Agriculture & Agtech Investment in Argentina
Argentina is the world's 3rd largest soybean exporter, 2nd largest corn exporter, and a major beef producer — with agtech innovation creating new investment verticals in precision farming and sustainable agriculture.
Sector Overview
Argentina's Pampas region is one of the world's most productive agricultural zones, with fertile soil, adequate rainfall, and established infrastructure for grain and livestock production. The country ranks among the top global exporters of soybeans, corn, wheat, and beef. Beyond traditional farming, Argentina is emerging as a Latin American agtech hub — startups are developing precision agriculture tools, drone-based crop monitoring, and sustainable farming technologies. The combination of vast existing farmland, technical expertise from generations of farming families, and a new openness to foreign investment creates multiple entry points: direct land ownership (now permitted for foreigners), farm operation partnerships, agtech venture investment, and commodity trading operations. The depreciation of the peso has made Argentine agricultural assets increasingly competitive globally.
Key Investment Opportunities
Top Regions for Investment
Soy, corn, wheat production; established infrastructure
Explore provinceDiverse crops, agtech innovation hub, dairy
Explore provinceGrain belt heartland, soy crushing facilities
Explore provinceRice production, citrus, yerba mate
Explore provinceCattle ranching, wheat, emerging organic sector
Explore province- Foreign land ownership now permitted (Decree 70/2023)
- Rural land purchases require registration with provincial authorities
- Agricultural exports subject to variable export taxes (retenciones)
- Water rights may be separate from land ownership
- GMO crops widely permitted; organic certification available
- Labor laws highly protective of rural workers
- RIGI program offers 25% corporate tax rate for large ag investments
- Accelerated depreciation for agricultural machinery
- Export tax credits for value-added agricultural products
- Provincial tax incentives for organic farming conversion
Recent Developments
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners own farmland in Argentina?
Yes. The Milei government revoked the 2011 land ownership restrictions in December 2023. Foreign individuals and companies can now purchase rural land without the previous limitations on proximity to water or border zones.
What are the main crops grown in Argentina?
Soybeans are the dominant crop, followed by corn, wheat, and barley. Argentina is the world's 3rd largest soybean exporter and 2nd largest corn exporter. The Pampas region produces most grains, while northern provinces grow sugar, citrus, and tobacco.
What is the export tax situation?
Argentina applies variable export taxes (retenciones) on agricultural commodities, particularly soybeans (currently around 33%). These taxes fluctuate with government policy and global prices. Processed products generally face lower export taxes than raw commodities.
How can I invest in agriculture without managing a farm?
Options include: (1) Land ownership with lease to Argentine operators, (2) Private equity funds focused on Argentine agriculture, (3) Agtech startup investment, (4) Grain trading and logistics companies, (5) Silo and storage infrastructure.
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Considering Investment in Agriculture?
Learn about Argentina's Investment Visa pathway, which offers residency for qualifying investments.
Need Legal Guidance for Your Agriculture Investment?
Due diligence, contract review, tax structuring, and residency applications require specialized Argentine legal expertise. Our partner Lucero Legal has guided international investors through Argentina's regulatory landscape for over a decade.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Argentina's economic and political environment involves significant risks. Consult qualified legal, tax, and financial professionals before making investment decisions. Investment values can fluctuate, and past performance does not guarantee future results.
Legal services provided by Lucero Legal. This content is produced independently by Expats Argentina.