March 22, 2006

Argentinians protest calls to cut down on beef consumption

Argentinians are reacting with anger to the government's appeal to its citizens to eat less beef, with many saying that it is 'unthinkable'.

President Nestor Kirchner's call for Argentinians to cut down on beef consumption to curb rising inflation was roundly criticised by its citizens who said it was akin to asking Italians to shun pasta.

At 140 pounds of beef a year, Argentina has the world's highest per capita consumption. For this South American nation who consumes 50 percent more beef than their American neighbours, steak has become part of their dietary staple.

Argentina last week self-imposed a ban on beef exports to curb rising inflation at home. Beef prices have been rising twice as fast as other consumer products and the government hoped to divert supplies meant for exports to the domestic markets. Experts in some of the country's main export markets, including Russia and Israel, are predicting beef shortages.

Only the highly lucrative premium beef exports to Europe have not been banned. Producers have protested the ban, saying prices are rising nevertheless and that the government is interfering with market economics. 

Still, the government is trying to stop inflation before it gets out of control. Argentina experienced hyperinflation in the last decade and inflation was at 12 percent last year. Supporters lauded the move to ban exports, saying it will help consumers regain spending power.