🇦🇷 Argentina

First Names and Titles

• In most Spanish-speaking Latin countries, people are referred to using both their paternal and maternal surnames. The father’s surname is mentioned first and is used for addressing the person. For example, Carlos Lopez Garcia would be addressed as Señor Garcia.

• In this culture, titles such as doctor, engineer, and professor are considered marks of respect. Many people are addressed by their title and surname. Only children, family members, and close friends address each other by first names.

• For individuals without professional titles, you may use respectful forms such as “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss” together with the surname.

Business Meetings

• There is no strict or complex etiquette regarding business card exchange. When you receive a business card, it is expected that you briefly look at it and express your thanks.

• English is widely used as a business language; however having the other side of your business card printed in Spanish can be an added advantage.

• Small talk and frequent smiling are very important for building mutual trust.

Communication

• Argentines are very social and show genuine interest in cultural topics.

• They usually engage in small talk before meetings.

• If jokes are made about you, do not react defensively. These jokes may even relate to your weight or appearance. While this may seem rude, it can actually be a sign that your Argentine counterpart likes you.

• Avoid asking personal questions—especially about family—at first. Such questions can be asked after a good level of familiarity has been established.

• Try to avoid topics such as politics, negative comments about Argentina, religion, Argentina’s neighboring countries, the Falklands, and island wars.

Gift Giving

• The exchange of business gifts should take place only after a very strong business relationship has been established.

• The gift should be of high quality.

• If the gift is produced by your company, make sure the company name and logo are discreet.

• Argentines rarely invite visitors to their homes, and such an invitation indicates special importance. In these cases, do not forget to bring a nice gift. Flowers, chocolates, or cakes are good options. Alcoholic beverages are also highly appreciated.

Business Attire

• If you visit Argentina in summer, choose lightweight clothing; in winter, warm clothing may be necessary due to insufficient central heating.

• In Argentina, high-quality and elegant clothing is important for creating a professional image. Men generally wear dark-colored suits and ties, while women prefer elegant suits or skirt-and-blouse combinations.

• At formal events, men should wear dark suits, and women should choose elegant dresses or skirts.

• The style of dress in Argentina is influenced by European fashion; simple and modest clothing is recommended over flashy attire.

• At social events, a more casual style may be acceptable; however, wearing shorts is generally not considered appropriate for women.

• It may not be appropriate for foreigners to wear traditional national clothing. Except for special events such as carnivals, it is important to respect local customs in dress.

Appointments

• In Argentina, getting an appointment through a well-connected person (“enchufado”) can facilitate business processes. Trade Offices can help with potential contacts.

• Before traveling to Argentina during high season, especially in busy periods, make sure you have a confirmed hotel reservation.

• In Argentina, the date format is day/month/year; therefore, the day usually comes first.

• Punctuality is appreciated in Argentine business culture, but delays of 30–45 minutes by local businesspeople are considered normal. Be prepared to occupy your time while waiting.

• Business lunches in Argentina are usually quick.

• Long working hours are common in Argentina, where managers often work late into the evening and business meetings may be scheduled as late as 8:00 p.m.

• For home invitations, it is customary to arrive 30–45 minutes after the stated time; arriving too early is not considered appropriate.

• If punctuality is important when meeting an Argentine colleague, you can ask “¿En punto?” to confirm whether it will start exactly on time.