Summary of Conferencia de prensa | 05.03.25
In a recent press conference, key economic indicators were presented, showcasing growth in Argentina's economy. The agricultural sector saw a 5.2% increase in liquidations in February, reaching $2.181 billion, attributed to a reduction in export duties. Economic activity grew by 4.3% year-on-year in January, with SME exports rising by 22% in dollars. Additionally, a significant majority of small and medium-sized enterprises plan to hire more staff, reflecting optimism in the business climate.
The government is pursuing a free trade agreement with the United States, which could enhance the market presence of Argentine products like wines and meats. This initiative is seen as part of a broader strategy to stabilize and grow the economy, leading to an 8% rise in Argentine company shares on Wall Street.
Furthermore, a new decree has ended the obligation for companies to financially contribute to business chambers, aiming to increase worker freedom and redirect funds to companies. The Ministry of Human Capital plans to appeal a judicial decision that prevents the government from suspending social programs for beneficiaries involved in protests, arguing that this decision benefits criminal organizations exploiting the vulnerable.
The press conference also addressed ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with assurances that the agreement will not increase gross debt and will focus on recapitalizing the Central Bank. The government emphasized that the current exchange rate will remain stable, despite market volatility concerns.
In response to questions about recent political tensions, the spokesperson criticized the use of judicial resources for political gain and reaffirmed confidence in the government's stability. Discussions also touched on the media's role and the government's commitment to enhancing press professionalism, including the controversial concept of an "anti-panic button" for managing press interactions.
Overall, the government is focused on economic growth, social policy reform, and strengthening international trade relationships while addressing internal political dynamics.
Presenters/Contributors:
- Manuel Estel
- Nicolas Gallardo
- Javier Negre
- Various unnamed government officials
Notable Quotes
— 12:13 — « Courage is not the absence of fear; it is going forward with fear. »
— 21:43 — « The mute button is in case of doing it simply so that when they rip the microphone from the hand to people who work at Casa Rosada, well that doesn't happen anymore. »
— 37:29 — « They have spoken to us for decades about import substitution... and they have done a lot of damage to Argentina because the only thing they have done is isolate us from the world. »
Category
News and Commentary