Why buy video cards from Amazon in Argentina?
In 2025, importing video cards, graphics cards, or GPUs from Amazon is an attractive option for gamers and creators in Argentina, thanks to models like RTX 5080, RX 7700 XT, or RX 7600. However, taxes, limits, and regulations determine whether it's worth it. This guide analyzes whether it's worth it, exploring price ranges, taxes, payment methods, and practical tips.
Taxes and costs when purchasing from Amazon
Buying video cards from Amazon to Argentina faces specific costs in 2025, with a limit of $$3,000 USD per 50 kg shipment and restrictions for personal use:
| Cost | Percentage/Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Tariff (>$400 USD) | 50% of the difference |
| VAT | 21% (general, although some products may have reduced VAT) |
| Income Tax | 45% (if you pay by card) |
| Shipping costs | 10-20% of the price |
| Customs handling | $20-50 USD fixed |
- Less than $400 USD: Only pay VAT from 21% on the CIF value (price + shipping – discounts). ExampleAn RX 7600 for $280 USD (CIF $310 USD) costs $375.10 USD, excluding duties and taxes. If Amazon charges additional taxes in error, you can request an automatic refund once the carrier confirms the actual fees.
- Greater than $400 USD: HE VAT applies (21%) especially the CIF value, a 50% tariff on the difference, and, if you use card, he Income Tax of 45%Example: An RTX 5080 for $1,000 USD (CIF $1,050 USD):
- VAT: 21% of $1,050 = $220.50 USD.
- Tariff: 50% of ($1,050 – $400) = $325 USD.
- Total taxes: ~$545.50 USD (without profits).
- With card: +$450 USD (Earnings), total $1,995.50 USD, plus shipping ($2,050-2,100 USD).
Amazon includes a “Import Tariff Deposit" (estimated VAT, duties, and customs fees), calculated based on the product and shipping price, but may not reflect actual costs. If the estimated fees are higher, you'll receive an automatic refund; if they're lower, you may face additional charges upon customs clearance. Delivery times: 2-6 weeks, with a risk of delays if your order exceeds $$3,000 USD or 50 kg, or if there are inspections.
Price Ranges: When is the Best Time to Buy on Amazon?
Comparing with local prices (March 4, 2025) (official dollar ~$1,064 ARS/USD, blue ~$1,220 ARS/USD, card ~$1,409.53 ARS/USD, MEP ~$1,220 ARS/USD):
- Low range (<$400 USD): An RX 7600 (USD $280) costs USD $375-USD 420 on Amazon (with MEP/official dollar) or USD $501-USD 520 (with credit card), vs. USD $328-USD 484 locally (used/new with blue/official dollar). It's a good deal with MEP due to availability and price, provided you use a private courier like DHL, which is recommended for this service.
- Mid-range ($400-800 USD): An RTX 4070 (USD $700) could cost USD $1,700-1,800 (with MEP) vs. USD $1,600-2,000 locally. This depends on availability and urgency.
- High-end (>$800 USD): An RTX 5080 (USD 1,000-USD 1,650-USD 1,800) could reach USD 1,650-USD 1,800 (with MEP) vs. USD 2,500-USD 3,000 locally. It's competitive if you avoid profit margins.
Payment Methods: Which is more convenient?
- MEP Dollar: At ~$1,220 ARS/USD, it's the most affordable option, avoiding income tax (45%). Use digital accounts (Mercado Pago, Lemon Cash) with minimal fees (2-5%), ideal for large purchases up to $3,000 USD.
- Credit/Debit Card: More expensive due to earnings (45%), but still convenient. Example: $1,000 USD costs $1,450 USD before taxes, plus VAT and duties, totaling ~$2,000-2,100 USD.
- Cryptocurrencies: Not directly on Amazon, but you can use services like BitPay or Coinbase to convert to dollars, with fees (5-10%) and volatility risks. It's not cheaper than MEP, and BCRA regulations apply.
Allowed products and limits
You can import products such as video cards, clothing, cell phones, toys, books, and spare parts, but some, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or luxury goods, may face excise duties or restrictions. This regime limits shipments to a maximum of 5 shipments per year, with a limit of $3,000 USD, 3 units per product, and 50 kg per shipment. Use private couriers (DHL recommended) to avoid the Door-to-Door regime, which limits shipments to $50 USD.
Factors to consider before purchasing
- Local availability: New models arrive late or are overpriced.
- Times and risks: Customs delays and additional costs if you exceed limits or there are inspections.
- WarrantyAmazon offers support, but local repairs are complicated.
Conclusion: Is it worth buying from Amazon in Argentina?
Buying video cards from Amazon to Argentina in 2025 can be convenient in the low range (<$400 USD) or high range (>$800 USD with MEP), avoiding profits. However, taxes (up to 20-50%) and shipping limits make local prices with the blue dollar more affordable in many cases. As a PotenciaPC specialist, I believe that purchasing from Amazon from Argentina remains a challenge due to restrictions, taxes, and tariffs, but it opens the door to competitive technology, especially for hardware such as graphics cards. However, the process can be slow (2-6 weeks) and requires understanding customs costs. I recommend using MEP dollars, which are readily available in virtual wallets at a similar price to the blue one.To avoid the extra cost of 45-50% for the card dollar, always compare local and international prices and check shipping limits ($3,000 USD, 50 kg).
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