23/06/2026 18:49 - Economia
Data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INDEC) reveals that the unemployment rate in Argentina reached 7.8% in the first quarter of 2026. This figure represents a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the same period in 2025 (7.9%). However, it is an increase of 0.3 points compared to the last quarter of 2025.
For context, this means that approximately 1.7 million people are currently looking for work. While the number of unemployed decreased by about 5,000 people compared to early 2025, the quality of available jobs is raising concerns among economists.
While unemployment dropped, informality has risen significantly. Known locally as 'trabajo en negro', informal employment implies working without legal protections, social security, or health benefits.
This suggests that while more people are working, many are in precarious conditions without access to pension plans or prepaid medicine.
The labor market is shifting differently across age groups. The activity rate rose slightly to 48.6%, showing more people are actively seeking work or working.
Job scarcity is not uniform across the country. The industrial belt and tourism hubs are feeling the pressure the most.
| Region | Unemployment Rate | Context for Expats |
|---|---|---|
| San Nicolás-Villa Constitución | 10.4% | Industrial hub in Buenos Aires/Santa Fe provinces. |
| Bahía Blanca-Cerri | 10.1% | Important port city in southwest Buenos Aires. |
| Greater Buenos Aires (Conurbano) | 9.7% | The populous suburbs surrounding the capital city. |
| Gran Resistencia | 9.7% | Major urban center in the Chaco province. |
| Mar del Plata | 9.3% | Coastal tourism destination. |
Source: INDEC - Permanent Household Survey (EPH).
Alfredo S. Quiroga
