After the opening of imports promoted by President Javier Milei, which facilitated rapid access to foreign currency and eliminated the retention of profits, Yerba mate purchases from Brazil and Paraguay experienced a notable increase in the first three months of the year, being almost 4 million kilos.
According to Indec data, imports of yerba reached 3.83 million kilos, what represents almost 30% more than the 3 million kilos imported in the same period of 2020.
It is important to remember that 2020 was a record year in imports, reaching a total of 30 million kilos, equivalent to 10% of the national production of yerba mate. This phenomenon was due, in part, to the exchange rate gap that existed at that time.
Another relevant fact is that Imports are increasing month by month as they become cheaper with a relatively stable exchange rate.
The yerba candada imported from Brazil or Paraguay is being purchased at prices between 1.2 and 1.3 dollars per kilo, which, at the official value (adding the 17.5% PAIS tax), is equivalent to approximately 1,250 pesos. per kilo. In contrast, the Cancha grass from drying plants or industries in Misiones and Corrientes is being sold at 1,800 pesos per kilo.
Milei’s measures on food imports
The measures adopted by the national government to facilitate the importation of food, such as yerba mate, include access to foreign currency, a 30-day period for cancellation in pesos and the acquisition of foreign currencyexemption of 20% of the double advance payment of VAT and 6% of the Earnings advance.
In addition, the exchange delay is added, which day by day makes the import of any product from abroad more attractive.
Source: Argentine News