Spread of Corn Stunt Disease Lowers Production Expectations in Argentina

Argentina is a key player in the global corn market, ranking fifth in production and third in exports. Approximately 20% of the corn traded globally is produced in Argentina, accounting for nearly 5% of global corn production. After a very poor 2023 harvest under a third consecutive La Niña (see farmdoc daily, March 31, 2023), initial projections suggested a record corn harvest in Argentina for the 2023/2024 crop (hereafter referred to as 2024). However, the latest estimates show a sharp decline in expected production due to the presence of corn stunt disease. This article examines how this disease has recently impacted corn production in Argentina and explores the outlook for the upcoming crop season, given that this issue has reached the main production areas and potentially could persist.