From Argentina Reports · Natalia Garcia · · 1m 40s
Chinese Cars Gain Ground in Argentina
Chinese car brands now dominate Argentina's electric vehicle market, sparking fears for local automakers.
In brief
Chinese car brands now dominate Argentina's electric vehicle market, sparking fears for local automakers. Chinese manufacturers hold 88.4% of Argentina's electric vehicle market, threatening established local car producers. Originally reported by Argentina Reports.
Chinese Cars Enter Argentine Market
Chinese-made cars are becoming increasingly common on Argentine streets, modernizing the country's vehicle fleet.
Rapid Growth in Chinese Registrations
Between January and September 2026, 39,954 Chinese vehicles were registered in Argentina, a fivefold increase from 2025.
ACARA Reports Market Shift
ACARA's president Sebastián Beato stated the market is shifting with less domestic production and more imports due to trade liberalization.
Electric Vehicle Dominance
Chinese manufacturers hold 88.4% of Argentina's electric vehicle market with 5,335 out of 6,033 battery-electric vehicles registered.
Hybrid Vehicle Market Growth
Chinese brands account for 45.1% of hybrid vehicles registered, with 27,143 out of 60,129 vehicles.
Policy Changes Facilitate Entry
President Milei's 2025 decree reduced import duties on electric and hybrid vehicles from 35% to zero with annual limits.
Expo Auto Chino Attendance
Over 33,000 people attended Expo Auto Chino in Buenos Aires from October 2 to 4, 2026, where 26 Chinese brands showed 100 models.
Challenges for Local Manufacturers
Argentina produced 314,975 vehicles in January-September 2026, a 16.9% drop from the previous year.
Stellantis Faces Pressure
Stellantis' South America president Herlander Zola expressed concerns about plant closures in Argentina due to market conditions.
Aftermath of Market Shift
Local automakers face pressure to improve competitiveness as Chinese brands expand their presence in the market.
The takeaway
Chinese manufacturers hold 88.4% of Argentina's electric vehicle market, threatening established local car producers.
