June 15, 2010

Argentine quality inspectors defer strike

Argentine grain and soy quality inspectors, who are seeking a 48% salary increase, suspended a strike scheduled on June 15-16 amid further pay talks, a union leader said.

"We are meeting with employers tomorrow and if we don't settle we will see how we can suspend our activities. We expect the government to order a 15-day truce, though," union official Pablo Palacio said.

The union, known as URGARA, is seeking 6,000 pesos (US$1,529) a month while employers are offering to increase wages to 4,800 pesos, the union said. The current base salary is 4,063.46 pesos, according to the union's website.

Argentina is the world's third largest exporter and producer of soy and the second-largest exporter of corn, according to Bloomberg data. The major exporters in Argentina are Cargill Inc. and Bunge Ltd.