Quick Facts
- Argentine shoppers seeking financing options
- International product importers
- Budget-conscious buyers navigating inflation
- Mercado Libre offers up to 18 interest-free installments on major tech brands and free shipping over $33,000 ARS
- ARCA customs allows 12 tax-free international shipments per year under $50 USD via Door-to-Door
- Frávega offers up to 12 interest-free installments with Banco Galicia and Banco Nación in December 2025
- Interest-free installments (cuotas sin interés) effectively act as discounts in Argentina's high-inflation economy
For Argentine shoppers in late 2025, Mercado Libre remains the dominant platform for local purchases, while mastering bank promotions and interest-free installments is essential to maximize value in an inflationary environment.
Shopping online in Argentina is not just about finding the lowest sticker price; it is about mastering the art of financing and logistics. In an economy defined by high inflation, the savvy shopper looks for two things: cuotas sin interés (interest-free installments) and reliable delivery.
Whether you are hunting for local tech deals or navigating the complex customs regulations for international imports, the landscape has changed significantly in late 2025. We have curated the platforms that are actually delivering value right now, stripping away the ones that have fallen behind.
1. Mercado Libre
Mercado Libre isn’t just a marketplace in Argentina; it is the infrastructure of the country’s e-commerce. With over 90 million monthly visits, it is the undisputed king. However, to get the most out of it, you need to play by the new rules.
The Practitioner’s Tip: Pay attention to the shipping thresholds. As of December 2025, free shipping kicks in on selected new products over $33,000 ARS. If you are a heavy user, the Meli+ subscription (starting around $7,990/month) lowers that threshold to $15,000.
Look for the “Cuotas” filter. Currently, you can find up to 18 interest-free installments on major tech brands like Lenovo and Motorola, and 6 installments with Banco Galicia. In an inflationary environment, paying in fixed installments is essentially getting a discount.
2. eBay
Buying from eBay while in Argentina gives you access to products that simply aren’t available locally. However, you are dealing with the ARCA (formerly AFIP), and knowing the regulations is non negotiable.
Under the current Resolution 5631, you have two main paths:
- Door to-Door (Correo Argentino): You get 12 shipments a year tax-free if they are under $50 USD.
- Courier (Private): For faster, heavier items (up to 50kg), you can import up to $3,000 USD FOB value per package.
Funding your PayPal account can be tricky due to currency controls. Many smart shoppers use digital wallets like Ualá or Brubank to manage their international payments efficiently. If you are used to international standards, it’s worth comparing the experience with shopping in Florida, where many Argentines traditionally look for electronics.
3. Alibaba & AliExpress
For those looking to source directly from manufacturers, Alibaba remains the titan of B2B trade. However, for individual consumers, AliExpress is the platform of choice. Just like with eBay, the ARCA customs limits apply here.
Delivery times have improved, but patience is still required. If you are exploring global options, you might find similarities in how the platform operates in other regions, such as AliExpress Spain, though the tax implications in Argentina are unique.
4. Frávega
While many retailers have struggled, Frávega has solidified its position as the second most visited e-commerce site in the country (approx. 12 million monthly visits). It is the go-to specialist for appliances and electronics.
Hidden Gem: Frávega has aggressive partnerships with banks. Throughout December 2025, they are offering up to 12 installments without interest with Visa and Mastercard from Banco Galicia and Banco Nación (BNA). If you are buying a big ticket item like a fridge or air conditioner, checking Frávega’s bank promotions first can save you significantly compared to paying cash.
5. Musimundo
Musimundo maintains a strong physical and digital presence with roughly 250 branches nationwide. They differentiate themselves through their “Crédito Musimundo”—a proprietary financing option for those who might not have traditional bank credit cards.
Their loyalty program, Mi Mundo, allows you to accumulate points for discounts. If you do have bank cards, look for their promotions with BBVA and Galicia for 12 interest-free payments. It serves as a reliable alternative to Frávega for home entertainment and computing needs.
6. Carrefour
Carrefour has aggressively expanded its digital footprint, recently acquiring smaller chains to boost their logistics. They now operate over 700 branches, which benefits online shoppers through their “Express” delivery format.
For grocery shopping, they offer an “Entrega Inmediata” (Immediate Delivery) service in key cities. With a newly announced $300 million investment plan through 2027, their stock and online interface have improved drastically, making them a top tier choice for household essentials.
Summary: The E-Commerce Reality
The Argentine market is volatile. Giants like Garbarino have faced insolvency, and international players like Dafiti exited the market back in 2023. This leaves the consumer with a clear lesson: stick to the established platforms that offer financial security and transparent delivery terms.
Always verify the “Costo Financiero Total” (CFT) when looking at installments, and check the latest customs quota before ordering from abroad.
Looking for more tech comparisons? Check out our guide on electronics stores in Singapore to see how global prices stack up.
