Gleba is an Argentina-based agricultural chemical manufacturer and a subsidiary of ANASAC Holding. Specializing in crop protection and plant nutrition, Gleba provides solutions for environmental health, garden, and home care.
Can you provide some context behind the name ‘Gleba’ and the role the company plays within the agriculture industry?
Gleba means "soil" for production. It aligns with our mission of providing effective solutions for agriculture, industry, and urban environments. We are part of Argentina’s agro supply chain, producing agrochemicals for local producers. Our market includes both extensive crops like corn and wheat and intensive crops such as vegetables and fruits.
We are highly aware of global food challenges. By 2050, we will need to increase global food production by 70% to feed 10 billion people. Latin America will play a crucial role in this expansion, and sustainability will be key. Our work focuses on delivering innovative, sustainable chemical and biological solutions to support local producers in increasing productivity while preserving resources.
Given Argentina's market volatility, do you plan to expand beyond it, and where do you see the country’s agriculture sector in five years?
Argentina is undergoing significant economic changes under the Milei administration, which emphasizes the agribusiness sector. The government is working to reduce export tariffs that currently limit producers. If this continues, it will create a virtuous cycle: lower tariffs will encourage investment, which will drive innovation, productivity, and exports, ultimately strengthening the country’s economy. In addition to agriculture, the government is prioritizing energy and mining. This diversification is crucial for Argentina’s economy. Long-term stability will attract investment, improving productivity in all sectors. GLEBA is positioned to support this growth by helping producers increase yields efficiently and sustainably.
Historically, Argentina’s economic and political volatility has discouraged investment. However, the agribusiness sector has continued growing despite these challenges. If the new government successfully implements reforms, it will create a more stable environment, attracting further investment and boosting production. Argentina has the resources—fertile soil, skilled labor, and strong agricultural expertise—to double food production. Stability and reduced export tariffs will accelerate this growth, allowing Argentina to play a greater role in global food security. With proper investment, the country can significantly expand its agricultural output, benefiting both local producers and international markets.
How is Gleba helping farmers improve productivity and sustainability in the face of climate challenges and evolving agricultural demands?
Farmers in 2025 must produce more food on the same land while contending with unpredictable weather patterns and increasing pressure for sustainable practices. Innovation in fertilizers, seeds, and crop protection has driven productivity gains over the past 25 years, and ongoing R&D is crucial to address emerging challenges like severe droughts affecting Latin America. No single company can solve these issues alone, so collaboration across industries is essential.
At Gleba, we integrate chemical and biological solutions to help farmers optimize yields while minimizing environmental impact. Biologicals don’t replace chemicals but complement them, offering a broader range of adaptable options. Our continuous product innovation ensures that farmers can manage resistant weeds and pests effectively. Last year, we launched six new products, including the herbicide Brayton, refining formulations to enhance efficiency and reduce waste. By improving active ingredients and introducing more sustainable formulations, we provide tailored solutions for different crop growth stages. These advancements not only improve productivity but also promote economic and environmental sustainability.
How precisely does Gleba measure the effectiveness of these innovations?
Our improved formulations, for example, enhance the way chemicals interact with plants, increasing efficiency. This means better absorption, reduced application waste, and lower costs for farmers. While the technical details involve complex metrics, the key takeaway is that these advancements lead to greater productivity and lower expenses.
Who do you perceive to be your main competitors in Argentina’s agrochemical sector?
Argentina’s market is 90% post-patent, meaning most agrochemicals are off-patent and available to multiple companies. This creates a highly competitive environment with over 30 active players. Such competition benefits producers by driving innovation and offering diverse solutions.
The Argentine agrochemical market is one of the most dynamic and competitive worldwide. Companies must continuously adapt to economic, political, and environmental challenges. Stability will encourage further investment, bringing new technologies and better solutions for producers.
One of your main responsibilities has been leading the cultural change across the company as well as designing and implementing a new five-year strategy. What are your goals?
Managing a company in Argentina requires balancing short-term challenges with long-term goals. Regulations and economic instability have forced businesses to focus on immediate issues. However, to remain sustainable, we have implemented a structured five-year plan.
Our strategy includes investments in R&D, new product development, and enhancements to our manufacturing plant. We are committed to sustainable production and continued innovation, ensuring that we can meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector. Our long-term vision aligns with Argentina’s potential for growth, positioning us to support producers as they expand their operations.
