Argentina Soybean Planting Area Set to Grow as Farmers Flee Corn
Argentina's soybean planted area is expected to increase by 1.2% in the upcoming 2026/27 season, reaching 17 million hectares. This growth comes as farmers shift their focus from corn due to the spread of the leafhopper pest in the north.
The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange reported that this change would return soy area to its average of the last five years and benefit from lower export duties and improved soybean prices, despite rising costs for fuel. The exchange also noted that weather conditions will play a crucial role in determining the outcome, with adequate soil moisture currently available but potential risks from excess rain tied to an El Niño event.
The northern farm regions are expected to see significant gains, offsetting declines in central and southern areas where early corn and sunflowers remain competitive. The exchange warned that the increase in soy area will depend on weather conditions and the ability of farmers to manage potential disease risks.