Agriculture - Industry - South America Market, Share and Trends 2023-2028

Summary of Agriculture

Agriculture plays a vital economic and cultural role across the diverse South American region. Farming practices range from intensive mechanized cropping in the fertile Pampas, to traditional slash and burn cultivation in the Amazon.

This region accounts for approximately 6% of the global revenue. Based on our estimates, we can say that the South America’s agriculture industry is forecasted to be a $314.98 billion industry in 2029 from $270.9 billion in 2023 with a CAGR of 3.2%.

The region’s overall productive structure is highly diverse. A capital and technology-intensive corporate sector that has successfully managed to integrate itself into global agri-food markets alongside coexists alongside a broad socio-productive sector based on subsistence farming, non-farming rural activities and landless rural populations that have been unable to participate in dynamic economic circuits.

Between these two ends, there is an intermediate sector that is able to connect to markets, but that continues to be exceptionally vulnerable to economic and political shocks as well as to climatic risks.

While the region as a whole is a major supplier of grains and oilseeds to global markets – as well as – bananas, coffee and sugar, large differences exist across the sub-regions. The countries of the Southern Cone – in particular Argentina and Brazil – are among the world’s largest exporters of wheat, maize, soybeans and sugar whereas the Caribbean countries depend on world markets to meet their food requirements.

Recent Trends and Insights

More farmers are adopting organic and regenerative practices to curb environmental impacts. However– deforestation for pasture remains a key concern. Cultivated meat startups are establishing R&D centers to develop cell-based beef and poultry products suited to the regional diet. Plant-based meat brands are also expanding across South America.

Changing rainfall patterns, rising temperatures and more frequent droughts threaten production in vulnerable areas. Drought-tolerant varieties and irrigation infrastructure are priorities. Deals like Mercosur and Pacific Alliance have boosted agricultural trade and investment flows within South America as well as with external partners like the European Union and China.

Precision agriculture through GPS-enabled machinery, soil moisture sensors and drone monitoring are gaining ground among larger producers. However– high costs still limit smallholder access to new technologies. A lack of trained agronomists, veterinarians and farm managers constrains further growth. Governments support agricultural education initiatives to develop needed expertise.

A transdisciplinary process rooted in Uruguay has provided insights into the food systems transformations in South America. The region’s productive capacity could feed an estimated 30–60 million people– yet there is still prevalence of malnutrition and food insecurity. The expansion of crop cultivation and the region’s specialization in a few agricultural commodities such as – sugarcane or soy – have been highlighted.

Product Insights

Brazil is the second largest producer globally behind the US. Crush mills process soy into oil and meal for domestic use and export. Brazil is the world’s largest producer and exporter of sugar, ethanol and renewable electricity from bagasse.

South American countries are major exporters of various agricultural products including – soybeans, pork, maize, poultry, animal feed, sugar, coffee and fruits & vegetables. Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador and Peru– are among the leading agricultural and food exporters in the region

Brazil, Colombia and Peru are top global suppliers, renowned for high-quality arabica and robusta beans. Argentina and Brazil have expanded herds through pastureland, becoming export powerhouses.

Chile, Peru and Argentina export fresh produce year-round to North America and Europe. Grown widely as feedstock and for human consumption, especially in Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. Argentina and Chile have rapidly growing fine wine industries leveraging ideal growing conditions.

Key Companies

Some major players within this vast domain of industry are

• El Tejar
• Los Grobo
• Cresud
• JBS
• Cargill
• CESIS
• Agro
• AGCO
• TBDC Agro Softwares

Regional Analysis

Countries like Brazil have seen steady gains in soy, coffee, sugarcane and maize yields through improved seeds and mechanization Leading agricultural nations include Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Chile. Brazil in particular is a global powerhouse, ranking first worldwide in exports of beef, coffee, sugar and orange juice.

Peru and Ecuador are noted for banana, mango and avocado exports to North America. Colombia is a top global producer of coffee and cut flowers.

Grains such as soybeans, corn and wheat are important cash crops throughout the Southern Cone of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and southern Brazil. The Pampas grasslands are highly productive. Livestock rearing including beef and dairy cattle – as well as poultry – is widespread. The beef industry is a major driver of the economy, especially in Brazil and Argentina.

South America is a significant contributor to global agricultural production and exports. The region’s agricultural exports account for a substantial portion of total global food and agricultural exports, and the region is projected to lead global growth in agricultural production in the next decade.

Market Segmentation

By Type:

• Crop farming
• Livestock farming
• Mixed farming (combination of crop and livestock)
• Aquaculture (farming of fish and other aquatic organisms)
• Horticulture (cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants)
• Forestry (management and cultivation of forests)

By End User:

• Commercial farmers
• Small-scale farmers
• Agribusinesses and cooperatives
• Government and research organizations
• Retailers and distributors of agricultural products

By Sub-Sector:

• Arable farming (crops like wheat, corn, rice, etc.)
• Dairy farming (production of milk and dairy products)
• Poultry farming (raising chickens, ducks, and other birds)
• Viticulture (cultivation of grapes for wine production)
• Floriculture (cultivation of flowers)
• Specialty crops (such as herbs, spices, and niche products)

By Countries:

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Columbia

Our Methodology

We have offered a well-founded review of the South America’s agriculture market along with ongoing trends and upcoming projections to highlight proximate investment opportunities in this report. Moreover, an extensive analysis of any future prospects, challenges, competitors, or navigating aspects is also provided. A methodical detailed regional examination is presented.

Primary Research  

Our multi-pronged research approach includes interviews with industry leaders and a global survey of advanced manufacturing professionals to gain qualitative insights. We utilize our proprietary databases encompassing key performance indicators worldwide in order to collate relevant data points. A multivariate forecasting framework considering historical performance, current dynamics and qualitative factors are utilized to develop market sizing and growth projections through 2029.

We supplement our primary research with a careful examination of secondary materials such as– case studies, news stories and references from other sources. Organizations can benefit from the strategic advice and conclusions offered because they will be better equipped to respond to the dynamic nature of this industry and seize emerging possibilities.

We employ a comprehensive and iterative research methodology focused on minimizing deviation to provide the most accurate market estimates. Our research utilizes a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches across segments and utilizes databases, primary research insights and industry experts for analysis.

Raw data is obtained from multiple sources and thoroughly filtered to ensure only authenticated and validated sources are considered. We collect data from raw material suppliers, industry associations, technology providers, and buyers to gain a holistic perspective.

Quantitative Analysis

Our market estimates are derived through statistical models, beginning with collection of historical data and analysis of macro- and micro-economic factors influencing the market. Gathered information on market dynamics, technology and pricing trends are utilised to build the models.

Econometric and technological models are applied to project short- and long-term market potential respectively. A bottom-up approach is preferred to minimize errors. Key parameters considered include market drivers and restraints, material pricing trends, regulatory scenarios, and capacity additions.

Weights are assigned to these parameters based on impact analysis and market forecasting is performed via statistical tools and techniques. We believe this methodology results in an accurate and realistic market picture.