YPF Implements Temporary Fuel Price Freeze, Projects $55 Billion in Exports by 2031 from Vaca Muerta Development

YPF president Horacio Marín confirmed the company will maintain fuel prices stable for 45 days after implementing a 1% increase, with the reference barrel price held at 2,100 pesos. Marín explained the pricing strategy as a temporary absorption of international crude volatility caused by Middle East conflicts, describing it as a corporate decision rather than government intervention. The executive explicitly stated that when international crude prices decline, YPF will not immediately pass those reductions to consumers, maintaining prices to recover margins sacrificed during the current period. Marín framed this approach as an ethical agreement with consumers, telling business leaders in Rosario that the company observed demand elasticity with consumers reducing fuel purchases as prices increased.

The company anticipates defining final investment decision for the Argentina LNG project by late 2026, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. The megaproject, developed in partnership with ENI and XRG, aims to transform Vaca Muerta natural gas into liquefied natural gas for international markets. YPF projects this development will generate between 40,000 and 45,000 direct and indirect jobs, with export revenues exceeding $55 billion by 2031. Marín emphasized that energy sector exports represent a unique contribution to the Argentine economy that commercial sectors cannot replicate, positioning foreign exchange generation as the primary economic benefit.

Production targets call for YPF to reach 24,000 tons by 2031, representing a 50% increase in global extraction activity between December 2025 and December 2026. The expansion in the Neuquén basin will incorporate additional drilling equipment in Vaca Muerta unconventional deposits. Marín announced YPF will submit multiple projects under the RIGI large investment incentive regime, projecting significant returns. The executive credited the Milei administration with creating favorable investment conditions through industry incentives, stating the current management approach depends on appropriate government regulatory frameworks.

YPF plans to implement a new transparent bidding mechanism for supplier contracts, requiring vendors to inform delivery capabilities before the bidding process. The company maintained supplier prices during international conflicts without affecting provincial royalty payments. Marín also announced digital initiatives including a mobile application enabling fractional share purchases at approximately 7,000 pesos per share compared to current 70,000 peso shares, allowing direct investment without brokerage accounts.