Argentine tomato producers concerned about the opening of imports

The recent opening of food imports in Argentina has generated concern in the agroindustrial sector, especially among tomato producers.

 

The Tomate 2000 association, which represents the majority of these producers in the Cuyo region and is led by Orestes Nomikos, has expressed its concern about this sudden measure. Nomikos highlighted that, although the tomato industry in Argentina is close to achieving self-sufficiency with an annual production of around 600 million kilos, import conditions could negatively affect local producers.

 

In response to the comments of the Minister of Production of Mendoza, Rodolfo Vargas Arizu, about the competitiveness of Mendoza producers thanks to their efficiency, Nomikos emphasized the need to compete on equal terms. He pointed out the challenges faced by local producers, such as high inflation, high interest rates and rising input, energy and fuel costs. Nomikos argued that it is essential to have a stable economic scenario and a transition period before fully opening imports.

 

In addition, Nomikos expressed concern about the possibility that the opening to imports will extend to other products, beyond tomato paste that is currently imported mainly from Chile. He warned about the future impact on the prices of productive activity once self-sufficiency is achieved. He also highlighted climate risk as an additional challenge for producers in Mendoza and the provinces of Cuyo, compared to regions like California, which do not face the same risks and have better conditions to compete in the international market.

 

 

Source: Diariouno.com.ar