Iquitos and Loreto region implement 72-hour strike over fuel and mining issues

A 72-hour regional strike has been implemented in Iquitos and throughout the Loreto region, starting Wednesday, September 16. Organized by local labor unions, the protest aims to demand government action regarding high diesel prices, frequent power outages, and illegal mining in the Amazon.

The General Confederation of Workers of Peru (CGTP) in Loreto reports a 90% compliance rate with the strike, which extends to Yurimaguas, Contamana, Datem del Marañón, Ramón Castilla, and Requena. Protesters have established pickets in several districts, including Belén and Punchana, utilizing communal kitchens to support the movement.

While the Ministry of Energy and Mines has announced plans to include mototaxistas and multimodal transport workers in fuel subsidies via an urgent decree, labor leaders argue that the measures must also include river and land transporters. The regional strike has led to precautionary restrictions in schools, markets, and gas stations.