"Each organization has the right to make whatever decision they want. However, they make this decision within a framework where most beef producer associations are seated at a table not just of dialogue but of joint work," De Urquiza told Radio Mitre.

But he added that the government will continue with its efforts to see eye to eye with producers.

The government on Friday reached an accord with Argentina’s main beef producer associations, FAA, CONINAGRO, the Rural Society and FAN, CARBAP being the only one which refused. CARBAP then announced a 15-day lockout as from tomorrow.

However, CARBAP’s president Pedro Apaolaza has said that despite the protest there would be no beef shortages.

"We will not be selling cattle, but there won’t be any shortages providing there are no tricks from some parties," Apaolaza told Radio Mitre without elaborating. "They idea is not to harm consumers." Secretary De Urquiza, asked whether there could be beef shortages, said: "There are other producer sectors which support the joint efforts we are carrying out and they will surely supply beef for consumers."

Source: Buenos Aires Herald