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November 25, 2025

ARGENTINA

Don't forget to enter this month's cultural quiz! Simply answer the question below to be in with a chance of winning a cross-cultural book.

"Argentina is home to which famous ballroom dance style?"

Send your answers to mail@babelgroup.co.uk

Argentina is the second largest country in South America, sharing land borders with Chile to the West, Bolivia to the North, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay to the North-East and a maritime border in the Southern Atlantic Ocean with the UK on account of the Falkland Islands.

Argentina has a population of 47 million, with a third of the population living in the capital city Buenos Aires. The northern and central regions are the most populated and urbanised areas while the southern Patagonia region remains sparsely populated yet often visited to view its vast landscape of natural beauty.

European migration to Argentina over the last 200 years has shaped much of the modern nation, with everything from the architecture and cuisine to etiquette and cultural norms being more familiar to Continental Europe than other South American nations. Argentina regularly ranks as one of the safest countries for expats in South America.

Spanish is the de facto language of Argentina, spoken by approx. 95% of the population and used as the official language in government and business and is the primary language taught in schools. The Spanish spoken in Argentina varies from that spoken in Spain, for example with differences in the use of pronouns e.g. the standard Spanish pronoun tú (“you”) is replaced with vos.

Other European languages frequently found in Argentina include Italian, and English. English is not commonly spoken unless in international business in the cities, however there is an emphasis on learning English in schools to at least a basic conversational level.

Argentina has a highly diversified, export-driven economy built on abundant natural resources and strong agricultural, energy, and manufacturing sectors. As part of the “lithium triangle,” it holds some of the world’s largest lithium reserves, while developments in the Vaca Muerta shale have strengthened its position as a leading regional oil and gas producer. Agriculture remains a major economic engine, with Argentina ranked among the top global exporters of soybeans, maize, wheat, and beef. Alongside these traditional strengths, the country continues to expand into advanced agri-tech, sustainable farming, value-added food processing, and a growing tech and creative sector centred in Buenos Aires.

Business Culture in Argentina

Argentina’s business culture blends European-influenced individualism with strong collectivist expectations in the workplace. Organisations are typically hierarchical, with decisions made by senior leaders and respect for authority deeply rooted, though professionals still expect their expertise to be recognised.

On the surface, interactions may appear traditional (people often address each other with titles such as Sr., Sra., or Licenciado). This formality signals respect and competence, creating a framework where roles and expectations are clear. Beneath that formality, however, lies an equally important cultural preference for warm, relationship-driven engagement.

Time tends to be viewed more flexibly, with slight delays common. Punctuality is appreciated but equally patience and adaptability are important for productive collaboration. That said as more multinational companies operate in Argentina, “clock time” norms may tighten.

Reflective of Argentina’s overall business culture, the management style throughout the country places a strong emphasis on personal relationships, hierarchy and indirect communication. Leaders are generally expected to provide clear direction and demonstrate confidence, expertise, and a steady presence. Employees may look to managers not only for strategic guidance but also for day-to-day clarity, especially in more traditional sectors. In modern, especially tech or entrepreneurial firms, more collaborative or horizontal structures may be emerging.

Argentine communication is expressive and nuanced, with close conversational distance, animated gestures, and steady eye contact signalling confidence and sincerity. Indirect phrasing is common to preserve harmony, so tone and context often matter as much as the words themselves. Conversations frequently include personal topics, such as asking about family or sharing opinions, to build rapport and tend to be lively and emotionally dynamic.

In professional settings, communication becomes more or less direct depending on the relationship: Argentines can be very straightforward with trusted colleagues, but adopt a more diplomatic, indirect style in newer or hierarchical interactions. Overall, communication is warm, attentive, and strongly relationship-focused.

First impressions matter, so professional attire is typically elegant, and conservative i.e. well-tailored suits, polished shoes, and neat presentation are expected in most formal settings. Handshakes are the standard greeting in business, usually paired with direct eye contact and a warm tone. Among acquaintances or colleagues who know each other well, a single kiss on the cheek between women, or between men and women, is common in social contexts and sometimes in informal workplaces. Titles and last names are used at the beginning of a relationship, shifting to first names as the relationship becomes more familiar.

Dining etiquette is another important aspect of Argentine culture. Meals tend to be leisurely, with an emphasis on conversation and connection rather than rushing through courses. Business meals usually begin with a period of relaxed small talk before moving to professional matters and hosts typically initiate the transition. At the table, hands should remain visible and using utensils in the continental style is standard.

In both business and social settings, respect and relationship-building are central. Interruptions during conversation are not necessarily rude, they often reflect enthusiasm and engagement but listening attentively and responding thoughtfully are key. Gifts in business settings are not always expected, but showing appreciation through follow-up messages or small gestures is valued.

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