Concern in Chile: a new destination attracts Argentines to shop abroad

Argentines' trips abroad in search of lower prices have added an unexpected new destination. While Chile and Paraguay remain traditional hubs for shopping tours, Bermejo, located in the Bolivian department of Tarija, has become a new destination.

Bermejo, located in the department of Tarija, Bolivia

The Bolivian border city has begun to gain significant popularity in recent months, making it a shopping magnet for consumers from northern Argentine provinces such as La Rioja, Catamarca, Salta, and Jujuy. The main reason driving this wave of buyers is the price difference .

- In the automotive sector, tires cost between 30% and 75% less than in Argentina .

- Car tire prices range from $35,000 to $45,000 , and light truck tires range from $50,000 to $90,000. This gap has sparked interest in sectors that were previously not part of the usual foreign purchasing circuit.

Aguas Blancas, Salta

The offerings aren't limited to automobiles . Appliances , sportswear, school supplies, tools , kitchen items, and basic foods make up the lists many travelers prepare before crossing the border.

Until recently, it was Bolivian citizens who crossed into Argentina to stock up on supplies. But domestic inflation in Bolivia, the devaluation of the Bolivian peso, and an unfavorable exchange rate have disrupted the usual flow.

Víctor Hugo Sánchez, president of the Bermejo civic committee, noted that " Argentines arrive with extensive lists that include everything from soft drinks to household appliances." He added that " they even bring Coca-Cola . In December, a lot of corn came from Cochabamba, and it all went to Argentina." Faced with this new demand, Bolivian businesses have begun to adapt: ​​some now display prices in Argentine pesos and accept payments in both cash and virtual wallets.

Shopping in Chile

The main crossing is through Aguas Blancas, in Salta . The flow of people increases especially on weekends and holidays. To contain the movement, Argentine authorities plan to install a 200-meter fence to regulate border traffic. Tours usually depart early from cities in the Northwest (Northwestern) and return the same day loaded with merchandise.

Bermejo now competes with two classic shopping tourism destinations : Iquique (Chile) and Ciudad del Este (Paraguay) . Its advantage lies in its proximity, lower logistics costs, and the diversity of products available. While warnings are raised about potential risks associated with informal trade, travelers highlight the efficiency, prices, and customer service . Among the most sought-after products are sportswear, spare parts, small appliances, and tools.

Shopping in Chile

Bolivian merchants see this phenomenon as an exceptional opportunity. The Bermejo Chamber of Commerce stated that " something like this hasn't been seen for decades ." Argentine consumption has boosted the local economy, impacting employment and the economic recovery of the area.