The 2025-2026 cotton campaign closed this Tuesday with minimal planting in Chaco. The Ministry of Production confirmed that producers have opted to shift to other crops, primarily sunflower and wheat, marking a significant shift in the province's agricultural mix.

Production Minister Oscar Dudik stated in an interview with N9 that "planting cotton on a small scale, given the technological advances available, is not profitable, it's not that competitive." He explained that cotton profitability today can only be sustained through large-volume production, while small producers find better alternatives in other activities.

"I think producers have understood that cotton is not very competitive or profitable on a very small scale. That must be stated clearly," the official emphasized. Along these lines, he noted that many farmers are moving toward new productions such as pastures, cattle, goat, and sheep farming, or even horticulture.

The contrast is with sunflowers, which reached a provincial record. "We're talking about more than 500,000 hectares planted, and we could have another little surprise," Dudik celebrated, noting that the crop is "in very good condition." Added to this situation are between 120 and 130,000 hectares of wheat, also with positive prospects.

The minister noted that the efforts of producers and the support of private companies were key to sustaining the crop. "Today, Chaco has more than 500,000 hectares planted with sunflowers thanks to the commitment of the private sector, our agrochemical companies, and our companies based in the province," he indicated.

Dudik clarified that in some areas, such as Santa Sylvina, problems caused by pigeon infestations are affecting crop selection and may force some producers to maintain cotton or turn to livestock. However, he reaffirmed that the general trend is leaning toward sunflowers, wheat, and other more competitive crops.

The closing of registrations confirms a decline in cotton production and a stronger commitment by the province to alternative crops. The government expects favorable weather conditions until the harvest to achieve a significant economic impact.