Background on the Issue
Elvira Blanco Sánchez, the representative of the Cámara Nacional de la Industria de Producción de Masa y la Tortilla (CNIPMT) in Puebla, has raised concerns about the logistical challenges of implementing a federal government plan to provide preferential corn prices. The initiative, known as the “Bienestar” program, aims to reduce corn costs by 5% over six months. However, its success hinges on the accessibility of distribution centers for Puebla’s tortilla producers.
Current Situation and Concerns
Blanco Sánchez explained that none of her organization’s 100 members have registered for the program, as the proposed distribution centers in Huehuetlán and Tecamachalco are too far for most industrials to transport corn affordably. A single ton of corn costs 6,000 pesos at these centers, but the transportation cost per ton would be 400 pesos, making it unfeasible for many producers.
Puebla’s Tortilla Market
Puebla is known for its relatively low tortilla prices, ranging from 16 to 20 pesos per kilogram. This is in contrast to the central and northern regions of Mexico, where tortillas can cost between 24 to 30 pesos per kilogram. The lower prices in Puebla are attributed to the higher number of tortilla businesses, which increases competition and keeps prices low.
Requirements for the Agreement
Blanco Sánchez highlighted that participation in the “Acuerdo Nacional de Maíz-Tortilla” requires businesses to be duly registered. In Puebla, however, seven out of ten tortilla producers operate informally, which poses a challenge for their inclusion in the federal program.
Communication with Federal Authorities
The CNIPMT representative emphasized that they are in communication with federal authorities to determine the final decision on distribution center locations in Puebla. Blanco Sánchez insists that prioritizing accessibility for the capital city, Angelópolis, is crucial. Additionally, she called for regulation of tortilla businesses in Puebla to ensure fair competition and potentially enable their participation in the national agreement.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the federal government’s plan? The “Bienestar” program aims to reduce corn costs by 5% over six months.
- What are the concerns of Puebla’s tortilla producers? The main concern is the accessibility and location of distribution centers, as transportation costs would be prohibitive if they are too far from the capital city.
- How does Puebla’s tortilla market compare to other regions? Puebla has lower tortilla prices due to higher competition among producers, unlike central and northern regions where fewer businesses result in higher prices.
- What are the requirements for participation in the national agreement? Businesses must be duly registered, but many Puebla producers operate informally.
- What is the current status of negotiations? CNIPMT is in communication with federal authorities to determine distribution center locations and prioritize accessibility for Angelópolis.
- What additional measures are being requested? The CNIPMT is calling for regulation of tortilla businesses in Puebla to ensure fair competition.
