As in most Latin American countries, company formation in Argentina involves understanding the business culture. Common factors such as flexible hours and the importance of fostering close relationships before engaging in business transactions resonate across many Latin American cultures. However, the business etiquette in Argentina has its own particularities such as business card usage.
With firsthand experience operating in Buenos Aires and across Argentina, our team at Biz Latin Hub has compiled this local guide to help you navigate real-world business interactions.
Key takeaways on business etiquette in Argentina
| How important are personal relationships for business etiquette in Argentina? | A great deal of importance is placed on building personal relationships and knowing who you are doing business with. |
| What is punctuality like in business etiquette in Argentina? | Ignore the stereotypes and make sure you do things on time to make a good impression. |
| Is remote working common in Argentina? | Remote and hybrid working are not common in Argentina but growing in popularity. Notably, many Argentines are happy to work remotely for overseas employers. |
| Do you need to speak Spanish to do business in Argentina? | Clear communication in English and Spanish will help both with business matters and with building those personal relationships. |
Argentinian Business Etiquette: 7 rules to keep in mind
Here are a few rules to keep in mind in order to execute proper business etiquette in Argentina and to ensure successful negotiations and business partnerships.
- Establish personal relationships.
- Be on time.
- Make a good first impression.
- Be prepared to negotiate.
- Communicate clearly.
- Stay formal.
- Use business cards.
1. Establish Personal Relationships
Argentines prioritize personal relationships in business. Taking the time to build rapport through small talk and social interactions before getting down to business shows respect and builds trust. A good strategy is to understand the tastes and personality of the other person, this will help you know what topics to initiate when establishing a conversation. You may be invited to an asado (BBQ). Accepting mate tea is a sign of respect and openness.
2. Be on time
Although Argentina, like many other Latin American countries has a reputation for poor timing, this stereotype is outdated and largely untrue. Meetings may occasionally start a few minutes late, but being on time demonstrates professionalism and respect for others’ schedules. This will go a long way to making a good impression. Initial meetings may begin with casual conversation over coffee. In Palermo, it’s common for business meetings to occur in cafés.
3. Make a good first impression
Greetings are an essential part of Argentina’s business culture. A firm handshake, direct eye contact and a warm smile are customary when meeting someone for the first time. It is also customary to address people by their titles and surnames until first names are authorized. For example, when greeting a business associate in Buenos Aires, a handshake with direct eye contact is standard. Among closer colleagues, a kiss on the cheek—even between men—is common.
4. Be prepared to negotiate
When doing business in Argentina, keep in mind that everything is negotiable. Remember that nothing is final until the contract is signed. It is a good strategy to have already established and structured all the things you want to ensure during the negotiation, the factors that are not negotiable and those that you can be more flexible about. Expect discussions about inflation and price volatility. For instance, a vendor might reference the ‘blue dollar’ exchange rate when discussing costs.
5. Communicate clearly
In the Argentine business culture, clear and direct communication is appreciated. Although English is widely spoken in the business community, fluency and understanding of Spanish will go a long way to building relationships. It is essential to articulate points of view clearly and avoid ambiguity in conversations. With both languages mastered, communication and points can be clearer and a greater connection between people will be achieved. Argentines use ‘vos’ instead of ‘tú’—a linguistic trait called ‘voseo’. Lunfardo expressions are common in Buenos Aires. For example, ‘¿Cómo estás, che?’ is a friendly and typical greeting.
6. Stay formal
Argentines value personal space during professional interactions. Keeping a safe distance during conversations and avoiding excessive physical contact demonstrates respect for boundaries and professionalism. While the wider culture may seem more relaxed about physical contact, this is not true in business contexts. Men are expected to wear dark suits; women should choose elegant dresses or suits. Business attire is generally more formal than in North America.
7. Use Business Cards
The exchange of business cards is common when doing business in Argentina. Present your card with both hands, making sure the text faces the recipient. Take a moment to examine the card you receive as a sign of respect before carefully putting it away. Offer business cards with your right hand. Include a Spanish translation of your job title on the back.
What Information Should a Business Card Have?
Business cards are still an important tool for networking and making a lasting impression on potential customers or partners. However, not all business cards are the same. For your business card to represent you and your brand, it is essential that it includes specific information that conveys your professionalism and expertise.
- Your full name.
- Your position at the company.
- Your business email.
- Your phone number
- The logo of the company
FAQs on business etiquette in Argentina
These are some of the most common questions we receive from international investors interested in business etiquette in Argentina.
1. Can a foreigner own a business in Argentina?
Yes, by either legal persons (legal entities) or natural persons (individuals).
2. Why do business in Argentina?
Argentina is good for business due to its abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, and strategic location.
3. How long does it take to register a company in Argentina?
It takes between 10 to 14 weeks to form a company in Argentina and join the commercial registry after all the required information and documentation has been provided.
4. What is the common greeting in Argentine business settings?
A firm handshake and eye contact are expected in formal settings. Among close colleagues or in informal contexts, a kiss on the cheek is common—even between men.
5. Should I dress formally for meetings in Argentina?
Yes. Argentine business culture is generally formal. A dark suit and tie are standard for men, while women should wear conservative business attire.
6. Is it okay to speak English in Argentine business meetings?
While many professionals in Buenos Aires speak English, Spanish is preferred. Including a translated version of your business card is a good gesture.
7. How long does it take to build trust with Argentine partners?
Relationships are central to doing business in Argentina. Multiple meetings, informal lunches, and personal rapport are typically needed before closing deals.
Biz Latin Hub can help you understand business etiquette in Argentina
For investors interested in starting a business in Argentina, it is important to know the essential legal steps of the company formation process.
Seeking help from a local team can avoid problems or delays in the processes of starting a business in the country and ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements of Argentina are met.
Biz Latin Hub has an experienced team that for more than 5 years has provided support to foreign investors and companies that have decided to enter the Argentine market. We offer a set of personalized market entry and back-office services providing a comprehensive approach to its expansion in Argentina.
For more information on how to create a company in Argentina or for personalized assistance, contact us today.
Learn more about our team and expert authors, and check out our short presentation below on why you should consider doing business in Argentina.
