Market insights on Bolivian agriculture

Bolivian agriculture is currently governed by the international prices of grains, sunflowers, and soybeans and the domestic prices of corn, rice, wheat, and sorghum. The government's inadequate political strategies and efforts have had little effect on creating a better structure for the overall agricultural chain. In fact, government interference has sometimes had a negative impact, such as when it restricted certain grain exports. The planting areas have not grown significantly and climate conditions have remained unstable, leaving crop yields to stagnate or decline. Climate instability is the main factor influencing crop yields.

The lack of incentives for exports has limited agricultural expansion. Government interventions typically focus on avoiding higher prices by restricting exports.

The lack of research for developing Bolivian agriculture is another factor that directly contributes to poor yields. The country's soils differ from those found in Brazil, Argentina, and other neighboring countries. The technologies are, where possible, adapted to Bolivia's needs.

The following table shows the main crops (by area) and corresponding pests/diseases/weeds in the Bolivian market: