Neuquén reports business growth amid national decline in Argentina

While Argentina has seen a significant decrease in private sector employers, Neuquén remains the sole province to report growth. According to reports from the Ministry of Human Capital and Fundación Fundar, the country has seen a reduction of approximately 32,290 companies since November 2023.

Nationally, the number of private employers fell by 3.1% compared to July 2025, representing a loss of over 15,000 firms. Significant declines were noted in sectors such as commerce, transport, and industry. Provinces like La Rioja, Tierra del Fuego, and Catamarca experienced substantial decreases in business units.

In contrast, Neuquén recorded a 1.1% increase in companies since November 2023, driven largely by the impact of the Vaca Muerta energy project. The province's construction sector grew by 9.3% year-on-year, and its manufacturing industry employment rose by 64% between early 2021 and the first quarter of 2026.