Market Intelligence
Argentina South America Western Hemisphere

Argentina Transportation Infrastructure

Many transportation infrastructure projects across the country are on hold due to the current economic environment and the fact that the country’s elections (both provincial and national) are being held throughout 2023.  Most public spending is directed toward existing obligations and social programs, and the government’s ability to raise additional debt is limited due to a debt restructuring agreement with the IMF.  Many analysts expect modest improvement in the country’s economic situation in early 2024.  This will create several infrastructure opportunities for U.S. companies in ports, waterways, airports, roads, and railways.

Ports  

  • Most ports in Argentina (oceanic and riverine) have only received basic maintenance in recent years, pointing to the need for upgrades.
  • The Port of Buenos Aires manages 70% of the country’s shipping volume and needs modernization upgrades that include dredging, filling services and equipment, and updated cargo control systems.   
  • In the far south of the country, the Port of Ushuaia may present a variety of opportunities given the expansion of scientific and tourism activity in Antarctica.  Construction of a new terminal for additional vessels is required.  
  • The Parana River is a major trading and transportation artery (the “Hidrovía”) that flows from Paraguay to the Port of Buenos Aires.  The country’s river authority is likely to retender a major dredging project under a new administration. 

Airports

  • Seven airports across the country received maintenance and some upgrades in 2022.  
  • Additional airports will seek different forms of modernization, including the expansion of the busiest domestic airport, Aeroparque Jorge Newbery in Buenos Aires, which is run by the private operator, Aeropuertos Argentina 2000.  
  • Runway lighting systems, new or refurbished buildings, and passenger tracking systems will be required.

Roads 

  • There are 18,000 miles of paved roads in Argentina.  
  • Many roads have been neglected, especially in more rural areas.  
  • Road construction and maintenance are mainly developed using local labor and materials.
  • There are opportunities for porous asphalt technology and multifunction paving machines.  

Railways  

  • There are 12,000 miles of rails in Argentina, half of what existed in the past due to the lack upkeep and profitability.  
  • China and Russia dominate the market with the provision of basic rail equipment,
  • Opportunities remain for U.S. solutions that can assist in the electrification of diesel locomotives as well as signaling and communications equipment.

In summary, while current investment in infrastructure is on hold, U.S. companies should consider finding local partners now to be well placed for projects that will come online in the country in the near- and medium-term.

For additional information on this industry, please contact Commercial Specialist Diana.Brandon@trade.gov