Argentina sunflower industry sees export surge and increased planting

The Argentine sunflower complex is experiencing significant growth, driven by a surge in exports and increased planting intentions for the 2026/27 agricultural cycle. According to the August Conjuncture Report by the Asociación Argentina de Girasol (ASAGIR), national planting intentions are projected to reach 3 million hectares, representing a 5.3% increase compared to the previous cycle.

Regional growth varies significantly. The Northeast (NEA) is expected to see an 11.1% expansion, while the Cuenca del Salado (+15%), West of Buenos Aires and North of La Pampa (+14%), and Southeast Buenos Aires (+8.6%) also show substantial increases. Conversely, some regions are seeing reductions due to competition with corn and the influence of El Niño, specifically in North-Central Santa Fe (-8.2%), San Luis (-8%), and the North Core Zone (-6.9%).

Commercial performance has also strengthened. During the first half of 2026, sunflower chain exports reached US$ 2,073.2 million, a year-on-year increase of 128.5%, accounting for 7.7% of the country's total agro-industrial shipments.