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Agricultural, Forestry, Gas, and Logistics Sectors Focus of Argentine Interest in Biobío

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These are three sectors that open a significant gateway for the export and import of products to and from the region, as well as to China and Japan, among others, as explained by the Argentine delegation led by the Governor of Neuquén, Rolando Figueroa, during the business roundtable of the Regional Industry Reinforcement Plan.

The business roundtable held as part of the Regional Industry Reinforcement Plan highlighted the opportunities and challenges in maximizing trade deals between Biobío and Neuquén (Argentina).

In this context, the main areas of interest, according to the Argentine representatives present, include energy (gas), logistics, agriculture, and forestry, among others, which also present opportunities for local SMEs.

Neuquén Governor Rolando Figueroa, who participated in the business roundtable in San Pedro de la Paz, emphasized that the goal is mutual benefit. "We aim to monetize our land and fill oil and gas pipelines—oil is already being achieved through the (ENAP) refinery in Concepción. Vaca Muerta has performed exceptionally well, and now we believe it's time to take the next step with gas. Chile has a task ahead to review its energy matrix and assess how LNG impacts final costs, but there's a great opportunity for Biobío to secure a more cost-effective gas supply, not just for industrial but also residential use. Consider that Biobío is just over 200 kilometers from the world's second-largest gas reserve, which I believe is a key to progress."

Gas Pipeline at 100% Capacity

Regarding the possibility of filling the gas pipeline to 100% capacity by 2026, as mentioned by Economy Minister Nicolás Grau, Governor Figueroa stated, "If we consider the gas that Argentina and Chile will consume together over the next 30 years, we have six times that amount to offer. Brazil has understood this, as have Uruguay and Paraguay, and Asian countries are also recognizing it, with many companies partnering to produce LNG with us. Chile has a great opportunity, but it depends on the decisions you make to take advantage of it."

Asked about Neuquén’s opportunity to export gas to Asia via Biobío’s ports, he explained, "In linear distance, we're closer to the Pacific than the Atlantic, where we have a major LNG project underway via another Patagonian port. An LNG base is being built, and ships are being prepared so that by 2027, the first LNG shipments from Vaca Muerta can depart. There’s also potential to produce LNG on ships in the Pacific, but this requires business negotiations. Our duty as a government is to monetize our subsoil and reinvest wisely in Neuquén’s progress."

Regarding past gas supply cuts, Figueroa assured, "In this broken 'marriage' of gas trade from years ago, the paradigm has shifted. We now have abundance thanks to unconventional reserves, and I believe this is a major opportunity for Chile’s progress."

Fruit and Agricultural Exports

On the potential for exporting fruit and other agricultural products from Neuquén via Biobío’s ports, the governor confirmed, "It’s truly a major export gateway, which is why we brought many entrepreneurs to the business roundtable. They produce large quantities of oats, which will be compacted in a free trade zone to add value before shipping through Chilean ports to Asia, China, and Japan."

According to the governor, the types of businesses Neuquén seeks in Biobío range from "knowledge industries, tech hubs, mining, and forestry companies, among others." He also noted that Neuquén is already building a second facility as part of an under-construction tech hub.

Neuquén SMEs

Anabel Lucero, General Manager of Adeneu SME Center (Neuquén’s Economic Development Agency), reaffirmed that the bioceanic logistics corridor is key for trade. "Our goal is to bring parties together to establish business connections—what companies truly want," she said.

Asked about Neuquén SMEs’ interests regarding Biobío counterparts, Lucero stated, "We’ve seen that Chilean ports are crucial for Neuquén to reach global markets—they’re a vital route for exporters."

"On the other hand, Chilean companies are interested in Neuquén’s gas production and its opportunities. We know we can’t do it alone, so we aim to connect SMEs to form alliances and, as our governor said, realize Neuquén’s potential as quickly as possible," she added.

On challenges to fast-tracking business deals, Lucero noted, "Different national regulations were a major hurdle, but progress is being made. This will make relations more feasible, especially for Chilean investors. Additionally, facilitating exports will deepen integration, allowing Neuquén products like pears, apples, forage, meat, and cherries—where we excel in quality—to reach markets Biobío has already developed."

Regarding Neuquén SMEs with attractive offerings for Biobío, Lucero highlighted, "Meat and forage traders have shown interest, as well as tourism companies exploring joint proposals. Chilean firms are also keen to invest in Argentine agriculture due to similarities. Beyond gas—today’s main focus—many other sectors can be developed."

Roberto Ferrada, President of Biobío’s Foreign Trade Development Board (Mesa Comex), stated, "We’re clearly strategic partners with Argentina, especially Neuquén—not just in future hydrocarbon exports but also in importing supplies for oil and other industries in Argentine Patagonia. Biobío’s ports and Carriel Sur Airport are key strategic assets."

On fruit exports from Argentina, Ferrada noted, "For 10–15 years, we’ve increased container shipments of blueberries, apples, and pears from Neuquén (Cipolletti) through Coronel, Lirquén, or San Vicente ports. We’d like to grow this further."

On port challenges, Ferrada stressed, "We must improve documentary communication and advance digital border controls, ensuring cargo is pre-cleared from packing plants with a robust system involving private and public regulators from both nations."

Source:Diario Concepción