Argentina’s soybean area expected to fall by 4.3%

The soybean planted area in Argentina is projected to decline by 4.3% in the 2025/26 season, according to forecasts from the Buenos Aires-based Rosario Grain Exchange (BCR), as reported by Field Bugs. Despite this reduction, the preliminary estimate of 18.4 million hectares remains the second highest in the last five crop cycles, as noted in the BCR’s September 10 report.

The decrease is primarily attributed to a lower intention to plant prime soybeans compared to other crops such as corn and sunflower. The BCR report highlights that the recovery of corn acreage, driven by reduced pressure from the corn leafhopper, along with increased wheat planting and strong sunflower performance, explains the reduction in first-crop soybean plantings.

An increase in wheat planted area this year is expected to partially offset the decline in first-crop soybeans through growth in second-crop soybean plantings. However, in many key regions, the projected margins for first-crop soybeans are zero to negative, influencing farmers’ planting decisions.

The reduction of 800,000 hectares compared to the previous season is driven by economic factors, including the input-output ratio and tight profit margins, which are limiting the expansion of soybean acreage. The most significant reduction in planted area is observed in the northern regions of the country.

The BCR notes that in the western and central parts of Buenos Aires province, excess water accumulated during the winter has created uncertainty. Early corn and sunflower plantings, which compete directly with soybeans, will depend on drainage rates. If water saturation persists, delays in corn and sunflower planting could lead to an increase in prime soybean planting at the expense of these crops.

Tags: soybean, Argentina, sown area