This paper compares the degree of inequality in the spatial distribution of the Argentine manufacturing industry at regional and provincial levels between the years preceding and following the period from 1974 to 2002, during which the policy of import substitution was abandoned and the share of the manufacturing sector in the gross domestic product showed a decreasing trend. It analyzes with quantitative methods census data on value added and jobs held in 1973 and 2003. It is concluded that total inequality decreased while retaining its spatial pattern.

Keywords: Argentine; manufacturing industry; location of industries; spatial inequality.