Unregistered Imported Tractors Distort Argentine Market, Manufacturers Warn

Argentina's agricultural machinery industry is facing challenges despite a strong agricultural season and increased financing options. Manufacturers, grouped under the Association of Argentine Factories of Tractors and Other Agricultural and Industrial Equipment (AFAT), are raising concerns about the significant influx of imported tractors, primarily from China.

According to AFAT, a substantial number of these imported tractors are not being registered, meaning they do not appear in official statistics. This lack of registration makes it difficult to accurately assess the real market volume and complicates production planning for local manufacturers, forcing some plants to halt operations and adjust their plans.

“

When we talk about the industry produced in the Argentina we see a very significant drop. But when we incorporate imported tractors we understand that the market is maintained.

Carlos Palmieri, president of AFAT, explained that this phenomenon primarily affects low-power tractors used in horticulture and fruit farming. "Asian-origin tractors have entered in very high numbers. More than 80% are not registered," he stated. The Association of Automobile Concessionaires of the Argentine Republic (Acara) supports this diagnosis, noting that "what is not registered is not seen." Acara estimates that nearly 4,000 Chinese-brand tractors entered Argentina in 2025, suggesting the total market size was between 8,800 and 9,300 units, significantly higher than official registration figures indicate.

“

Asian-origin tractors have entered in very high numbers. More than 80% are not registered.

While official registration data from Acara and the National Directorate of National Registry of Motor Property (DNRPA) shows 2,544 tractors registered in the first half of 2026 (a 2.9% decrease from the previous year), AFAT argues that the unregistered imports paint a different picture. "When we talk about the industry produced in Argentina, we see a very significant drop. But when we incorporate imported tractors, we understand that the market is maintained," Palmieri said.

AFAT clarifies that their objective is not to restrict imports but to ensure all market participants compete under the same regulatory and tax conditions. Manufacturers based in Argentina must adhere to obligations that they argue are not equally applied to imported equipment.

“

what is not registered is not seen