North American full-year industry retail tractor sales declined 3% compared to the previous year. Lower sales of smaller equipment, more closely tied to the general economy, were partially offset by strong growth of highhorsepower tractors and combines. Relatively favorable commodity prices, extended fleet age and precision ag technology stimulated demand from row crop farmers. Lower projected farm income and a refreshed fleet is expected to pressure industry demand in 2024, resulting in weaker North American industry sales compared to 2023.
South American industry retail tractor sales decreased 8% during 2023 compared to the previous year. Retail demand in Brazil was negatively affected by funding shortfalls of the government-subsidized loan program. Healthy farm income, supportive exchange rates and continued expansion in planted acreage drove increases in high-tech farm equipment, which partially offset weaker smaller equipment demand due to financing delays. Following three strong years, retail demand in South America is expected to further soften in 2024 as a result of lower commodity prices and farm income.
Industry retail tractor sales in Western Europe decreased 4% for the full year of 2023 compared to high levels in 2022. Farmer sentiment in the region has continued to be negatively impacted by the conflict in Ukraine and higher input cost inflation. Further declines in industry demand are expected in 2024 as lower income levels pressure demand from arable farmers, while healthy demand from dairy and livestock producers is expected to mitigate some of the decline.