Argentine courts have ordered the bankruptcy of Cooperativa láctea SanCor and initiated the sale of its industrial assets [1].
The collapse of one of the region's most historic dairy cooperatives signals a severe crisis in the agricultural sector, impacting thousands of producers and consumers.
The judicial process began in the district of Rafaela, Santa Fe, where the court confirmed the bankruptcy in April 2025 [2]. This decision followed the cooperative's inability to meet its verified liabilities or execute a viable payment plan. SanCor had accumulated bankruptcy debts of approximately US$86 million [3].
Financial instability grew acute as the company faced staggering costs. Reports indicated that the debt increased by US$100 million per day without payment [3].
As part of the liquidation, the court has activated the sale of six industrial plants [1]. These facilities are located across various provinces. Specifically, the plant in Córdoba has been valued at US$7 million [4].
The human cost of the bankruptcy is significant. Approximately 900 workers have been fired and are currently without employment [5].
Six interested parties have emerged as potential buyers for the assets [1]. The legal proceedings aim to recover funds to pay off the massive debts owed by the cooperative.
“Six industrial plants are being liquidated”
The bankruptcy of SanCor represents a systemic failure of the cooperative model in the face of extreme debt and economic volatility in Argentina. The liquidation of six plants and the loss of 900 jobs create a vacuum in the dairy supply chain, which may lead to market consolidation as larger competitors or foreign investors acquire the distressed assets.
