Inspections reveal widespread irregularities
In recent weeks, consumer protection authorities have stepped up inspections targeting businesses that apply extra charges depending on the payment method. These controls uncovered multiple cases in which customers were charged more for using debit cards, one-time credit card payments or digital transfers instead of cash.
One high-profile case involved a clothing showroom that received a fine of 2.5 million pesos after inspectors confirmed it was adding an extra percentage to non-cash payments. Officials stated that operational and financial costs are part of doing business and cannot be passed directly on to consumers.
What the law establishes
Argentine regulations are explicit: the final price of a product or service must be the same regardless of how the customer pays. Consumer Protection Law and the Credit Card Law both prohibit price differences or surcharges for debit card payments or credit card transactions made in a single installment.
According to authorities, bank fees and payment processor commissions must be absorbed by the merchant. When violations are detected, agencies are authorized to impose fines, issue formal violations and, in certain cases, order temporary closures.
Fines and closures across provinces
Similar violations were found in restaurants, electronics stores and small retail shops. Inspectors reported signage advertising “extra charges for card payments” or different prices for cash and electronic payments, practices that are considered illegal under current rules.
In provinces such as Tucumán and Salta, officials confirmed that enforcement actions will continue. Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether the business is a repeat offender, with closures applied in more serious cases.
How consumers can report abuses
Experts advise consumers to demand the advertised price and keep receipts or photographic evidence if an illegal surcharge is applied. Complaints can then be filed with local consumer protection offices, either online or in person.
Authorities stress that these reports are key to triggering inspections and preventing abusive practices. They also remind consumers that businesses offering debit card services cannot refuse this payment method.
Ongoing debate in the retail sector
Some business owners argue that financial fees impact profitability, especially in inflationary contexts. However, regulators maintain that the law leaves no room for interpretation: prices must be transparent and equal for all payment methods.
The recent wave of inspections aims to protect consumers and ensure fair pricing at a time when electronic payments are becoming the norm in everyday transactions.
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