29/07/2026 21:29 - Economia
Argentina has taken a bold step toward simplifying cross-border commerce. On July 29, 2026, the Agencia de Recaudación y Control Aduanero (ARCA) published Resolution General 5883/2026 in the Official Gazette, effective July 30, 2026. The reform eliminates the long-standing $3,000 FOB ceiling for exports via courier services and harmonizes import rules for all postal and courier channels.
Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger hailed the change, noting that previously any export shipment exceeding $3,000 FOB was forced out of the simplified courier system into a formal export process, discouraging small-scale international sales. 'Now, any amount can be shipped via courier without bureaucratic hurdles,' he stated.
The most impactful change is the complete removal of the FOB value limit for exports through Prestadores de Servicios Postales (PSP/Courier). FOB (Free On Board) refers to the value of goods placed on the transport vessel, excluding insurance and freight.
This directly benefits entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) that sell high-value, low-volume products such as Argentine wine, alfajores, dulce de leche, books, or fresh fruit—items often sought by nostalgic Argentines living abroad. The reform also simplifies the export of samples and prototypes, fostering innovation.
For those buying from international platforms like Shein, Temu, or Amazon, the government amended Article 80 of Decree 1001/82, leveling the playing field between Correo Argentino (the state postal service) and private couriers.
The resolution also updates the Small Shipments regime, designed for individuals or legal entities without commercial intent. Key limits and exceptions include:
Weight: Up to 50 kg per package.
Value: Maximum $3,000 FOB.
Quantity: Up to 3 identical units per shipment.
Frequency: 5 times per calendar year.
Commercial samples: Up to $3,000 FOB (or $100 with duty-free franchise).
Laboratory tests for foreign certifications: The cap rises to $10,000 FOB (code ENSAYOLAB), enabling SMEs to meet international standards.
Artworks: Exempt from the $3,000 FOB limit, allowing easy circulation of cultural goods.
Scientific research: Beneficiaries of Law 25,613 can import supplies up to $3,000 FOB.
Small shipments enjoy significant exemptions: no prior intervention from INAL (National Food Institute) except for specific items, no need to comply with certain technical standards (SIDIP), and no application of economic restrictions or anti-dumping duties.
For exports, the regulation also covers plant and animal samples (up to 10 kg and $500 FOB, requiring SENASA intervention) and medicines (subject to a sworn declaration of no narcotic content).
ARCA retains control powers and may request additional documentation. Operational details will be available on the 'International Shipments' microsite of ARCA's official portal.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
