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This report analyzes foreign investment in agricultural land and production within the MERCOSUR member countries, focusing on Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It examines three investment models: state-level cooperation agreements, direct private land purchases, and foreign direct investment in production via contract farming. The document highlights a general lack of reliable data on land ownership across the region, though it notes that foreign investors—primarily from within MERCOSUR—play a significant role. It further details the legislative responses of these governments to regulate foreign land acquisition, driven by global concerns over 'land-grabs' and domestic debates on food security and national sovereignty.

This report analyzes foreign investment in agricultural land and production within the MERCOSUR member states (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay). It examines three investment models: state-to-state cooperation agreements, direct land purchases by private investors, and foreign direct investment in agricultural production (primarily through contract farming). The document highlights a general lack of robust data on foreign land ownership, though it notes significant regional trends, such as the expansion of Argentine agricultural firms into Brazil and Paraguay, and the high percentage of foreign-owned land in Paraguay. It also details the varying legislative responses of these nations to restrict foreign land acquisition to protect national sovereignty and food security.