Concern over low consumption spreads among business leaders
Two reports indicate that the pronounced slump is viewed as the main impediment to company growth La entrada Concern over low consumption spreads among business leaders se publicó primero en Buenos Aires Herald .
A recent survey of business leaders in Argentina indicates that low consumer spending and uncertainty about economic recovery are major concerns for the country's businesses. The Business Climate Index (ICE) survey found that nearly 42% of respondents believe demand is the main driver of business growth. This perception aligns with the Business Trends Survey, which found that 61% of supermarket and wholesale grocery store owners reported low demand as a limiting factor for their business activity.
Consumption data for Argentina show a decline that began in early 2025, with retail sales falling nearly 4% year-over-year in July and a 2.7% decline for the first seven months of the year. The Argentine Chamber of Commerce's Consumption Indicator also showed a negative trend, with a 1% drop in June and 1.6% decline compared to May.
While some business leaders like Mercado Libre founder Marcos Galperín dispute the official data, private consultancy Scentia noted that online purchases increased by 34.8% in the first half of 2026, but this growth was not enough to offset the overall consumption weakness. Unemployment continues to rise, reaching 7.8% in the first quarter of 2026, while informal employment has grown to 44.2% of all workers.
The debate over lower consumption levels is linked to rising unemployment and the increase in informal jobs.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Herald's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Concern over low consumption spreads among business leaders buenosairesherald.com
