Córdoba: on track to surpass US$10 billion in exports by 2025

In the first half of 2024, Córdoba exported goods and services worth US$4.979 billion, US$15 million more than in the same period last year. This 0.2% growth generates expectations that the province could surpass US$10 billion in annual exports. Authorities emphasize that the recovery of markets opens strategic opportunities.

After the drop to US$8.308 billion in 2023, Córdoba restored its exports last year, reaching US$9.972 billion. The province contributed about 13% to the national total, reaching 130 countries across five continents with its products. In Argentina, total exports amounted to US$39.752 billion, an increase of 4.1% compared to the first half of 2023.

Pablo de Chiara, a local official, emphasized that competitiveness remains a challenge. He noted that the opening of some markets allows for optimism, although regaining historic sales will require time and sustained effort. The province could react positively if it manages to improve competitiveness in key sectors.

Drivers of export growth

The main markets for Córdoba's products in the first half were Brazil, Vietnam, India, China, and Chile.India rose to third place compared to last year, consolidating its importance in local foreign trade. The diversification of destinations reinforces the international expansion strategy.

Among the goods leading exports are corn, peanuts and derivatives, soybean beans, wheat and derivatives, and auto parts. These positions reflect the strength of primary products and industrial manufactures (MOI). Grain corn accounted for exports worth US$1.248 billion in the first half.

According to Indec, 41% of exports correspond to primary products, 10% to MOI, 8% to MOA, and another 41% to products under statistical secrecy. The latter protects sensitive information of individual companies. Primary production keeps a favorable outlook, especially in peanuts, with growing demand from India.

Industrial and MOI outlook

Increased production of Fiat Titano pick-ups in the second half anticipates a rise in MOI exports. This contributes to the balance between primary products and manufactures, diversifying foreign trade income. Authorities consider that this dynamism could be sustained throughout 2024.

"This year we can surpass US$10 billion in exports," De Chiara stated. He noted that the rise of the dollar could improve competitiveness in specific sectors, but regaining lost markets requires time. In foreign trade, markets are won after years of work and lost in minutes.

Current signals show that Córdoba's exports will continue to recover sales volume. The combination of international demand, market openings, and industrial production creates an optimistic scenario for the provincial economy. This could consolidate Córdoba as a key player in Argentine foreign trade.