Country Background
In 1976, threatened by terrorism and hyperinflation, most Argentines were relieved when the military seized power. Stability was restored at the cost of human rights. The junta ceded power to an elected government in 1983.
Today the Republic of Argentina is once again a democracy. Its military junta stepped down after the country’s loss to Great Britain in the 1982 Falkland Islands War. Spanish is the official language.
90 Percent of the population considers itself Roman Catholic. Jews and Protestants account 2 percent each. About 85 percent of Argentines are European descent, primarily Spanish or Italian. Indians, mestizos, and blacks together make up only 15 percent of Argentina's 33 million people.
Visitors are expected to be punctual. However, do not be surprised if your Argentine counterpart is late. In general, the more important the person, the more likely it is that he or she will keep you waiting. Note that social occasions have different rules. Even North Americans are expected to be thirty to sixty minutes late for dinner or parties; to show up on time would be impolite. But be on time for lunch and for events with a scheduled starting time, such as the theater. When it is important to know if your Argentine counterpart expects promptness, you can ask, “¿En punto?” (on the dot?). Argentine executives may put in a very long day, often lasting until 10:00 p.m. An 8:00 p.m. business meeting is not at all unusual.
Do not be surprised if it takes you several trips to accomplish your goal. Each decision must be approved by many people. Personal relationships are far more important than corporate ones.
Business meals are popular and are usually held in restaurants; offers to dine in Argentine homes are relatively infrequent. Business lunches are uncommon outside of Buenos Aires, since most people go home to eat lunch. Argentines do not usually discuss business over meals; meals are considered social occasions. You will be offered something. Accept something to drink, even if you don't want it. Argentines do not put milk in their coffee, so it will probably not be available. When dining, keep your hands on the table, not in your lap. To indicate that you are finished eating and have had enough, cross your knife and fork (with the prongs down) on your dinner plate. Argentina serves some of the best beef in the world; expect to see a lot of it at meals.
Argentina is three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (G.M.T.-3).
Except when greeting close friends, it is traditional to shake hands briefly and nod to both men and women. Close male friends shake hands or embrace upon meeting; men kiss close female friends. The full embrace (abrazo) may entail a hug, a handshake, and several thumps on the shoulder, ending with another handshake.
Most people you meet shouldbe addressed with a title and their surname. Mr. = Señor. Mrs. = Señora Miss = Señorita Most Hispanics have two surnames: one from their father, which is listed first, followed by one from their mother.+
The Argentine people converse at a closer distance. Maintaining eye contact is very important. Sit only on chairs, not on a ledge, box, or table. Eating in the street or on public transportation is considered impolite.
Dress is very important for making a good impression in Argentina. Business dress in Argentina is fairly, conservative: dark suits and ties for men; white blouses and dark suites or skirts for women. Women should not wear shorts, except when invited to a swimming pool. Indian clothing is for Indians; don’t adopt any native costumes, no matter how attractive. The same goes for gaucho outfits. Don’t forget that the seasons in South America are the reverse of those in North America.
As in any country, any gift given should be of high quality. Avoid giving knifes; they symbolize the severing of a friendship. Electronic gadgets like pocket calculators are popular. Avoid bringing leather gifts. If you are invited to an Argentine home, bring a gift or flowers, imported chocolates, or whiskey. Bird-of-paradise flowers are highly prized.