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Buenos Aires, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Economic activity in Argentina likely declined in November when compared to the same period last year, but by less than the 0.7% contraction, according to a Reuters poll of market analysts on Wednesday.

The median forecast from 13 analysts indicates a 0.6% year-on-year decrease in economic activity in November, marking the sixth consecutive year-on-year contraction if confirmed by officials.

Estimates from the poll varied from a 3.2% contraction to 1.6% growth.

Analysts attributed the slight improvement to the performance of the key agricultural sector, while the construction sector continued to struggle.

Despite the projected contraction, analysts expressed optimism in growth prospects for December.

"Activity shows positive prospects for the close of a challenging year, which experienced a significant decline followed by a rapid improvement, albeit uneven across sectors," stated consulting firm Orlando Ferreres & Asociados.

"In 2025, we anticipate that the slowest sectors will recover and contribute to economic growth with a more consistent activity trend."

Argentina, the second-largest economy in South America, has been enduring a prolonged downturn, characterized by one of the highest inflation rates globally. Only recently has the country shown signs of emerging from recession.

This month, analysts at the country's central bank predicted economic growth of around 1% in the first half of 2025, accelerating to an annualized rate of 4.5% by year-end.

Argentina's INDEC statistics agency is set to release economic activity data for November on Thursday afternoon (1900 GMT).