ID needed for non food purchases?

[Aztangogirl]

So today was the first time I went to buy something other than food or drinks. I was surprised at the requirement to show ID for purchases, even with cash. I myself am a very privacy oriented person and don't really like the idea of having records of every purchase I've ever made in the country. The two stores I went into said this is how it is here (new balance and Nike).

Is this really the case here?

When I pay effectivo and they want ID or my name, I just refuse. No. If they balk, I start to walk away. Suddenly my money is okay.

 

[antipodean]

does this really ever happen?

If you’re Argentine even with just a little bit of money of good income by local standards, YES!