Drought Hits Argentina’s Corn Production

Argentina is grappling with severe drought conditions caused by prolonged dry weather and soaring temperatures. These unfavorable conditions have significantly hampered the growth of the maize crop, creating challenges for farmers across the country. With sowing now completed, attention has shifted to the crop's progress, but the current weather remains far from favorable.

Reduced Production Forecast

The Rosario Grains Exchange has responded to the worsening drought by cutting its production forecast for the 2024-25 season. Earlier estimates pegged Argentina’s maize output at 50-51 million tonnes, but this has now been reduced to 48 million tonnes. This revision reflects a sharp decrease of 2-3 million tonnes, highlighting the ongoing difficulties in rain-dependent regions. Crop conditions in these areas have been steadily worsening, with urgent rains needed to prevent further damage.

Impact on Global Corn Supply

As the world’s third-largest corn exporter and fourth-largest producer, Argentina plays a pivotal role in the global maize market. The drought has taken a significant toll on early-sown maize crops, which are particularly vulnerable to water shortages. If the dry spell continues, late-sown crops may also face serious challenges, potentially affecting Argentina’s export volumes. This could lead to tighter global supply and higher prices in international markets.

Urgent Need for Rainfall

Farmers in Argentina are now anxiously awaiting rainfall to salvage what remains of their crops. However, weather forecasts predict no significant rain in the coming weeks, further compounding the problem. While some farmers are attempting to mitigate losses through irrigation and drought-resistant crop varieties, these measures are not sufficient to address the widespread impact. The global agricultural community continues to monitor the situation closely, as Argentina’s corn production remains vital for meeting international demand.





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