On August 13, 2026, YPF's CEO Horacio Marín announced the formal submission of the Argentina LNG project under the RIGI incentive regime. With an investment exceeding $51 billion, this initiative aims to transform Vaca Muerta's natural gas into LNG exports, positioning Argentina as a global energy player.

A Milestone for Argentina's Energy Future

On August 13, 2026, Horacio Marín, President and CEO of YPF, announced via his official X account the formal presentation of the Argentina LNG project under the RIGI (Régimen de Incentivo a las Grandes Inversiones) – Argentina's Large Investment Incentive Regime. This is the most significant investment initiative submitted under this framework to date, with a figure surpassing USD 51 billion.

The project, developed in partnership with international energy companies ENI and XRG, aims to convert natural gas extracted from Vaca Muerta into Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for export to global markets. Marín described the initiative as "building Argentina's energy future."

What is RIGI and Why Does It Matter?

The RIGI is an incentive regime created by the Argentine government to attract large-scale investments, offering tax, customs, and exchange-rate benefits for a 30-year period. Established under the Bases Law, it is designed for projects exceeding a minimum investment threshold, providing legal certainty and stability to investors.

Argentina LNG's adherence to RIGI is a crucial step for the project's economic viability, as it allows participating companies to operate under clear, long-term predictable rules.

Vaca Muerta: The Engine Behind the Project

Vaca Muerta is one of the world's largest unconventional gas and oil reserves, located in Argentina's Neuquén Province. Spanning approximately 30,000 square kilometers, this geological formation has been central to Argentina's energy resurgence over the past decade.

The Argentina LNG project seeks to leverage this vast potential to position the country as a relevant global LNG exporter, competing with nations like Australia, Qatar, and the United States.

Strategic Partners

  • ENI: Italian energy company, one of the world's largest oil majors, operating in over 60 countries.
  • XRG: International company specializing in energy infrastructure and LNG commercialization.

The participation of these international firms validates global market confidence in Argentina's energy potential and the stability of the regulatory framework offered by RIGI.

Expected Impact

While the project is in its initial formal presentation stage, expectations are enormous. Argentina LNG is expected to generate:

  • Thousands of direct and indirect jobs during construction and operation phases.
  • Export revenues that could reach record levels for the country.
  • Associated infrastructure development, including liquefaction plants and export ports.
  • Strategic positioning of Argentina on the global energy map.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm on social media, with users highlighting the importance of such investments for national development. However, some critical voices questioned the terms of RIGI and its impact on local industry.

Source: Official post by Horacio Marín on X, August 13, 2026. @HoracioMarin_ok