National Cooperative Food Network meets in Rosario

More than 50 organizations, federations, and mutuals gathered in Rosario for the 5th Meeting of the National Cooperative Food Network. Held at the National University of Rosario from August 21 to 23, the event brought together representatives from 15 provinces to plan the production, marketing, and supply of healthy foods across Argentina using a social and solidarity economy model.

The meeting's final document highlighted a critical socioeconomic situation. Participants noted that cooperatives are currently sustaining themselves by consuming accumulated reserves to manage economic adjustments, a situation described as unsustainable in the long term. Key challenges identified include structural debt caused by the inability to cover basic utility costs and the use of credit for daily operations rather than investment.

Despite these difficulties, the sector emphasized that social capital and trust among consumers and peers remain vital for survival. The participants proposed moving from a phase of resistance to one of reconstruction through support from the state, universities, and improved regulation.