Agricultural sectors in Argentina and Bolivia face seasonal risks and new insurance proposals

In Argentina, stone fruit producers in North Patagonia are facing increased sanitary risks as trees emerge from winter dormancy. Unstable weather conditions, including high humidity and forecasted rain, have heightened the threat of fungi and bacteria such as torque, scab, and bacteriosis. Producers must manage applications during the critical window between the swollen bud and pink/white bud stages to prevent primary infections.

In Bolivia, the government has introduced a legislative project aimed at expanding access to agricultural insurance by reducing costs for producers. Under the proposal, the state could cover up to 75% of insurance premiums for small-scale producers and up to 50% for medium-scale producers. The coverage intends to protect against floods, droughts, extreme temperatures, winds, fires, and pests. According to Vice Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Julián Arias, the plan also extends potential benefits to those in livestock, fishing, aquaculture, and mariculture.