Argentina Country Report

Argentina, one of the two southernmost countries in Latin America, is arguably the most Western in terms of cultural identity. The country has traditionally had strong ties to the US and Europe both due to Old World immigration flows and foreign policy, although recent years have seen a much greater integration within Latin America. The country continues to recover from its 2001 debt default and has returned to international financial markets. Argentina has one of the strongest industrial sectors in Latin America, although its economy still relies strongly on the export of agricultural goods, including soy and grain products. Tourism is also a signficant economic driver due to the dynamism of Buenos Aires juxtaposed with the geographic diversity of the rest of the country.

The biggest threat for those visiting Argentina is that of crime, which is generally opportunistic but can also be violent in bigger cities. Depending upon the specific regions to be visited, inclement winter weather can also pose significant risks to travel, notably in Patagonia and the country's Andean backbone.

Argentina has essentially no conflict threats other than a longstanding dispute with the United Kingdom over the sovereignty of the Falklands/Malvinas Islands; however, the dispute is not expected to regain a military dimension. Crime is low by Latin American standards but notably higher than levels in North America and Europe. Domestic terrorism is not a threat, but lingering transnational terror elements are thought to reside in the tri-border area (TBA). Smaller protests occur on a near-weekly basis, with major events also common throughout the year. Transit disruption is the primary risk associated with these events, though incidental violence is also possible.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Argentina’s road network is considerable and in generally good condition throughout the country. Some roads may be rendered impassable in the far west and south during the winter months.

There are six major ports in Argentina. The ports are efficient and contribute to the country's sustainable economic growth.

Basic services such as water, electricity, and fuel availability are usually reliable, although blackouts have occurred in Buenos Aires.

Argentina is not thought to sponsor cyberattacks, but its financial sector is at considerable risk of suffering from them.

The country's climate varies according to latitude, although inhospitable environments are only found in the extreme south and higher altitude Andes. Although Argentina is not known for pollution, its weak government reach suggests a high potential for contamination within its extractive sectors. The majority of the country lies within a seismic zone. Although quakes are usually moderate, they have the potential to be severe. Storm systems are an annual issue for the country, and the greater Rio de la Plata region can experience devastating flooding; tornadoes are also an issue for this region. In the western Andean and southern Patagonian regions, severe snowstorms can prove hazardous and disruptive.

Argentina has eradicated most major diseases from its soil, but outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses are particularly common in the northeast. Argentine healthcare facilities range from average to excellent in Buenos Aires and other major cities, with a fundamental distinction in quality between public and private facilities. Healthcare elsewhere is adequate for routine needs only, and special care may require travel to the capital or another urban center. Most major medications can be obtained in some form in Argentina. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Corruption in Argentina is problematic in both business and government. The rule of law is undermined by corruption and the significant politicization of the judiciary. Argentina’s system of governance has been remarkably stable despite negative shocks as it has continued to consolidate democratic gains since the dictatorship years.