Argentina’s corn exports double in August amid high prices

Argentina’s corn exports have accelerated sharply, supported by a large crop and rising global prices. Market estimates suggest the country could ship 6.56 mln tons of corn in August, double the 3.22 mln tons exported in July.

Between January and the end of August, Argentina’s completed and scheduled corn exports reached 33.8 mln tons. Around 3.5 mln tons are currently scheduled for September, although exporters expect actual shipments could reach 6 mln tons or more.

Strong production is supporting the surge in exports. Argentina has already harvested 81% of its corn area, while total production is projected at 64 mln tons. This means farmers have already harvested around 52.5 mln tons, providing ample supplies for both the domestic and export markets.

At the same time, corn prices have strengthened significantly. Domestic prices have risen by around $20/t over the past month to about $200/t, while December delivery contracts are trading at $207–210/t. International corn prices have also climbed to their highest level in 20 months.

The combination of abundant supplies and higher prices is encouraging Argentine farmers to actively sell corn to generate liquidity, while soybeans are largely being held in storage in anticipation of further price gains. The increase in grain flows is already visible at Greater Rosario ports, where truck arrivals carrying corn have risen sharply.

Tags: corn, export, prices, Argentina