Tomato and garlic: A good growth that bets for more development in Argentina

Argentina's Mendoza region has experienced a successful 2020-21 horticulture season, with notable growth in the cultivation of garlic and tomatoes for industry, leading to increased harvests and prices. The region saw an expansion in garlic cultivation areas by 2,000 ha, resulting in a harvest of 158,241 tons at a higher price per kilo. Tomato production also surged, with an estimated record harvest of 243,224 tons, benefiting from additional cultivation space, favorable weather conditions, and a well-compensated hail damage. This growth is attributed to technological advancements, mechanization, and a strategy to produce locally, amidst challenges such as import restrictions and the need for high-quality farm production. Garlic, a key foreign currency earner for Mendoza, has seen a surge in prices and production, following a season of high prices that encouraged more cultivation. Although there are uncertainties about the future of garlic planting based on the international market, the local sector remains optimistic about the prospects for these crucial crops.