The Argentinean government formalized this Monday – through decree 117/2017 published in the Official Bulletin - the elimination of the import tariffs for electronic manufactures (computers and tablets), fixed in 35%. This decision excludes mobile and smartphones, but according to Argentinean media, Macri’s administration is considering to extend this measure to this sector in the medium term.

Official sources stated that this point won’t be changed yet, but admitted that a measure of this nature will be applied in a different way, compared with the elimination of import tariffs of the electronic manufactures approved this week. The process of implementation would be more extensive and different aspects will be considered in order to avoid the national industry to falling down. On the other hand, officials stated that there is no possibility of eliminating the import tariffs to mobile phones because such decision will benefit Brazil, in reference to the Industrial Pole in Manaos, where mobile phones are produced.

Although there isn’t an official number, in the sector there are many speculations that the government will lower the tariffs to 12% or 16% and consider that if this measure is implemented, effectively Brazil will become a strong player in the country.

Date: February 22, 2017

Source: http://www.cronista.com/economiapolitica/El-Gobierno-evalua-reducir-los-arancelesa-la-importacion-de-telefonos-celulares-20170222-0066.html