Country Profile: Argentina
Argentina, located in southern South America, is characterized by its diverse geography that ranges from the rich plains of the Pampas to the rugged Andes mountains. With a population of approximately 46.99 million, it is a melting pot of cultures, heavily influenced by European immigration, particularly from Spain and Italy. The economy is large and diversified, focusing on agriculture, industry, and services, but is also marked by challenges such as high inflation and public debt. Governance is structured as a presidential republic, with a history that includes periods of military rule and significant political upheaval.
Geography
Argentina covers a total area of about 2,780,400 sq km, making it the second-largest country in South America. Bordered by Chile to the west and Uruguay to the east, it has a coastline of 4,989 km along the South Atlantic Ocean. The geography features a mix of terrain, including the scenic Andes mountains, the fertile Pampas, and the arid Patagonian plateau.
- Highest point: Cerro Aconcagua at 6,962 m.
- Lowest point: Laguna del Carbón at -105 m.
- Natural resources: Includes fertile plains, lead, zinc, and copper.
People and Society
Argentina's estimated population is 46,994,384 as of 2024, with a diverse ethnic composition primarily of European descent (97.2%). The official language is Spanish, and the predominant religion is Roman Catholicism, comprising 62.9% of the population. Its urbanization rate stands at 92.5%, with significant concentrations in Buenos Aires and other major cities.
- Median age: 33.3 years.
- Life expectancy: 78.8 years.
- Literacy rate: 99.1%.
Economy
Argentina has a large and diversified economy, estimated to have a GDP of $633.267 billion (2024). Its economic model is resource-rich and export-led, with significant agricultural production. However, it faces challenges such as high inflation, with a projected rate of 73.1% for 2022, and substantial public debt.
- Real GDP per capita: $26,500 (2024).
- Unemployment rate: 7.9% (2024).
- Population below poverty line: 41.7% (2023).
Government
Argentina operates as a presidential republic, with Buenos Aires serving as the capital. The current president, Javier Milei, took office in December 2023. The country has a bicameral legislature, which includes the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. The legal system is based on civil law, and citizens have the right to vote from the age of 18.
- Independence: Declared on 9 July 1816.
- Suffrage: Universal and compulsory for ages 18-70.
- Next presidential election: Expected in October 2027.
Military and Security
The Argentine military consists of approximately 75,000 active-duty personnel, including branches for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Military spending is around 0.6% of GDP for 2024. The military is involved in various support operations, including counter-narcotics and disaster response.
- Military service age: Voluntary military service from ages 18-24.
- Military deployments: 325 personnel in UN peacekeeping operations (2024).
Energy
Argentina's energy sector is diverse, with electricity access at 100% of the population. The installed generating capacity is about 47.631 million kW, with fossil fuels providing 61.5% of the total capacity. The country has substantial reserves of gas and oil, contributing to its energy independence.
- Total petroleum production: 807,000 bbl/day (2023).
- Natural gas production: 43.69 billion cubic meters (2023).
- Electricity consumption: 114.667 billion kWh (2023).
Environment
Environmental challenges in Argentina include deforestation, soil degradation, and air and water pollution. The country is a party to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues.
- Urban population: 92.5% as of 2023.
- Total renewable water resources: 876.24 billion cubic meters (2022).
Transportation
Argentina has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including 764 airports and an extensive railway network, totaling 17,866 km. Buenos Aires serves as a key logistical hub for both air and sea transport.
- Merchant marine: 201 vessels active as of 2023.
- Number of ports: 37.
Communications
Argentina’s communication sector is robust, with approximately 62.7 million mobile cellular subscriptions. The internet penetration rate is about 89%, making it one of South America's significant media markets.
- Fixed broadband subscriptions: 11.5 million (2023).
- Telephones - fixed lines: 7.034 million (2023).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 46,994,384 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 2,780,400 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (official exchange rate) | $633.267 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 7.9% | 2024 estimate |
| Inflation rate | 73.1% | 2022 estimate |
| Life expectancy at birth | 78.8 years | 2024 estimate |
| Total energy consumption per capita | 78.496 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Urban population | 92.5% | 2023 estimate |
| Literacy | 99.1% | 2020 estimate |
| Agriculture GDP contribution | 6% | 2024 estimate |
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