Mendoza oil production declines as active well count drops

The province of Mendoza, Argentina, has experienced a significant contraction in its oil industry between 2022 and 2026. Data indicates a loss of 468 active oil wells, representing a decline in extractive infrastructure of over 19%. This reduction has led to a 15.5% drop in total crude oil extraction volumes across the province, with monthly production falling from 279,800 to 236,400 cubic meters.

Malargüe, which accounts for approximately 72% of Mendoza's crude oil, saw its active wells decrease from 1,511 in 2022 to 1,236 by April 2026. While its production levels fluctuated, the department remains the primary contributor to the province's energy output.

Other departments also reported declines. San Rafael saw a sharp downturn, with active wells dropping from 104 in 2022 to 88 in 2026, and monthly production falling by nearly 43% from 6,200 to approximately 3,550 cubic meters. Luján de Cuyo, Tupungato, San Carlos, and Rivadavia also recorded reductions in both their active well counts and overall pumping volumes.