After a strike that paralyzed 185 vessels and caused losses of USD 300 million, the Argentine government suspended its deregulation decree and agreed to a 20% reduction in pilotage fees. The move reactivates exports and opens a dialogue to modernize the sector without disrupting operations.

Ports Unblocked and Exports Resume

The port conflict that kept 185 ships stranded and threatened Argentine exports has come to an end. Following a strike that began on August 1, 2026 due to the publication of a deregulation decree, the national government has restored calm. Through Decree 716/2026, the Executive temporarily suspended the measures that had triggered rejection from port unions, allowing the immediate reactivation of pilotage and towing services.

To cement the agreement, the National Ports and Navigation Agency (ANPyN) published Resolution 46/2026 in the Official Gazette, which formalizes a 20% reduction in maximum pilotage and towing fees. This reduction applies to rates in effect since 2018 and will remain temporary while the contested decree is suspended. Additionally, the toll for the Hidrovía (Paraguay-Paraná waterway) will stay at USD 1.30, providing predictability for river logistics.

What Are Pilotage and Cabotage?

To understand the magnitude of this agreement, it's essential to define two key concepts in commercial navigation:

  • Pilotage: A public service where specialized professionals assist ships during navigation and maneuvers in rivers, channels, passes, and ports, ensuring safety in complex waters.
  • Cabotage: The transport of goods or passengers between different points within the same national territory. The government is considering a legal reform in this area to foster competition.

The Cost of the Conflict and Government Response

The work stoppage had a severe impact. The pilot strike is estimated to have caused losses of around USD 300 million, with daily costs of USD 50,000 to USD 100,000 per idle vessel. The measure even affected fuel supplies and operations in the Vaca Muerta shale formation.

Given the scale of the situation, the presidential palace reorganized its strategy. According to reports from La Nación and La Política Online, the negotiation was removed from the orbit of the Ministry of Deregulation, led by Federico Sturzenegger, at the decision of Karina Milei. Chief of Staff Diego Santilli was tasked with unblocking the conflict and signed the agreement at the Ministry of Security.

A Horizon of Dialogue and Modernization

The government maintains its goal of reducing logistics costs and increasing competition in the sector, but now prioritizes consensus. According to TN, the deregulation of cabotage could be sent to Congress as a bill. Meanwhile, pilotage will first be discussed in an intersectoral working group under the Ministry of Security, with participation from the Naval Prefecture, ANPyN, and industry representatives, such as John Ryan, president of the Chamber of Pilotage Activities.

The decision to separate the components of the maritime agenda aims to avoid uncoordinated advances. As reported by Agrofy News, the reopening of dialogue guarantees the continued flow of ships and exports, a relief for agriculture and the national economy. The agreement also places the training and certification of pilots under the Navy, ensuring safety standards.

Sources from Infobae highlighted that, although Argentine fees were among the highest in the world (reaching USD 16,903 for a Panamax vessel), the new dialogue scenario promises gradual, orderly, and consensual modernization that benefits the entire production chain.