .  I  would point out that MERCOSUR is a project da ting from 1985 when 
Presidents  Raúl  Alfonsín and José Sarney  signed the Argentina -Brazil  Programme for Int egration 
and Economic Cooperation.  
187. Cooperation within MERCOSUR has not been limited to t rade issues, but extends 
to the integration of production .  Studies and projects are being conducted in respect of infrastructure, 
energy, port installations and shipbuilding .  M ore importantly, tools have been developed to give 
concrete shape to these initiatives, taking into account the economic asymmetries .  
The Structural  Convergence  Fund of MERCOSUR (FOCEM) was established to finance programmes 
for the promotion of structural convergence, competitiveness and social  cohesion, particularly 
for the benefit of the smaller economies and less developed regions of the b loc. 
188. Given the long -standing and close relationship between Argentina and Brazil, most sectoral 
demands and trade issues are dealt with in bilateral forums or in the framework of MERCOSUR .  
Reference may be made to the bilateral trade monitoring meetings, a regular exercise involving senior 
trade officials from both parties, and the meetings of the MERCOSUR  Trade Commission, 
which  are held about four times every six months.  
189. Over and above the meetings held periodically between our trade ministers, 
President s Dilma  Rousseff and Cristina  Kirchner hold frequent meetings and, on nearly every 
occasion, trade figures prominently on the agenda .  M oreover, the level of integration between 
our countries has increased to such an extent that a permanent and fruitful di alogue has already been 
established, involving not only government representatives but also the business community.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 28 
 
 
  JAPAN  
190. I would like to begin with Argentina's macroe conomic environment and policies .  
According  to the report by the Secretariat, Argentina 's economy reco vered from the influence 
of the economic crisis in 2008 and 2009, and recorded GDP growth of approximately 9 % in 2010 
and 2011 .  H owever, its economy deteriorated in the first quarter of 2012, with the growth rate 
decreasing to 2.4 %, because of the reduction in domestic and foreign demand .  Japan hopes that 
the Argentin e Government will address these challenges in a proper manner toward s the restoration 
of growth and that this economic deterioration will not lead to protectionist measures.  
191. Now  let me move to trade and trade -related policies .  Here, we have three specific points, 
including trade and trade -related measures, foreign currencies, an d intellectual property rights.  
192. First, trade and trade -related measures .  O n the one hand, Argentina 's exports are 
on the increase .  The amount of exports in 2011 doubled from that in 2005 .  On the other hand , 
its MFN tariff rate gradually r ose from 2006 to 2011 .  In addition, there are many non -tariff barriers, 
for example, the imposition of a certain number of import obligations against exports and lengthier 
procedures for trade :  import and export .  Maintaining an open market in the global context is essential 
to support growth and to generate employment in each country, theref ore Japan requests Argentin a 
to abolish trade restrictive measures.  
193. Second, concerning foreign currencies .  W e find some mechanisms r estricting not only 
the import and export of goods but also the outflow of foreign currencies .  For example, ba sed 
on communications from the C entral Bank, it is now prohibited to withdraw foreign currencies from 
domestic accounts denominated in Argentine p esos using ATMs abroad .  Also, people are obliged 
to obtai n prior authorization from the Central B ank to make payment s related to service imports 
of more than US$100,000 per year .  M oreover, the procedures fo r prior  authorization from the 
Central  Bank are complicated, apparently taking more time than necessary to send profits, dividends 
and royalties .  S uch cumbersome procedures include the requirement  to obtain third -party 
certifications proving that the amount of the remittance is reasonable , as well as various examinations 
by the Government or the Central B ank based on ambiguous standards .  T hus, Japan requests 
Argentina to improve such procedures.  
194. Third, concerning intellectual property rights .  It takes as long as seven  years on average 
to register  patents in Argentina .  Japan requests Argentina to strengthen its efforts to shorte n this 
to an appropriate level.  
195. Last June, G-20 leaders stated their f irm commitment to open trade and investment, expanding 
markets and resisting protectionism in all its forms .  I would like to reiterate our strong wish that 
Argentina will observe the commitment.  
INDIA  
196. India and Argentina share close and friendly ties dati ng back  to the 1940s .  W e celebrated 
60 years of diplomatic relations in 2009 with a landmark visit from P resident Cristina Fernandez 
to India .  Since then, there has been a regular exchange of high -level visits , including that of India 's 
External Affairs Minister to Argentina last month.  
197. Trade between India and Argentina has witnessed steady growth during the period un der 
review, increasing from US$1.2  billion  in 2007 -2008 to US$ 1.53 billion  in 2011 -2012.  India export ed 
goods worth US$ 473 million  and impo rted goods worth US$ 1.05 billion  in 2011 -2012.  This growth 
trend has continued during the current financial year with bilat eral trade already crossing 
US$1.4  billion in the first nine months.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 29 
 
 
  198. Several prominent Indian companies, engaged in IT and business process outsourcing, 
chemicals and agro-chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, the oil and energy sector, 
and transportation, have established business operations in Argen tina investing an estimated 
US$800 million  and employi ng nearly 7,000 Argentines.  
199. Both countries recognize the immense potential for enhancing bilateral trade and investment, 
and are working pro -actively on various fronts to augment commercial links .  T his includes 
consultations and positive engagement, as witnessed in the case o f pharmace uticals imported 
into Argentina, where we hope that India will soon be included in the approved list of co untries, 
and in the case of business visas, which require some simplifica tion for a much closer 
business  interacti on. 
200. We are confident that the Prefer ential Trade Agreement between India and MERCOSUR, 
which came into force in 2009 and provides preferential market access for around 900 tariff lines, 
will contribute to further enhancement of our bilateral tr ade. 
201. We are happy to note that the Argentine eco nomy has done remarkably well on most fronts 
during the review period .  Though its GDP growth slowed down briefly in 2009 owing  to the global 
financial crisis, Argentina managed to make a quick recovery, recor ding impressive growth rates 
of 9.2% in 2010 an d 8.9 % in 2011 .  A similar trend was visible in its social indicators, with per capita 
GDP doubling du ring the review period from US$5,424 in 2006 to US$ 10,896 in 2011 .  The banking 
sector played an active role in maintaining financial stability in th e fac e of the financial crisis.  
202. Thanks to initiatives such as the production recovery programme, Argentina expe rienced 
a drop in unemployment to 6.7 % in 2011 .  Reforms in the social protection system coupled with 
income -boosting measures and a strong labour mar ket have helped in lowering income inequalities .  
In 2012, Argentina recorded a Gini coefficient of 0.418 representing the fairest income distr ibution 
over the past 18 years.  
203. Argentina has also been successful in reducing its public debt very significantly  from 60 % 
of GDP in 2006 to 41.6 % of GDP in 2011 .  This reduction in public debt and the absence of budgetary 
imbalances has allowed Argentina to focus on building economic infrastructure, promoting regional 
equity and financing improvements i n health, edu cation and housing.  
204. In mercha ndise trade, Argentina continued to generate large surpluses throughout the period 
under review despite a difficult exte rnal environment .  Its merchandis e exports almost  doubled 
from  2006 to reach US$ 84 billion  in 2011, with ag ricultural produ cts and fuel exports, 
processed  agricultural goods and manufactured goods accounting for an equal share of exports .  
This strong export performance contributed significantly to Argentina 's rapid reco very from the crisis .  
Merchandis e import s also  doubled from 2006 reaching US$ 71 billion  in 2011 , recording a growth r ate 
of more than 20 % annually.  
205. As an active participant in the WTO, Argentina has consistently worked to highlight 
the concerns of developing countries in several areas .  We share  Argentina 's concern over the imp asse 
in the Doha Round n egotiations and the initiatives aimed at undermining multilateralism .  
We agree  with Argentina 's view that agriculture should be central to the DDA negotiations because 
of its contribution to develop ment .  As a fellow developing country, India has worked closely with 
Argentina in the WTO across a broad range of issues, moving joint proposals and sharing similar 
concerns .  We look forward to continuing our cooperation with Argentina in future.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 30 
 
 
  TURKEY  
206. At the outset , we should like to congratul ate Argentina on the  very strong  macroeconomic 
performance it has attained during the period under review .  Indeed, Argentina achieved an annual 
growth rate of 6.4 % between 2007  and 2011 .  Excluding the slowdown obs erved globally in 2009, 
Argentina has achieved most impressive eco nomic growth by registering 9.2 % and 8.9 % annual 
growth rates in 2010 and 2011 respectively.  
207. From its Government r eport, we have also learn ed that, Argentina has achieved these 
outcomes as a  result of an economic policy mix consisting of demand and external sector 
management .  Argentina seems to have also reduced its p ublic debt drastically from 167 % of the  GDP 
in 2002 to the level of 42 % in 2011.  
208. In addition, we are also happy to observe tha t Argentina almost doubled its level of pe r capita 
income from 2006 to 20 11.  Moreover, it has achieved an unemployment rate  of 6.7 %, which  under 
current global conditions seems quite successful.  
209. Looking at the trade per formance of the country in the r eview period, Argentina 's exports 
seem to have doubled, reaching US$84 billion  in 2011 while its imports reached US$74 billion  during 
the same period , recording a US$ 10 billion  trade surplus.  
210. Having observed a rather successful overall macro economic a nd trade performance during 
the review period, ou r expectations with respect to Argentina 's trade policy also rise.  
211. In this regard, the Secretariat r eport underlines that "During the period under review, 
Argentina 's use of non -tariff restrictions has increased:  
 mainly relate d to registration requirements;  
 import and export procedures ;  and 
 import licensing. " 
212. Moreover, the clarity of the regime has tended to be und ermined by the apparent lack 
of transparency in the application of some measures .  Since 2006, tariff pr otection has increased :  
the simple average MFN tariff increased from 10.4 % in 2006 to 11.4 % in 2012.  Some important 
sectors such as textiles and clothing, footwear, certain ve hicles, and oilseeds, receive higher 
tariff  protection.  
213. We are specifically con cerned about Argentina 's import licens ing regime .  
Argentina  maintains a relatively comp lex and distortive import licens ing regime that constitutes 
the main impediment to achieving a higher trade volume  between our two countries .  We believe that 
Argentina  should revise the distortive aspects of its regime and comply with the rules and regulations 
of the WTO in this regard.  
214. Coming to our bilateral trade and economic relations, I should mention that we mainly export 
transport vehicles, textile products, rubb er, electric al equipment, mining, iron and steel and chemical 
products .  In return, we import oilseeds, tobacco, soya, fruits and vegetables, textile s, machiner y 
and also chemical products.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 31 
 
 
  215. In total, trade volume was less than US$700  million  in 2012, recor ding some surplus in favour 
of Argentina .  O f course, we consider that this level of trade does not reflect the potential 
of the two countries .  Among other factors, the distance between Turkey and Argentina and the recent 
econo mic crisis seem to have play ed a role in this low level of trade.  
216. Turkey wants to enhance its relations with Argentina with all available tools .  But we believe 
that liberalization and simplification of the trade and investment regime is the si mplest and most 
effective one.  
217. In this c ontext, I would also like to mention that we are seeking to conclude a  free trade 
agreement with Argentina in parallel through MERCOSUR , of which it is a member.  Such an FTA 
would serve the interests of Turkey but also those of all MERCOSUR countries as a  whole.  
218. In December  2012, our national flag -carrier, Turkish Airlines st arted to fly directly 
to Buenos  Aires .  I hope that this connection will c ontribute to the development of  closer trade 
relations with Argentina.  
UKRAINE  
219. Argentina is one of Ukraine's m ajor trading partners in Latin America, and today 
we are extremely pleased to have this opportunity to review the developments and to discuss 
Argentina's economic performance and changes in its trade regime since the 2007 trade policy review.  
220. Since 2010, A rgentina's economy has been steadily growing due to increased domestic 
demand, as well as good export performance owing to favourable conditions in international markets 
for Argentina's exports .  T hus, Argentina has benefited considerabl y from its particip ation 
in the multilateral trading system, which served as a significant factor contributing to its rapid 
recovery from the crisis.  
221. Although Argentina's simple average MFN tariff increased from 10.4 % in 2006 to 11.4 % 
in 2012, we welcome the abolition of min imum specific i mport duties (DIEM) in 2010 
and Argentina's transition to the application of ad valorem  duties to 100 % of tariff lines.  
222. However, there are some areas where Argentina could make better improvements .  
We believe  that continuing progress in eli minating trade restrictions and increasing transparency 
would benefit Argentina's economy by improving efficiency and raising productivity to support 
sustained economic growth.  
223. In particular, Ukraine is concerned about the increase d number of products subj ect 
to automatic and non -automatic import licensing .  Specifically, since the previous trade policy review, 
non-automatic licensing has been introduced for metallurgical products, which are one of the major 
items of Ukrainian exports.  
224. Besides, we note that  Argentina ranks fourth among WT O Members as regards the use 
of anti-dumping measures .  In particular, high anti -dumping duties in troduced in 2003 are applied 
to flat-rolled steel originating from Ukraine that adversely affects the access of Ukrainian 
meta llurgical products to Argentina's market.  
225. Nevertheless, we do hope that Argentina will find other sound op tions that can help 
in addressing the existing problems, at the same time allowing the stated goals to be achieved 
(monitoring of trade flows, complia nce with accreditation requirements, follow -up, etc.).  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 32 
 
 
  226. We also observe that Argentina's Government is working ha rd to manage the challenges 
and cushion the stress the word economic instability offers us every day .  A rgentina has unique 
experience in recove ring after severe economic and social shocks .  Argentina 's efforts to implement 
its commitment to further support and promote the multilateral trading system and the DDA 
are commendable.  
227. In closing, we look forward to working with Argentina in order to str engthen trade and finding 
ways to expand investment opportunities.  
MEXICO  
228. We are encouraged to begin this statement by recognizing that the recent global economic 
crisis has only had a modest impact on the Argentine economy .  Between 2006 and 2011, Argenti na's 
GDP grew at an impressive annual average rate of 7.1 %, and per capita GDP doubled in the same 
period, reaching nearly US$11,000 in 2011 .  In addition, a substantia l reduction was observed 
in the rate of extreme and urban poverty, together with a major  decline in the unemployment rate.  
229. The growth of the Argentine economy has been driven by stronger domesti c demand, 
with total consumption accounting for 70 % of GDP in 2012 .  The solid performance of exports 
and the use of countercyclical fiscal policies a lso made a positive contribution to economic growth .  
There were also advances in the area of fiscal consolidation and reduction of government debt.  
230. All these results testify to the Argentine Government's efforts to boost economic growth.  
231. It is a matter of  concern, however, that these advances could be nullified by a potential 
overheating of the economy, which may already be manifesting itself in the high levels of inflation .  
According to official sources, the consumer price index grew by 10 % in both 2011 and 2012 .  
The World Bank even estimates that inflation exceeded 17 % in 2011 .  The high levels of inflation 
could undermine the Argentine economy's competitiveness, particularly in the manufacturing sector, 
and could possibly put pressure on the exchange r ate. 
232. Regarding Argentina's trade policy, the increase in the average MFN tariff also raises 
concerns, having risen from 10.4 % in 2006 to 11.4 % in 2012 .  We are also disturbed by the fact that 
the applied MFN tariff on 32 tariff lines is higher than the bou nd level, and by the fact that Argentina 
has introduced various measures and requirements that have a neg ative impact on imports 
and investment .  O ther members, beginning with Australia and Col ombia, have already referred 
to those measures and requirements , which include import licences, registration and the advance 
sworn import declaration, etc., by which Mexico has also been affected, inasmuch as they necessarily 
entail an increase in import costs.  
233. In sectoral terms, we note that agricultural activities c ontinue to make a major contribution 
to Argentina's exports .  A lthough exports have benefited in recent y ears from the increase 
in international prices of raw materials, it might be advisable for Argen tina to aim at diversifying 
its export capacity so as t o be prepared for any drop in international prices for agricultural inputs.  
234. In the services sector, significant advances have been made in consolidating the Argentine 
financial system, although we agree with other delegations, such as  that of Hong Kong, Ch ina, 
that much remains to be done with a view to liberalizing this sector .  Based on the fact that services 
account for more than 30 % of manufacturing value added at world level, it is clear that the availability 
of quality services at international prices  is highly important.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 33 
 
 
  235. Finally, the manufacturing sector accounted for 18.9 % of GDP in 2011, a slightly lower 
contribution than in 2007 .  As we noted above, this sector is given high levels of protection through 
various restrictions on imports, which could undermine its competitiveness in the future – taking into 
account the fact that some of the inputs needed for production  and export purposes have 
to be imported.  
236. In this context, while we commend Argentina on all the beneficial progress and positive 
macroe conomic results that we have mentioned, we urge it to reconsider , with a view to abolishing 
all the border measures, administrative measures and non -tariff barriers to imports that have been 
mentioned, as well as restrictions on exports .  This would help t o boost the Argentine economy's 
competitiveness and provide certainty to its trading partners so that the ir trade with Argentina 
can continue on a solid, transparent and predictable basis.  
237. Let me conclude by echoing one of the recommendations made by the d iscussant 
for this review, the distinguished Ambassador of Vietnam, by urging Argentina to open its dynamic 
economy further and facilitate trade, so it can play a greater role in the world trading system, from 
which it has so greatly benefited, and so that  it can fulfil the anti -protectionist commitment it made 
in the context of the G-20 leaders meeting held in Los Cabos last June.  
ECUADOR  
238. In the fourth trade policy review of Argentina and acc ording to the report 
of the WTO  Secretariat, it is clear that the  Argentine economy has made a positiv e recovery, 
particularly in  the biennium 2010 -2011, when its GDP grew by 9 % compared with the height of the 
economic crisis of 2008 -2009, which also affected that country .  H owever, as is occurring with 
various other Me mbers at the present time, there would appear to be indications of a reduction in that 
growth of  the order of 5 %. 
239. Moreover, with regard to its trade policies, it is clear that Argentina makes full use of various 
policy instruments in order to achieve what it views as overall ec onomic growth and incentives 
to industrialization and development and, at the same time and in th e shorter term, to maintain 
the balance of payments and control inflation .  A ccordingly, A rgentina's trade policy aims 
at promoting its e xport products and domestic output, in combination with import substitution.  
240. Argentina's main exports are agricultural products and fuels, together with 
value -added  agricultural products and industrial manufactures .  The markets for its products would 
appe ar to be quite diversified .  H owever, imports of goods amounted  to approximately 
US$74  billion  in 2011.  
241. Some points worthy of mention concern the policy of debt red uction followed by Argentina, 
a policy which, together with the growth of GDP and surpluses in pu blic finance, has resulted 
in a decrease in the proportion of government debt from 60 % of GDP in 2006 to 41.6 % in 2011 .  
There are also programmes of incentives at national and provincial levels to promote investment, 
competitiveness and exports .  T hese programmes focus on horizontal a nd sectoral applications 
with a view to promoting investment in capital goods and innovation and technology, the development 
of SMEs and the facilitation of access to credit .  Finally, we note th at Argentina implements 
a price  control policy to stimulate consumption, strengthen domesti c production and promote 
better  income distribution.  
242. We share Argentina's position on promoting greater liberalization of trade in agricultural 
products, and we therefore agree on the importa nce that is attached, in the WTO agriculture 
negotiations, to the full implementation of the development dimension in this sector.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 34 
 
 
  243. Argentina has stated that its trade and investment policies ha ve been applied for purposes 
of economic development and social  inclusion, with a view to achieving a level of economic growth 
that serves to reduce unemployment and poverty .  W ith regard to the negotiation of regional 
agreements, Argentina is a member of MERCOSUR and of the Latin American Integration 
Association (LAI A), and in that context has signed various partial scope trade agreements with 
Ecuador .  In this connection, through the 1998 Treaty of Montevideo , Argentina recognized that, 
in respect of regional tariff preferences, Ecuador and two other co untries in the  region 
are to be assigned the status of relatively less developed countries owing to existing development 
asymmetries.  
244. As we have noted, Argentina's trade relations with Ecuador a re governed by the rules 
of the multilateral trading system, but more partic ularly by Economic Complementarity Agreement 
No. 59 and by the regional tariff preference (AR.PAR No.  4) of the LAIA .  These agreements make 
it possible for Argentine products to enter the Ecuadorian market  on preferential terms, 
and the reverse also appli es in principle.  
245. Trade between Argentina and Ecuador was favourable to Argentina in the period 2000 -2008 .  
In 2008, Argentine exports to the Ecuadorian market amounted to US$458  million , while the value 
of Argentine imports from Ecuador was US$139  million , so that the surplus amounted 
to US$319  million.  M ore recently, in the period from January  2011 to January  2013, 
Ecuador  exported tuna, preserved fish, bananas and palm hearts to Argentina .  M ore recently, 
also, exports of roses, shrimp and confectionery have perceptibly decreased.  
246. Ecuador considers that our two countries can continue deepening our trade rel ationship, 
on the basis of existing asymmetries, and in accordance with a bilateral programme of work that 
serves to stabilize trade relations between the two parties to their mutual benefit.  
THAILAND  
247. Despite the long distance between Argentina and Thailand , for the past three years, 
our bilateral trade flow has be en on the rise.  The total trade value f rom 2010 -2012 averaged 
US$1.35  billion per year.  I n 2012, Thailand 's total trade value with Argentina was approximately 
US$1.59 billion , increasing by 20 % from 2011.  Of the trade value, both imports and exports between 
the two countries have been increasing.  Argentina is currently Thailand 's third tradi ng partner 
in Latin  America, and our economic relationship is bound to be growing.  
248. Thailand is impressed with Argentina 's fast and strong recovery from the world economic 
crisis, leading it to achieve GDP growth rates of roughly 9 % in both 2010 and 2011.  We also see 
Argentina as an example of a country benefiting from participation in the world trade economy , 
as its merchandise exports in 2011 gr ew to almost twice the 2006 level.  
249. When we looked at Argentina 's composition of mercha ndise trade in the Secreta riat r eport, 
we found similarity between Thailand and Argentina as major exporters of agricultural produc ts.  
It is also interesting to learn that the average applied MFN tariff for Arg entine agricultural products 
in 2012 was 10.1 %, lower than that for non-agricultural products , which was 11.5 %.  
Thailand  commends Argentina on its effective debt reduction policy, its relatively diversified export 
markets, its variety of incentive schemes in order to promote domestic and foreign inve stment, 
and its active ro le in C ounci ls and C ommittees of the World Trade Organization.  
250. As trade between Thailand and Argentina is expanding, we would like to express our concerns 
about Argentina 's increasing use of non -tariff restrictions suc h as non -automatic import licenc es 
and anti-dumping measures.  Our authorities also conveyed some concern regarding the procedure 
involv ing certificates of origin, requiring the Argentine consulate 's legalization, an extra process  WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 35 
 
 
  which we found burdensome and unnecessary.  All of these concer ns have been put into questions 
previously submitted to the Argentine delegation, and we look forward  to the responses in due course.  
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC  
251. On the occasion of its fourth trade policy revi ew, we wish to congratulate 
the Government  of Argentina because, although it was affected b y the global economic crisis 
of 2008 -2009, the  Argentine economy has recovered since then and achieved exceptional GDP  growth 
rates of around 9 % in 2010 and 2011 .  Economic growth resulted in th e doubling of per capita GD P 
in dollar terms, which rose from US$5,424 in 2006 to US$10,896  in 2011, and in a  reduction 
in unemployment and poverty .  T his reflects a quite impressive econom ic performance, 
particularly  in the midst of an economic crisis of the kind that affected the whole world .  This growth 
was mainly attributable to the strong performance of Argentine export products and the use 
of countercyclical policies .  We also note with satisfaction that Argentina has considerably benefited 
from its participation in the multil ateral trading system, having doubled  its total exports 
between  2005  and 2011, which contributed to facilitating its rapid recovery from the crisis.  
252. Argentina has made active and effective use of fiscal, monetary and income policies 
to stimulate the econom y and overcome the effects of the crisis .  More recently, however, growth has 
slowed as a result of the downturn in both domestic and external demand .  Although real GDP  growth 
stood at 5 % in the first quarter of 2012 compared to the same period the previo us year, GDP remained 
stagnant in the second quarter, achieving a growth rate of 2.4 % in the first half of 2012 compared 
to the same period in 2011 .  We hope that the Argentine  authorities will continue applying economic 
policy instruments efficiently in o rder to reverse this trend, reinvigorate growth and reduce inflation.  
253. On the other hand, we note with concern the indication in the Secretariat report that 
Argentina's trade regime during the period under review was characteriz ed by an increase in the use 
of non-tariff restrictions, mainly in relation to registration requirements, import and export procedures, 
and import licensing .  It was stated that the clarity of the regime has  tended to be undermined 
by the apparent lack of transparency in the applicati on of some measures .  W hile we congratulate 
Argentina on the elimination of the Prior Automatic Import Licence, we wish to urge the Argentine 
authorities to review these measures so that they do not create unnecessary barriers to trade.  
254. We wish to congratu late Argentina on the fact that, since the pr evious review, the structure 
of Argentina's tariff has undergone a significant positive change, as a result of the elimination in 2010 
of minimum specific import duties (DIEMs) that affected 8 % of all tariff lin es.  Argentina now applies 
only ad valorem  tariffs ;  however, we wish to express our concern at the appl ication of  tariffs 
at a higher level than the bound rate on 32 tariff lines.  
255. We observe with satisfaction that both the agricultural and the services se ctors in Argentina 
are at an advanced stage of liberalization .  A ssistance to the agricultural sector in  Argentina 
is generally limited ;  the aid notified falls within the Green Box .  The level of tariff protection 
for agricultural products is fairly low, having amounted to 7.2 % in 2012, and no tariff quotas 
are maintained at the multilateral level, which reflects a fairly  high degree of openness 
in the agricultural sector .  The services sector accounted for 62 % of GDP at current prices in 2011, 
according t o the World Bank's services trade restrictions index, the Argentine services sector's 
restrictiveness index is 17 on a scale that ranges from zero (totally open) to 100 (totally closed) .  
This places it among the countries that are "virtually open but w ith minor restrictions", 
and we congratulate Argentina on this.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 36 
 
 
  URUGUAY  
256. We wish to highlight the role played by the Argentine Republic as a partner and founding 
member of MERCOSUR, an open, solid and rules -based integration system.  
257. In this connection, Uruguay  wishes to underline its commitment to consolidating the regional 
integration and consultation mechanisms, which promote the unity of the South American continent.  
258. In our view, MERCOSUR contributes to strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
259. At the s ame time, we wish to emphasize our two countries' interest in joining forces to ensure 
the successful conclusion of the Doha Development Round, with substantive outcomes in agriculture, 
as well as the strengthening of the multilateral trading system on the  basis of predictable, 
transparent  and balanced rules.  
BOLIVARIAN REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA  
260. Argentina and Venezuela have together been pursuing the same path for ten years, 
a path that is further consolidated every day and which extends to new horizons .  Both countries have 
backed the use of their wealth and the development of producti on capacities in order to p lace them 
at the service of the fight against poverty and improve the standard of living of our populations.  
261. Argentina and Venezuela have strengthened t heir social, economic, political and geopolitical 
union, both along bilateral lines and through subregional forums .  This is a relationship of solidarity 
and comple mentarity on different fronts, i n which both our countries are winners.  
262. At the subregional l evel, both our countries have plac ed faith in the integration 
and strengthening of economic and policy space, through MERCOSUR, U NASUR , 
the Banco  del Sur, CELAC and LAIA, among others .  V enezue la's admission to MERCOSUR 
last July was a milestone in our tra de relations and we are confident that  they will be strengthened 
much  further.  
263. On this route that both our countries have been following together in rec ent years, 
59 agreements and co operation projects have been approved and implemented in different areas,  
primarily in relation to agriculture and land, where we have much to learn from Argentina, and in this 
area alone 16 agreements and cooperation projects have been signed .  P riority is also given 
to the energy sector, with a special focus on oil and mining , as well as science, 
technology  and innovation .  M any of these agreements and co operation projects cont ain provisions 
relating to trade.  
264. One element of particular importance to the economic relationship between our two countries 
is the gradual evolution o f Argentine exports from a profile geared essentially to exports of primary 
products to one composed in the main  of processed products of industrial origin .  Nowadays, the basic 
iron and steel industries, the automotive sector and the chemical industry acc ount for a significant 
share of Argentina's exports to Venezuela .  P rocessed products, especially interm ediate goods, 
parts  and accessories, have become a feature of Venezuela's exports to Argentina.  
265. By way of example, it is worth mentioning that trade bet ween Argentina and Venezuela 
increased from US$100  million in 2003 to US$4  billion  in 2012.  
266. During the p revious  review of Argentina, we had noted a successful recovery from the crisis 
that had affected the country at the beginning of this millennium, in th e context of a favourable 
international environment .  For this review, we find that Argentina, like other WTO Members,  WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 37 
 
 
  has been affected by the current economic and fina ncial crisis, which is on going, and as for many 
other Members of the WTO, it became ess ential to maintain and, indeed, reinforce countercyclical 
policies .  In the face of unfair competition from countries outside the region, Argentina did what any 
country would have done, that is, protect its entrepreneurs and workers, without ceasing to abi de 
by its existing international commitments, which include the WTO rules .  During Ambassador Costa's 
presentation, we paid careful attention to the public policies that Arg entina has been implementing 
as part of its long -term strategy, which are aimed inter alia at industrial  development and increasing 
the number of jobs  in production . 
267. We are concerned at the fact that, in this forum, when analysing the trade policy of Member s, 
it would appear that we are not objective, for while some criticize Argentina f or implementing certain 
policies which might not be greatly appr eciated, we congratulate other M embers and make allowances 
for their taking the same actions, or for implementing program mes that have a genuinely adverse 
impact on the international market, o r are not in line with prevailing rules.  
268. We recogniz e in Argentina a country that believes in a transparent, rules -based, 
non-discriminatory and fair multilateral trading system as a key tool for development .  
The trade -distorti ng policies that a number of  countries are continuing to implement, 
especially  in the agricultural sector, are an obstacle to this country's ability, as  a major commodity 
exporter, to  take greater advantage of the multilateral trading system.  
269. Since the launch of the Doha Round, Argen tina and Venezuela  have stood together in most 
of the areas of negotiation under the Round, especially the agricultural and industrial negotiations, 
through the agricultur e G-20 and NAMA -11.  W e are more than convinced that the development 
dimension must b e central to the Round and be reflected in a cross -cutting manner in all its outcomes, 
both in the agreem ents we seek to achieve at the Ninth Ministerial C onference, and in what will 
remain pending after Bali.  
270. In conclusion, we congratulate Argentina on al l its efforts aimed at developing an economic 
model that can help sustain the economic growth achieved in recent years and a more equitable 
distribution of income through the social program mes implemented.  
EL SALVADOR  
271. It is worth recalling that, since its previous TPR in 2007, Argentina has tackled and overcome 
the global economic crisis, which is still being felt in vulnerable economies such as ours.  
272. Argentina 's positive performance (in a negative economic con text caused by the emergence 
of the economic cr isis in 2008) can be attributed to the role played by the Government ;  
some of the most noteworthy actions taken have included defending common objectives, 
coordinating  action between public and private actors (in order to fortify  the production sector), 
promoting economic growth, and generating jobs (which ha s led to a marked  improvement 
in social  indicators) . 
273. In such a situation and as part of such measures, Argentina launched the Strategic Agri -Food 
and Agro -Industrial Plan for  2010 -2020 (PEA), whose aim  is sustainable growth of agri -food 
and agro-industrial production and thereby generate greater wealth with value -added at origin  
and, according to the information available, it has boosted growth in non -traditional sectors.  
274. It is gratifying to see from th e Government and Secretariat rep orts the importance attached 
to SMEs in Argentina.  They constitute one of the national development strategy 's priorities, 
accounting for 15 % of Argentina 's total exports, helping to generate jobs and encouraging policy 
meas ures to assist their entry into international markets.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 38 
 
 
  275. There are complementary trade flows at the bilateral level, with El Salvador exporting plastic 
articles, tablecloths, boxes, clothing and tools to Argentina.  In turn, El Salvador mainly imports 
hydroc arbon gases, followed by pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, chemicals, leather and textiles, resulting 
in a flow of US$26  million annually.  This situation is conduct ive to general encouragement 
of business between our two countries, with high potential for gene rating new jobs in sectors such 
as agro-industry, online business services, textiles and clothing, tourism, aeronautics and electronics, 
light manufacturing, medical services, infrastructure, distribution and logistics centres, inter alia . 
276. Our trade ties w ith Argentina are becoming stronger, as can be seen from the exploratory 
missions between the two countries.  Their objective has been to conso lidate investment projects 
that include transfer of technology components to foster the developme nt of both our p opulations;  
in relation to cooperation, we continue to work in accordance with a South -South cooperation 
programme (which includes a Joint Technical Cooperation Commission between our two countries), 
with over 20 projects, five of which are being implemen ted and another te n yet to be initiated, 
in areas  that are priorities in El Salvador 's Five -Year Development Plan, such as strengthening 
the State, social development, justice, agricultural development, energy and human rights.  
277. At the multilateral level, A rgentina participates actively in the Doha Development Round 
negotiations and has submitted various proposals either on its own or jointly with other countries, 
reaffirming its interest in agriculture, non -agricultural market access, special and differenti al treatment 
for developing countries, and the lowering of barriers to trade in environmental goods and services, 
among other sectors.  
MOROCCO  
 
278. Argentina 's economy felt the effects of the international finan cial crisis in autumn 2008.  
It experienced a net  contraction of GDP in 2009 caused by the dual impact of a sharp fall in domestic 
demand and a marked reduction in external demand.  
279. The contraction of Argentina 's GDP was accompanied by a lowering of the current 
balance -of-payments surplus and government f inance (a deficit of around 2 % in relation to GDP).  
280. Morocco nevertheless appreciates the impressive role played  by the Argentine Government 
in stabilizing its economy, notably its efforts to improve agricultur al production and output, 
while  aiming for grea ter social inclusion, focusing on increasing value -added at origin, 
stronger  regional economies and encouraging the development of small producers.  
281. The State 's active participation has had a positive effect on this sector 's development, 
which  in 2011 recor ded a 28 % increase in GDP compared to 2004.  
282. Morocco takes this opportunity to congratulate Argentina on the ac tive role it played 
in the Doha  Round negotiations and its total commitment to the concl usions of these negotiations 
in order to achieve a better balance and a stronger multilateral trading system.  
283. Morocco also appreciates the key role played by Argentina in the G-20, particularly its efforts 
in favour of least  developed countries with a view to moving forward with the initiatives concerning 
impleme ntation of the commitments made at the Hong Kong Minister ial Conference in 2005, 
namely,  "duty-free and quota -free" (DFQF) market access for these countries.  
284. We likewise welcome the commitments made by Argentina o n Aid for Trade, especially 
the project on transparency and trade facilitation in Sub -Saharan Africa and that intended to improve 
the highway infrastructure in order to develop intra -regional trade.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 39 
 
 
  285. Argentina is a country that is very open to the trading system and to international trade.  
We draw particular attention in this connection to Argentina 's commitm ent and its contribution 
to the regional integration process, both within MERCOSUR and in c onnection with the promotion 
of new areas of integration such as the Union of South American  Nations (U NASUR) 
and the Latin  American and Caribbean region.  
286. At the same time, Argentina remains deeply attached to the mul tilateral trading system 
and to trade liberalization within the WTO framework.  
287. By tightening its trade links and diversifying its partners,  Argentina is demonstrating 
its commitment to promotion of the multilateral trading system.  
288. Allow me to congratulate the Argentine Government on its successful and impressive efforts 
over the past few years, and on its remarkable dynamism within the internati onal trade sphere.  
SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU  
289. Firstly, my delegation is pleased to note the high rates of ann ual economic growth recorded 
by Argentina continuously since its previous trade policy r eview in 2007.  Despite  the crisis in 2008, 
Argentina's exports grew throughout the years between 2007 and 2011 at an average an nual rate 
of 14.1%, and imports grew at an average rate of 20.7 %.  Furthermore, Argentina is an important 
exporter of agricultural goods and, according  to its report, in 2011 its agricultural GDP was 28 % 
higher than it was in 2004, with stable and sustainable growth in the intervening years.  In addition, 
we can see that Argentina's exports of manufactured products are gr owing at the same time, 
and its international trade in services is becoming an increasingly important factor in the economy.  
290. It is also interesting and pleasing to note that, as Argentina continues to enjoy overall 
economic growth, its sustained growth in exports has made it possible for it to generate a trade 
surplus, which has been beneficial for the balance of payments and the sustainability of  its economic 
policies, as  well as employment and social welfare.  
291. Argentina would clearly benefit considerably from a positive outcome to the DDA  
negotiations and the multilateral trading systems of the WTO.  At Argentina's previous trade policy 
review, my  delegation raised some concerns over its application of non -automatic import licensing 
measures on certain imported goods.  And now, after six y ears have passed, it is disappointing to see 
that those same measures have become the subject of an official dispute before the Dispute Settlement 
Body .  We would therefore like to encourage Argentina , as it proceeds with its programme of trade 
policy refo rm, not only to remember to take the concerns of Members into account, but also to ensure 
that compliance with the WTO's rules -based system is maintained.  
292. Now, if I may briefly touch on our bilateral trade relatio nship.  We enjoy very close 
and long-standi ng economic ties with Argentina.  In 2012, for example, the total value of our two -way 
trade was about US$725 million .  This compares favourably with the US$368 million  at th e time 
of Argentina's previous trade policy r eview in 2007.  In the space of six years, an increase 
of almost  200%.  Within this, our exports to Argentina have increased by only 144 %, while our 
imports from Argentina have gone up by 319 %.  These impressive figures just serve to provide 
concrete evidence of  the great potential that exist s for expanding our bilateral trade.  We certainly 
believe that our trade relationship can only get closer and keep  growing in importance in the future.  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 40 
 
 
  KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA  
293. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia appreciates the recent improvements in Argentina's economic 
environment such as the high growth rate of real GDP .  The  trade policy reports point out 
that Argentina's economy has grown at a fast pace .  Between 2007 an d 2011, real GDP expanded 
at an average annual rate of 6.4 %.  After the slowdown caused by  the international economic 
and financial crisis during 2009, high growth rates were again recorded in 2010 and 2011 
(9.2% and 8.9%, respectively) .  The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia encou rages Argentina to continue 
its economic reform and to implement further t rade liberalization meas ures to sustain rapid growth 
in the long term and thereby raise living standards and reduce poverty.  
294. Despite this positive economic performance by Argentina, Saudi Arabia is still facing a high 
trade deficit ratio with Argentina .  This imbalance has been partly caused by the trade restrictive 
measures still maintained by Argentina.  
295. We would like to express also some other concerns regardin g the nature and application 
of trade and investment restrictive measures taken by Argentina, wh ich are ad versely affecting 
the access of  Saudi products, individuals and companies into the Argentine  markets .  These measures 
include broad use of non -automatic import licensing requirements, pre -registration and pre -approval 
of all imports into Argentin a, and investment barriers.  
296. We think these restrictive measures have a negative effect not only on Saudi Arabia 
but also on other WTO Members .  In this context, we request that Ar gentina take immediate steps 
to address the concerns we have raised today, by  removing these import restrictive measures 
and investment barriers.  
297. Argentina has always been deeply committed to the multi lateral trading system 
and very active in the current negotiations.  Saudi Arabia is committed to wor king with Argentina 
and the WTO  membership in bringing the Doha Round to a successful conclusion.  
HONDURAS  
298. We note with satisfaction from the Secretariat report that, even though Argentina 's economy 
was affected by the global economic crisis in 2008, it has recovered and recorded GDP gr owth figures 
of around 9 % between 2010 and 2011.  It has also benefited to a large extent from its partic ipation 
in the multilateral trading system, managing to double its total expor ts between 2005 and 2011, 
which  made a decisive contribution to speedily overcoming the crisis.  Higher international prices 
for its main export products also assisted the economy 's prompt recovery.  
299. For the purposes of this review, in their report the authorities indicate that Argentina uses 
trade policy as a means of achieving  its goals for economic development with social inclusion, which 
focus on combining economic growth with objectives such as lowering unemployment and poverty 
rates.  We are pleased to note that there was a noticeable decrease i n unemployment between 2006 
and 2011, from 8.7 % of the economically active population in 2006 to 6.7 % in 2011.  
300. Furthermore, Argentina uses the State 's purchasing power a s a tool to promote 
and protect  domestic industry, laying particular emphasis on SMEs  through programmes 
such as "Buy Argentine  Labour", "Buy Provincial" and "Buy Municip al", under which preferences 
of 5% to 7% are granted for national and local products, depending on the circumstances.  
301. Argentina is also Latin America's fourth largest producer of crude oil and has the t hird largest 
reserves of natural gas.  To boost production and meet the energy needs of Argentina's domestic 
industry , the Government introduced the "Oil Plus " and the "Refining Plus" Programme s in 2008.   WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 41 
 
 
  302. According to World Bank figures, there has been reco rd growth in Argentina 's domestic 
industry in recent years, especially in the automobile, textile and household electrical appliances 
sectors.  Exports of wine increased by 323 % between 2003  and 2010, making Argentina 
the fifth largest producer of wine in the world.  The Argentine economy as a whole grew by 8.9 % 
in 2011 and  is expected to grow by 2.2 % in 2012.  
303. During a tour of Central America, H.E. Mr Héctor Timerman, Argentina 's 
Minister  of External Relations and Worship, paid a work ing visit to Honduras 
on 17 and 18 January  2012.  The purpose of  his visit was to reiterate  the importance attached 
by the Argen tine Government to  the Central  American region, and in the case of Honduras it meant 
reviving bilateral relations through closer ties that would enable  dialogue in the political, economic, 
trade and cooperation spheres to be intensified.  
304. The criteria permitting bilateral cooperation to be reviewed and  evaluated were reaffirmed 
with the aim of convening the first meeting of the Joint Commissio n set up und er 
the Agreement  on Scientific and Technical Cooperation between the two Republics, 
signed  in Buenos  Aires on 20  August  1981.  In this connection, we welcome the Argentine 
Government 's willingness to offer cooperation in the areas of governance, s ocial dev elopment, 
agricultural  development, irrigation and energy, among others.  
305. As regards trade and the economy, a high -level meeting was held between Honduras ' 
Under -Secretary for External Relations and the Argentine Under -Secretary for Investment 
Development a nd Trade Promotion, at which mutual interest in developing trade relations still further 
was expressed and we are confident that the efforts made on both sides will be intensified.  
CUBA  
306. I shall not repeat the information to be found in the report and which  shows all the efforts 
made by the Argentine Government and people to move ahead and develop.  Argentina makes active 
use of trade policy instruments to achieve its long - and short -term obje ctives and boost 
its industrial  development.  
307. It is noteworthy to s ee that over the period since 2007 (the date of the third review) until now, 
Argentina has expanded its model for economic growth with social inclusion.  This positive 
performance has enabled it to implement social programmes such as the Social Security Sy stem 
Inclusion Programme and the Universal Child Allowance (AUH) and the Pregnancy Allowance 
for Social Protection, which sought to put the rights of more vulnerable groups – the elderly 
and children  – on an equal footing regardless of the characteristics  of their entry into 
the labour  market.  
308. Since the previous review, there has been a favourable trend in the major labour market  
indicators, despite the crisis and the unfavourable international situation.  It is a matter of particular 
satisfaction that this  has been achieved by generating quality jobs and raising the population 's living 
standards, with the ensuing reduction in the levels of poverty and destitution.  
309. With regard to foreign trade, we cannot fail to mention that the dynamism of Argentina 's 
econo my has also meant a constant increase in imports from other  countries.  This has helped 
to sustain aggregate demand at times of global economic crisis.  
310. I should like to underline Argentina 's stance in promoting and saving the Doha Round, 
pursuing the proce ss of agricultural reform that began in the 1990s, believing first and foremost that 
agricultural negotiations are crucial for the development objectives of this Organization.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  311. Recognition is also due for the arduous and energetic role played by Argentina 's 
representatives in  Geneva.  There is close cooperation between our delegations and we are working 
together to defend the legitimate interests of developing countries at the WTO.  
312. We also take the opportunity of this review to highlight Argentina 's particip ation 
in multilateral bodies such as MERCOSUR, UNASUR, LAI A and more recently CELAC.  
The Argentine Government has played an active role in reinforcing regional identity and taking 
positions with a view to Latin American and Caribbean integration.  
313. At the b ilateral level, we thank the Government and, more specifically, the Argentine 
Cooperation Fund (FOAR), for the support given for the development  of projects in communities 
and sectors of key importance to Cuba 's economy such as agriculture.  This has enabl ed us to achieve 
more ambitious objectives in the battle for food sovereignty.  
314. Other relevant aspects of trade between Cuba and Argentina concern biotechnology products 
and the purchase of large quantities of food on this market.  Argentina is Cuba 's fifth  most important 
trading partner in the Latin American and Caribbean region and sends large numbers of tou rists 
to Cuba.  
BENIN  
315. Benin 's delegation congratulates Argentina on it s excellent economic, trade and social 
performance since 2003 and particularly dur ing the review period.  
316. Argentina 's economy has recovered, with a GDP growth rate of around 9 % in 2010 and 2011.  
317. Despite a setback in the first quarter of 2012, Argentina 's economy has been able to continue 
making efficient use of trade policy instruments.  
318. The foundations of Argentina 's economic and trade activities include :  diversifying production 
of goods and services ;  attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) ;  prudent management of the debt ;  
social inclusion and combating unemployment ;  and promoting  regional integration.  
319. Argentina is developing a liberalization policy for the mining sector, which is open to both 
Argentine and foreign private investment.  
320. Argentina is Latin America 's fourth largest producer of crude oil, has the world 's third largest 
reserves of natural gas , and has invested heavily in the renewable energy sector.  
321. Lastly, the Beninese delegation greatly appreciates Argentina 's close involvement 
and important contribution in the Doha Round trade negotiations.  
NIGERIA  
322. Nigeria is pleased t o note from the Secretariat report that , since its previous trade p olicy 
review, the Government of Argentina has expanded the model of economic growth with social 
inclusion introduced in 2003 .  T he policies pursued have been responsible for unprecedented 
economic growth and job creation, while achieving significant improvements in all the social 
indicators and reversing the process of de -industrialization that the country had been experiencing 
since 1976 .  The general  approach was characterized by a consist ent macroe conomic policy sustained 
by the growth of foreign demand and the domestic market ;  a  dynamic trade policy ;  
strong  development of industry and production ;  and an income policy that promoted social inclusion.   WT/TPR/M/277  
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  323. Despite the international economic cr isis in 2008, the economy of Argentina has continued 
along the path of growth .  Between 2007 and 2011, real GDP expand ed at an average annual rate 
of 6.4%.  This performance can be attributed to the consistency of the Government's economic policy 
decisions  that resulted in the high rates of economic growth, a sustain able and genuine improvement 
in competitiveness, and a favourable trend in all the social indicators.  
324. We note that all aspects covered by the TRIPS Agreement are r egulated in Argentina 
in additi on to other initiatives taken , and  have made it easier for inves tors to establish themselves 
in the country ;  m y delegation believes that these measures would help in attracting foreign 
investment for the benefit of the country's economic and social develo pment .  In October  2011, 
Argentina accepted the Protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement on the implementation 
of paragraph  6 of the Doha Declaration on  the TRIPS Agreement and Public Health ;  the amendment 
gives more flexibility to countries that do not have  the capacity to manufacture pharmaceutical 
products to import medicines under compulsory licence s.  To that en d, we urge other Members 
of the WTO, in particular, developing countries that have not yet accepted the Protocol , to do  so 
in order to ensure tha t the amendment enter s into force.  
325. In conclusion, Nigeria considers Argentina as an important developing country Member 
of the WTO .  W e look forward to continued collabo ration with Argentina in the on going 
DDA  negotiations .  In this context, we wish to ack nowledge the construct ive and proactive 
engagement of  the delegation of Argentina in Geneva.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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V. REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF ARGENTI NA AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  
H.E.  Ambassador Augusto Costa  
326. It is a great pleasure  for me to be amongst you once again in order to continue the review 
of Argentina 's trade policy.  
327. I should first like to thank the Chairperson of the Trade Policy Review Body, Joakim Reiter, 
who, although it is his first time in this position, has succeeded in creating a cordial atmosphere that 
has helped to ensure that the exercise is a fruitful and constructive one .  M y thanks also 
go to Ambassador Thanh T.  Nguyen for his role as discussant.  
328. We also value the active participation of Members who, through their oral statements last 
Wednesday, share d the Argentine delegation 's vision of our country 's trade policy and made helpful 
contributions to the discussion.  As is only logical, however, not all  the comments are shared 
by the Argentine Government but it is through frank and constructive dialogue that multilateralism 
can become stronger.  
329. During his opening statement on Wednesday, the Chairperson referr ed to the conclusions 
of the previous review on the sustainability of the growth with social inclusion process that has been 
under way in the country  since 2003.  Bearing in mind the enco uragement given to Argentina 
by Members of this Organization in 2007 to take measures to ensure t he sustainability of growth 
and permit the achievement of our potential, it is gratifying to note that over the past six years our 
country has been able to achieve results at a time of unprecedented economic crisis.  This achievement 
was underlined in the vast majority of the oral statements made at the first session.  
330. We have also noted the recognition of the role played by our country in the Doha Round 
negotiations.  We take this opportunity to reaffirm once again Argentina 's co mmitment 
to a non-discriminatory, balanced multilateral trading system that takes  into account as a priority 
the needs and interests of developing co untries.  
331. At the end of this review, I should like in the first i nstance to refer briefly 
to the Secretariat  report.  
332. The Government is not seeking self -sufficiency, as indicated in the report.  We therefore 
requested a correction, but it was not included in  the final document .  W e are instead seeking 
the development of competitive industry, as explained in detail at the first session.  Because of our 
country 's structural features, this means filling in a number of gaps in our production matrix in order 
to ma ke the economy more competitive as a whole and at the same time counteract the traditional 
foreign exchange deficit bias in the Argentine economy 's growth .  B earing this in mind, 
how should  the objective of import substitution that appears frequently in st atements by the Argentine 
authorities be interpreted?  Our country needs to have an integrated production f ramework that has 
to be rebuilt.  We are moving in this direction and this is the focus of government policy.  
It does not imply from any point of vi ew the ambition of self -sufficiency, but more and better trade 
within the framework of a sustainable international trade integration model.  
333. The second point in the Secretariat report that needs to be  mentioned at this point 
is the reference to an increase in non -tariff restrictions.  Argentina believes this description 
to be equivocal.  The increase in imports, almost three times the global average, over the review 
period is a very eloquent response in this connection.  In other words, how could it be expla ined  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  outside this room that a country is increasing its trade restrictions when its share of the world 's total 
imports rose from 0.27 % to 0.40 %?  In general, what is difficult to explain should not be asserted …  
334. I should also like to dedicate a few words t o the challenges  identified by 
Ambassador  Thanh  Nguyen in his opening statement.  
335. The challenge of maintaining high rates of GDP growth and a very positive growth dynamic 
in wages in real terms means intensifying industrialization.  This is , in fact, the pr erequisite 
for sustainability.  In this connection, it should be stated that, as already mentioned, import 
substitution is seen as a process that boosts competitiveness.  The foreig n trade figures show that, 
with the deepening of the growth with social inc lusion model in Argentina during the review period, 
imports of capital goods, intermediate goods and consumer goods show ed a large increase.  
It should  be reiterated here in this respect that the Argentine Government  has not prohibited, 
and is not consider ing prohibiting or restricting imports.  
336. Moreover, as we have explained and as many statements have viewed positively, the high 
rates of growth sustained since 2003 speak of a strong and healthy macroeconomy.  This is the result, 
inter  alia, of high levels of employment, notable progress in all the soc ial indicators, improvements 
in income distribution and in the debt reduction process.  This economic environment has also boosted 
the sharp rise in both public and private investment in Argentina, both domesti c and foreign.  
The goal of the measures in effect and the new regulations recently introduced is to reinforce 
economic sustainability and ensure stable conditions for the development of business in Argentina.  
337. Thanks to the current macroeconomic system and  the regulat ions applied, a large number 
of firms established in Argentina from many of the countries present here today have achieved higher 
levels of profitability since 2003 than the levels reached in the 1990s.  There can be little doubt that 
they will  continue to take advantage of the business opportunities in Argentina.  We are convinced 
that for companies there is no better incentive for placing investment and obtaining attractive profits 
than an economy that is showing vigorous growth.  
338. Thirdly, I sh ould like to mention in particular that the Argentine Government still pursues its 
objective of deepening the productive integration of its economy in t he region and in the world.  
We therefore welcome especially the statements made by our fellow Latin Ame rican 
countries  referring to the unprecedented integration and unification process that is happily taking place 
in our region.  
339. I should also like to refer to some of the concerns raised in the comments made on 
Wednesday.  I will not of course mention all t he comments, but only some, as r esponses have been 
given to  the questions submitted in writing in a 400 -page document circulated by the Secretariat.  
340. Some of these comments referred to the recent amendme nts to the tariff structure 
and clarifications are req uired.  
341. With regard to the increase of approximately one percentage point in the average MFN tariff 
compared to that in effect at the time of the previous review, we should emphasize that our extra -zone 
tariffs are determined within the MERCOSUR framework.  There is , however, one exception 
to the CET applicable to a list of capital goods, which was renewed at the latest MERCOSUR summit 
held in late 2012.  Accordingly, with effect between 1  July 2012 and 31  December last, 
Argentina  adopted regulations raising  the tariffs applicable to a serie s of such capital goods.  
As of 1 January this year, the tariff applicable to imports of capital goods has been the CET 
agreed  within MERCOSUR.  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  342. This amendment concerning exceptions to tariffs on capital goods  also explains  the reduction 
in the number of zero tariff lines.  
343. With regard to the 32 tariff headings for which the MERCOSUR CET is above the rate bound 
by Argentina, it should be pointed out that it has been decided that the customs in the States Parties 
apply the CET  provided that it is not higher than the rate bound in the WTO.  The reason for this 
provision is that at the time the CET was negotiated MERCOSUR countries had already bound their 
tariffs individually.  
344. It is important to emphasize that MERCOSUR countries plan to revise the whole of the tariff 
universe, bearing in mind that it was established 30 years ago, at a  time when our economies 
had a different production structure.  
345. Lastly, I should like to refer to the efforts made by Argentina du ring the period unde r review 
to facilitate foreign trade procedures.  Firstly, Automatic Import Licences (LAPI) were eliminated  
in September  2012.  Secondly, procedures for granting the non -automatic licences in effect in 2012, 
which concerned almost 600 tariff lines out of a  total of over 10, 000, have been computerized 
and facilitated.  The latest measure taken to streamline foreign trade op erations was the elimination 
of Non-Automatic Licences (LNA) in January  2013, a decision that  was acknowledged positively 
by several dele gations on Wednesday.  
346. To summarize, Argentina does not have any automatic or non -automatic import licences 
in place, part of the process of streamlining and computerizing the systems and lessening the number 
of bureaucratic procedures so as to improve the integration of the various government bodies involved 
in foreign trade operations and to facilitate operations by all stakeholders.  
347. Having given this clarification, at this juncture we shall not refer to the trade policy 
instruments that are the subject of  a dispute before the Dispute Settleme nt Body because it would not 
be appropriate to do so during this exercise.  
348. I should like to conclude my statement by expressing our thanks because this exercise has 
been very useful for the Argentine Government and we value the comme nts and concerns expressed.  
We hope that this review has also served to bring about a better understanding of the performance, 
objectives and instruments of our trade policy.  
DISCUSSANT  
349. I am really impressed with Argentina's remarkable macr oeconomic performance in recent 
years .  W ith the advantages of a major exporter of primary products of high  international prices, 
the Argentine Government has made an active use of fiscal, monetary and income policies 
to overcome the adverse effects of the  2008 -2009 world economic cris is and stimulate its economy 
to achieve continuous growth.  
350. I would also wish to put on record my appreciation of Argenti na's active use of trade 
policy  measures as an instrument to attain its long -term goals, especia lly to pro mote 
overall  economic  growth, and to achieve short -term objectives such as maintaining the 
balance -of-payments equilibrium.  
351. While a lot of commendations and appreciation ha ve been expressed , the hundred s 
of questions received on Argentina's economic, inves tment and trade policies show that v arious 
Members, not  only from the Latin American region  but also from other parts o f the world, are witness 
to the interest and sometimes the concerns they have with respect to some trade and investment policy 
questions and, in general, to Argentina's development process .  T his is particularly the case  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  when  Argentina is an unceasingly important trade and economic partner, and long -term 
investment  destination.  
352. I appreciate the seriousness  with which Argentina has responde d and will continue 
to do so to the questions raised.  I trust that the Argentine Government w ill seriously consider making  
inflation data more accurate , whic h would fully reflect the macro economy of Argentina .  All this leads 
to necessary consideration and  steps to be taken by the Argentine Gove rnment to control inflation 
and re-accelerate GDP in sustainable development.  
353. Concerns about possible trade restriction s have been addressed regarding Argentina's import 
substitution policy, tight capital control, ex port duties, certain import licens ing, or other import -related 
administrative measures .  A  more detailed clarification and/or explanation by the Argentine 
Government of the need for these policies might be deemed necessary.  These, I am sure, would help 
attract more foreign investment into Argentina to develop the manufacturing sector, to create 
favourable conditions for the development of SMEs , and t o increase the capacity 
and the competitiveness of Argentine exports .  T hese would also further facilitate A rgentina's 
continued external economic relations with the rest of the world in line with the WTO rules .  
It would  also be important to ensure that Argentina makes every effort to keep its Industrial Strategic 
Plan 2020 and its specific implementing measure s consistent w ith the spirit of WTO rules, 
in particular the principle of non -discrimination .  Indeed, transparency, the notion of the rule of law, 
accountability, protection of private property and predictability are important factors in the sustainable 
development process.  
354. From what I have heard from the discussions in the past two days, I am confident t hat 
the Argentine authorities will continue to honour their commitment to the multilateral trading system, 
and will endeavour to achieve their national wo rthy goals of development with social inclusion within 
the framework of the multilateral trading system's principles .  I wish Argentin a every success 
in its current trade policy review  and in your robust development agenda .  I also wish the Argentine 
deleg ation a nice stay in Geneva and have a good trip back to Buenos Aires.  
355. In conclusion, I would like to put on record my sincere thanks and appreciation 
for the valuable encouragement and support rendered to me by the Chair person , the distinguished 
Argentine  delegation, colleagues and the WTO Secretariat.  
EUROPEAN UNION  
356. The EU would like to express its appreciation of the efforts made by the delegation of 
Argentina to reply to all of our questions .  W e will study them carefully and we have no follow -up 
questi ons to  pose today .  W e hope that this trade policy review will provide  some useful insight 
for the authorities of Argentina on how to best address some of the concerns expressed by Members, 
including the EU.  
UNITED STATES  
357. Like other Members, the United Sta tes is deeply concerne d about the measures adopted 
by Argentina to reach its goals, many of which have created an unpredictable and burden some  trade 
environment and some areas question Argentina's commitment to international obligations .  
We appreciate Arg entina's response to our advance written questions .  However, we know that several 
were not answered and we remain interested in receiving answers to those questions .  
This morning  we received Argentina's replies to our question and asked for additional in formation 
regarding the Incentive Programmes , as noted by the Secretariat r eport, and requirements 
for purchasing domestic goods .  W e also continue to seek information regarding some IP issues , 
as well as information on the certification of free circulatio n required for imports of food products .  WT/TPR/M/277  
Page 48 
 
 
  We have provided these follow -up questions to the Secretariat and look forward to receiving 
Argentina's complete responses.  
CANADA  
 
358. Thank you , Argentina , for the entire responses to many of our questions .  The resp onses that 
Argentina has provided have contributed to Canada's understanding of several matters .  
Unfortunately,  20 of our 39 questions have not yet been answered and Argentina indicates that 
responses or more complete responses are being developed .  I just need to highlight that the exchange 
of written questions and responses is one of the most valuable ways in which the trade policy review 
mechanism could contribute to the pursuit of greater transparency and understanding of the trade 
policies and practic es of Members .  Canada looks forward to receiving all outstanding responses 
promptly .  We have one follow -up question that we will forward to the Secretariat.  
ARGENTINA  (Ms Paglieri)  
 
359. First of all, as responses have been given to all the questions posed by  Members, we declare 
our readiness and willingness to reply to any additional questions and provide any clarifications 
deemed  necessary.  
360. Secondly, on behalf of Argentina, I should like to express appr eciation of the statements 
made  by all the Members who t ook the floor, representing countries all over the world, and who had 
the kindness to congratulate our Government on its action because they understand that our country 's 
achievements have been the result of hard work and deep conviction.  
361. We also welcome t he acknowledgement of the active role played by the Argentine 
Government in various multilateral forums.  
362. We cannot fail to express here our surprise at the compariso n made by the representative 
of Canada in respect of the paths followed by our countries in  the 20th century.  
363. It is appropriate, important and necessary to receive this statement and we would therefore 
greatly appreciate it if the Chairperson could provide us with the relevant transcription so that we can 
analyse it in detail, but in principle w e can state that:  
364. We share the Canadian representative 's opinion that Argentina is a country with a weal th 
of natural resources, that it is large country with different climate zones and has four very different 
seasons, one of the advantages of which is th e supply of very diverse and high -tech products.  
365. Our country also has tourism potential with features that are unique in the world.  It has sites 
that are declared to be among the wonders of the world, for example, the Iguazú Falls ;  or world 
heritage site s such as the Quebrada de Humahuaca.  
366. We also have a population of only 40  million with well -trained human resources, 
which  enables us to achieve a high level of literacy, and a highly skilled work force.  
367. Argentine scientists have been awarded several Nobel  Prizes.  It is a particular matter of pride 
that two Argentines have received the Nobel Peace Prize.  
368. Perhaps what differentiates our respective contemporary histories is that Canada did not suffer 
from a catastrophic dictatorship which, most regrettably, made us kno wn throughout the world 
for the word "desparecidos ".  WT/TPR/M/277  
 Page 49 
 
 
  369. A dictatorship that imposed an economic plan which systema tically destroyed the fabric 
of production and saw the initiation of policies implemented in Argentina with the agreement 
of Washingto n, leading to the crisis in 2001, the worst economic crisis in our history.  
370. As Ambassador Costa explained, if Argentina had continued along the path of development 
that prevailed in the 1950s, today the two countries would undoubtedly be more like each oth er. 
371. Another difference, emerging from a comparative analysis of our s ituation and that of Canada, 
is that, unlike Argentina, part of Canadian territory is not occupied by an overseas power whose 
sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II, is recognized by Canada as its  head of State.  
372. For historical reasons, the Falkland Islands ( Islas Malvinas ), because of their geographical 
situation on the Argentine continental shelf, are part of our country - the Islands, the surrounding 
territorial sea and all the region 's renewable  and non -renewable natural resources.  
373. As both Canada and Argentina belong to the Organization of America n States 
and to the United  Nations, we consider that it would be a very positive gesture if the Canadian 
delegation asked the head of State to resume th e dialogue for a pea ceful solution 
of the Falklands  question.  
374. For all the above reasons, I wish to thank all Members.  
375. I thank our Latin American brothers, who have mentioned the ex tent of our permanent ties, 
our bilateral relations and regional commitments  and, as the represe ntative of Chile mentioned, 
our common history.  
376. Along the same lines, we wish to refer to the statement by the re presentative of Colombia, 
which  commenced and ended by citing the inaugural address of President Néstor Kirchner in 2003.  
We certainly agree with Colombia that his message has served as "a road map for Argentina 
in the past decade ", and a clear sign that "Argentina says what it is going to do and does what it says.  
This is transparent. " 
377. We are therefore determined to continu e promoting a model for growth with social inclusion 
which, fully consistent with the WTO Agreement, enables us to boost our country 's development 
and raise our population 's living standards.  
378. Thank you all, may our acts have as their target, and their resu lt, the well -being 
of our peoples.  
UNITED KINGDOM  
 
379. The people of the Falkland Islands are British and have chosen to be so.  
380. The United Kingdom  has no doubt about its sovereignt y over the Falkland Islands 
and surrounding maritime areas, nor of the Falkland Islanders' right to decide their own future, 
the right to self -determination as enshrined in the U nited Nations  Charter and the International 
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights .  This is a fundamental human right for all peoples . 
 WT/TPR/M/277  
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  VI. CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
381. This fourth trade policy r eview of Argentina has provi ded an excellent opportunity 
to improve our understanding of Argentina's trade and investment policies .  I would like to thank 
Ms Beatriz  Paglieri, Secretary for External Trade in the M inistry of the Economy, 
Ambassador  Augusto Costa, Secretary for International Econom ic Relations in the Ministry 
of External Relations and Worship, and the whole of the Argentin e delegation, for their constructive 
engagement in this meeting and their stron g commitment to this exercise .  I would also like to thank 
Ambassador Trung Thanh Nguyen, Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the WTO, 
for his intervention as discussant .  Argentina's written answers to the large number of advance written 
questions hav e been well appreciated by Members , who  look forw ard to receiving answers 
to any questions as soon as possible.  
382. Members congratulated Argentina on having weathered the global crisis well, achieving high 
GDP growth rates of around 9 % in both 2010 and 2011 .  They also welcomed the important progress 
made with respect to social inclusion, improved income distribution, poverty alleviation and reduction 
in unemployment during the period of review .  However, more recently, it was also noted that GDP 
growth slowed  to an annual rate of 2.4 % in the first half of 2012, while inflation accelerated .  
The latter could pose a problem for future growth, by undermining Argentina's external competiveness 
and hampering Argentina's goal of social inclusion .  M embers ho ped Arge ntina would address 
the challenge of maintaining strong and sustainable growth and reducing inflation with out resorting 
to trade restrictive policies, an issue that had already been flagged at the time of the previous trade 
policy review in 2007.  
383. Members h ighlighted Argentina's active participation in the mul tilateral trading system 
and in the D DA, particularly in the areas of agriculture and development -related issues .  
Argentina  was commended for its strong engagement and commitment to the finali zation of  the DDA, 
as well as its growing role in South -South cooperation, Aid for Trade and initiatives in support  of least 
developed countries .  M embers noted that, as a large exporte r of commodities, 
Argentina  had benefited considerably from its participation in  the multilateral trading system, 
doubling its exports during the review period .  They encouraged Argentina to con tinue enhancing 
its role in  the multilateral trading system.  
384. It was noted that , during the period under review, Argentina continued to activel y use trade 
policy to achieve macroeconomic and social goals .  For instance, export taxes had been used to ensure 
domestic suppl ies at low prices and to enhance fiscal reve nue, while import licensing 
and import -export compensation agreements had been used to improve the trade balance and promote 
domestic production .  Members were interested in hearing from Argentina whether it did not consider 
that relying on export taxes for revenue purposes introduced distortions in the allocation of domestic 
resources an d resulted in an alteration of its comparative advantage .  Some Members expressed 
concerns regarding the impact of these taxes on international prices , particularly considering that 
Argentina is a major world exporter of some of the commodities that are su bject to these taxes .  
In general, Members prompted Argentina to adopt and implement trade measures in a more 
transparent and predictable manner as it is uncertainty itself which c ould stifle growth, 
investment,  and trade.  
385. Members noted Argentina's increas ed recourse to import -restricting measures, 
mainly  anti-dumping, reference prices, and, especially, import lic ensing, during the period 
under  review .  They expressed concern about the introduction, in early 2012, of a new Advance 
Import Sworn Declaration, to be submitted before importation .  The use of import licensing had been 
denounced  by some WTO Members and had been brought before the Dispute Settlement Body , 
as well as the  resort to import/export compensation agreements .  M embers welcomed Argentina's 
removal of most import licences in 2012 and in early 2013, and asked about its plans to take further  WT/TPR/M/277  
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  steps in this direction .  In general, Members questioned the tra nsparency of the application 
of import -restricting measures and  felt that these could have a n adverse impact on trade .  
Argentina  was urged to remove them and  to apply WTO rules -based measures .  T he Argentin e 
authorities in  their responses considered that Argentina's policies were within WTO rules.  
386. Other areas for attention brought up by Members during  the review, either through 
the question and answer process or through their statements , include the following .  W e have taken 
note of  the comments provided today by Ambassador Costa in this regard, including his clarification 
that Argentina is not s eeking self -sufficiency.  
 Tariffs : Although Members appreciated Argentina's elimination of specific duties  
during  the period under review, they noted that the average applied tarif f rate had increased 
during the  period under review and that the percentage o f duty -free tariff lines had fallen .  
A few also referred to some applied tariffs whic h seem to be higher that the bound levels .  
They enquired about the consistency of recent tariff increase s with the G-20's pledge 
to resist  protectionism.  
 Trade balancing  requirements : Members sought more information about the nature of these 
requirements and their legislative basis, including whether they  were published 
in the Official  Journal, the means through which they were communicated to private companies, 
the impli cations for companies that did not comply with these requirements, and the justification 
of these practices within the WTO Agreements.  
 Foreign direct investment : While Members noted that Argenti na applies a generally open 
FDI regime, with almost no restric tions on entry and the application of national treatment for 
most sectors, concerns were raised including related to :  limitations on repatriat ing dividends 
and in general remit ting capital abroad ;  the criteria to nationalize industries and plans for futu re 
nationalization of enterprises ;  a nd the impact of the import sub stitution policy on FDI 
and its compatibility with the TRIMs Agreement.  
 Horizontal incentives  schemes : Members noted that Argentina maintained several such 
schemes, aimed at reducing the i nitial cost of investment, or fo stering regional development 
or R&D .  It was also noted that Argentina provides credit guarantees an d official credit, 
sometimes at  preferential or fixed rates, and that, in some cases, incentive schemes were 
contingent on l ocal value added requirements .  M embers urged Argentina to notify these 
programmes to the WTO.  
 Government procurement : Members e nquired about Argenti na's plans for accession 
to the Agreement on Government Procurement,  and a number of questions were raised about 
the general rules and procedures regarding government procure ment, including with respect 
to the use of domestic preferential margins.  
 Intellectu al property : Argentina was requested to clarify some issues in this area, particularly 
with respect to th e patentability of pharmaceuticals, and delays in processing patent applications.  
 Services : Members noted that the different services sectors were relatively open 
to foreign  investment .  T hey encouraged Argentina to enhance competition i n some service 
sectors, such  as telecommunications, and to better reflect the general ly open services' regime 
in the country's commitments in the WTO.  
387. In conclusion, Members generally commended Argentina on its economic performance during 
this review, while cautioning it aga inst rising inflation .  M embers welcome d Argentina's resolve 
to reduce public debt, increase employment, enhance its productive capacity and manufacturing WT/TPR/M/277  
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  competitiveness, fight poverty, improv e income distribution, etc.  I t is not these objectives, 
but the manner in which Argentina is – and has been – using some sp ecific trade policy measures 
to further these objectives about which  Members have raised questions or expressed concerns .  
As in the previous review in 2007, this includes the use and impact o f export taxes, the granting 
of incentives contingent on local content and use of import licences, and  Members have once again 
in this review asked Argentina to reassess the efficiency of applying these measures.  
388. The participation of a large number of delegat ions in this meeting and the large number 
of questions posed during this trade policy r eview indicated the cle ar importance of Argentina 
as a trading partner for WTO Members .  Similarly, it is telling that  so many Members underlined 
the importance of their  two-way trade with Argentina, while stressing that this trade – despite 
impressive growth many times over in the p ast few years – still fell short of its full potential .  
I hope,  therefore, that this review will be of use for Argentina to re flect on its i mportance in, 
and responsibility for, the multilateral trading system so that it will continue to shape its trade policy 
accordingly , both for its own benefit as well as for the benefit of all who are part of the system .  
In closing, I would like to thank the Argentin e delegation, all the other delegations, the discussant 
and the Secretariat for this successful review of the trade policies of Argentina.  
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