Mendoza, Argentina's main garlic producer, is preparing for the new season, which is marked by the anticipation of a key decision by Brazil regarding the continuation of the anti-dumping law against Chinese garlic, with positive prospects in terms of quality and volume.
Brazil imports about 75% of the garlic exported from Mendoza. The anti-dumping measure, set to expire this year, could be extended until 2030, playing a crucial role in the process. If maintained, it will help Argentine and Brazilian producers stay competitive against the low prices of Chinese garlic. Without it, both countries might struggle to compete with Asian producers, who benefit from cheap labor and high volumes.
The decision will be announced at the end of November, coinciding with the start of Mendoza's harvest. In the first half of 2025, Mendoza's garlic exports totaled $114 million, 5.6% less than in the same period of 2024. Nearly all of these exports involved fresh or refrigerated garlic, with Brazil as the main destination, accounting for 99.8% within Mercosur.
Plantations are developing well due to favorable temperatures and healthy growth, so the sector expects good sizes and quality this season.
Mendoza is looking to diversify markets beyond Brazil. Mexico is emerging as a strategic alternative following the removal of sanitary restrictions, while the United States and Canada are being watched for potential changes in tariffs and trade policies. The sector is also exploring Taiwan's potential, as Mendoza's garlic has gained recognition there thanks to improvements in quality and safety.
In Europe, options are more limited because Spain produces enough to meet regional demand.
The 2025 season combines a positive outlook for production with a heavy dependence on external factors, especially the Brazilian decision on tariffs, which could play a key role in shaping Mendoza's garlic export performance in the coming years.
Source: diariomendoza.com.ar
