Argentina Targets Record Maize Exports as Supply Disruptions Reshape Global Trade
Argentina expects to export 10 million tonnes of maize in August and September, more than three times the usual volume for the period. A record harvest, competitive prices and tighter supplies from Ukraine, Europe and Brazil are redirecting demand toward the South American producer.
Record harvest supports export surge
Argentina expects to export 10 million tonnes of maize between August and September, more than three times the volume normally shipped during those two months, according to Libertad Digital. The expansion is underpinned by an exceptional 2025/26 harvest that the Argentine government estimates at 71.7 million tonnes, almost 20% above the previous record.
The combination of high availability, export capacity and competitive pricing has placed Argentina in a strong position as several rival origins contend with weaker harvests or logistical constraints. The increase comes at a time when grain buyers are seeking alternatives to established suppliers, particularly in markets traditionally served by Ukraine.
North African buyers shift toward Argentina
Argentina’s maize exports to North Africa rose 45% year on year between January and July, reaching 6.5 million tonnes, Libertad Digital reported. Morocco increased its purchases by 133%, while Egypt recorded a 48% rise. These gains indicate that the disruption is changing procurement patterns rather than merely producing a temporary increase in Argentine shipment volumes.
Ukraine’s reduced ability to serve overseas markets is a central factor. Russian attacks have damaged export infrastructure in Odesa and left the Black Sea ports that previously handled around 90% of the country’s grain exports practically blocked, according to the report. Ukraine has redirected part of its cargo through Danube ports, but drought has also limited that route’s capacity. Ukrainian shipments fell 52% in the latest month covered by the source.
European and Asian crops face pressure
Spain is particularly exposed because its livestock industry depends on imported grain for animal feed. Ukraine is its principal supplier, with France and the United States accounting for substantially smaller shares. At the same time, Spain’s latest grain campaign produced a weaker harvest than in 2025. Cooperativas Agro-alimentarias estimates output at 18.6 million tonnes, down 30%, while yields fell by about 24% because of heat and insufficient rainfall. The crop was harvested earlier, before grain had developed fully.
Similar weather-related difficulties have affected much of Europe. Uncertainty has also spread to Asia, where India is experiencing an irregular monsoon. September rainfall is expected to be below normal, potentially threatening rice and maize crops. These risks add another layer of uncertainty for feed manufacturers, traders and import-dependent buyers assessing availability across several origins.
Brazilian demand creates additional space
Brazil’s domestic market is also helping Argentina capture export opportunities. Brazil, identified in the report as the world’s second-largest maize exporter, has reduced international shipments in recent years as a growing share of production is consumed at home, particularly by the ethanol industry. Brazilian maize consumption increased 7.1% in the 2025/26 season to 98 million tonnes.
Tighter export availability from Ukraine and Brazil, combined with weaker European harvests and concerns about Indian crops, could maintain upward pressure on international grain prices. Libertad Digital also identifies El Niño as a potential contributor to further price increases. Argentina enters this period with a record crop and the capacity to supply buyers seeking replacement volumes. Its immediate opportunity is strongest in North Africa, but sustained competitiveness could consolidate its position across the wider global maize market.
