Commodity exports have generally dropped during the year, as various free trade agreements now in place throughout the region impacted on suppliers from outside the region. It is assessed that manufactured products present the best non-dairy opportunities for sustainable growth in the region. For most of the past decade Argentina has recorded significant economic growth supported by high levels of foreign investment. President Menem of Argentina himself championed the outward looking trade and economic policies of his country and of the region since taking office in 1989. His reforms were based on privatization, deregulation, and trade liberalization.
Tourism also provides opportunities in Argentina.
Around 1 million Argentians travel outside South America each year. Mercosur as a whole has stated its intention to reduce its CET by the year 2000. Further international investment is being generated as the Argentinean Government proceeds with privatization programs.