Economic crisis threatens to stall Vaca Muerta
Economic turmoil and infrastructural congestion are raising doubts over Argentina's shale growth
Argentina's hope of fast-tracking production from its vast Vaca Muerta shale play, the world's second largest by output, could be delayed as the country adapts to recession. Last year, Argentina was forced to seek a $57bn bailout package from the IMF — the largest-ever sum issued by the fund — after the peso lost over 60pc of its value and inflation surged. In response, the government decided to further scale-back its production subsidy programme, a move that calls its ambitious growth targets into question. Argentina's hydrocarbon sector has largely depended on subsidies. Between 2017-18, production subsidies increased by 30pc to $2.7bn. At the same time, Argentina set itself bold productio
Also in this section
21 April 2026
After overcoming a COVID-induced demand collapse with several years of successful market management, geopolitical events have conspired to provide the pact’s biggest test to date
21 April 2026
The regime’s policy of using nuclear ambiguity as a deterrent may have failed but it has realised it has other cards to play, while its neighbours are reappraising their approach to security
21 April 2026
As the global energy system undergoes a fundamental realignment, Algihaz Holdings has established itself as a critical player bridging conventional energy markets and the next generation of renewable infrastructure.
21 April 2026
The 25th WPC Energy Congress is taking place from 11-15 October 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center.






