Economist Carolina Manucci stated in a Canal E interview that top growth sectors like energy do not create enough jobs, while manufacturing and formal employment face major declines.
Manucci explained that production in Vaca Muerta grew more than 136% year-over-year and energy exports exceed 6,000 million dollars annually. However, the manufacturing industry recorded a 6% drop in the first quarter of 2026, with installed capacity utilization near 54%.
The hardest-hit sectors include textiles, down 33.2% year-over-year with plants operating at 20% capacity, as well as automotive and machinery, which fell 24.6% and nearly 30% respectively. The economist reported a loss of almost 370,000 registered jobs.
Manucci compared the current model with experiences in Norway, Canada and Australia, and recommended investments in education, services and public works for more balanced growth, including infrastructure improvements in Neuquén.
