In Santa Fe, the fate of Algodonera Avellaneda, a cotton factory owned by the Vicentin family, hangs in the balance as it has remained closed since September 29 of last year. This closure was preceded by a significant decline in production stemming from a crisis in the cotton industry that has been exacerbated by the liberalization of imports. Local workers, represented by Juan Carlos Bandeo of the Textile Union, are voicing their concerns, especially as they have not received several months of wages during this period of inactivity.

The upcoming date of February 20 is critical, as a court meeting is scheduled where factory executives are expected to provide updates on the status of the operations. Workers have expressed their anxiety, as more than 300 employees rely on the factory for their livelihoods. The prolonged closure and the lack of transparency from the management regarding the future of Algodonera Avellaneda have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and unrest within the community and among the workforce.

The situation highlights broader issues within the cotton industry in Argentina, where changes in import policies have left many local producers struggling to maintain operations. If Algodonera Avellaneda cannot reopen, it may set a worrying precedent for other factories in the region, prompting a need for discussions about the sustainability and future of the textile industry in Argentina.