Regulation for wheat and soybean exports in Argentina, 2004-2014

Abstract

This article analyzes the regulation for wheat and soybean exports in Argentina in the 2004-2014 period and its consequences on the production and export of these crops. From the nineteen nineties on, the grain production recorded considerable increases, largely explained by the increase in the quantities of soybean, wheat and corn which reached record highs in the 2007/2008 growing season. These results occur in view of an international scenario of growing demand for these products and increasing international commodity prices. After 2008, both the production and surface area sown with soybean continue expanding. This was not the case with wheat. These results are subject to analysis based on a documentary review of the main trade policies implemented and the analysis of production and export statistics for both crops. Although there are a number of factors impacting on these results, the role of the trade policies should be noted, and particularly, the export restrictions which affected the wheat crop.