Farmers in Piura, Peru, recently dumped 20 tons of limes outside the factories of Limones Piuranos and Agromar Industrial. This action was a response to perceived unfair treatment by buyers and a lack of government support. Limones Piuranos and Agromar Industrial, part of a regional oligopoly, have been accused of manipulating lime prices. Last month, these companies reportedly reduced lime prices four times, with payments to farmers dropping from 800 soles (USD 226) per ton to 300 soles (USD 85). José Marchena, president of the Lime Technical Board, stated, "The prices they pay are unfair."
The companies leverage their purchasing power to buy limes in bulk, processing them into oil, peel, and juice, which can be stored longer than fresh limes. This allows them to control supply and potentially create shortages, ensuring profitability. Farmers, lacking the resources to compete, are compelled to sell at these prices.
In addition to pricing issues, Piura's farmers are also dealing with the aftermath of a severe water crisis from the previous year. This crisis led to substantial crop losses due to inadequate irrigation, with some farmers losing over 70% of crops like rice, beans, corn, and bananas. The crisis left many in debt from loans for agricultural investment. Piura city faced water shortages, affecting 630,000 residents. Large agribusinesses have been implicated in exacerbating the crisis by controlling regional water resources.
The Miski Mayo Mining Company, a US-based subsidiary, holds a license for 45.4 billion liters of water annually for phosphate mining, impacting local agriculture and fishing due to pollution. Agribusinesses, like AgroAurora, a subsidiary of Grupo Gloria, have extensive water licenses, diverting water for sugarcane production. Farmers protested by destroying AgroAurora's dyke on the Chira River, which contributed to water shortages downstream.
Despite warnings from the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service, the government has not addressed infrastructure issues at the Poechos reservoir, crucial for regional agriculture. Mining concessions cover 60% of this reservoir, further complicating water management.
In the Lambayeque region, an oversupply of mangoes led to significant waste due to low prices and logistical challenges. The agricultural minister suggested halting mango planting for three years, a proposal criticized by farmers who seek governmental support against corporate practices.
Source: green left