Country Profile: Argentina

Argentina is a large country located in southern South America, bordered by Chile and Uruguay, with an extensive coastline along the South Atlantic Ocean. It has a diverse geography characterized by the Pampas' fertile plains, the rugged Andes mountains, and sparsely populated Patagonia. The nation has a population of approximately 45.4 million and features a strong economy reliant on agriculture and exports, alongside challenges like high inflation and public debt. Argentina operates as a presidential republic, recently electing President Javier Milei amid ongoing efforts to reform economic policies.

Geography

Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, covering an area of approximately 2,780,400 sq km, with rich agricultural regions and diverse landscapes, including the Andes and the Pampas. The climate varies, being mostly temperate, while natural resources include fertile land, petroleum, and various minerals. Major environmental challenges include deforestation and soil degradation.

4,989 km of coastline along the South Atlantic Ocean.
Features Cerro Aconcagua, the highest point in South America at 6,962 m.
The Guaraní Aquifer System is a significant water source.

People and Society

Argentina has a population estimated at 45.4 million (2025) predominantly of European descent, particularly Spanish and Italian. The nation's culture reflects this heritage alongside a significant indigenous presence. Spanish is the official language, and Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion, though a sizable portion of the population identifies as non-religious.

92.5% of the population lives in urban areas (2023).
The median age is 34.6 years (2025).
Literacy rate stands at 99.1% (2020).

Economy

Argentina's economy is diverse and resource-rich, heavily reliant on agriculture and exports. The country faces financial challenges, including inflation and public debt, yet remains a key player in both G20 and OAS. The real GDP is projected to be $1.213 trillion by 2024, with a significant portion derived from the agricultural sector.

41.7% of the population lives below the poverty line (2023).
The unemployment rate is estimated at 7.9% (2024).
15.3% of GDP is from exports (2024).

Government

Argentina operates as a presidential republic with a bicameral legislature, consisting of a Chamber of Deputies and a Senate. The country has faced considerable political upheaval and economic challenges in recent years, with Javier Milei currently serving as president after elections in late 2023. The latest constitution was enacted in 1853, and the country recognizes dual citizenship.

23 provinces and 1 autonomous city (Buenos Aires).
Universal suffrage is granted to citizens aged 18-70.

Military and Security

The Argentine Armed Forces encompass the Army, Navy, and Air Force, responsible for national defense and internal security. The military has undergone significant transformation post-dictatorship, focusing on modern defense needs and participating in international peacekeeping.

Military expenditures are about 0.6% of GDP (2024).
Approximately 75,000 active-duty personnel (2025).

Energy

Argentina boasts a diversified energy sector, with a significant portion of its electricity generated from fossil fuels and renewable sources. The country has made strides in nuclear energy and is developing additional renewable capabilities.

100% electrification rate (2022).
Total petroleum production of 807,000 bbl/day (2023).

Environment

Argentina faces various environmental challenges, including deforestation and pollution, while actively participating in several international environmental agreements. The country continues to work on sustainable practices to mitigate these issues.

Approximately 17.2% of land is forested (2023).
Annual carbon dioxide emissions are about 198.141 million metric tonnes (2023).

Transportation

Argentina has an extensive transportation network, including numerous airports and railways. The country is served by a significant merchant marine and has various ports, facilitating both domestic and international trade.

764 airports (2025).
Railroad total of 17,866 km (2018).

Communications

Argentina has a robust communications infrastructure, with high levels of mobile phone and internet penetration. The broadcasting sector is one of the largest in South America, featuring numerous media outlets.

89% of the population are internet users (2023).
Total mobile cellular subscriptions are 64.1 million (2024).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	45,418,098	2025 estimate
Area	2,780,400 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$1.213 trillion	2024 estimate
Energy Consumption per Capita	78.496 million Btu/person	2023 estimate
Birth Rate	10.47 births/1,000 population	2025 estimate
Unemployment Rate	7.9%	2024 estimate
Life Expectancy	78.8 years	2024 estimate