(MENAFN- AFP) Farmers in Argentina gave away truckloads of vegetables in central Buenos Aires on Wednesday in a protest over low prices for their produce that also highlighted the growing ranks of poor in the country.
Thousands of people lined up for hours in the capital's Plaza de Mayo for handouts of spinach, tomatoes and other farm goods -- the second such giveaway this week by farmers.
Some four tons were distributed in the square, close to the presidential palace. Farmers also planted lettuce and celery in a flowerbed.
One farmer who declined to be identified said producers were unable to survive because they were being paid the equivalent of 30 to 60 US cents per kilogram (two pounds).
Inflation in Argentina topped 40 percent last year, and is continuing at a high rate despite promises by President Mauricio Macri to turn around the flagging economy.
More than a third of the population is living in poverty, according to official figures.
It was the second protest by farmers this week.
On Monday, they called for a law to rein in constantly rising prices for leasing the land they grow crops on.
MENAFN2704201701430000ID1095426357
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.