During 2020, Uruguay received a large number of Argentine immigrants who decided to cross the pond in search of a different quality of life. This phenomenon began about a year ago and has not stopped. What were the consequences of this immigration on Uruguayan society?
Uruguayans speak of a activation of the real estate market, And a Strengthening relations between citizens and entrepreneurs of both countriesMany of the businessmen arrive very grateful to the country and willing to collaborate with the local community.
Juan Palacios, director of the Engel & Völkers real estate agency, explains that the arrival of Argentines “is what Montevideo needed to revitalize the market. Unlike Uruguayans, Argentines don't go out on Sundays to look at houses. They come with a precise idea of what they want.”
In contrast to Punta del Este, Montevideo is a more real city, which saw a large influx of Argentines. Palacios explains: “We differentiate two major groups: those who already had their tax situation resolved in Argentina and came to settle here, and those who are a bit more timid and rented with the option to buy. Sales prices are around a million dollars, which is a lot for Montevideo.”
Among the Argentines who decided to cross the pond, we find renowned figures in the entrepreneurial and business world, such as Marcos Galperín from Mercado Libre, Martín Migoya and Gulbert Englebienne from Globant.
Joaquín Morixe, Executive Director of Endeavor Uruguay, explains that they had the privilege of organizing webinars in which founders of Argentine companies were able to participate, injecting inspiration into young Uruguayans.
“In terms of behavior, Uruguayans are more conservative, while Argentines are characterized by being more transgressive. I think it will be good for us Uruguayans to be infected by a bit of that transgression (…) This is a unique opportunity to welcome businessmen and their families, and show them that Uruguay is a country with clear rules, where we are transparent and the law is enforced, and thus give them the peace of mind to come more,” explains Morixe.
Source: The nation.
