Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
65% of agrifood companies in Latin America and the Caribbean identify high logistics and transportation costs as the main barrier to growth and participation in international trade.
The price of urea in the United States increased by 34% before the planting season (Agrolatam, 2026).
Prices for nitrogen fertilizers in the US market have risen by more than 30% in recent weeks (Agrolatam, 2026).
Natural gas prices, the main input for fertilizers, increased by up to 50%, driving up the cost of the sector (Agrolatam, 2026).
24 vessels per day transited the Panama Canal during the 2023–24 El Niño drought, down from the usual 36, with draft restrictions set at 44 feet (Noll, 2026).
More than 80% of the fertilizers used in Latin America are imported, which increases regional vulnerability to external shocks (Mundoagro, 2026).
45 million people could be pushed into acute hunger if the Iran conflict persists, as the poorest households spend between 50% and 70% of their income on food
0.6% of Brazil's GDP corresponds to exports to Middle Eastern countries impacted by the conflict (Canuto, 2026).
25% of Brazil's corn exports are destined for the Middle East, increasing sectoral vulnerability (Canuto, 2026).
Brazilian imports from the Middle East represent 0.3% of GDP (Canuto, 2026).
