Santa Cruz agricultural producers face rising costs and reduced planting areas

Agricultural producers in northern Santa Cruz, Bolivia, are facing significant challenges due to rising costs for diesel and agro-inputs, including seeds and fertilizers. Juan Pablo Espinoza, president of the Anapo northern branch, reported that the winter campaign saw a reduction in planted area from a projected 380,000 hectares to approximately 220,000 hectares. He noted that while diesel is available, high prices have limited farmers' ability to purchase it, creating a liquidity crisis.

These economic pressures, combined with irregular rainfall, threaten to reduce grain production and food availability. Concerns persist that the upcoming summer campaign may face similar difficulties.

In response to these challenges, the Association of Oilseed and Wheat Producers (Anapo) organized the 26th Exposoya del Norte. The event brought together over 500 producers to focus on productivity, soil conservation, and new technologies to improve yields. Anapo president Abraham Nogales emphasized that increasing productivity is vital for Bolivia, noting that the oilseed complex was the country's second-largest export sector in 2025, generating $1,145 million in foreign exchange.