New regulations on price display for consumers
Department of Consumer Protection report | New regulations on price display for consumers
On January 17, 2025, the Official Gazette published Resolution No. 4/2025 from the Secretariat of Industry and Commerce of the Ministry of Economy, which introduces new regulations for the display of prices for goods and services in Argentina. This resolution will come into effect on January 18, 2025, and repeals and replaces Resolution No. 7/2002 from the former Secretariat of Competition, Deregulation, and Consumer Protection, bringing several important updates.
Main Changes and Updates
1- Currency for Price Display:
The new resolution establishes that prices must be displayed in Argentine pesos but also allows for the display in US dollars or other foreign currencies. Previously, prices were only allowed in pesos, and in dollars in less prominent characters.
2-Detailed Price Information without Taxes:
The total and final price that the consumer must pay must be informed, as well as the net amount without the incidence of VAT and other national indirect taxes, accompanied by the legend “PRICE WITHOUT NATIONAL TAXES” (effective from 04/01/2025). This does not apply to financed prices and sales by weight.
3- Financed Prices:
The cash price, the number and amount of each installment, and the total effective annual financial cost must be indicated.
4- Price per Unit of Measure:
For applicable products, the sale price per unit of measure (kg, l, m, m², m³) must be indicated, facilitating price comparison for consumers.
5- Display in Commercial Establishments:
The final prices of products displayed on shelves must match those actually charged at checkout lines.
6-Services from or to Abroad:
It remains that those who directly offer services to the public that are provided from, to, and within the exterior can publish prices only in US dollars (instead of in Argentine pesos).
7- Format of Display:
The display must be clear, visible, horizontal, and legible on each item or group of merchandise and can be done in physical and/or digital format.
8- Sanctions and Enforcement Authority:
The Subsecretariat of Consumer Protection and Fair Trade is designated as the enforcement authority, with the power to delegate its attributions. Non-compliance will be sanctioned according to Decree No. 274/2019 and Law No. 24.240.
This new regulation aims to ensure transparency and clarity in price information, facilitating better understanding and comparison by consumers.