Argentina: Potato acreage fell by almost 12% in southeastern Buenos Aires province

Potato farming in Argentina is undergoing a readjustment process after a difficult 2025, marked by economic losses, oversupply, and a significant drop in prices. In this context, the southeastern region of Buenos Aires province has begun to reduce its planted area, an adjustment that, according to industry stakeholders, was not only foreseeable but also necessary to stabilize the sector.

According to a satellite survey by INTA Castelar presented during the National Potato Festival in Nicanor Otamendi, the 2025/2026 campaign shows a 12% decrease in the cultivated area compared to the previous cycle, going from 38,173 hectares to 33,722.

Analyzing the data by district, Balcarce, the region’s main agricultural area, showed a significant reduction of 16%, falling from 8,728 to 7,389 hectares. Significant decreases were also reported in General Alvarado (-17%), General Pueyrredón (-19%), Tandil (-14%), and Benito Juárez (-13%). Lobería, on the other hand, registered a more moderate decrease of 5%.

The only exception was Necochea, where the planted area increased by a remarkable 32%, demonstrating an internal redistribution within the region. Meanwhile, Azul showed virtually no change compared to the previous season.

Regarding seed potato production in southeastern Buenos Aires province, the report tallied a total of 3,329.6 hectares, primarily distributed across the districts of Adolfo Gonzales Chaves, San Cayetano, and Tres Arroyos. This data is crucial for planning the development of upcoming growing seasons.

With a smaller planted area and a challenging global environment, 2026 is projected to be a crucial year for the potato sector. This context presents an opportunity to correct structural imbalances and move towards a more efficient production model. The overall objective is clear: prioritize lower production volumes, but with higher levels of quality and sustainability.