A Setback for Land Reform

The Inviolability of Private Property bill, championed by President Javier Milei and Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, aimed to eliminate limits on foreign purchases of rural land. On July 16, 2026, the Senate session was suspended after the government failed to gather the necessary votes. Senator Bullrich requested a recess, rescheduling the debate for August 6, 2026.

What Does the Government Propose vs. Current Law?

Argentina’s current Land Law (26.737), enacted in 2011, caps foreign ownership of rural land at 15% at national, provincial, and municipal levels, with a 30% limit per country of origin. It also prohibits foreigners from buying land near borders, rivers, or in strategic areas.

The new bill, drafted by Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger and negotiated by Bullrich, would remove these caps entirely. It would allow private foreign individuals and companies to purchase unlimited rural land, including border and riverside properties, while only barring purchases by foreign states. According to a study by the University of Buenos Aires’ Land Observatory, cited by Huella del Sur, 13 million hectares (about 5% of Argentina’s rural land) are already foreign-owned—an area roughly the size of England.

Political Landscape in the Senate

According to La Política Online, the ruling coalition managed to secure a quorum with the help of Misiones senators, but fell short of the votes needed for approval. Senator Carolina Losada (UCR) stated at the Palermo Rural Exhibition that the bill “was close to passing” and expressed confidence that differences could be resolved before the August 6 session.

The debate will resume with hopes of reaching a consensus that balances territorial sovereignty and economic development, in a spirit of democratic dialogue.

Sources: El Territorio, Huella del Sur, La Nación, La Política Online, Agrofy.