Argentina's mining exports reached a record US$3.934 billion during the first five months of 2026, the highest January-May total on record, according to the latest report from the National Directorate for Mining Promotion and Economics, part of the country's Mining Secretariat.
By Panorama Minero
Exports increased 75.8% compared with the same period in 2025 and exceeded the historical average for January-May between 2010 and 2025 by 155.1%. In May alone, mining exports totaled US$644 million, up 36.1% year-on-year.
Mining accounted for 10% of Argentina's total exports during the first five months of the year and 7.6% of exports in May.
The latest figures extend a longer-term growth trend. Annual mining exports increased from US$2.62 billion in 2020 to US$6.07 billion in 2025, interrupted only by a temporary decline in 2024 before returning to growth.
Gold, Silver and Copper Remain the Largest Export Category
Exports of gold, silver and copper totaled US$3.01 billion during the January-May period, accounting for 76.5% of Argentina's mining exports and increasing 64.2% year-on-year.
Gold generated US$2.485 billion, representing 63% of total mining exports. Export values rose 58.7%, largely reflecting stronger international prices despite a 25.9% decline in shipment volumes.
Silver exports reached US$454 million, up 87.3% year-on-year, supported by both higher prices and a 2.3% increase in export volumes.
Lithium Leads Export Growth
Lithium posted the strongest growth among Argentina's mining exports.
Exports reached US$187 million in May, up 218% from the same month in 2025 and the highest May figure on record. Lithium ranked as the country's second-largest mining export during the month, accounting for 29.1% of total mining export revenues.
Between January and May, lithium exports totaled US$859 million, a 155.8% increase from a year earlier and a new record for the period.
Lithium's share of Argentina's mining exports increased from 15% to 22% compared with the same period of 2025, reflecting both stronger international prices and a 59.3% increase in export volumes.
Main Export Destinations
Switzerland, China, the United States and Canada accounted for 82% of Argentina's mining exports during the first five months of 2026.
Among Argentina's principal export markets, China recorded the strongest year-on-year growth, with imports of Argentine mining products increasing 189%.
