On February 11, Argentina allowed the value of the peso, its national currency, to be determined by international foreign exchange markets. Argentina is hoping that a devaluation of the peso will promote export growth and provide sufficient stimulus to end Argentina's four-year recession. Economists believe that much more is needed in order for this goal to be accomplished citing political stability and fiscal reform as examples. In addition, the government and its major corporations need to support the devaluation with policies that make exporting more attractive and lucrative. Analysts believe that even if supporting measures are adopted, improvements in the Argentine economy will take years, not months to accomplish.

After Argentina dropped the 1-to-1 dollar to peso peg that had determined Argentina's exchange rate for a decade, it adopted a two-tiered exchange rate system. Under the dual system, exports were priced at a fixed rate of 1.4 pesos to the dollar, while non-trade transactions were determined by a floating rate that is currently at 2.05 pesos per dollar. Starting February 11, the value of the peso is to be freely determined in exchange rate markets.

The devalued peso, which economists believe will settle at 2.5 pesos per dollar, will aid exporters and provide needed stimulus to Argentina's ailing economy. Argentina hopes that its devaluation will make the export sector the catalyst for economic growth. In order to reorient its economy, the government needs to support the devaluation with other incentives such as tax reform. Major corporations, according to analysts, do not have the marketing know-how, international relations and ability to adjust to international quality standards.

The central government has started the fiscal reform process and has negotiated with its provincial governments to reduce public spending. A more reliable banking sector and political stability are additional changes that would aid in the transformation.

(Updated March 20, 2002)