Overview
- The government reported a national maize crop of 71.5 million tonnes in late July, driven by a 26.1% jump in planted area to 11.6 million hectares and higher average yields of about 7,240 kg/ha.
- Harvest is largely advanced at more than 75% nationally but remains uneven, with late‑maize zones in the región núcleo reporting roughly 53% collected and local delays from high grain moisture.
- Technical networks are tracking heterogeneous pressure from the maize leafhopper Dalbulus maidis, with the highest captures in NOA, NEA and Centro‑Norte and stable counts in Centro‑Sur and the Litoral.
- The Bolsa de Comercio de Rosario reports strong seed pre‑sales and clear producer intent to expand maize area for 2026/27, while international urea prices jumped from about $550 to $620 per tonne and fertilizer purchases have slowed.
- The large crop boosts Argentina's exportable supply and farm income prospects, but rising fertilizer costs and potential input shortages pose a tangible risk to planting decisions and yields for the 2026/27 season.