Argentina retail sales anticipate boost after June bonus payments

Local merchants in Buenos Aires report optimism that June salary disbursements and the half‑year bonus (aguinaldo) will lift sales, despite a prolonged economic downturn under President Javier Milei. Juan Garcete, owner of the clothing shop “Los Tres Hermanos,” said customers continue to shop, adding, “la gente viene igual a hacer sus compras.”

Economic analysts note that the appearance of a consumption slump is misleading. National accounts show private consumption rose about 8% in 2025, driven mainly by durable goods, automobiles and imported items, while supermarket sales fell. Official supermarket surveys capture only a small share of online and marketplace transactions, under‑representing e‑commerce, which analysts estimate now accounts for roughly 18% of retail sales. The divergence reflects different buying channels and distinct household groups rather than an overall collapse in demand.