The consumption of alcoholic beverages, especially beer, is experiencing a sharp decline in Argentina. In addition to seasonal factors and inflation, there is the increasing entry of cheaper beverage cans from neighboring countries, which escape fiscal control and affect formal businesses.

An economical 355 ml can of beer can cost around 1,200 pesos in Argentina, while in Brazil it can be obtained for half that price. This gap has fueled smuggling and informal purchases, especially in border areas such as Misiones. “Winter already reduces sales by 30%, but now we are also harmed by the illegal entry of cheaper beer”, explained merchant Nelson Lukoski.

Cases such as Encarnación (Paraguay) or Bernardo de Irigoyen (border with Brazil) show a growing preference for foreign beers, which are purchased at much lower prices. For example, a pack of 12 cans in Paraguay costs about 6,800 pesos, while in Argentina the same product can exceed 11,000.

Faced with this situation, some local businesses have launched promotions to encourage consumption, with discounts of up to 50% on international brands and discounts for pack purchases.