Argentine farmers ‘to end strike’
Decision taken despite president’s refusal to roll back new tariff on soya exports..
Deepening divisions
Argentina’s economic woes |
Although a nation rich in natural resources, Argentina’s 39.5 million strong population has suffered in recent decades from several economic crises Fiscal deficits, high inflation and mounting debts culminated in 2001’s economic crisis, which sparked protests, currency devaluation and debt defaults Sixty per cent of Argentinians were also pushed below the poverty line Country’s main exports include soybeans, corn, wheat, petroleum, gas and vehicles Inflation is currently in double figures and farmers say recent tax increases on goods such as soybeans, sunflower oil and beef by up to 45 per cent to boost revenues will cripple their livelihoods Data source: CIA World Factbook |
Kirchner criticised farm owners on Thursday, saying they were ignoring the plight of ordinary citizens.
“Show me the worker, store owner or businessman who can afford to stop working for 90 days,” she said in a speech.
“Only those who have accumulated a great income and a great capital can do it.”
Argentina is one of the biggest food producers in the world, leading with exports of soya bean oil.
It is also the second biggest corn exporter, after the US, and the fifth biggest wheat exporter.