Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
Nearly 30% was the year-on-year increase in grain harvests during intense El Niño events, such as 1997 and 2014-2016, due to productivity gains.
The years 2023–2025 averaged more than 1.5°C above preindustrial levels, with 2024 being the hottest year on record. A super El Niño on top of this baseline worsens crop yield impacts in the Caribbean, where El Niño historically generates droughts, heatwaves, and water stress that reduce production of key crops such as maize, beans, and sugarcane.
Uruguay will exceed 350,000 hectares of brassicas in 2026 — compared to 348,000 in 2022 — driven by lower nitrogen fertilizer dependency versus wheat and canola prices consolidated above USD 500/mt. (El Observador, 2026).
25% crop yield decline is projected from a 20% fertilizer cut if the conflict exceeds 40 days, affecting 50% of producer budgets (Ibáñez, 2026).
25% was the yield increase achieved in maize crops across 25 states during 2025, with technical support and agroecological practices from Farmer Field Schools.
21% was the reduction in maize production cost per ton, associated with a 14% decrease in agrochemical spending and 6.5% lower operating costs.
2025 was the year in which agricultural use was the leading end-use segment of the U.S. nitrogenous fertilizer market.
AI enables growers to use less fertilizer while maintaining reliable crop yields by supporting precise nutrient management strategies under uncertain market conditions.
23 countries in LAC recorded positive year-on-year productivity changes in 2024, according to the report’s analysis (ECLAC, 2025).
Up to a 70% increase in land productivity could result from access to irrigation (CAF, 2025).
