Organizations representing yerba mate producers in Misiones, Argentina, have sent a letter to the Minister of the Interior, Diego Santilli, calling for actions to reverse the decline of the yerba mate sector, which they claim began with Executive Decree 70/23 that stripped the National Institute of Yerba Mate (INYM) of its regulatory powers. Once a thriving regional economy, the yerba mate sector is now facing severe challenges as the producers accuse the current administration under President Javier Milei of allowing 'criminal deterioration' of their industry.

The producers argue that the deregulation of the yerba mate market is leading to widespread poverty among workers in the sector, jeopardizing the livelihoods of thousands of individuals, including many women and men who rely on this economy for their sustenance. They warn that the deregulation is harming the quality and safety of the product, raising concerns about health implications for consumers. These claims reflect deep discontent within the agricultural community, which is struggling against significant adversities.

As the producers continue to call for reinstating the regulatory authority of INYM, their situation underscores the broader implications of deregulation on regional economies in Argentina. The urgent plea from yerba mate producers serves as a crucial reminder of how policy changes can adversely affect local industries, highlighting the necessity of governmental support to ensure the sustainability and integrity of agricultural practices in the country.