The National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC) reported that Argentina's tourism balance was negative in September by 562,200 visitors, marking the twentieth consecutive month of this deficit. More Argentines traveled abroad than foreigners arrived in the country, exacerbating the outflow of foreign currency. Foreign tourists spent $208.5 million, while Argentines spent $598.2 million abroad.
According to the INDEC report, 642,400 visitors entered Argentina in September, while 1,204,600 left the country, resulting in a negative balance of 562,200. Of the inflows, 374,800 were tourists and 267,600 excursionists. 68.7% of visitors came from neighboring countries, with Brazil accounting for 24.8%, Uruguay 18.7%, and Chile 13.5%. Arrival modes included 50.3% by air, 37.7% land, and 12% fluvial or maritime.
In outbound tourism, 706,400 were tourists and 498,100 excursionists. 65.1% headed to neighboring countries, led by Brazil at 22% and Chile at 17.5%. Argentines departed mainly by air (54.7%), followed by land (37.9%) and fluvial/maritime (7.4%).
This negative trend marks the twentieth consecutive month. Daniel Schteingart, director of Fundar, commented: “Completely flat inbound tourism in Argentina. In 2025 it falls 18% against 2024, which had already fallen against 2023. The trend since 2010 is pure stagnation in the number of tourists arriving from elsewhere. This year is on track to be the worst since 2006 (excluding pandemic years). Meanwhile, outbound tourism is at record levels”.
From the CEPEC consultancy, they noted: “A 18.9% year-over-year drop in inbound tourism contrasts with a 21.8% increase in outbound, exerting greater pressure on BCRA reserves in a context of chronic and prolonged deficit”. The net financial impact was a loss of $389.7 million, with nearly three dollars leaving for every one entering via tourism. This dynamic solidifies outbound currency flows as a key factor in pressure on the dollar and Central Bank reserves.