# South American automotive market developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-automotive-market-developments
> Updated: 2026-08-18T01:24:55.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In late July 2026, the Argentine government issued Disposición 340/2026 to reassign the remaining portion of a 50,000-vehicle zero-tariff import quota for hybrid and electric vehicles. This measure, involving 865 unused units valued up to US$16,000 FOB, aims to increase competition and accelerate technology adoption, though observers noted potential pressure on domestic manufacturers.

By August 2026, trade shifts in Argentina contributed to a record high for tire imports in July, with 762,548 units for cars and light trucks entering the country. This surge followed the removal of reference prices and progressive tariff reductions. Concurrently, the Chilean automotive market reported a 5.6% growth in total operations during the first half of 2026, though local commerce chambers expressed caution regarding economic uncertainty.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-18: Automotive markets show growth in Argentina and Chile

Argentina saw record tire imports in July 2026, while Chile's automotive market grew 5.6% in the first half of the year despite economic uncertainty.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentina-records-record-tire-imports-in-july-2026

### 2026-07-29: Argentina government opens zero‑tariff import quota for hybrid and electric cars

Argentina reopens a zero‑tariff quota for 865 hybrid/electric cars; applications due 7 Aug 2026, imports must occur by 31 Dec 2026, aiming to boost the electrified vehicle market.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentina-government-opens-zerotariff-import-quota-for-hybrid-and-electric-cars

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Cite as: South American automotive market developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-automotive-market-developments