Overview
- S&P Global Ratings raised Neuquén’s individual credit profile from 'b-' to 'b+' on Thursday, citing better public-account management and stronger provincial finances.
- The provincial government says total debt fell to about US$1,197 million by September 2026, with roughly US$650 million traced to obligations inherited when Governor Rolando Figueroa took office in December 2023.
- Figueroa’s administration credited austerity measures for the improvement, including cuts to political staff, prioritizing career public employees, and renegotiating stalled public works contracts.
- New borrowing has been restricted to specific, productive uses, including US$36.5 million from international organizations for works, a US$500 million international bond with a grace period for infrastructure and debt repayment, and roughly US$10.5 million for capital goods.
- Officials say the upgrade should lower borrowing costs and expand market access to fund a multi-year infrastructure plan aimed at diversifying the province’s economy, with residents likely to see more investment in education, health, security and transport projects.