In the wake of President Javier Milei's March 1, 2026, address to Congress—where he announced 90 structural reforms and criticized opponents and certain business sectors—reactions poured in. The Argentine Business Association (AEA) called for constructive dialogue and praised Economy Minister Luis Caputo, while the Industrial Union (UIA) decried a 'critical' situation for industry. Opposition figures slammed the speech as confrontational and lacking proposals.
Milei's nearly two-hour speech highlighted economic stabilization, fiscal balance under Caputo, and plans for sweeping reforms amid opposition boos. It also targeted 'accomplice' industrialists, prompting sharp responses from the business community.
The AEA emphasized the vital role of private companies in production, jobs, exports, and taxes, crediting Caputo's policies for public accounts balance, reduced spending, and lower tax pressure. They urged continued stabilization for growth and dialogue to foster investments.
Conversely, the UIA demanded 'respect for those who produce,' citing SME closures, financing woes, and a 'critical' industrial downturn—the world's second-worst under Milei, with 2,436 firms shuttered and 73,000 jobs lost in two years.
Opposition leaders were scathing. Deputy Pablo Juliano criticized Milei for polarization, missed opportunities, and a disconnected agenda (e.g., glacier law and juvenile justice reforms), despite fiscal and inflation gains. He highlighted labor reform uncertainties fueling worker fears and positioned himself in opposition.
Senator José Mayans labeled the speech a 'total farce' full of insults, lacking 2025-2026 plans, and potentially actionable for breach of duties, recalling past tensions with Vice President Victoria Villarruel.
