Country Profile: Argentina

Argentina, located in the southern part of South America, is a country defined by its diverse geography and rich cultural heritage shaped by European immigration. With a population exceeding 45 million, it is the second-largest country in South America and serves as a regional leader in various international organizations. The economy is large and diversified, heavily reliant on agriculture, and has faced significant challenges, including high inflation and public debt. Governed as a presidential republic, Argentina has a complex political landscape marked by its historical shifts between civilian and military rule.

Geography

Argentina is situated in southern South America, bordered by the South Atlantic Ocean and flanked by Chile and Uruguay. The nation features a variety of landscapes, including the fertile plains of the Pampas, the rugged Andes, and the arid regions of Patagonia. This geographical diversity contributes to its climate, which ranges from temperate in the north to subantarctic in the south.

Total Area: 2,780,400 sq km
Highest Point: Cerro Aconcagua at 6,962 m, the tallest mountain in South America.
Lowest Point: Laguna del Carbón at -105 m, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.
Coastline: 4,989 km along the South Atlantic Ocean.
Natural Resources: Rich in fertile plains, minerals, and petroleum.

People and Society

Argentina's population exceeds 45 million with a rich ethnic composition predominantly of European descent. Spanish is the official language, while Roman Catholicism remains the largest religion. Urbanization is high, with about 92.5% of the population living in urban areas, notably in Buenos Aires.

Population Growth Rate: 0.26% (2025 est.)
Median Age: 34.6 years (2025 est.)
Literacy Rate: 99.1% (2020 est.)
Life Expectancy: 78.8 years (2024 est.)
Urban Population: 92.5% of total population (2023)
Infant Mortality Rate: 7.4 deaths/1,000 live births (2025 est.)

Economy

Argentina has a large and diversified economy that has historically relied on agriculture and exports. However, it faces ongoing financial challenges such as high inflation and substantial public debt. The economy has exhibited fluctuating growth rates, with recent trends indicating a contraction.

Real GDP (PPP): $1.234 trillion (2023 est.)
GDP Growth Rate: -1.6% (2023 est.)
Unemployment Rate: 6.2% (2023 est.)
Public Debt: Estimated at 55% of GDP (2016)
Percentage below poverty line: 41.7% (2023 est.)
Major Exports: soybean meal, corn, and crude petroleum.

Government

Argentina operates as a presidential republic with a bicameral legislature. The current president is Javier Milei, who took office following elections in late 2023. The country has a history of political turmoil, alternating between civilian governance and military rule.

Capital: Buenos Aires
Administrative Divisions: 23 provinces and 1 autonomous city
Suffrage: Universal for ages 18-70 years
Latest Constitution: Effective since 11 May 1853
Political Parties: Includes the Union for the Homeland and Liberty Advances.

Military and Security

The Argentine Armed Forces consist of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a focus on territorial defense and sovereignty. Military expenditures are relatively low as a percentage of GDP, with recent efforts emphasizing international cooperation and peacekeeping.

Active Military Personnel: Approximately 75,000 (2025)
Military Expenditures: 0.5% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Service Age: Voluntary for those aged 18-24.
Military Deployments: Approximately 230 personnel in Cyprus (2025).

Energy

Argentina's energy sector includes a mix of fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable sources. The country's electricity access is widespread, with a high percentage of the population having access to electric power.

Total Installed Electric Capacity: 47.631 million kW (2023 est.)
Electricity Consumption: 114.667 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Fossil Fuels: Account for 61.5% of electricity generation.
Nuclear Power: Comprises 6.3% of total electricity production.

Environment

Argentina faces environmental challenges such as deforestation and pollution. It is a party to multiple international environmental agreements, indicating its commitment to addressing global issues.

Environmental Issues: Deforestation and soil degradation.
Urbanization: High, with 92.5% of the population residing in urban centers.
Total Renewable Water Resources: Approximately 876.24 billion cubic meters (2022 est.).

Transportation

The country boasts a robust transportation infrastructure, including extensive railway systems and numerous airports. The capital, Buenos Aires, is central to air travel and commerce.

Total Railways: 17,866 km (2018)
Airports: 764 (2025)
Merchant Marine Fleet: 201 vessels (2023)
Total Ports: 37 (2024)

Communications

Argentina has a vibrant media landscape with high internet penetration and a diverse range of broadcast options.

Internet Users: 89% of the population (2023 est.)
Total Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 64.1 million (2024 est.)
Broadband Subscriptions: 11.5 million (2023 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	45,418,098 (2025 est.)
Area	2,780,400 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$1.234 trillion (2023 est.)
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)
Unemployment Rate	6.2% (2023 est.)
Life Expectancy	78.8 years (2024 est.)
Urban Population	92.5% (2023)
Birth Rate	10.47 births/1,000	(2025 est.)
Debt to GDP Ratio	55% (2016)
Public Debt	$74.362 billion (2023 est.)