Grain shipments from Argentina are facing significant challenges as major inland river ports near Rosario report near-record low water levels in the Parana River. This drop is attributed to a severe drought upstream in Brazil, leading to increased shipping costs and extended transport times for soy and corn exports.
The Parana River, which is crucial for transporting almost 80% of Argentina’s grain and oilseed exports, is currently at its second lowest level for this time of year since 1970, following a significant decline in 2021. The low water levels are forcing large seagoing vessels to load thousands of tons less cargo than usual. Industry experts indicate that ships are currently loading approximately 15% less than their normal capacity due to the reduced river depth.
Guillermo Wade, manager of the Chamber of Port and Maritime Activities (CAPyM), highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that the river is exceptionally low, with measurements showing the level at Rosario at just 0.38 meters, compared to the typical level of around 2.5 meters for this time of year.
The ongoing drought and extreme weather patterns, linked to climate change, are increasingly impacting trade along this vital waterway, raising concerns about the future of grain exports from this resource-rich region.