Argentina loses onion ground as Brazil becomes self-sufficient

Argentine onion exports from Río Negro have come to an early halt this year, ending in May instead of continuing through June as they did in 2024. By the end of May, only 20% of the province’s total onion volume had been exported — down from 30% at the same point last year, according to local media.

The drop is mainly due to strong onion yields in Brazil, Argentina’s main buyer, where favourable weather reduced the need for imports. The devaluation of the Brazilian real and the start of Brazil’s own harvest in Minas Gerais and São Paulo further weakened demand.

Between January and May 2025, Río Negro shipped 54,800 tons of onions abroad, compared to over 85,000 tons last year. Total production documents show 113,229 tons of onions moved, with half going to export and half staying on the domestic market.

The cultivated area also shrank this season to 6,890 hectares, down from 7,800 hectares in 2024. Prices remained stable, ranging between 25–35 pesos per kilo.

Authorities now stress the need for market diversification to reduce reliance on Brazil, which buys 90% of Argentina’s onion exports. Producers are being urged to improve efficiency and explore new international markets to ensure long-term sustainability.

source: argenpapa.com.ar

photo: comerciante.lacuarta.com