Social and Economic Impact of COVID-19 and Policy Options in Argentina

Social and Economic Impact of COVID-19 and Policy Options in Argentina

May 6, 2020

This document describes the current situation regarding the COVID-19 crisis in Argentina. It describes the current state of the economy, and the possible channels of transmission that will affect GDP, labor markets and poverty. It summarizes the policy responses carried out by the Argentine government so far and provides some suggestions to minimize the negative impact on employment and poverty. Argentina has entered an early and severe lockdown which has lessened the health sector burden and saved lives. This has seriously deepened the economic crisis Argentina has been suffering since 2018. Compared to other countries in the region, the government has less room to maneuver given its lack of access to international financial markets and compromised fiscal situation.