According to the latest report issued by the Buenos Aires Cereal Exchangethe projection of corn production for the current season. Initially estimated at 56.5 million tons, it is now expected to reach only 54 million tons.
This cut of 2.5 million tons is attributed to two main factors: the presence of the disease Spiroplasma kunkelii, transmitted by the leafhopper, and the intense heat wave that hit the region during the month of February.
Spiroplasma kunkelii disease is cause for concern among farmers, as its spread has significantly impacted the health of corn crops. The leafhopper, vector of this disease, has contributed to its rapid spread, affecting the productivity of the fields and generating losses in the harvest.
On the other hand, the heat wave recorded during the month of February has exacerbated the situation, causing additional stress on corn plants at a critical moment in their development. High temperatures and lack of humidity have compromised crop yields, reducing production expectations for the current season.
Negative outlook for corn
Given this panorama, farmers and authorities in the sector are working on the implementation of preventive measures and management strategies to mitigate the effects of the disease and adverse weather conditions on future crops. Research and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices are presented as fundamental tools to face the challenges posed by corn production in the region in the current context.
The latest news in the agricultural field They bring relief from the challenges facing production. Although the rainfall, accompanied by storms in the northeast of Buenos Aires, has generated flooding in some relevant areas, The situation has brought a respite for soybeans.
The additional moisture from these rains is welcomed with optimism ahead of the 24/25 cycle, which is expected to have a transition to a girl year, which would imply drier conditions in August. This moisture reserve is considered crucial to face future climatic conditions and ensure stable production.
However, the issue of concern persists with the presence of the leafhopper, a small insect that has begun to wreak havoc on corn crops. It is estimated that some 400,000 hectares have been affected, which has led to a reduction of 2.5 million tons in production, according to data from the Buenos Aires Cereal Exchange. This situation is aggravated by excess previous heat, which increases the risk for crop areas.
Soybeans: relief
Despite these challenges, there is good news on the horizon, especially when it comes to soybeans. During February, grinding has shown a notable increase, reaching 2.3 million tons51% more than in the same period of the previous year. This increase is partly attributed to the entry of a greater quantity of Paraguayan soybeans into the Argentine market.
Additionally, soybean growing conditions are favorable, with 31% of crops rated good to excellent, the best mark in the last five years. Yields are also promising, with expectations of up to 40/45 tonnes per hectare in prime crops in the core zone.
Buyers, faced with the need for merchandise, have raised available prices, reaching 265,000 pesos per ton, which represents more than 310 dollars at the current exchange rate. This active demand is a positive sign for producers, who hope to take advantage of favorable conditions to ensure a successful season.
Source: Ambito
