The president of the Argentine Oil Industry Chamber (CIARA), Gustavo Idígoras, came out strongly against the nationwide strike called by oil workers following the repression at Explora. In statements, he described the work stoppage as “illegal” and “politically motivated,” announcing that they have already requested its annulment from the National Labor Secretariat.

“It seems all planned out. I see nothing but the political aspirations of some union leaders. At 7 a.m. today, we submitted the request to declare the strike illegal. This could bring significant consequences for the union and some of its leaders,” Idígoras asserted. He also downplayed the allegations of repression, stating that “from the videos I saw last night, there were no aggressions.”

The strike has paralyzed the agroindustry across the country, affecting foreign currency inflows at a time when Argentina is grappling with a reserve deficit and negotiations with the IMF. Meanwhile, the conflict between business leaders and unions is intensifying, with increasingly opposing stances.

Idígoras also offered an analysis of the global landscape, warning about the instability in agricultural markets due to the trade war led by Donald Trump. “You go to bed and wake up, and Trump announces measures against powerful countries. This means the Chicago Board of Trade is no longer the benchmark for setting commodity prices,” he explained. In this context, he pointed out that Europe could become Argentina’s major buyer, a key opportunity amid the international trade conflict.

With oil plants halted and tensions rising, the agro-export sector is facing one of its most critical moments in recent times. The tug-of-war between business leaders, unions, and the government is just beginning.