The Associated Press reported on Mexico's newly elected President Claudia Sheinbaum's agricultural plan that harkens back to the 1980s, emphasizing self-sufficiency in basic food production. The policy, revealed on Tuesday, aims to revive government-run stores and increase production of staples like beans, corn, and instant coffee.
Key points of the plan include:
- A goal to boost bean production by 30% over six years to replace imports
- Focus on guaranteeing prices for corn farmers and reducing tortilla prices by 10%
- Support for instant coffee and powdered cocoa production
- Revival of government-run stores selling basic goods
However, the plan faces significant challenges:
- Consumer habits have shifted dramatically since the 1980s, with declining consumption of beans and tortillas
- Modern Mexicans predominantly shop at grocery stores and prefer fresh ground coffee over instant
- The policy appears to contradict market trends, especially in the chocolate industry where high-value varietals are gaining popularity
Critics argue that the government's track record in changing consumer behavior is poor, citing the limited success of previous junk food advertising bans. The plan also follows Sheinbaum's announcement of a complete ban on junk food in schools, set to begin within six months.
