Buenos Aires, Argentina, July 14th, 2026 — The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group (WBG), announced a loan of up to US$50 million to GDM Argentina to support the company’s investments in corn-focused agricultural innovation, productivity, and food security.
The financing will support efforts to develop high-performance corn hybrids by helping GDM Argentina expand its research and development (R&D) capabilities for corn. These innovations will support farmers’ productivity and improve crop resilience to climate shocks.
“Supporting agribusiness is critical for rural employment, revenue generation and long-term sustainable growth,” said Manuel Reyes-Retana, IFC Division Director for Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. “This investment will enable rapid financing will help accelerate the diffusion of innovation, productivity gains, and weather-resilient practices, supporting inclusive growth across agricultural value chains and increasing farmer incomes strengthening farmers’ competitiveness.”
“This financing reinforces our long-term commitment to innovation and to the role Argentina plays in developing seed technologies for global agriculture. By strengthening our R&D capabilities in corn, we aim to bring farmers more competitive solutions that support productivity and help address the growing demand for food,” said Marcos Quiroga, Chief Science Officer.
IFC is providing financing to support GDM Argentina’s work to develop corn hybrids that are more resilient to drought, pests, and extreme weather conditions, contributing to the sustainability of Argentina’s agricultural sector.
Agriculture is a cornerstone of Argentina’s economy, accounting for approximately 16 percent of GDP and over half of export earnings. Rising global demand for protein and biofuels is increasingly challenging producers to boost yields sustainably, making commercial seeds a critical productivity lever. GDM is consolidating its position in corn, supported by decades of localized R&D, proprietary germplasm, and the 2024 acquisition of KWS’ corn business in South America, with this financing directed to further developing that platform through stronger corn-focused R&D capabilities.
The financing contributes to the WBG’s AgriConnect initiative by supporting scalable agricultural technology solutions through improved corn seeds, digital tools, and integrated value chain engagement.
This financing is aligned with the World Bank Group’s (WBG) strategic objectives in Argentina, where supporting agribusiness is a priority given the sector’s critical role in rural employment and revenue generation, as well as in underpinning long-term sustainable growth by supporting the development of, and farmers’ access to, higher-yield corn seeds.
About IFC
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
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About GDM
GDM is a global group dedicated to the research, development, and commercialization of intellectual property products in plant genetics for row crops. With an innovative approach, the company integrates advanced technologies and exceptional talent to promote innovation, collaboration, and the development of new businesses that positively impact the agro-industrial value chain. GDM operates in 20 countries and has a team of 4,800 employees.
More information: www.gdmseeds.com
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