South American trade and energy sectors report regional shifts

Logistical challenges in the Port of Montevideo, Uruguay, are impacting Paraguayan exports. Bernd Gunther, president of the Center of River and Maritime Shipowners of Paraguay (Cafym), noted that port operational difficulties, waterway restrictions, and Argentine tolls on the Paraná River are increasing costs for fluvial transport. Despite these issues, Montevideo remains a preferred alternative for Paraguayan exports due to lower congestion and faster operation times compared to other regional ports.

In Brazil, live cattle exports reached a historic monthly revenue peak of $150.1 million in September. Total revenue from live cattle sales through August reached $772.24 million, a 38.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Key importers include Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, and Lebanon, though Turkey's relative importance has decreased in 2025.

Argentina's Vaca Muerta formation continues to drive energy production. In July, national oil production reached a record 916,200 barrels per day, a 17.2% increase from the previous month. Vaca Muerta alone accounted for 643,100 barrels per day, representing over 70% of the country's total crude extraction. Natural gas production also saw growth, with Vaca Muerta contributing 96.5 million cubic meters per day.