The now-winding-down trucker’s strike in Brazil reportedly also affected the auto industry in Argentina. In late May, Renault, for example, had to suspend the production of vehicles at its plant in Cordoba due to the lack of components imported from Brazil. Approximately 1,500 employees were affected, and the firm announced that it may re-open in mid-June once the full logistics process is reestablished.
Other companies such as Toyota Argentina, Ford and Mercedes-Benz have also been reportedly affected and suspended various aspects of production. According to local news reports, the union leader for truck drivers, Hugo Moyano, has announced that the 15 percent wage increase is insufficient and that truck drivers in Argentina will begin a national strike on June 14 unless their 27 percent wage increase request is met along with lower diesel prices. Moyano noted in a speech that with an inflation rate of close to 30 percent workers cannot accept 15 percent. The strike is initially anticipated for one day, but the strike may last longer. Additionally, surprise roadblocks and work stoppages have already started in random parts of the country.
The Macri government has launched discussions with the various union leaders including Argentina’s Federation of Cargo Transport and has vowed to “not allow blockages,” but Moyano also promised that the 27 percent wage increase demand is non-negotiable.
Argentina previously faced short truck driver strikes in 2012 and 2015 in anticipation of wage negotiations. In Argentina, 85-90 percent of all transportation of goods is done through commercial trucks.