Overview
- Latin America and the Caribbean’s goods exports rose an estimated 6.4% in 2025, with gains driven mainly by higher volumes rather than prices, according to the IDB.
- Argentina’s exports increased in 2025 but at a slower pace than 2024, while the trade surplus fell 40.4% to USD 11.286 billion as imports jumped 24.7% on revived domestic demand.
- The report highlights high logistics costs, infrastructure gaps, lengthy clearance times and restricted trade finance as the main constraints on export capacity.
- Argentina’s advance leaned heavily on shipments to China, which accounted for about 40% of the increase, led by soy, oils, and fuels.
- Following the recent Mercosur–EU deal signing, the IDB notes potential openings for agriculture alongside tougher tests for industry, with the government pushing for swift approval.