January 26, 2021

Argentina's export hub grains supply steadily recovers after strike by truckers

Grains and oilseeds delivery to Rosario, Argentina's export hub is steadily recovering after roads from the farm belt to port were blocked by truckers who protested for weeks, Reuters reported.

The truckers demanded their costs to be reviewed, with included tolls, taxes, insurance, and prices of fuel.

Tensions calmed after the protesters were scheduled to meet with Sergio Massa, Argentina's president of the lower House of Congress to discuss their demands, and a report of the fuel tax increase being delayed. However, protests continued in areas away from Rosario.

According to Argentine logistics firm AgroEntregas, 1,524 trucks entered Rosario's port facilities on January 25, lower than the 2,224 trucks in same day in 2020.

An export industry source said there should be more than 2,500 trucks, but the numbers are steadily increasing. The source did not want to be named because of the sensitivity of the situation.

The source said truckers reduced grains flow last week, but it should be normalised this week.

Truck drivers and owners under the Transportistas Unidos de Argentina association blocked highways from last week, following port workers' strikes in December last year.

Supply uncertainty from Argentina has led to upward pressure to benchmark corn and soy prices on the Chicago Board of Trade.

- Reuters