The government has declared a fresh decrease in export duties pertaining to the agricultural sector. The initiative targets the nation’s primary agricultural hubs, with the objective of enhancing competitiveness and expediting the influx of foreign currency. The measure is set to be formalized this Wednesday in the Official Gazette, as per reports. Economy Minister Luis Caputo announced that the new rates will be implemented immediately at the specified levels: The decision aligns with a systematic approach aimed at the enduring decrease of export taxes, which remain one of the most contentious charges among producers. Caputo emphasized that the government’s objective is to progress towards the total removal of export duties, although he recognized that the speed of this transition will be contingent on macroeconomic conditions.
Eliminating export duties has consistently ranked as a priority for President Javier Milei. “And we will continue doing everything possible to reach that goal as soon as we can,” the minister stated. “This reduction in export duties aims to enhance the competitiveness of the agro-industrial sector, a key driver of the Argentine economy, accounting for nearly 60% of our exports. Thus, we reiterate our belief that Argentina’s agricultural sector will persist in its growth trajectory, generate employment opportunities, foster development throughout all regions of the nation, and enhance Argentina’s standing in international markets. “The path is clear: fewer taxes, more production, more opportunities, and more jobs for all Argentines,” Caputo added. Shortly following the announcement, CIARA-SEC (the Argentine Oilseed Industry Chamber) and CEC (the Cereal Exporters Center) expressed their approval in a concise statement, describing the decision as a “very positive step that should be appreciated.” The statement concluded: “We must continue working to reduce the enormous tax burden, especially on the soybean agro-industrial complex.”
The reduction in export duties will enable producers to enhance their profit margins and provide them with an extra motivation to accelerate grain sales, thereby fostering improved prices amid a backdrop of prudent investment. The Austral University’s AG Barometer Confidence Index indicated a prudent short-term outlook while presenting optimistic expectations for the medium and long term. The latest instance was the short-lived removal of export duties on September 22, which lasted for three days and resulted in sales exceeding USD 4.9 billion — a clear demonstration of the prompt effects that tax reductions can exert on foreign currency movements.
In November, agro-exporters generated US$759 million, reflecting a 32% decline relative to October 2025. However, on a year-on-year basis, the balance remains positive: between January and November, foreign currency earnings from the sector rose 24% compared with the same period in 2024.