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2/21/2012

Environmental - Argentina

Argentina is a country of mystery.  The environmental laws are in place to protect the people, but the application is stuck in the 1960's.  Very minimal understanding of what the laws mean, and less understanding of how to implement. 

Businesses that engage in activities that may impact the environment are required to obtain various permits, but these are not required in advance of the activity.  In fact a business can extend the permit application out a year or longer with no major issues.  The political issue is the worse that one will experience, unless the business is involved in a high visible activity. 

The government is proud of their laws, but are more interested in checkboxes and less in content.  It is best to find a 'connected' consultant to complete the required permits and not be concerned about what they write.  Once you have the permit you can modify as needed based on the reality of the operation.

If the government does get 'serious' do not expect any major fine, only a finger pointing and a month to get into compliance.