Argentina’s record corn harvest and export‑tax debate spotlight agricultural challenges

A master’s thesis presented by Argentine deputy Luis Picat argues that export taxes and retention schemes have stalled the country’s total factor productivity, while Brazil and the United States have boosted efficiency through incentives and R&D investment. Picat explained that higher export taxes shift planting towards soybeans, reducing area for corn and wheat.

At the same time, Argentina’s corn crop is set to reach a historic 68‑70 million tonnes, thanks to favorable weather and expanded sowing areas. Economist Ariel Tejera said, “We come from a campaign of great enthusiasm regarding production, especially corn,” but warned that the surge in global supply is pushing international corn prices lower, affecting export revenues despite the record harvest.