| Work Detail |
A recent report by the Argentine Chamber of Construction (CamArCo) warns of the economic consequences of the complete halt to public works implemented during the current administration. According to estimates by the organizations strategic thinking department, the country loses USD 25 billion in infrastructure value annually due to lack of investment and maintenance. In structural terms, the cumulative cost of this policy could reach USD 1.4 trillion, or two and a half times the Gross Domestic Product. The report details that the national infrastructure—roads, bridges, water and sanitation networks, hospitals, and schools—depreciates every year if the necessary maintenance is not performed. When even the minimum required is not met, deterioration accelerates exponentially, with a direct impact not only on the economy but also on road safety, health, and the populations quality of life. CamArCo explains that all infrastructure has a limited useful life and a replacement value, which must be considered even if proper maintenance is carried out. In this regard, the Replacement Value of Public Infrastructure Capital in the country is estimated at 2.56 times GDP, while the Present Value—already depreciated—represents 1.14 times the same indicator. The lack of investment, therefore, does not represent savings, but rather a postponement of costs that will increase over time. The study also highlights that 52% of public infrastructure assets are currently managed by concessionaires, borrowers, or private operators, although they remain state-owned. This means that, although their management is decentralized, their deterioration continues to affect society as a whole, as these public assets are essential for competitiveness and development. The impact is especially evident in strategic sectors. Access routes to the ports of Greater Rosario, vital for agro-industrial exports, are in an advanced state of disrepair. Voices from the mining sector also joined the criticism, pointing out that tax incentives are not enough without adequate road infrastructure. The entity that represents the countrys leading construction companies insists: public works are not an expense, but a fundamental investment. The rationale for fiscal adjustment based on their paralysis actually implies a gigantic future liability. |
