A major port crisis is unfolding in Argentina after a new decree deregulated the pilotage industry. Over 140 ships are stranded in key ports along the Paraná River, the country's main export waterway. The Argentine Naval Prefecture has now ordered 536 pilots to resume work under threat of criminal penalties, while the energy sector secures fuel supplies.

What Are Pilots and Why Are They So Important?

In Argentina, prácticos, pilotos y baqueanos (pilots, masters and river guides) are highly specialized professionals who ensure safe navigation through complex waterways. They board every large vessel entering or leaving the Paraná River and the Río de la Plata – the country's main gateway for exports of soy, corn, wheat, and oil. Their job is to advise the captain on currents, depths, and hazards. Without them, no ship can move in these critical stretches. The Paraná waterway alone handles about 80% of Argentina's foreign trade, making these workers essential to the economy.

Decree 690/2026: A Push for Deregulation

The conflict began when President Javier Milei and Minister of Deregulation Federico Sturzenegger signed Decree 690/2026, published in the Official Gazette on July 30 and 31, 2026. According to reports from Ámbito and La Nación, the decree replaces a 1991 regulation and aims to modernize the sector, cut logistics costs, and increase competition. Key changes include:

  • Removing the limit on the number of pilots allowed to register.
  • Allowing shipowners and maritime agencies to hire pilots directly.
  • Setting maximum fees through the National Ports and Navigation Agency (ANPYN).
  • Eliminating geographic segmentation that forced ships to change pilots during a single journey.

Official sources say pilotage for a single vessel traveling up the Paraná to load cargo used to cost between US$50,000 and US$100,000. The government believes opening the market will drastically reduce these fees.

The Work Stoppage and Its Impact

Starting August 1, 2026, pilots across the country decided to stop accepting new assignments in protest. Since they are independent contractors, this is not a traditional strike but a coordinated refusal to take on new jobs. The result: at least 140 ships (some sources say over 150) are stuck at ports in the Greater Rosario area, San Lorenzo, Timbúes, Puerto General San Martín, La Plata, Dock Sud, and Bahía Blanca. Some vessels have been rerouted to Montevideo (Uruguay) and ports in southern Brazil.

Government Action and a Positive Outlook for Energy

On August 4, 2026, the Argentine Naval Prefecture published an edict in the Official Gazette ordering 536 pilots to immediately make themselves available for work. According to Clarín and La Nueva, the Prefecture warned that refusal to comply could lead to criminal charges under Articles 190 and 194 of the Penal Code.

Despite the standoff, there is reassuring news: ships carrying oil and gas continue to operate normally to ensure domestic fuel supplies are not disrupted. The Argentine Energy Chamber (CADE) stated they are working with authorities to find a swift solution. This shows that all parties are committed to overcoming the crisis and keeping the country moving forward.