Argentina’s Path to More Open Markets: Lessons from Brazil and Beyond

The new government in Buenos Aires has taken quick steps that send a strong message to the world: Argentina wants to open its markets. President Mauricio Macri’s moves to ease market distortions caused by currency controls, trade taxes, and a lack of international financing, have greatly improved local and international expectations about the country's future. However, history shows that the road to a more market-friendly economy can be rocky. Moreover, the challenges can be monumental under small fiscal space, as the recent experience in Brazil demonstrates.