02/07/2026 10:18 - Economia
The Argentine automotive market is experiencing a fascinating structural transformation. Historically dominated by vehicles manufactured locally or in neighboring Brazil, the local scene is shifting. Although the general market registered a drop of 9.9% in the first half of 2026 with 294,181 registered units compared to 326,549 in 2025, imported brands are experiencing a real boom.
According to the Chamber of Official Auto Importers and Distributors (CIDOA), between January and June 2026, 28,237 imported vehicles were registered in Argentina. This is a spectacular leap of 165% compared to the 10,651 units in the same period of 2025. In June alone, these brands accounted for 14% of the total market with 6,386 vehicles.
This phenomenon was driven by the opening of imports and a key tariff benefit: the exemption of tariffs for electrified vehicles with a FOB (Free On Board) value under USD 16,000. This policy significantly favored the entry of the booming Chinese auto industry into the South American country.
The Chinese leadership is unquestionable. Out of the 10 best-selling imported brands in June, seven are of Chinese origin, with the podium completed by Korean brands Hyundai and Kia, and the German brand BMW.
| Brand | Units (June 2026) |
|---|---|
| BYD | 1,740 |
| Chery | 694 |
| BAIC | 689 |
| Hyundai | 511 |
| Haval | 376 |
| MG | 340 |
| BMW | 324 |
| Kia | 270 |
| Foton | 213 |
| Changan | 196 |
When looking at specific models, the ranking also shows a strong preference for the Asian offering, led by the BYD Atto 2 with 523 units.
The technological revolution is not slowing down. While only 394 electric cars were sold in the first half of 2025, in the same period of 2026 the number climbed to almost 4,000 registrations. In June, 9 out of the 10 best-selling electric models are manufactured in China, with the Volvo EX30 (manufactured in Belgium) being the only exception.
481 units. The entry-level workhorse making EVs accessible to the masses.
123 units. A compact SUV with very few rivals in its segment.
106 units. A sedan with an excellent price-to-feature ratio.
Ernesto Cavicchioli, president of CIDOA and CEO of Hyundai Argentina, highlighted that a more open market with fewer taxes is very positive for consumers. However, he suggested improving the quota distribution for electrified vehicles to encourage the supply of non-Chinese brands from Japan, Korea, Europe, and the United States.
The origin of registered vehicles shows that Brazil leads with 43% (19,312 units), followed by Argentina with 29.64% (13,312 units) and China with 13.97% (6,273 units). The future of the sector looks vibrant, with over 90 models to choose from, accessible prices, and a strong technological leap that benefits all drivers.
Sources: iProfesional, Clarín, iProfesional (EVs).
Alfredo S. Quiroga
