Argentina’s Fertilizer Consumption Rises, But Concerns Remain Over Nutrient Use Efficiency
Argentina’s fertilizer market demonstrated continued growth in 2025, reaching 5.1 million tons – a 3% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from Fertilizar Asociación Civil [1]. This positive trend, which began in 2024, signals a recovery for the sector following previous adjustments, but experts caution that increased volume doesn’t necessarily equate to optimal nutrient management.
Market Growth Driven by Climatic Conditions and Crop Areas
The increase in fertilizer consumption was largely attributed to favorable climatic conditions and an expansion of planted areas, particularly for wheat, barley, and corn [3]. María Fernanda González Sanjuan, executive manager of Fertilizar, noted that despite a slower start to the year due to a smaller late corn area in the 2024/25 campaign, consumption rebounded due to beneficial weather patterns and replenished soil moisture [1].
Wheat Production and Nutrient Imbalance
Whereas fertilizer use increased in wheat production due to expanded acreage, the report highlighted a concerning trend: a deterioration in fertilizer doses applied per hectare [1]. The record wheat harvest, achieved without sufficient fertilization, resulted in a noticeable decline in grain quality. González Sanjuan emphasized the importance of addressing soil fertility, stating, “In a general context of soils losing fertility, we must be attentive to nutrition so as not to provide up the quantity or quality of grain produced” [1].
Regional Trends in Fertilizer Use
Fertilizer consumption growth in March-April was particularly strong in pasturelands, with an 11% year-over-year increase in nitrogen and a 52% increase in phosphates [1]. Favorable weather conditions, expanding corn areas, and improved price relationships contributed to increased technological investment in spring-summer plantings.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Soil Diagnosis
Fertilizar Asociación Civil encourages producers to continue focusing on productive efficiency. However, the organization stresses the critical need for in-depth soil diagnoses as the industry prepares for the 2026/27 campaign [1]. After years of negative nutrient balances, Argentine soils are showing declines in their natural supply, making accurate dosage application essential to avoid compromising future yields.
Fertilizar Asociación Civil is dedicated to disseminating knowledge about soil nutrition and care for sustainable production [4]. They provide market statistics, consumption data, and technical content on fertilizers [2].